Fans Are Already Angry About the New Disney World Hotel Opening in 2027

Change is a fact of life at Walt Disney World. Over the years, the company has closed and opened new rides, lands, and even changed hotels to the point of being unrecognizable, and Disney fans — as would be expected — have never been shy about expressing their opinions.

©@bioreconstruct

Currently, Disney is building the new Lakeshore Lodge on the space formerly occupied by the River Country water park, and our readers have THOUGHTS. We took to Facebook to ask why some aren’t thrilled with the resort.

The new resort is set to be a mixed-use offering with both Disney Vacation Club and Deluxe Resort Tier lodging. Set to be “inspired by the majesty of nature and its enduring influence on Disney artists”, the resort will include numerous amenities, including a large pool complex and dining. That said, many readers take exception to elements of the resort.

©Disney

Several readers expressed concern about how Lakeshore Lodge could potentially impact the nearby Fort Wilderness campground, a Disney World staple since 1971. Reader Elizabeth wrote, “I personally don’t like the idea of Lakeshore Lodge being built because I feel like it will ruin the peace and quiet of the campground a d and I think it will get overcrowded and lose its charm, which is what makes it special in the first place.”

Reader Karen expressed, “For me it’s the location. And how that location is going to impact things at the campground. Right now, there is nothing blocking the road between the horse barn and the settlement area. So it appears that you could just drive on over. The thing is that at the campground, there are very few parking spots, and most use golf carts to get around. I can only imagine what not having a gate to block off this new resort will do during times when entry to the campground is limited to guests only- like Halloween and Christmas. I just question the closeness of where they actually built this thing.”

Fort Wilderness campsite ©Disney

Reader Christine expressed a similar sentiment, opining, “I didn’t realize why people were upset about it until I went to Hoop Dee Doo (Musical Review) for the first time last week. It’s such a vibe killer if you’re in the Fort Wilderness bubble and then have to stare out to a super modern building. I’m sure it will be beautiful but it just looks weird from Fort Wilderness.”

©@bioreconstruct

The issue of the resort’s theme, or perceived lack thereof, was brought up by several readers. As Ray expressed, “I think the backlash is more related to the lack of grounds theming and them looking like a run-of-the-mill Hilton or Marriott. Most Disney fans want to be immersed, and Disney corporate has lost vision of a lot of theming. If I wanted to stay in a “hotel” I’d just stay at the Drury in Disney Springs and be done with it. Give me Art of Animation, the OG Poly, Animal Kingdom Lodge, Port Orleans, or Old Key West any day, every day, all day long.”

Reader Jean took issue with the property being a Disney Vacation Club property, writing, “I like the idea of the hotel, what I don’t like is it’s yet another DVC property. I know Disney makes a ton of money off DVC memberships and that’s why they keep pushing for more and more of them. Also, it would be nice to have another moderate resort on property somewhere rather than so many deluxe resorts.”

Lakeshore Lodge under construction

Reader Dianna expressed annoyance less at the Lakeshore Lodge specifically, and more at the idea of Disney adding more hotel rooms in general, writing, “The problem is they keep adding more hotel rooms, but not more rides and attractions. So you’ve got thousands more people in the parks every day, and no additional space in the parks for them to enjoy. So now we are really packed like sardines in the parks, and lines are even longer. Not to mention all the areas in the parks that they are closing down. Dinoland is closed, the Muppet show is closed, the riverboat and Tom Sawyer Island are closed, Thunder Mountain is closed, etc., etc. They should consider opening a fifth park. That’s what is really needed, in my humble opinion, not another hotel.”

Of course, it is worth noting that several of the rides they mentioned will either be reopened or replaced by something new by the time Lakeshore Lodge opens.

Lakeshore Lodge at night

Not everyone is upset, however, as reader Kari pointed out, “I’m excited! As a DVC member, it looks to be a BIG capacity resort to fill a definite need. It’s become increasingly difficult to get a room (within) the 7-month window. Hope this helps that a bit!”

If you’re interested in sharing your thoughts on this, or any other Disney or travel-related topic, follow us on the DFB Facebook to join in on the next conversation!

Why So Many Disney Fans Accidentally Sabotage Their First Hour in Magic Kingdom

Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe!

WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.

Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.

Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!

Are you excited or anxious about Lakeshore Lodge? Let us know in the comments below.