Walt Disney World is in a constant state of evolution, and if you are planning a late summer vacation, you need to be prepared for some major shifts. August 2026 is shaping up to be a highly transitional month for Disney Resort hotels. Between massive new construction projects kicking off, beloved dining locations finally reopening, and lobbies getting much-needed face-lifts, there is a lot to keep track of.Credit: DisneyWhether you are booked for a relaxing stay at a Moderate resort or splurging on a Deluxe, knowing what to expect is the key to a stress-free trip. Here is a complete breakdown of the five biggest changes hitting Disney World hotels this August, along with a comprehensive guide to ongoing construction across the property.5 Big Changes Coming to Disney World Hotels in August 2026If you are traveling in August, here are the five specific resort changes you need to have on your radar:1. A Massive Closure at Coronado Springs ResortBeginning on August 10, 2026, Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort will embark on a massive, 13-month refurbishment project. The work will heavily impact the resort’s Convention Center, including the Coronado Ballroom, Fiesta Ballroom, and Veracruz Exhibition Hall. However, everyday guests will also feel the impact, as the refurbishment covers the El Centro Corridor and the surrounding areas that connect the convention spaces to the rest of the resort. Expect rerouted foot traffic and temporary closures of individual meeting rooms and corridor spaces as crews work in phases. Thankfully, Disney has stated that much of the noisy work will take place overnight to minimize the impact on guests.Credit: Disney2. Kidani Village Lobby Refurbishment at Animal Kingdom LodgeGuests staying at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge — specifically the Kidani Village section — will notice a major change right as they walk through the doors. Beginning August 3, 2026, the Kidani Village lobby will undergo a significant refurbishment. The project is expected to last through early October 2026. While you will still be able to check in and access amenities, expect temporary walls, rerouted pathways, and the potential for daytime construction noise.3. Yachtsman Steakhouse Finally ReopensThere is fantastic news for foodies staying in the EPCOT resort area! The Yachtsman Steakhouse at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, which closed for a lengthy refurbishment back in May, is officially scheduled to reopen its doors on August 28, 2026. This signature dining spot is a fan favorite for premium cuts of meat and classic steakhouse sides. If you are visiting in late August, be sure to secure your advanced dining reservations now, as the newly refreshed restaurant is sure to be highly sought after.Credit: Disney4. Saratoga Springs Resort ProjectsDisney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa will see a flurry of activity in August. Starting on August 10, 2026, the porte cochere (the covered entrance area) and the adjacent covered walkway will undergo planned maintenance. This work will be completed in phases, including some overnight work, and will last through late October. Additionally, the multi-phase refurbishment of the resort’s dining locations will shift. In late August, The Turf Club Bar & Grill will temporarily close for its portion of the revamp, while The Turf Club Lounge will remain open.5. Wraparounds for Ongoing Summer RefurbishmentsAugust will also see the completion of a few pesky summer refurbishments:Old Key West Resort: The Sassagoula River Cruise, which transports guests from Old Key West to Disney Springs, is temporarily unavailable due to a route refurbishment. This boat service is expected to resume in early August.Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort: The Donald’s Double Feature merchandise shop has been undergoing a phased refurbishment all summer. The work is finally expected to wrap up by late August.Credit: DisneyOngoing Construction at All Disney World HotelsBeyond the specific August changes, Walt Disney World is currently undertaking an aggressive schedule of resort-wide maintenance. If you are visiting any time in 2026, here is the current state of ongoing hotel construction:Credit: DisneyDisney’s Contemporary Resort: A massive phased refurbishment is underway and will last through 2027. This includes extensive exterior maintenance on the Main Tower and a revamp of the massive, iconic Atrium. Work is also ongoing at Bay Lake Tower.Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort: While the new Island Tower is a beautiful addition, the resort is still undergoing various refurbishments through 2026. This includes the recent reconfiguration of the front entrance roadway. Guests at ‘Ohana may also experience obstructed views of Seven Seas Lagoon.Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa: Refurbishments continue in select areas, including the covered entrance, through early 2027. Additionally, the Grand Floridian Cafe is temporarily closed for a refresh through October 2026.Disney’s Beach Club & Yacht Club Resorts: Both resorts are undergoing routine, highly visible exterior maintenance through late 2026 (and into 2027 for Beach Club). Expect to see scaffolding, and you may need to use alternate pathways around the resorts.Disney’s BoardWalk Inn: Work continues throughout 2026 in select areas of the BoardWalk Inn. Most amenities remain open, but guests may see or hear daytime construction.Disney’s Wilderness Lodge: Exterior refurbishment is ongoing through late 2026. This work may impact views from various guest rooms, so be prepared for potential visual obstructions during your stay.Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge (Jambo House): While Kidani Village gets its lobby redone, Jambo House is currently in the middle of a massive guest room refurbishment that will last through January 2027.Disney’s Port Orleans Resort — Riverside: Guest rooms at Riverside are undergoing a long-term refurbishment from May 2025 all the way to August 2027.Credit: DisneyNavigating Disney World hotel construction can be tricky, but knowing what is happening before you check in makes all the difference. Be sure to allow for extra travel time and pack your patience as Disney works to update these magical resorts!The post Massive Changes Hitting Disney World Resorts Next Month: Construction, Reopenings, and Major Shutdowns appeared first on Inside the Magic.