Disney Lakeshore Lodge: What to Expect From the Newest DVC Resort

Disney Lakeshore Lodge is set to become the 18th official Disney Vacation Club (DVC) resort, bringing a fresh wave of excitement to DVC Members and Disney fans alike. Scheduled to open in 2027, this nature-inspired retreat is rising along the shores of Bay Lake, on the former site of Disney’s River Country. The project has undergone a name change, delays, and quiet reboots, but now, construction is well underway and momentum is building. Here’s everything we know so far about this highly anticipated DVC addition:

Location: A Return to Bay Lake

Disney’s Lakeshore Lodge is being constructed on the former site of River Country, nestled between Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground. This iconic location offers stunning Bay Lake views and a peaceful wooded setting—perfect for the rustic-luxe theme Disney is aiming for.

Opening Timeline

The resort is currently scheduled to open in 2027, with vertical construction visibly underway. While Disney hasn’t confirmed a specific season or month, the pace of progress suggests a mid-to-late 2027 debut is likely.

Resort Theme & Design

Originally revealed in 2018 as Reflections – A Disney Lakeside Lodge, the project was envisioned as a nature-inspired resort with deluxe accommodations. However, progress was halted during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the project quietly faded from updates—until it was officially revived and reimagined as Disney Lakeshore Lodge. The resort promises a fresh take on Disney’s rustic-luxe aesthetic, blending the tranquility of a lakeside retreat with classic Disney storytelling.

The design of Lakeshore Lodge is expected to include a mix of architectural styles, such as grand lodge buildings, A-frame cabins, and treehouse-style units tucked into the natural surroundings. The resort’s theming draws inspiration from Disney’s forested classics like Bambi, Brother Bear, Pocahontas, and The Fox and the Hound, weaving nature and nostalgia into the guest experience. One of the signature features will likely be a Princess and the Frog–themed lakeside restaurant, offering immersive dining that complements the resort’s peaceful yet playful atmosphere.

Room Types & DVC Villas

Disney has confirmed the resort will include approximately 900 rooms, combining hotel-style accommodations and DVC villas. If this mix stays true to past DVC resorts, guests can expect:

• Deluxe Studios
• 1 and 2-Bedroom Villas
• 3-Bedroom Grand Villas
• Unique options like A-frame cabins and potential treehouse-style units

This would make Lakeshore Lodge one of the largest DVC resorts by unit count — slightly smaller than Saratoga Springs (1,300+ rooms) but larger than Old Key West (750+ rooms).

Amenities & Features

Disney has not officially confirmed all amenities, but construction permits and site plans hint at a top-tier resort experience. Permits suggest a feature pool complex possibly including a lazy river (a rare offering at Disney resorts), a Zero-entry pool, splash area, and of course, water slides!

Besides the Princess and the Frog lakeside restaurant, multiple dining venues are expected, aligned with the resort’s size and DVC Deluxe category.

We can expect multiple boat launches, offering direct access to Magic Kingdom and neighboring resorts.

What We’re Still Waiting to Learn

While Disney has shared high-level information, several details remain unconfirmed, such as: exact room layouts, dining venues and restaurant names, final transportation options and routes, and any DVC Member-exclusive amenities (lounges, events, etc.)

Construction Progress

Lakeshore Lodge is on track to be one of the most immersive new properties Disney has built in years. As of mid-2025, vertical construction is in full swing with multiple tower structures rising up to 9–10 stories and cabin-style units spotted near the shoreline. The scale of the project is visible from boats and trails around Bay Lake, so be sure to take a peek the next time you’re in the area.

As the 18th Disney Vacation Club resort, Lakeshore Lodge is more than just another addition—it’s a return to nature, nostalgia, and storytelling. With a prime lakeside location, immersive theming, and rumored deluxe amenities, it’s poised to become a fan-favorite for years to come.

Whether you’re a longtime DVC Member or a first-time buyer watching the resale market, this is one resort worth keeping your eye on.

Posted By:

Kristen Tutas