If you’re heading to Disney World in the first half of 2026, be forewarned that major pools will be closed at TWO of the property’s most popular hotels.
The pools at Walt Disney World’s resort hotels provide everything from feature-filled water playgrounds to small quiet havens of relaxation for exhausted guests, which means that one being closed for refurbishment is a big deal that some guests may even form their plans around.
2026 is scheduled to see the following pool closures:
The Surfboard Bay Pool & Kiddie Pool at the All-Star Sports resort til be closed from January to Late April 2026. According to Disney, “During this time, the Grand Slam Leisure Pool at Disney’s All-Star Sports will continue to be available. Additionally, Guests are welcome to use the other pools throughout Disney’s All-Star Resorts, including the Calypso Pool, Piano Pool and kiddie pool at Disney’s All-Star Music Resort; and the Fantasia Pool, Duck Pond Pool and kiddie pool at Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort.”
The Bay Cove Pool, located at the Contemporary’s Bay Lake Tower, will be closed from January 26th to early May 2026. During this period, the Cove Bar, the water play area and the whirlpool spa at Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort will also be closed. According to Disney, “the Bay Lake Pool, the feature pool, the water play area and the whirlpool spa at Disney’s Contemporary Resort will remain open for guests to enjoy.”
Disney has also announced that an expansion is coming to the Meadow Swimmin’ Pool area at the Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground. According to Disney, this will add a “brand-new zero-entry pool and deck area” alongside the existing pool as well as “a tennis court and two pickleball courts, giving families even more ways to play together in the great outdoors.” As of now, no closure has been announced, but there may be construction in the area.
Two of Disney’s most popular hotel pools will be closed for refurbishment during the early months of 2026, but there are alternatives for guests. Stay tuned to AE for more on Disney’s refurbishment calendar.
The Harsh Reality of Disney World Hotel Pools
Heading to Disney in early 2026? Let us know in the comments below.
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