Disney’s Lakeshore Lodge Coming to former Reflections Site SUMMER 2027!

[mlayton14]

I mean you have to admit (Stevie Wonder could see this is true) that the concept art for this "resort" is a little deceptive.

I mean, REALLY!

View attachment 1071411

Where do the newbie buyers (time share) or guests (hotel room cells) see that they have been dumped next to a legendary legacy 1971 WDW resort in the picture above? This is a classic case of bait-and-switch which is literally undeniable. The new resort folks are outliers obviously.

The 1971 legacy resort Fort Wilderness has a STRONG following based on over 50 years of returning guests who are very social and have a strong sense of community (unlike the claustrophobic tiny room guests). Again, undeniable. Hotel/DVC guests, by all accounts, have little community sense during their stay. Un--- (but I repeat myself).

Oh sure, Disney may sell these points at a discount, fire sale, or other gimmicks (common trust) - because the DVC beast must (will) be fed. But I wonder how the reviews will be rated/scored when the hotel guests see they get a dumpster view (sealed up tho it is).

My chicken wing will be in view. As the resort designers planned.

Be careful what you wish for.

Bama Ed

Mr Ed the Entitled strikes again. Be careful with those chicken wings, some random screws may come the other direction directly under your trailer wheel (accidentally of course)

PS - don’t forget the KOA down the road is always an option

 

[GADisneyDad14]

Hi all. A request for everyone to tone it down with the direct and indirect attacks and innuendo towards individuals or groups of individuals. This includes both sides of the ‘argument.’ We can all speak our opinions of the new resort without it devolving into personal attacks on individuals or groups. Go after The Walt Disney Company all you want, not each other.

Some of the tone in this thread has flirted too close with our DIS guidelines, so please don’t force my hand.

The Ignore feature is a wonderful option at times.

Thank you.

 

[Teamubr]

Mr Ed the Entitled strikes again. Be careful with those chicken wings, some random screws may come the other direction directly under your trailer wheel (accidentally of course)

And people wonder why those of us who have been coming to the Fort since long before DVC, when the only resort you could see (much less hear) from the beach was the Contemporary, have a negative impression of the rest of the resorts.

Lakeshore Lodge really looks nice. I will definitely check it out when it opens. Not to stay there, but to see the shop(s) and try the restaurants. It's the proximity most of us campers object to. Kind of makes us feel like this:



In case you think that is an exageration, here is a pick from last week. The rustic building in the foreground is Hoop-Dee-Do at the Settlement.



I have many friends that own DVC and will only stay in a WDW Moderate or above resort. That's great, if its your thing.

I have stayed in a couple of DVC rooms (SSR, OKW) and 4 different Value or Moderates, but I prefer my own bed (SleepNumber), kitchen, bathroom and front porch to any of those.



j

 

[bama_ed]

Mr Ed the Entitled strikes again. Be careful with those chicken wings, some random screws may come the other direction directly under your trailer wheel (accidentally of course)

PS - don’t forget the KOA down the road is always an option

So lame, @mlayton14. But thanks for memorializing your reaction in case anything happens. I've quoted it here and snapped still shots to back me up.

Entitled? I'd say, 'honest'. No one has quoted and proved a false quote of mine yet. Good luck, my friend. Stay where you want at WDW and don't worry about the rest of us. I sure don't worry about you.

And KOA's are so limiting. You have to think in the bigger picture if you can. As we campers do.

It's an ugly DVC resort (Ray Charles can see that) but DVC will sell points until they're gone (some day). There is no requirement here on the DIS boards for 100% agreement but facts are still stubborn things. Good luck on your next stay in Orlando!

Ciao! ED

PS - thanks ~Dad. Photos and evidence are hard facts to deal with. We don't all have to agree or drink the same koolaid. It is what it is and I am good with that. Thank you my man.

 

[zackiedawg]

There's approximately 1400 feet between the last cabin at Wilderness Lodge and the edge of the Lakeshore Lodge's property. There's approximately 40-50 feet between the back of Fort Wilderness' Pioneer Hall and the Lakeshore Lodge, plus the A-frame cabins that actually took Clementine Beach away entirely, which is sitting ON Fort Wilderness' former property.

It just seems like positioning Lakeshore Lodge about 300-400 feet farther away from Fort Wilderness would have significantly reduced the impact on the rustic atmosphere of the Fort - only the tops of the building would have been visible and trees would help soften the impact, and Clementine Beach could have stayed part of Fort Wilderness - whole there would still be several hundred feet between Wilderness Lodge's and Lakeshore Lodge's properties.

Disney has definitely changed that one aspect of their design and construction of buildings - much care was taken in theming resorts heavily, and trying to keep sightlines clean. More recently, many newer Disney resort buildings have taken on a more general, modern hotel-like appearance, significantly less color and design theming, and sightlines no longer appear to be a consideration at all. Seeing Riviera tower from Epcot World Showcase (remember when Tower of Terror's design had to blend into Morocco's design because it was visible just beyond Morocco's pavilion from the opposite side of the lake?), The new Poly tower, BLT, Riviera, and Gran Destino towers all visible from significant distances and other resorts and parks, all with large, monolithic concrete structure designs that don't look much different from any hotel tower in any city in the U.S.; this is some of what is eating at long-time Disney goers who remember when much more care was taken to separating spaces and keeping atmospheres and themes. All the new towers are obviously a new and different direction, but Lakeshore Lodge stands out as the most egregious for many because of just how amazingly close it is to Fort Wilderness, how it stands in complete opposition to the rustic old-west theming of Fort Wilderness, and how the most generic and worst side of the Lakeshore Lodge, the large slab wall of windows with no balconies, colors, or designs, is the one that sits on top of Settlement.

On its own, Lakeshore Lodge looks like it will be a lovely resort property, and I look forward to visiting it and depending on points charts, maybe even staying there. The one and only silver lining for people staying at the Fort is that it should offer a few more bar and restaurant offerings to visit. But I will never be happy about them putting it so close to Settlement - it was just a poor and inconsiderate decision that I don't think would have ever been allowed by Disney 30 years ago.

 

[proudmomof4]

Very well said zackiedawg!

 

[fla4fun]

The Riviera view from Epcot doesn’t bother me as much as the view from CBR. Two totally different parts of the world are trying to be represented in the same place, with two extremely diverse architectural styles and theming. I like the Riviera Resort, but it needed to be placed somewhere else on property or it needed to be a different theme so it fit in better.

I do not like how close LSL is to FW, but I will reserve final judgment until it is finished. I may end up hating it, or I may just be mildly annoyed. It’s too early for me to be sure. If a line of trees is allowed to grow and mask most of the large building from view, I could probably tolerate it. I’m actually more concerned about the influx of people ruining the calm peacefulness of the Fort. With so much land, they certainly didn’t plan this very well.

 

[gottalovepluto]

… I’m actually more concerned about the influx of people ruining the calm peacefulness of the Fort. With so much land, they certainly didn’t plan this very well.

If LSL is enough of a destination in itself- and that pool is certainly trying- it will keep a majority of its guests from exploring FW. (Opposite will probably be more of an issue with FW trying to access LSL.)

 

[Teamubr]

If a line of trees is allowed to grow and mask most of the large building from view, I could probably tolerate it. I’m actually more concerned about the influx of people ruining the calm peacefulness of the Fort. With so much land, they certainly didn’t plan this very well.

Disney does incredible things with earth berms and landscaping. This has been my hope when I saw the original plans before it started the first time. We'll see.

If LSL is enough of a destination in itself- and that pool is certainly trying- it will keep a majority of its guests from exploring FW. (Opposite will probably be more of an issue with FW trying to access LSL.)

I know the influx of LSL guests is one of the concerns of us Fort folks. I think there will be a subset that has no interest in the campground and will stay at LSL and the parks and others that are curious about those buildings so close and want to check out the various RVs. We have always had people come to Hoop or Trails End (for the formerly amazing buffet). Most of us go "looping" to see all the RVs. A few more probably won't be noticeable... hopefully.

One of the most annoying things to me is the encroachment and complete take over of Clementine's Beach. They did improve the beach on the other side of the boat dock (the actual original Clementine's), but most people in the last 25 years think of the "beach" being where the A-frames are and have fond memories of taking our lawn chairs down and watch the MK fireworks there.

Disney clearly could have moved the resort a little farther to the west, but that would have taken it closer to WL and the DVC there. I guess they figured WL/DVC was a much higher revenue stream than the "campers".

j

 

[gottalovepluto]

...I think there will be a subset... are curious about those buildings so close and want to check out the various RVs. We have always had people come to Hoop or Trails End (for the formerly amazing buffet). Most of us go "looping" to see all the RVs. A few more probably won't be noticeable...

Wut. As a dedicated hotel person I literally didn't know that was a thing... may my ignorance on this front give you some peace of mind that this subset probably isn't going to be terribly big

Holidays will be a different matter entirely obviously.

 

[Teamubr]

Wut. As a dedicated hotel person I literally didn't know that was a thing... may my ignorance on this front give you some peace of mind that this subset probably isn't going to be terribly big

Sorry. One of the favorite non-park activities for us "campers" is to go around the different camping "loops" at the Fort checking out decorations, other people's camping setup and check out the variety of campers. It is usually done on a golf cart, although some walk. We refer to this as "looping". Similar to "resort hopping" where you go around to the different resorts to check out the shops, restaurants or general theming.

I may have just let a much larger audience in on the some of the fun at the Fort. Some campers, especially at the Fort, go through great lengths decorating their sites, especially around Halloween and Christmas.

I probably shouldn't do this, but here are some pics of sites at the Fort around Halloween. It is so popular near the holiday, Disney restricts access to the Fort to those staying at the Fort.





j

 

[crazy4wdw]

Lazy River continues to be developed in new aerial photos:
https://blogmickey.com/2026/05/aeri...e-lodges-lazy-river-continuing-to-take-shape/

 

[mrsap]

Aerial Photos Show Lakeshore Lodge’s Lazy River Continuing to Take Shape​

The Lazy River Is Coming Into Focus​

Of all the progress visible in this latest aerial flyover, it is the lazy river that commands the most attention. Across multiple photos, the winding, looping concrete channel of the lazy river is clearly defined, snaking its way through the open courtyard area that sits at the center of the resort’s hotel buildings. The lazy river follows a long, curving path, doubling back on itself in what appears to be a generously sized circuit that will give guests plenty of time to drift and relax.

The concrete work on the lazy river channel appears well underway, with the walls and basin of the channel poured and curing in several sections. Construction crews and equipment are visible throughout the pool complex area, suggesting active work continues at a strong pace. From above, the lazy river’s footprint gives a clear sense of just how large this amenity will be, winding through a significant portion of the resort’s outdoor recreation area.

A Large Main Pool Area Takes Shape Alongside It​

Adjacent to the lazy river, the broader pool complex is also beginning to reveal its layout. A large main pool basin is visible in several of the aerial shots, sitting to one side of the lazy river channel. The combination of the main pool and the lazy river together suggests Lakeshore Lodge’s aquatic recreation offering will be a major draw for guests, consistent with the resort’s upscale positioning on the shores of Bay Lake.

Additional pool features and surrounding deck areas are still in earlier stages of construction, but the sheer scale of the pool complex footprint is already apparent from the air.

Previously released concept art shows the vision for this recreation area.

Hotel Buildings Rise Across the Property​

Beyond the pool area, the hotel buildings that will make up Lakeshore Lodge continue to climb skyward. The resort features several multi-story hotel towers along with lakeside cabins. All buildings are at full height, and in various stages of theming.

Waterfront Features and Marina Construction​

True to its name, Lakeshore Lodge’s Bay Lake waterfront is also seeing active construction work. A dock and marina structure extending out into the lake is visible in the aerial photos, which will offer guests boat transportation access to the Magic Kingdom and possibly other Disney resorts on the lake, consistent with the transportation options available at neighboring Wilderness Lodge.

Silt containment barriers line the waterfront perimeter throughout the construction zone, a standard practice to protect the lake’s ecosystem during the active build phase.

A Massive Project in Motion​

Taken together, the aerial photos paint the picture of a project progressing on all fronts simultaneously. From the lazy river to the hotel towers rising to the marina taking shape along Bay Lake, Lakeshore Lodge is clearly an enormous undertaking, and one that is moving with considerable momentum.

No official opening date has been announced for Lakeshore Lodge, but Disney has previously announced an opening season of Summer 2027.

 

[bama_ed]

If LSL is enough of a destination in itself-

Huh? I thought English was the primary language used on the DIS?

Nobody sounds like they're beating down the doors to buy the "Mistake By The Lake" (MBTL). No amount of pumping sunshine can put lipstick on a pig (as we say down south very truthfully).

Holidays will be a different matter entirely obviously.

That's the passive aggressive way of saying that "the campers are correct - us trapped hotel wall folks will try to escape to the beautiful Fort Wilderness for Halloween candy and Christmas decorations.

Taken together, the aerial photos paint the picture of a project progressing on all fronts simultaneously. From the lazy river to the hotel towers rising to the marina taking shape along Bay Lake, Lakeshore Lodge is clearly an enormous undertaking, and one that is moving with considerable (LACK OF) momentum.

Emphasis added for honesty is mine.

Yeah, it's only taken 7 years (at least) to get to this point from the R********** public drop? Which was the worst kept secret since Al Capone's Secret Vault? (where is Geraldo when I need him)? And it will be another year or so till sales (ha) start? Oh my. Talk about a long time line.....

Gee whiz, kids, the lazy river was in the plans at least back to 2019 (when us campers saw that in the plans WAY back when). And it's no lazy river around Storm A Long Bay no matter how hard you try to push it (We.Campers.Don't.Care). But PT Barnum had a phrase back in the day that fits this discussion.

And thanks for including the clip art of a mythical resort on the side of Bay Lake. I notice it doesn't include the dumpster views behind Pioneer Hall.

Bama Ed

PS - But hey, the MBTL might learn a lesson soon about the local families and home schoolers that like to crash the FW poolz in summer. They're desperate enough to try to crash the tiny lazy river at the MBTL. Your maintenance fees are gonna go up PRONTO (to pay for the extra CM's and leaky tech) to keep out the locals. Just sayin'. Glad I could help ya'll out.

 

[gottalovepluto]

Huh? I thought English was the primary language used on the DIS?

Nobody sounds like they're beating down the doors to buy the "Mistake By The Lake" (MBTL). No amount of pumping sunshine can put lipstick on a pig (as we say down south very truthfully).



That's the passive aggressive way of saying that "the campers are correct - us trapped hotel wall folks will try to escape to the beautiful Fort Wilderness for Halloween candy and Christmas decorations.


Emphasis added for honesty is mine.

Yeah, it's only taken 7 years (at least) to get to this point from the R********** public drop? Which was the worst kept secret since Al Capone's Secret Vault? (where is Geraldo when I need him)? And it will be another year or so till sales (ha) start? Oh my. Talk about a long time line.....

Gee whiz, kids, the lazy river was in the plans at least back to 2019 (when us campers saw that in the plans WAY back when). And it's no lazy river around Storm A Long Bay no matter how hard you try to push it (We.Campers.Don't.Care). But PT Barnum had a phrase back in the day that fits this discussion.

And thanks for including the clip art of a mythical resort on the side of Bay Lake. I notice it doesn't include the dumpster views behind Pioneer Hall.

Bama Ed

PS - But hey, the MBTL might learn a lesson soon about the local families and home schoolers that like to crash the FW poolz in summer. They're desperate enough to try to crash the tiny lazy river at the MBTL. Your maintenance fees are gonna go up PRONTO (to pay for the extra CM's and leaky tech) to keep out the locals. Just sayin'. Glad I could help ya'll out.

…in my professional opinion you could use a Mickey Bar

 

[Teamubr]

Gee whiz, kids, the lazy river was in the plans at least back to 2019 (when us campers saw that in the plans WAY back when).

2019, Ed?

I have plans going back to 2011. Remember these? This resort has been in the works for over 15 years. (notice the cover page says "Restart") Granted, Covid did put it on pause, but this has been a "Go" for a very long time.



I colored in the lazy river for you.



j

 

[zackiedawg]

That 2011 version would have been MUCH better for Fort Wilderness. Much more distance away from Pioneer Hall, more trees and park space around it, and at least in the sketch, appears more 'wilderness' themed and colored (less Holiday Inn looking on the Fort side). The farthest-right wing would still be intrusive to the Settlement, but less so than the current design.

 

[Add-On-Itis]

That 2011 version would have been MUCH better for Fort Wilderness. Much more distance away from Pioneer Hall, more trees and park space around it, and at least in the sketch, appears more 'wilderness' themed and colored (less Holiday Inn looking on the Fort side). The farthest-right wing would still be intrusive to the Settlement, but less so than the current design.

those 2011 version look very similar to copper creek

 

[bama_ed]

I have plans going back to 2011. Remember these? This resort has been in the works for over 15 years.

Yep, @Teamubr, I had those drawings too.

Everything old is new again.

What a siren's song.

Bama Ed

PS - I mean, sure they moved the lazy river from one side of the resort to the other and changed a couple other things but it DOES smell and feel like an (moldy) oldy time share resort. (Don't tell the sunshine pumpers). Just splash some new wallpaper and paint on the walls and then chase after the latest Intellectual Properties (IP) to their restaurants and the like. 'Course, they'll be (old IP will be replaced by newer lame IP) aged out in less than 5 years but by then HEY, we will have sold 20% of the time share points. . Then it's time for new pillows, paint, re-naming things to make them sound new. Sell, baby, SELL!

 

[bama_ed]

That 2011 version would have been MUCH better for Fort Wilderness. Much more distance away from Pioneer Hall, more trees and park space around it, and at least in the sketch, appears more 'wilderness' themed and colored (less Holiday Inn looking on the Fort side). The farthest-right wing would still be intrusive to the Settlement, but less so than the current design.

@zackiedawg,

That spot in the upper right hand corner of the 2011 drawing that @Teamubr posted [big square] was supposed to be the NEW location for the Mickey's Backyard BBQ pavilion that had been between Pioneer Hall and the old River Country. It was going to slip into the space behind the Settlement Trading Post there in the drawings. It was very popular (AYCTE, live band/bluegrass music, and characters - aimed at kids in young families). Even in the warm weather times, I stood in the River Country area for a minute or two and watched families (parents and kids), Cast Members/musicians, and characters interact.

It's sad that it was never replaced (always popular and well attended when I was there). But some folks just on "reflex" will say 'UP' if someone says 'DOWN' (without knowing what it means). So if Ed says MBYBBQ was good, some folks will reflexively say it was BAD or not needed to be replaced.

Going back to @Teamubr's 2011 drawings (which I'm shure all teh naysayers were already aware of, no? The grand entrance/circular drive point in the opposide direction than it does today.

There was no crammed in time share cabins and tiny hotel rooms packed in behind the Trails End game arcade (I bet that description will get a few more dollars on the room listing). But as years marched on, the accountants and bean counters got more desperate. So they went with crammed and they went with ugly and they prayed that naive, uninformed buyers would pay through the time share nose before they realized what they had purchased.

That's where we are now. In all it's ugly glory. And the beast must be fed and it WILL BE FED eventually but the image Q will take a hit on this one.

Bama Ed

PS - the sad thing is that a resort between WL and FW could have been so much more (something like the 2011 design) but as the years past then the corporation got greedy and desperate and pushed the current trash design on us. Wouldn't have 2011 been nicer (and 15 more years sooner on the bottom line of the Financial Statements) have been easier on the Fort?

PPS - and don't, please don't, go in the direction of Buffalo Junction .....