Change is nothing new at Walt Disney World. The resort is always evolving in both large and small ways, and that’s NOT just limited to its four theme parks, as Disney World’s hotels are also evolving this October!

Over the course of the next month, Disney’s hotels will see everything from a NEW entertainment venue and refurbishments to seasonal decorations!

Animal Kingdom Lodge

Let’s begin with this popular Deluxe Tier Resort, which is in the midst of some major refurbishment projects. Over the course of October, the work will be split into two segments:

• September 28th to October 9th: The north side lobby corridor will be closed. During this time, the north side lobby elevators on the second floor and the outdoor terrace observation deck will be unavailable.
• October 26th to November 6th: The south side lobby corridor will be closed. During this time, Community Hall, Safari So Good Arcade, the laundry room, the Palace Library, lobby restrooms, and the outdoor terrace observation deck will be unavailable.

Further rehab projects happening during October include:

• Boardwalk Exterior Refurbishment: Through Late 2026.
• Wilderness Lodge Exterior Refurbishment: Late 2026.
• Yacht Club Exterior Maintenance: Late 2026.
• All-Star Movies Refurb: Through January 2027.
• Coronado Springs Convention Center: Through September 2027

Hurly-Burly

Since JellyRolls – – the Boardwalk’s very popular longtime dueling piano bar location – – shut its doors back in April 2025, the hotel’s nighttime offerings have been limited, taking away a big chunk of the appeal of staying at the resort.  However, that’s about to change on October 1st thanks to the opening of the Hurly-Burly Lounge!

During the day, this new entertainment offering will act as a family-friendly venue with activities and trivia games. At night, it will transition to a 21+ live music venue with coastal-inspired cocktails and light bites. Speaking of those bites, Disney has released the lounge’s menu, which includes:

• Meatballs in Tomato Gravy: Veal, pork, and beef meatballs with tomato gravy, stracciatella cheese, Pecorino Romano, and toasted focaccia (Plant-based option available upon request)
• Antipasto: Sliced meats, Burrata, Pecorino Romano, and marinated vegetables
• Mini Pretzels with Bacon-Cheese Fondue
• Tomato Pie: Focaccia, tomato sauce, oregano, and Pecorino Romano (Plant-based option available upon request)
• Oven-roasted Shrimp with garlic, herbs, and sweet pepper-onion relish
• Roast Beef Sliders: Shaved roast beef and horseradish-mustard sour cream on slider rolls
• Theater Concessions: Trio of meatballs, sugar cookie, and buttered popcorn
• Mini Apple Cider Doughnuts with miso-caramel sauce

Grand Floridian Cafe Reservations

Speaking of Disney dining locations, the Grand Floridian Cafe is close to reopening. The Grand Floridian dining location (what, the name didn’t give it away?) has been closed since the spring, but reservations are OPEN for the cafe now for seatings beginning November 2nd.

It’s Beginning to Look A Lot Like… Well, You Know

While the Halloween season runs all the way until October 31st, elements of the Christmas season will begin sneaking in certain places as October, including Disney World’s hotels, comes to an end. So keep an eye out before the bulk of decorations goes up just after Halloween.

If you’re staying at a Disney World hotel this October, be sure to be aware that you may be in for some changes! Stay tuned to DFB for further updates on Disney World’s evolution.

Fans Are AVOIDING 3 Disney World Hotels Until 2027

Where’s your next Disney hotel stay? Let us know in the comments below.