Disney Vacation Club members take pride in the high-quality accommodations and amenities offered across all DVC resorts. To maintain these standards, Disney regularly refurbishes its properties, tackling both minor updates and significant overhauls. Recently, an updated refurbishment schedule was shared, detailing plans affecting several resorts through 2026. Whether you’re planning your stays or just curious, this guide will outline what’s on the horizon.
Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Refurbishment work at Bay Lake Tower began in September 2024 and is set to continue through September 2025. The project is advancing in phases, with the initial updates focusing on the south tower’s upper floors. These rooms are slated to reopen before the end of 2024.
A noteworthy aspect of this refurbishment is the temporary closure of the Skybridge connecting Bay Lake Tower to the main Contemporary resort building to allow for updates. Guests will need to use outdoor pathways during this time. While no specific timeline was given for the bridge’s closure, it’s estimated it may last up to three months.
The Villas at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel
The Grand Californian will undergo its first significant refurbishment starting in early 2025. With only 48 villas in the building, this project is expected to be relatively quick, though an exact completion date has not been released.
Key upgrades include a “hard goods” overhaul, which is likely to incorporate new Murphy sofa beds into most rooms. These additions will align with trends seen at other DVC properties, enhancing both comfort and functionality.
Copper Creek Villas & Cabins
Scheduled for spring 2025, the Copper Creek refurbishment will focus on “soft goods,” such as updated wall coverings, upholstery, and decor. The design will include a refreshed color palette, potentially featuring more Disney-themed accents.
There is some uncertainty regarding the project timeline. While previous estimates suggested a five-month duration, recent updates indicate it could last as long as a year. It’s also undecided whether pull-down Murphy beds, now common in refurbished DVC villas, will be installed in these rooms.
Treehouse Villas at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort
Refurbishments for the Treehouse Villas are expected to start in summer 2025, but specific details regarding the scope of work haven’t been provided. Earlier this year, Disney began replacing wooden outdoor decks at the Treehouse Villas, which could be a precursor to more updates.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village
The first major update for Kidani Village will start in October 2025. This “hard goods” refurbishment will bring comprehensive updates, including new furniture, kitchen appliances, bathroom fixtures, and pull-down sofa beds. Sleeper chairs are expected to be replaced with pull-down twin beds, similar to enhancements made elsewhere.
The project will also include updates to the lobby and Community Hall. The work is projected to last until mid-2026.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House
Refurbishment work will move to Jambo House after the Kidani Village updates are completed in mid-2026. While changes will likely mirror those at Kidani, no firm timeline or details have been shared yet.
Disney’s Old Key West Resort
Old Key West is slated for a “soft goods” refurbishment sometime in 2026. Unlike some other resorts, no major design overhauls are planned. However, Murphy beds may be added to select villas where space allows.
The resort underwent a more significant refurbishment from 2018 to 2019, so these updates aim to maintain the property’s current high standards.
Refurbishment Guidelines and Patterns
Disney Vacation Club follows a refurbishment model that alternates between “soft goods” updates every seven years and “hard goods” updates every 14 years. This schedule ensures that all DVC properties receive timely maintenance to preserve their appeal and functionality. Annual dues paid by members contribute to these capital improvements.
Planning Your Future Visits
If you’re planning a Disney Vacation Club stay, it’s helpful to stay informed about refurbishment schedules. Updated villas often feature enhanced functionality and refreshed aesthetics, making them well worth the wait. However, if your travel dates coincide with upcoming work, it’s worth considering other DVC properties to avoid disruption.
Final Thoughts
Disney Vacation Club resorts are constantly evolving to deliver memorable experiences to members and their guests. The current refurbishment schedule demonstrates Disney’s commitment to maintaining the quality that DVC is known for.
Whether it’s updated room amenities or new Disney-themed touches, these refurbishments ensure that every stay feels magical and fresh. Being aware of the refurbishment timeline allows you to plan trips more efficiently and enjoy all the perks your membership offers.
Written by
Rachel Van Norman
Contributing Writer
Rachel fell deeply in love with all things Disney as a little girl. Now as a wife and a mother herself, she shares this Disney obsession with her son and everyone around her. From her love of princesses to eating all the Disney food, Rachel spends her time radiating Disney magic and keeping everyone up to date on Disney news.
