There’s something special about the quiet side of Walt Disney World—the places where the pace slows down, the crowds fade a bit, and you can actually hear the breeze coming off the water. That’s exactly the feeling Disney is aiming for with Disney Lakeshore Lodge, a brand-new resort coming to Walt Disney World Resort in 2027.
But here’s the real question fans are asking right now: what do we actually know about this new Disney Vacation Club resort?
A project years in the making
Disney Lakeshore Lodge didn’t just appear out of nowhere. The project actually dates back to 2018, when it was first announced as Reflections – A Disney Lakeside Lodge. At the time, it generated a lot of buzz for its nature-forward concept and unique accommodations.
Then 2020 happened, and like many projects across the industry, construction was paused due to the pandemic. For a while, it felt like this resort might never happen.
Fast forward to late 2024, and Disney officially revived the project—this time with a new name and a refreshed vision as Disney Lakeshore Lodge. Seeing it come back to life after sitting dormant for years adds an extra layer of anticipation to what’s already shaping up to be a standout resort.
Location, location, location
This resort is being built in a prime—and honestly pretty nostalgic—spot. It sits along Bay Lake, tucked between Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground.
Even more interesting, it’s going up on the former site of River Country, one of Disney’s original water parks. That alone gives the location a bit of history, making this feel like a full-circle moment for the area.
And if you’ve been around Bay Lake recently, you’ve probably noticed—construction is moving quickly, and the skyline across the water is already starting to change.
What will it actually look like?
Here’s where things get a little bit of a mystery.
Most of the concept art currently circulating is still from the original Reflections project. So while it gives us a general idea of the vibe, there’s no guarantee the final resort will look exactly the same.
That said, the overall theme seems to be holding steady: rustic elegance meets Disney magic. Expect a design that leans into natural materials, warm textures, and storytelling details inspired by films like Bambi, Pocahontas, and Brother Bear.
I’ve personally seen the original Reflections renderings, and they’re honestly really inspiring and exciting to look at. There’s a calm, almost storybook quality to them that feels different from anything else on property. If Disney can carry that same visual language into Disney Lakeshore Lodge—and seamlessly integrate it into this updated vision—we could be looking at something really special.
A resort built for Disney Vacation Club stays
Disney Lakeshore Lodge is expected to function as a Disney Vacation Club property, and the accommodations reflect that.
Early details suggest around 900 rooms and villas, with a mix that goes beyond your standard hotel layout. Think treehouse-style suites, A-frame cabins, and traditional lodge rooms—all designed to give guests a closer connection to nature while still offering that signature Disney comfort.
The previously announced Lake Houses along the waterfront also hint at spacious, family-focused options that could become some of the most desirable stays on property.
Designed to slow things down
One of the most exciting aspects of this resort is its overall tone. Disney seems to be intentionally creating a place where guests can slow down.
Floor-to-ceiling windows, natural light, and sweeping views of Bay Lake are expected to play a big role in the design. During the day, it’s all about the scenery. At night, you might catch glimpses of Magic Kingdom fireworks from across the water—just enough to remind you where you are.
It’s that balance of calm and connection that could make Disney Lakeshore Lodge stand out in a lineup full of high-energy resort experiences.
Following the journey
Disney is also documenting the process through updates on the Disney Parks Blog, giving fans a behind-the-scenes look as the resort comes together.
From early construction milestones to design reveals, it’s a fun way to watch the story unfold—almost like collecting postcards from a place that doesn’t exist yet… but soon will.
Looking ahead to 2027
With a projected opening in 2027, Disney Lakeshore Lodge is still a little ways off—but it’s already one of the more intriguing additions to Walt Disney World in years.
Between its comeback story, its unique location, and its focus on nature-driven storytelling, this resort feels like it’s aiming for something different.
And if Disney delivers on that promise, this could easily become one of the most relaxing—and quietly magical—places to stay on property.