Inside Look at What’s Coming to Walt Disney World Resort Hotels

A visit to Walt Disney World lets you leave reality behind and step into stories both familiar and new. And after a day of those exhilarating adventures, is there anything better than coming back to the fresh lobby scents, amenities and relaxation of your Disney Resort hotel? 

We’ve had a lot to celebrate across our more than 25 resort hotels during our 50th Anniversary celebration, and today we’re sharing an inside look at some big and exciting renovations that have been happening around our world. From new dining offerings, room remodels and expansions to refreshed lobby spaces, new furniture, smart technology and more … our Disney Resorts Collection has been rolling out constant, fresh updates ready to welcome you real soon.

Lately we’ve been spending a lot of time at Disney’s BoardWalk, which is evolving into something very special as this resort, sitting along the idyllic boardwalk, is being reinvigorated. This year has kicked off a series of refurbishments for the resort, with new furnishings and the start of delectable dining enhancements such as a new Northeast-inspired deli and a lobby café–Carousel Coffee—coming very soon for those craving a specialty latte and pastry.

Construction is also underway for The Cake Bake Shop by Gwendolyn Rogers, a whimsical table service restaurant and bakery expected to open in 2023.

You’ll soon be welcomed into the BoardWalk Resort with a lively lobby update, and newly refreshed guest rooms that complement the artful design throughout the resort.

This upcoming year is sure to be an exciting one for Disney’s BoardWalk!

2023 will also be a momentous year for Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa as it celebrates its 35th anniversary on July 1! The resort has been receiving some grand touches that weave familiar storybook charm into the Victorian elegance of this flagship resort. Guest rooms are currently being updated as we speak with more to come as the beloved Grand Floridian ushers in its third decade of magic. The ongoing renovation will also include an upcoming refurbishment of the lobby, which will maintain the classic theming you know and love with some fresh new enhancements.

The story doesn’t end there, as you can dine underneath the lovely London sky at Citricos, inspired by “Mary Poppins Returns” … and maybe bookend your evening with a shimmering sip at Enchanted Rose Lounge, inspired by “Beauty and the Beast.” And our beloved Victoria & Albert’s – the culinary crown jewel of Walt Disney World Resort and AAA Five Diamond Award winner – reopened its doors this year to rave reviews featuring a renovated interior. 

As one of our original hotels, Disney’s Contemporary Resort also recently received thoughtful enhancements that truly tie together the best of retro-modern charm. Within the walls of its a-frame architecture, the lobby now features the flair of color stylist and designer Mary Blair through new murals that complement a lovingly curated collection of modern art and historical photography of the resort’s construction.  

Just as the sleek monorail system runs through this hotel, the retro boldness travels into refurbished guest rooms where you’ll find some super touches from Pixar Animation Studios’ “Incredibles” films – the first time our stories have been featured in this resort’s design! 

Similar updates have graced the shores of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, where we’ve spent special attention merging the heritage and charm of the South Seas with modern touches and even patterns and textures from the hit Walt Disney Animation Studios film “Moana” in guest rooms.

Nearly all elements of this resort have been refreshed in the past few years, from an open and inviting lobby, to dining locations, outdoor spaces and more!

Like many of our other resort hotels, all three of our cherished Disney’s All-Star Resorts—Movies, Music and Sports—are finishing up their refurbishments and welcome you with fresh new guest rooms and open inviting lobbies.

Plus, these resorts are just FUN with their larger-than-life icons, engaging pool areas and plenty of activities to enjoy!

And last but not least, how could we forget about these *fin-tastic* new designs of guest rooms in the Trinidad area of Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort.

Of course, Disney Resort hotel guests also enjoy free onsite transportation – including our newest mode of transportation, the fan-favorite Disney Skyliner! – as well as our popular early theme park entry benefit (not to mention surprise pop-up appearances from beloved Disney pals). And don’t forget about Hey Disney!, our magical new voice assistant that will roll out in phases across Disney Resort hotels. 

This is just a small taste at what our resort teams have been up to over the past few years, and we have so much more in store for your next trip. Whether you dream of a campsite or treehouse nestled in nature, a bungalow or cabin along the water, our resorts are refreshed and ready to make your “sweet dreams” come true.

Stay tuned to the Disney Parks Blog for more updates on these projects and more! 

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