Reflections Disney Lakeside Lodge Hotel Construction Goes Vertical at Fort Wilderness

Reflections Disney Lakeside Lodge Hotel Construction Goes Vertical at Fort Wilderness 1

The long-dormant Reflections—A Disney Lakeside Lodge project appears to be back on track, as construction activity ramps up on the shores of Bay Lake at Walt Disney World. While Disney has yet to officially confirm the revival of this deluxe resort, the signs are hard to miss. Cranes have arrived at the site, located on the former River Country water park grounds, marking the first significant construction progress since the project was paused in 2020.

Related: Construction to Begin on Reflections – A Disney Lakeside Lodge near Ft Wilderness

Cranes Signal a Comeback

Three cranes are now stationed at the site, with up to six expected as construction progresses. According to filings with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the cranes will remain on-site through August 2025, although that timeline can obviously be extended if needed. The site development aligns closely with the original plans for Reflections—a 10-story, nature-themed resort set to feature over 900 hotel rooms and Disney Vacation Club (DVC) villas.

The FAA filings are not the only clues hinting at Reflections’ return. Recent documents submitted to the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District (CFTOD) reference new electrical infrastructure being installed by Chen Moore and Associates under the name “Project S,” which is widely believed to be the codename for Reflections.


Reflections Disney Lakeside Lodge Hotel Construction Goes Vertical at Fort Wilderness 2

A Vision Resurrected

Originally announced in 2018, Reflections—A Disney Lakeside Lodge was designed to offer a tranquil escape inspired by the natural beauty of Bay Lake as part of the Disney Vacation Club resort portfolio. Positioned between Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort, the hotel was envisioned as a deluxe retreat with unique accommodations and immersive storytelling. However, the project was shelved in 2020 due to the financial impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, and pre-construction work was dismantled, leaving many to believe the resort would never come to fruition.

Related: Construction paused on Disney’s Reflections: A Disney Lakeside Lodge future uncertain

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A Glimpse at What’s Next

While Disney has not officially restarted the project, the activity at the site suggests that the resort may soon take shape. The arrival of cranes, coupled with infrastructure updates and ongoing filings, indicate that Reflections is moving closer to becoming a reality. Once complete, the resort will add another luxurious option to Disney’s lineup of deluxe accommodations, potentially offering breathtaking views of Bay Lake and easy access to Magic Kingdom and other nearby attractions.

Waiting for the Big Announcement

For now, Disney fans will have to keep an eye on the construction site and wait for an official announcement. With work now visibly underway, Reflections—A Disney Lakeside Lodge could soon become the next must-visit destination for those seeking a serene getaway infused with Disney magic. Stay tuned as more updates emerge about this exciting addition to the Fort Wilderness area!

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Chris is a Pennsylvania native who escaped the cold and relocated to the Orlando area. Our resident Universal expert, Chris has been visiting the Universal Orlando Resort since the 1990s. Chris is a Universal and Walt Disney World Passholder, and can often be found exploring the parks taking in the sites (and finding new things to write about!).
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