For decades, Disney’s Contemporary Resort has been one of the most recognizable and sought-after places to stay at Walt Disney World.

Opened in 1971 alongside the Magic Kingdom, the resort has long been a symbol of Disney’s forward-thinking design, with its sleek A-frame structure and the famous monorail gliding straight through its heart. Guests staying here enjoy some of the closest access to the Magic Kingdom, breathtaking views of Cinderella Castle, and a blend of retro-modern aesthetics that continue to make it a fan favorite.

A distant view of Disney's Contemporary Resort, one of the Walt Disney World Monorail Resort hotels. Cinderella Castle is visible in the background.
Credit: Inside the Magic

Over the years, the Contemporary has undergone numerous updates to keep up with changing guest expectations, including the introduction of The Incredibles-themed rooms and refreshed dining experiences. However, maintaining such an iconic resort requires regular refurbishments, and Disney is currently in the middle of a significant one—one that has resulted in parts of the resort being temporarily blocked off.

The Reason for the Closures

Disney recently confirmed that a major refurbishment is underway at Bay Lake Tower, the Disney Vacation Club (DVC) property connected to the Contemporary Resort. Initially scheduled to last until September 2025, the project’s timeline has been adjusted, with an expected completion now set for summer 2025. As part of this refurbishment, Disney has closed off certain areas of the resort, including multiple floors of Bay Lake Tower, to complete much-needed updates.

Fireworks above Bay Lake tower at Disney World
Credit: Disney

A recent update confirmed that work is progressing on schedule, with renovations to rooms on the south side of the building—specifically rooms 24 to 44 on floors 7 through 16—now complete, according to reports from All Ears. Guests looking to book a stay can request one of these newly refurbished rooms on higher floors. However, with construction ongoing throughout the tower, some areas remain inaccessible.

What This Means for Disney World Resort Guests

If you’re planning a stay at Disney’s Contemporary Resort or Bay Lake Tower in the coming months, be prepared for construction noise and some minor inconveniences. While Disney is known for managing refurbishments as smoothly as possible, guests should anticipate daytime work and some areas being restricted. Those looking for uninterrupted peace and quiet may want to consider other resort options or request a room away from the construction zones.

Despite the temporary closures, Bay Lake Tower remains one of the most desirable DVC properties at Disney World, thanks to its luxurious accommodations and unbeatable location. With the renovations expected to wrap up by summer 2025, future guests can look forward to updated rooms that blend modern design with the resort’s classic charm.

For now, if you’re staying at the Contemporary, be sure to check for updates on the refurbishment schedule and plan accordingly. With Disney constantly working to improve the guest experience, this temporary inconvenience is all in the name of keeping one of its most iconic resorts at the top of its game.

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