Walt Disney World is always evolving, and if you have a late summer trip on the books, now is the time to get informed. August 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most transitional months in recent memory for Disney Resort hotels. New construction projects are kicking off, beloved dining spots are finally reopening, and lobbies are getting well-deserved face-lifts. Whether you are staying at a Moderate resort or splurging on a Deluxe, knowing what to expect is the key to a stress-free vacation.
5 Big Changes Coming to Disney World Hotels in August 2026
Here is a complete breakdown of the five biggest resort changes hitting Walt Disney World this August:
1. A Massive Closure at Coronado Springs Resort
Beginning on August 10, 2026, Disney's Coronado Springs Resort will kick off a massive, 13-month refurbishment project. The work will heavily impact the resort's Convention Center, including the Coronado Ballroom, Fiesta Ballroom, and Veracruz Exhibition Hall. Everyday guests will also feel the effects, as the refurbishment covers the El Centro Corridor and the surrounding areas that connect the convention spaces to the rest of the resort. Expect rerouted foot traffic and temporary closures of individual meeting rooms and corridor spaces as crews work in phases. Disney has stated that much of the noisy work will take place overnight to minimize the impact on guests.
2. Kidani Village Lobby Refurbishment at Animal Kingdom Lodge
Guests staying at the Kidani Village section of Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge will notice a significant change right as they walk through the doors. Beginning August 3, 2026, the Kidani Village lobby will undergo a major refurbishment expected to last through early October 2026. You will still be able to check in and access amenities, but plan for temporary walls, rerouted pathways, and the potential for daytime construction noise.
3. Yachtsman Steakhouse Finally Reopens
Great news for foodies staying in the EPCOT resort area! The Yachtsman Steakhouse at Disney's Yacht Club Resort — which closed for a lengthy refurbishment back in May — is officially scheduled to reopen on August 28, 2026. This signature dining spot is a fan favorite known for premium cuts of meat and classic steakhouse sides. If you are visiting in late August, it is a smart idea to lock in your advanced dining reservations early, as the newly refreshed restaurant is sure to be in high demand.
4. Saratoga Springs Resort Projects
Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa will see a flurry of activity in August. Starting August 10, 2026, the porte cochere (the covered entrance area) and the adjacent covered walkway will undergo planned maintenance, completed in phases — including some overnight work — through late October. Additionally, the multi-phase refurbishment of the resort's dining locations will shift gears: in late August, The Turf Club Bar & Grill will temporarily close for its portion of the revamp, while The Turf Club Lounge will remain open.
5. Wrap-Ups for Ongoing Summer Refurbishments
August will also bring the completion of a couple of summer-long projects:
- Old Key West Resort: The Sassagoula River Cruise, which transports guests from Old Key West to Disney Springs, has been temporarily unavailable due to a route refurbishment. This boat service is expected to resume in early August.
- Disney's All-Star Movies Resort: The Donald's Double Feature merchandise shop has been undergoing a phased refurbishment all summer. That work is finally expected to wrap up by late August.
Ongoing Construction Across All Disney World Hotels
Beyond the specific August changes, Walt Disney World is in the middle of an aggressive schedule of resort-wide maintenance. If you are visiting any time in 2026, here is the current state of ongoing hotel construction across the property:
- Disney's Contemporary Resort: A massive phased refurbishment is underway and will last through 2027. This includes extensive exterior maintenance on the Main Tower, a revamp of the iconic Atrium, and ongoing work at Bay Lake Tower.
- Disney's Polynesian Village Resort: While the new Island Tower is a beautiful addition, the resort is still undergoing various refurbishments through 2026, including a recent reconfiguration of the front entrance roadway. Guests at 'Ohana may also experience obstructed views of Seven Seas Lagoon.
- Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa: Refurbishments continue in select areas, including the covered entrance, through early 2027. The Grand Floridian Cafe is also temporarily closed for a refresh through October 2026.
- Disney's Beach Club & Yacht Club Resorts: Both resorts are undergoing routine, highly visible exterior maintenance through late 2026 (and into 2027 for Beach Club). Expect scaffolding and alternate pathways around the resorts.
- Disney's BoardWalk Inn: Work continues throughout 2026 in select areas. Most amenities remain open, but guests may see or hear daytime construction.
- Disney's Wilderness Lodge: Exterior refurbishment is ongoing through late 2026. This work may impact views from various guest rooms.
- Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge (Jambo House): While Kidani Village gets its lobby redone, Jambo House is in the middle of a massive guest room refurbishment lasting through January 2027.
- Disney's Port Orleans Resort — Riverside: Guest rooms at Riverside are undergoing a long-term refurbishment running from May 2025 all the way through August 2027.
Navigating Disney World hotel construction can feel like a lot, but going in with the right information makes all the difference. Allow for extra travel time, pack your patience, and remember — all of this work is making these magical resorts even better for years to come!