Disney has released some refurbishment updates coming to a few DVC resorts. Most notable is that Saratoga Springs and Old Key West are about to have changes made to the lobby and porte-cochere areas to upgrade the check-in experience. There are a few other current projects that will have an impact on guests early next year to keep in mind as well. Let’s check out what DVC resorts are getting some upgrades.
Saratoga Springs
While the Saratoga Springs room refurbs are well on their way to being completed by July, there will be some construction going on in the common areas that could impact your trip. On June 28, the connecting hallway to the main lobby will close for refurbishment. Guests will continue to have access to the restrooms and The Artist’s Palette. From July 12 through late September, the porte-cochere will be closed. Disney’s Magical Express will continue to pick up and drop off Guests here, with a temporary walkway for Guests to reach the front desk and concierge. Guests driving personal vehicles will be directed to curbside check-in at the Disney Vacation Club Preview Center. In early August, the connecting hallway will open and the main lobby will close. Front desk and concierge services will be available in the hallway in addition to curbside check-in at the Disney Vacation Club Preview Center. Once complete, Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa will feature an enhanced check-in experience offering an open, free-flowing layout with a variety of smaller counters to help Guests prepare for their vacation.
Old Key West
Old Key West saw its major room refurb in 2019. The beloved original resort is also about to get a fresh lobby. Beginning June 28, Guests will check-in as normal in the main lobby while the den area is closed. In the second phase, the main lobby will close and the front desk and concierge will temporarily move to the den. Cast Members will have access to backstage areas throughout the refurbishment. Once complete, Disney’s Old Key West Resort will feature an enhanced check-in experience offering an open, free-flowing layout with a variety of smaller counters to help Guests of all ages prepare for their Walt Disney World vacation.
Additional Refurb Information from the DVC Website
The Polynesian Villas & Bungalows are about to undergo a soft goods refurb. Many DVC members are reportedly receiving calls that their villa reservations are being relocated over to the hotel side. These are occurring with reservations in August and September. It looks hopeful that the Polynesian Villas refurb will be complete by the 50th Anniversary Celebration.
From January 23 through January 28, 2022, Disney Skyliner service between Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, Disney’s Riviera Resort, and Epcot will be out of operation for refurbishment. Complimentary bus and FriendShip boat service will be available.
From January 2022 through April 2022, the Samawati Springs Pool at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village will be closed for refurbishment. During this time, Guests staying at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village may enjoy the Uzima Springs Pool at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House. You may see and hear construction noise while this refurbishment is underway, but you should not hear noise from Guest rooms between dusk and 9:00 AM.
Jen
June 21, 2021Thank you for all this information. Does anyone know if the water slide at Storm Along Bay has reopened? Thanks in advance!
Jeremy
June 21, 2021It has opened and is running great! We were there during Spring Break and enjoyed it very much!
Susan
June 21, 2021Meanwhile, Boulder Ridge Villas was pushed back a year to 2022. What about owners there? BRV is more than overdue for a complete overhaul.
Paul Ejzak
June 21, 2021When will Boulder Ridge get its refurbishment?
Amy Krieger
June 21, 2021It is currently slated for 2022. It needs it for sure!