Hi Deborah! Thank you so much for stopping by
planDisney with such an important question. Planning ahead, especially when it comes to resort refurbishments, is always a smart move, and I'm really glad you reached out.
Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge is one of the most breathtaking resorts on property, and I completely understand wanting to know what to expect before your 2026 stay.
I reached out to a friendly Cast Member who was able to share a bit more insight into what the refurbishment plans currently look like. As of right now, the work scheduled for that time period is expected to focus on the rooms only. That means the main amenities that Guests rely on and love, including dining locations, pools, and recreation offerings, are planned to remain open and available throughout the renovation period.
That said, there are a couple of things you should keep in mind. With room refurbishments, it's very possible that you may hear or see some construction during your visit. In addition, because certain areas of the building may be impacted at different times, some savanna views could experience partial obstruction depending on where the work is taking place. None of this is guaranteed, of course, but it's something to be aware of as you plan.
And as with all refurbishments at
Walt Disney World, these plans can shift as the project progresses. Timelines, locations, and the scope of work can change at any moment. If avoiding construction entirely is a priority for your July 2026 vacation, you may want to consider switching to another
Disney Resorts Collection hotel for full peace of mind. Some of my favorite alternatives that offer beautiful theming and relaxing atmospheres include
Disney's Wilderness Lodge,
Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa,
Disney's Yacht Club Resort, and
Disney's BoardWalk Inn.
But if you decide to keep your reservation at Animal Kingdom Lodge, you'll still be surrounded by that incredible design, warm atmosphere, and the unforgettable experience of watching animals roam the savanna, even if a bit of construction is happening in the background.
Deborah, whatever you choose, I hope your 2026 vacation is absolutely magical. If you have any other questions, please don't hesitate to reach back out to us. We're always available and more than happy to help here at planDisney! Have a magical weekend!
Warm hugs,
Ana Paula