Credit: DisneyWalt Disney World has construction projects underway across the property, and the theme parks aren’t the only places feeling the effects.
Disney’s hotels are getting hit particularly hard as the resort moves toward winter. Several projects will continue into 2027, while other work will temporarily close pools, transportation options, and other areas guests normally use.
Disney has now confirmed several closures and refurbishments that guests traveling this winter should know about. Some will create minor inconveniences, while others could noticeably change the experience at certain resorts.
And one longtime Disney World hotel staple isn’t coming back at all.
Here’s what guests need to know before checking in this winter.
Disney Hotels Will Remain Construction Zones
Some of Disney World’s biggest hotel projects aren’t ending anytime soon.
Disney’s Beach Club Resort will continue undergoing exterior maintenance through late 2027. Guests could see construction, hear daytime noise, encounter temporarily closed walking paths, or find that work affects some views.
Disney’s Contemporary Resort faces a similarly lengthy project. Disney plans to complete work in phases through late 2027, with Bay Lake Tower and the Main Tower atrium among the affected areas.
Meanwhile, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa remains in the middle of its own transformation. Work in select locations, including the covered entrance, will continue through early 2027.
Guests should prepare for possible daytime construction noise and occasional changes to walking routes.
Room Refurbishments Continue Into 2027
The work isn’t limited to common areas and building exteriors.
Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort will continue refurbishing guest rooms through January 2027. Guests may notice construction activity, noise, and temporarily altered walking routes.
Over at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, the Kidani Village room project wrapped up in May 2026, but Jambo House isn’t finished yet. Refurbishments are expected to continue through January 2027.
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside has an even longer timeline. Guest room renovations will continue through August 2027.
These hotels remain open, but guests may want to consider how much ongoing refurbishment matters to them, especially if they plan to spend significant time at their resort.
One Disney World Pool Area Is Closing for Months
A much more noticeable closure is coming to Disney’s Boardwalk Inn.
Beginning January 11, 2027, several resort amenities will close for routine maintenance through April 2027. That includes the Luna Park Pool, Luna Park Crazy Play Area, and Leaping Horse Libations.
Boardwalk guests won’t completely lose access to a pool. The Villas Pool and Inn Pool will remain available throughout the project.
Still, families who particularly enjoy the Luna Park Pool area should be aware of the closure before booking an early 2027 stay.
Skyliner Guests Will Lose Their Usual Transportation
Hotel guests will also face a temporary transportation closure in January.
The Disney Skyliner will be out of service from January 24 through January 30, 2027, for annual maintenance.
That affects Pop Century Resort, Art of Animation Resort, Caribbean Beach Resort, and Riviera Resort.
Normally, the Skyliner provides transportation to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Disney will provide bus transportation during the closure.
The shutdown lasts only one week, but it could make a noticeable difference for guests who booked a Skyliner hotel for its convenience.
Overnight Work Is Coming to Coronado Springs
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort also has a major project underway.
Refurbishment work at the resort’s Convention Center will continue through late September 2027. The project also involves the El Centro Corridor and surrounding locations.
Disney plans to complete the refurbishment in phases, meaning certain spaces may temporarily become unavailable.
Most construction will take place overnight to reduce disruption, though guests could still encounter areas affected by the project.
A Permanent Goodbye at Grand Floridian
The biggest emotional loss this winter isn’t a pool, room, or transportation system.
Disney’s famous life-size gingerbread house at the Grand Floridian will not return.
The holiday tradition began in 1999 and became one of Disney World’s most recognizable Christmas displays. The massive creation transformed the Grand Floridian lobby each holiday season and even offered a spot where guests could purchase seasonal treats.
The gingerbread house was absent in 2025 because of construction in the Grand Floridian lobby. Fans hoping that would prove temporary received disappointing news when Disney confirmed the full-size display would not return in 2026.
Instead, smaller gingerbread creations made by Disney’s culinary team will appear throughout the hotel.
After more than 25 years, the enormous holiday centerpiece has reached the end of its run.
Winter Guests Have More to Consider Before Booking
None of these projects means guests should automatically avoid Disney World hotels this winter. However, checking refurbishment schedules before booking has become increasingly important.
Some guests may barely notice a room refurbishment or an alternate walking path. Losing a favorite pool or the Skyliner could have a much bigger effect.
And at the Grand Floridian, this winter brings a permanent change.
Disney World will still decorate its resorts for the holidays, but one of its longest-running hotel traditions will no longer be waiting in the lobby.
