Disney’s Lakeshore Lodge Construction Update: Imagineering Files Three New Permits

Another exciting construction milestone has been reached at Walt Disney World’s newest resort! Walt Disney Imagineering has filed three new construction permits for Disney’s Lakeshore Lodge, covering the installation of signage and themed set elements throughout the upcoming Disney Vacation Club property.

The nature-inspired waterfront resort is currently under construction along the shores of Bay Lake, between Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground. And with its grand opening scheduled for July 1, 2027, these latest filings suggest work is continuing on the finishing details that will help bring the resort’s immersive design to life.

What Do the New Lakeshore Lodge Permits Reveal?

The three Notices of Commencement were filed in late October 2026 and identify two contractors responsible for the upcoming installations.

The filings include:

• SPI: Installation of signage at 632 W. Wilderness Way.
• ThemeWorks, Inc.: Installation of themed set elements at 632 W. Wilderness Way.
• SPI: Additional signage installation at 640 W. Wilderness Way.

While the permits don’t identify the exact signs or decorative elements being installed, they indicate that work is continuing on the resort’s themed environment. These types of installations can include wayfinding signs, decorative architectural features, and other details that contribute to a Disney resort’s overall appearance.

However, Disney has not confirmed which areas of Lakeshore Lodge will receive the new elements.

Construction Continues Ahead of July 2027 Opening

The latest permits follow an earlier round of filings in April 2026 involving additional signage and themed installations. Recent construction updates have also shown progress on the resort’s main building and its distinctive waterfront Lake Houses. Although signage and decorative installations often occur during later stages of construction, the new permits don’t necessarily mean the resort is nearing completion. Additional construction, interior finishing, testing, and operational preparations may still be required before opening day.

Disney’s Lakeshore Lodge is scheduled to welcome its first guests on July 1, 2027, with reservations already available to the general public.

What Can Guests Expect at Disney’s Lakeshore Lodge?

The new resort will feature 967 accommodations, ranging from intimate studios to spacious multi-bedroom villas and waterfront Lake Houses. Its design celebrates nature through the artwork and storytelling of Disney animated films, including Bambi, Pocahontas, Brother Bear, and Encanto. Disney has already revealed several standout features planned for the property.

Inside the grand lobby, guests will discover a shimmering fiber-optic river inspired by Pocahontas, along with a dramatic blown-glass sculpture featuring hundreds of suspended leaves.

The resort will also offer multiple dining locations, including Moonglade, a waterfront table-service restaurant, and Bay Lake Provisions, an all-day quick-service marketplace.

For recreation, guests can look forward to The Wetlands, a sprawling outdoor area featuring Lakeshore Lagoon, a zero-entry pool with a spiral waterslide, and Daydream River, a relaxing lazy river.

And thanks to its location along Bay Lake, the resort will offer boat transportation to Magic Kingdom, along with opportunities to enjoy views of the park’s nighttime fireworks.

A New Chapter for a Historic Disney World Location

Disney’s Lakeshore Lodge is being constructed on the former site of River Country, Walt Disney World’s original water park. River Country opened in 1976 and permanently closed in 2001, leaving the waterfront property unused for many years.

The location was originally intended for a resort known as Reflections – A Disney Lakeside Lodge, announced in 2018 before the project was paused. Disney later revived the development under the Lakeshore Lodge name, creating a new nature-inspired resort that pays tribute to Disney’s animated storytelling and the surrounding landscape.

Disney has also revealed that a special plaque within the resort’s outdoor recreation area will honor the historic attraction that once occupied the property.