Construction is still all over Disney World, practically everywhere you look, and if there’s one thing we just learned from D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, it’s that it isn’t slowing down anytime soon.

Animal Kingdom Lodge

However, even before some of those large projects mentioned at the event are set to begin, there are other projects beginning around the Walt Disney World Resort. This is your reminder that, starting today, not one, but TWO big closures hit two different hotels on property.

Beginning today, August 17th, there are two massive closures at two Deluxe Disney World hotels you need to know about because they WILL affect your vacation. The first is at Disney’s Yacht Club and Beach Club Resorts — from now through August 21st, 2026, the FriendShip Boat dock will be closed for maintenance. This is the boat that can take you to the other EPCOT area hotels, as well as EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. During the closure, direct bus transportation will be available to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and it’s encouraged that you use the nearby walkways to EPCOT, which can also take you to the Skyliner to get to Hollywood Studios.

FriendShip Boat at Yacht Club Resort

The larger refurbishment is over at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge — Kidani Village. Beginning today, August 17th, the lobby and nearby areas at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge – Kidani Village are now undergoing refurbishment in phases, which are as follows:

• August 17th through October 9th: The main lobby and primary entrance will be closed. Check-in will move to the Palace Library during this time.
• August 17th through 28th: The merchandise location, Johari Treasures, will be closed.
• September 28th through October 9th: The north side lobby corridor will be closed. During this time, the north side lobby elevators on the second floor and the outdoor terrace observation deck will be unavailable.
• October 26th through November 6th: The south side lobby corridor will be closed. During this time, Community Hall, Safari So Good Arcade, the laundry room, the Palace Library, lobby restrooms, and the outdoor terrace observation deck will be unavailable.

Kidani Village at Animal Kingdom Lodge

These closures are certainly going to affect your stay at the hotel, especially the closure of the lobby, so be sure to keep these in mind before you travel. Disney has also recently had a habit of extended hotel closures, and we’re really crossing our fingers that doesn’t happen here.

We’ll be sure to keep you updated on all the latest Disney World news, so stay tuned to DFB!

Disney World Quietly Adds New Hotel Closures

Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe!

WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.

---

Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.

Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!

GET YOUR GUIDE NOW

What’s your favorite hotel in Disney World? Tell us in the comments!