Construction projects are ongoing at Disney World with no end in sight, particularly at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge where multiple refurbishments are underway. The hotel has been undergoing three major projects since late summer, affecting various areas including the main lobby, north side corridor, and south side corridor. While some sections have recently reopened, including a refurbished staircase connecting the lobby to Sanaa and the savanna, significant work remains on the rest of the lobby and Johari Treasures area. The reopening of the new indoor walking path between the resort’s two sides is a welcome improvement for guests, especially during inclement weather or late hours. Despite initial expectations of completion in early November, the full lobby refurbishment is still far from finished without a new estimated completion date. Disney’s website currently only lists a future refurbishment window for guest rooms in Jambo House through early 2027, with no mention of the ongoing lobby work.
Key Points:
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge has been undergoing three major refurbishment projects since August and September.
- The main lobby and primary entrance were closed from August 17th through October 9th.
- The north side lobby corridor was closed from September 28th through October 9th.
- The south side lobby corridor will be closed from October 26th through November 6th.
- A section of the lobby closest to the back savanna reopened on October 10th, including refurbished stairs.
- The new reopening provides a continuous indoor walking path between the two sides of the resort.
- The rest of the lobby and Johari Treasures refurbishment is far from complete with no estimated finish date.
- Disney’s website lists a guest room refurbishment at Jambo House from May 2026 through January 2027.