Disney Lakeshore Lodge Announced: New Disney Resort Opening in 2027
By Rikki
Last Updated: June 17, 2026 – Added in information about The Wetlands Outdoor Recreation Area
Disney has officially confirmed that a new Walt Disney World resort, Disney Lakeshore Lodge, is back in development and set to open in summer 2027. Previously known as Reflections – A Disney Lakeside Lodge, this Disney Vacation Club property has been reimagined and renamed, bringing a fresh vision to the shores of Bay Lake.
After construction was paused due to the pandemic, work has now resumed, marking an exciting return for one of Disney’s most anticipated resort projects.
What Is Disney Lakeshore Lodge?
Disney Lakeshore Lodge is a new Disney Resort hotel and Disney Vacation Club property that will be located along Bay Lake, near Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground.
The resort is designed to celebrate nature and its influence on Disney storytelling, drawing inspiration from Walt Disney’s love of the outdoors.
Guests can expect subtle nods to beloved films such as:
- Bambi
- Pocahontas
- Brother Bear
A Nature-Inspired Disney Resort Experience
The overall design of Disney Lakeshore Lodge will focus on bringing the outdoors inside.
Key features include:
- Floor-to-ceiling windows for natural light
- Scenic views of Bay Lake
- Architecture and decor inspired by nature
- A relaxing, immersive atmosphere
This resort aims to create a space where families can slow down and unwind, while still being close to the magic of the parks.
Rooms & Accommodations
Disney Lakeshore Lodge will feature approximately 967 rooms, offering a range of accommodations for different group sizes.
Options will include:
- Cozy studio rooms
- One-bedroom suites
- Two-bedroom suites
- New waterfront “Lake Houses”
Many rooms are expected to offer:
- Peaceful daytime views of Bay Lake
- Evening views of Magic Kingdom fireworks
The Wetlands Outdoor Recreation Area
One of the most exciting features coming to Disney Lakeshore Lodge is The Wetlands, a sprawling outdoor recreation area located just beyond the resort lobby and surrounded by the natural beauty of Bay Lake.
Designed to blend relaxation, adventure, and Disney storytelling, The Wetlands will offer something for guests of all ages. Families with younger children will find plenty to explore thanks to a pair of play areas inspired by Disney’s Pocahontas.
At Heron Shores, kids can climb, explore, and let their imaginations run wild with interactive play elements and nature-inspired features. Nearby, Otter Springs will provide a fun way to cool off with splash zones, water play features, and playful slides designed for younger adventurers.
Looking for something a little more relaxing? Daydream River will gently wind its way through the area, offering guests a peaceful lazy river experience perfect for floating the afternoon away.
The centerpiece of The Wetlands will be Lakeside Lagoon, the resort’s expansive zero-entry feature pool. Guests can ease into the water from the gradual beach-style entrance or add a little excitement to their day by taking a ride down the pool’s spiral waterslide.
And then there’s what may become one of the most sought-after spots at the entire resort.
Tucked away on the opposite side of Disney Lakeshore Lodge, Perspective Pond will feature a leisure pool and whirlpool spa with stunning views across Bay Lake toward Magic Kingdom. In the evenings, guests will be able to relax in the water while taking in views of the park’s nighttime fireworks.
Yes, you read that correctly.
A pool, a whirlpool spa, Bay Lake views, and Magic Kingdom fireworks. Disney may have just created one of the most relaxing places to end a Walt Disney World vacation day.
Location Details
The resort will be built on the former site of River Country, Disney’s original water park, sitting between Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and Fort Wilderness, along the scenic shoreline of Bay Lake.
This location places guests just a short distance from Magic Kingdom, making it a highly desirable spot.
A Fresh Look and Name
Disney Lakeshore Lodge represents a reimagining of the original Reflections concept.
While not officially confirmed, it appears Disney has:
- Updated the design direction
- Improved the overall theme and storytelling
- Chosen a stronger, more fitting name
The original Reflections concept received mixed reactions, with some fans feeling it lacked a distinctly “Disney” feel. This new version seems to be addressing those concerns with a more immersive and thematic approach.
When Will Disney Lakeshore Lodge Open?
Disney has announced a projected opening timeline of Summer 2027
As construction continues, more details—including amenities, dining, and transportation options—are expected to be released. We’ll have those for you here!
Final Thoughts
The return of this project as Disney Lakeshore Lodge is exciting news for Walt Disney World fans.
With its prime location, nature-inspired design, and variety of accommodations, this resort has the potential to become one of Disney’s most unique and relaxing stays.
However, for me, the jury is still out. I’ve seen how close it is to Disney’s Fort Wilderness, and it’s location and size gives me a little pause. I’m hoping that Disney really does a great job theming the outside of the resort, so it at least blends with the feel of Ft. Wilderness, just a tiny bit better.
If you’re planning a future Disney vacation, this is definitely a resort to keep on your radar.
Connect With Us
Follow A Disney World After All for all the latest Disney news and tips.
But now, I want to know your thoughts. Would you stay at Disney Lakeside Lodge? You can share with me in the comments or on social! Find me on Facebook, X, YouTube, Instagram, Threads, BlueSky, and TikTok.
Book Your Next Trip!
Want to book a Walt Disney World Resort vacation? Jocelyn Martins at The Magic For Less Travel specializes in the art of personalized vacation planning. She provides a guest-driven, concierge level planning service. Best of all, Jocelyn’s service is provided free of charge. Click here to get your free, no-obligation quote today! (Yes, that’s an affiliate link. I would greatly appreciate that if you would like to book a vacation you consider clicking and helping me!)
Want to stay up to date with the latest Disney & Universal news? Subscribe to our newsletter! The sign up process may take a minute, so don't close the screen until you see the Confirmation message. Also, you will get a confirmation email in your inbox too. Just make sure to check your spam filter if you don't see it and move it into your regular inbox.
