food IS a theme park
Since the Contemporary and Polynesian Resort opened with Walt Disney World on opening day in 1971, Disney hotel guests have had access to numerous perks while staying on property, ranging from transportation to dining and park access.
Goofy is ready for summer!
That tradition continues to this day, as guests staying at a Walt Disney World hotel in 2026 have access to some major new — and limited-time — updates.
If you were looking for a sign to stay at the most expensive hotel at Disney World, this price tag might be it!
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa is a Deluxe Resort at Disney World, and it is one of the most expensive hotels guests can stay at. It has some great restaurants, and it is in close proximity to the Magic Kingdom. While there is a lot to love about the resort, it might not be in every guest’s budget. There is a hotel discount out right now that makes booking a room here more tempting!
This might surprise you, but there is about to be MORE construction in Disney World.
Aloha, Polynesian Village Resort!
2026 is the year of growth around the Disney Resort! In the theme parks, they’re busy working away at new lands like the Walt Disney Studios, Pueblo Esperanza, Piston Peak, and more. Over at the hotels, there’s quite a bit of refurbishment going on, and Disney’s Polynesian Village is now putting on its hard hat to get in on the fun.
If you’re heading to EPCOT in 2026, make sure to familiarize yourself with the latest policy changes at Disney’s second park, as things have changed even in the last year.
Spaceship Earth
Whether it’s how to approach some of EPCOT’s most popular attractions that have been refurbished, some of the park’s most popular restaurants, or even its newest lounge.
If you’re planning a visit to Disney’s Hollywood Studios this year, we’re going to give you some pointers!
Hollywood Studios
This is one of Disney World’s most popular parks because it’s home to big thrills and fan-favorite IPs like Toy Story and Star Wars. So if you want to visit, you may want to choose a time when it’s going to be less crowded. We’ve rounded up a list of the weeks that we’re projecting to be less crowded in 2026!
I’ve been going to Disney World for decades, and I LOVE Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, but there are a few reasons to avoid it in 2026.
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
This resort seems to have been plagued by years of construction. When the Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows opened in December 2024, we thought that might have been the last we saw of construction. However, that has not been the case. In 2025, construction continued here, and as of 2026, guests can still be affected by work.
UPDATED April 20, 2026
2026 is going to be a year of major change at Walt Disney World, as massive years-long construction projects continue to reshape the future of the resort. However, that doesn’t mean nothing new is coming in 2026.
New missions will be added to Millennium Falcon: Smugglers run in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort featuring the Mandalorian and Grogu.
While some of the larger projects won’t be finished and open to guests until calendar turns 2027 — and beyond — there are major changes CONFIRMED to be coming to Disney World THIS YEAR!
Believe it or not, it’s almost time to start planning for this year’s EPCOT Food & Wine Festival! While it may still feel like 2026 just started, the truth is we’re just months away from the kickoff of EPCOT’s premier annual event.
Frozen Rose at the EPCOT Food & Wine Festival
Of course, flights and hotels can’t be booked until you know when you’re going, and currently, the 2026 dates haven’t been revealed yet. However, looking at years past, we can make some educated guesses as to when this year’s version of the EPCOT classic is going to kick off.
Early Entry is one of Disney’s most POPULAR perks, and it’s about to expand!
Early entry sign!
A quick refresh on Early Entry before we begin: Guests staying at Disney Resort hotels (and select other hotels) can take advantage of a 30-minute early entry into each of Walt Disney World’s theme parks every day of their stay (including check-in and check-out days). Now that’s out of the way, let’s move on to what’s changing!
Planning a Disney World trip without checking ride closures first can seriously mess with your plans.
Let’s go!
Refurbishments are a totally normal part of how Disney keeps its attractions running smoothly, but they can still catch you off guard if you’re not paying attention. As we head into April 2026, a few attractions around Disney World will either remain closed or be in the middle of major changes. If any of these rides are must-dos for your group, you will definitely want to know before your trip. Here are three Disney World rides that will be closed for refurbishment in April 2026.
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