Reflections still on the drawing board..

[bama_ed]

Three cranes and more concrete is real construction there, @Teamubr .

Maybe Disney will oblige us with an announcement soon about the exact structure of the new resort (how many floors/rooms, split of DVC/resort, and special features like a lazy river?).

An announcement any time soon is not likely, though.

Still waiting.

ED

 

[Teamubr]

An announcement any time soon is not likely, though.

In typical Disney fashion, I suspect we won't have an official announcement until they are ready to start selling DVC.

j

 

[hertamaniac]

In typical Disney fashion, I suspect we won't have an official announcement until they are ready to start selling DVC.

j

Is this still going to be a hybrid resort (part hotel, part DVC)? I'm not talking about the DVC reserve number of hotel rooms, but a true split resort.

 

[StormyCA]

Any 'inquiries' from curious folk are likely to result in one of two 'official' answers:

"We don't know any more than you do" or "Crane, what crane? I don't see any crane"

 

[RuntheMouse]

In typical Disney fashion, I suspect we won't have an official announcement until they are ready to start selling DVC.

On a trip last month, I got as much “confirmation” as one could get without getting confirmation at a kiosk. We joked about the cranes being there and how DH and I are calling them “trees” so we don’t actually acknowledge their existence. In the conversation, I was told they are planning on going quick with this one. It was a loose but interesting conversation. Who knows the accuracy of the information but it was way more than my guide will ever give me on “the recorded line”.

 

[bama_ed]

On a trip last month, I got as much “confirmation” as one could get without getting confirmation at a kiosk. We joked about the cranes being there and how DH and I are calling them “trees” so we don’t actually acknowledge their existence. In the conversation, I was told they are planning on going quick with this one. It was a loose but interesting conversation. Who knows the accuracy of the information but it was way more than my guide will ever give me on “the recorded line”.

I can see what you're saying. They have some Riviera points still to sell, the new Poly building, and the Fort DVC will come next (DVC Cabins are selling poorly). The Poly points will probably go somewhat quickly and Riviera will keep plugging along so they will need something to hype as the "NEXT NEW GREAT DVC".

 

[Teamubr]

Is this still going to be a hybrid resort (part hotel, part DVC)?

I haven't seen anything rumored or speculated since it has been restarted. I suspect it will end up being very much what was released prior. A hybrid DVC/hotel.

I would imagine the ratio will be determined on how they anticipate sales to go.

j

 

[DL1WDW2]

On a trip last month, I got as much “confirmation” as one could get without getting confirmation at a kiosk. We joked about the cranes being there and how DH and I are calling them “trees” so we don’t actually acknowledge their existence. In the conversation, I was told they are planning on going quick with this one. It was a loose but interesting conversation. Who knows the accuracy of the information but it was way more than my guide will ever give me on “the recorded line”.

If they build it “Quick” it will reflect how desperate they are to salvage the sales of the new Cabins . I am guessing /. Betting total DVC cause … maintenance fees.

 

[StormyCA]

Which begs the question, will DVC quietly disappear from the Fort and the (unsold) cabins revert to 'just cabins'? Will the current Fort DVC holders be given an early chance to buy in to TDVCTMNBN, especially if they do build cabins there? At an increased cost, of course, but possibly a bit less than to new buyers.

Just wishful thinking on my part caused in part by the fact that they haven't started building whatever that is that's supposed to be at Meadows.

 

[CarolynFH]

Okay, it's confirmed - https://www.disboards.com/threads/b...g-to-former-reflections-site-in-2027.3957947/.

 

[bama_ed]

Okay, it's confirmed - https://www.disboards.com/threads/breaking-disney’s-lakeshore-lodge-coming-to-former-reflections-site-in-2027.3957947/.

"Disney's Lakeshore Lodge"?

Oh boy.

Sometimes I think these Marketing people have an EXTREMELY limited vocabulary. We already have a "Wilderness Lodge" nearby (technically it's named "Disney's Wilderness Lodge"). Now we'll have a "Disney's Lakeshore Lodge" (the Wilderness one is on the shore of Bay Lake as well). We STILL have a similar issue with people referring to the Wilderness Lodge as "Fort Wilderness Lodge" at times due to its proximity to one of WDW's original resorts, "Fort Wilderness". Although I will say, after three decades of these faux pas, they are fewer now than they used to be. And while it's slightly better than the R* name, even THEN Marketing had the same problem: anyone remember the night show at Epcot "Illuminations - REFLECTIONS of Earth"?

Oy!

Nevertheless, at least it will have a table service restaurant. No mention yet if it will be split between DVC and Hotel room offerings as well as no mention yet of other amenities like a lazy river named and/or themed similarly to River Country (which would be the appropriate thing to do).

Thanks for the update, Carolyn.

Bama Ed

 

[StormyCA]

I'm at least glad they dropped the 'Reflections' from the name. I always thought that sounded kinda lame.

It is what it is. I can't see them changing much from the previously approved plan so I doubt there will be more 'Wilderness' theming. It'll have the same pseudo-midcentury look as before. Any changes will probably be 'taking away' from the original concept rather than 'adding to'.

I'm still wondering if they'll try to incorporate the new cabins rather than build the originally planned ones by the lake. I know they'd be a 'fer piece' from the Lodge, but stranger things have happened. Heck, maybe they'll pull them up and transplant them. Then turn those loops into RV & tent spots!! Yes, yes, that's the ticket!!!

 

[sm8680]

Bama Ed you inspired me to use CoPilot for this write up. Granted it might be overkill. But I really liked the idea of somehow incorporating River Country. I have fond memories of RC.

Subject: Recommendation for the Theming of the New Disney Lakeshore

Dear Disney Imagineers,

I hope this message finds you well. As a devoted fan of Disney's unique storytelling and imaginative environments, I am thrilled to hear about the new Disney Lakeshore project being developed on the former River Country site.

I would like to propose that the new Disney Lakeshore be loosely themed around the nostalgic charm and spirit of the original River Country. Here are a few ideas on how this could be achieved:

1. Rustic Aesthetic: Incorporate elements of the rustic, back-to-nature aesthetic that made River Country so beloved. Wooden structures, rock formations, and natural water features could evoke the charm of the old water park.
2. Interactive Water Features: Create interactive water features reminiscent of River Country's famous attractions. Gentle rapids, splash zones, and lazy rivers can provide fun and relaxation for all ages.
3. Historical References: Include subtle nods to River Country's history throughout the Lakeshore. This could be in the form of plaques, themed decor, or hidden "Easter eggs" that celebrate the legacy of the former park.
4. Themed Entertainment: Offer entertainment options that reflect the playful, adventurous spirit of River Country. Live performances, character meet-and-greets, and themed activities can create a vibrant, engaging atmosphere.
5. Dining and Merchandising: Introduce dining options and merchandise that celebrate the theme. Restaurants can feature rustic, camp-style cuisine, and shops can offer unique, themed souvenirs.

By integrating these elements, the new Disney Lakeshore can honor the past while creating a fresh, exciting experience for guests. I believe this approach will resonate with long-time Disney fans and new visitors alike, preserving the magic of River Country in a modern, innovative way.

Thank you for considering this suggestion. I am excited to see how the new Disney Lakeshore will take shape and continue to bring joy and wonder to countless guests.

Sincerely,
[River Country Enthusiast]

 

[nerdboyrockstar]

Bama Ed you inspired me to use CoPilot for this write up. Granted it might be overkill. But I really liked the idea of somehow incorporating River Country. I have fond memories of RC.

Subject: Recommendation for the Theming of the New Disney Lakeshore

Dear Disney Imagineers,

I hope this message finds you well. As a devoted fan of Disney's unique storytelling and imaginative environments, I am thrilled to hear about the new Disney Lakeshore project being developed on the former River Country site.

I would like to propose that the new Disney Lakeshore be loosely themed around the nostalgic charm and spirit of the original River Country. Here are a few ideas on how this could be achieved:

1. Rustic Aesthetic: Incorporate elements of the rustic, back-to-nature aesthetic that made River Country so beloved. Wooden structures, rock formations, and natural water features could evoke the charm of the old water park.
2. Interactive Water Features: Create interactive water features reminiscent of River Country's famous attractions. Gentle rapids, splash zones, and lazy rivers can provide fun and relaxation for all ages.
3. Historical References: Include subtle nods to River Country's history throughout the Lakeshore. This could be in the form of plaques, themed decor, or hidden "Easter eggs" that celebrate the legacy of the former park.
4. Themed Entertainment: Offer entertainment options that reflect the playful, adventurous spirit of River Country. Live performances, character meet-and-greets, and themed activities can create a vibrant, engaging atmosphere.
5. Dining and Merchandising: Introduce dining options and merchandise that celebrate the theme. Restaurants can feature rustic, camp-style cuisine, and shops can offer unique, themed souvenirs.

By integrating these elements, the new Disney Lakeshore can honor the past while creating a fresh, exciting experience for guests. I believe this approach will resonate with long-time Disney fans and new visitors alike, preserving the magic of River Country in a modern, innovative way.

Thank you for considering this suggestion. I am excited to see how the new Disney Lakeshore will take shape and continue to bring joy and wonder to countless guests.

Sincerely,
[River Country Enthusiast]

Best we can do is Mickey, Goofy, and Donald in a watering hole on the pull down Murphy bed artwork.

Thanks,
Disney

 

[bama_ed]

Bama Ed you inspired me to use CoPilot for this write up. Granted it might be overkill. But I really liked the idea of somehow incorporating River Country. I have fond memories of RC.

Subject: Recommendation for the Theming of the New Disney Lakeshore

Dear Disney Imagineers,

I hope this message finds you well. As a devoted fan of Disney's unique storytelling and imaginative environments, I am thrilled to hear about the new Disney Lakeshore project being developed on the former River Country site.

I would like to propose that the new Disney Lakeshore be loosely themed around the nostalgic charm and spirit of the original River Country. Here are a few ideas on how this could be achieved:

1. Rustic Aesthetic: Incorporate elements of the rustic, back-to-nature aesthetic that made River Country so beloved. Wooden structures, rock formations, and natural water features could evoke the charm of the old water park.
2. Interactive Water Features: Create interactive water features reminiscent of River Country's famous attractions. Gentle rapids, splash zones, and lazy rivers can provide fun and relaxation for all ages.
3. Historical References: Include subtle nods to River Country's history throughout the Lakeshore. This could be in the form of plaques, themed decor, or hidden "Easter eggs" that celebrate the legacy of the former park.
4. Themed Entertainment: Offer entertainment options that reflect the playful, adventurous spirit of River Country. Live performances, character meet-and-greets, and themed activities can create a vibrant, engaging atmosphere.
5. Dining and Merchandising: Introduce dining options and merchandise that celebrate the theme. Restaurants can feature rustic, camp-style cuisine, and shops can offer unique, themed souvenirs.

By integrating these elements, the new Disney Lakeshore can honor the past while creating a fresh, exciting experience for guests. I believe this approach will resonate with long-time Disney fans and new visitors alike, preserving the magic of River Country in a modern, innovative way.

Thank you for considering this suggestion. I am excited to see how the new Disney Lakeshore will take shape and continue to bring joy and wonder to countless guests.

Sincerely,
[River Country Enthusiast]

Those are great ideas and anywhere else would be a winning campaign. But I would bet that what will be built is basically the R* plan (which was never fully described/announced on the inside as I recall beyond a few general drawings) with a different color wallpaper and throw pillows.

I did note in some more recent posts today that this resort will have a mix of rooms and DVC. And there are references as to how the rooms will be decorated with themes of various movies from some the most recent IP pushes too.

The die has already been cast. But Opening Day is claimed for 2027 which means we will have two more years of NO exercise trail to WL I bet. This project was first announced in 2019 and we have had a few years of grace to enjoy the Fort as it still is before it changes forever.

Bama Ed

PS - the dvcfan article claims 900 total rooms (wonder if that's still accurate). Will they build parking lots to hold 700-900 cars? Where? WL has 700+ rooms (guess that's DVC and hotel in the main building) and they would require a similar sized or bigger parking lot, would they not?.

 

[Jimsig]

I'm at least glad they dropped the 'Reflections' from the name. I always thought that sounded kinda lame.

It sounded like a rehab. The new name, although some what generic, is much better then Reflections IMO

 

[tinkerjo]

We STILL have a similar issue with people referring to the Wilderness Lodge as "Fort Wilderness Lodge" at times due to its proximity to one of WDW's original resorts, "Fort Wilderness".

My husband is one of those people. We have stayed at both but he still calls it “Fort Wilderness Lodge” I keep correcting him, but it doesn’t help. I guess I shouldn’t care, he still takes me to both places, so I shouldn’t complain

 

[ScarletFire]

The die has already been cast. But Opening Day is claimed for 2027 which means we will have two more years of NO exercise trail to WL I bet. This project was first announced in 2019 and we have had a few years of grace to enjoy the Fort as it still is before it changes forever.

This makes me sad. Every trip, I still look for the trail

 

[nomorethan8]

https://www.wdwmagic.com/resorts/di...-lakeshore-lodge-resort-construction-site.htm

 

[Duane]

Here's the latest update for the pool area of Lakeside Lodge...

https://www.wdwmagic.com/resorts/di...revealed-lazy-river,-splash-pad,-and-more.htm