Why We're Getting Worried About Disney's Contemporary Resort

Is it just us or is almost everything under construction in Disney World? Magic Kingdom just closed an entire section of its park for a new expansion, and it’s getting a new land and two updated rides. Disney’s Hollywood Studios is getting a new land and a revamped ride. Disney’s Animal Kingdom is getting a new land.

Disney World hotels have also been busy with construction, too, most particularly Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. Well, that project is set to go on for a little bit longer now because Disney just extended its end date through 2027.

Select areas of Disney’s Contemporary Resort have been undergoing refurbishment — originally scheduled through July 2026. But now, it looks like that refurbishment will be extended through late 2027 instead.

Disney recently shared an update advising that the current construction, which began in September 2024, will continue through “late 2027.”

Refurbishments will occur in phases throughout select areas of Disney’s Contemporary Resort, including the atrium and Bay Lake Tower. You might also see and hear construction during your stay.

Additionally, from January 26th, 2026, through early May 2026, the Bay Cove Pool, the Cove Bar, the water play area, and the whirlpool spa at Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort will temporarily be closed for maintenance. The Bay Lake Pool, the feature pool, the water play area, and the whirlpool spa at Disney’s Contemporary Resort will remain open for hotel guests to enjoy.

There is also a lot of construction going on in the lobby at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. A brand-new lobby bar is being built that will be the shape of a birdcage. The lobby furniture, carpeting, and check-in area will also be getting a refresh. The hotel recently unveiled a new mural on the staircase that is gorgeous!

Additionally, rooms are being refurbished at Disney’s Pop Century Resort, and the lobby is currently undergoing a refresh. We spotted new murals in the lobby, although our beloved shadowboxes have been removed from the walls! Everything Pop Shopping and Dining also got a major refresh earlier this year.

Rooms at Kidani Village at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge will be undergoing refurbishment from October 2025 until May 2026. Rooms are also being refurbished at Disney’s Port Orleans – Riverside.

We’ll be on the lookout for additional hotel changes and updates you need to know about. In the meantime, make sure you stay tuned to AllEars for the latest Disney news and more!