Exciting developments are underway at Walt Disney World, as the company seems poised to revive one of its most controversial projects, Reflections – A Disney Lakeside Lodge. The project, originally announced in 2018, aimed to transform the land that once hosted the abandoned River Country water park. However, much to the dismay of many Disney enthusiasts, the global pandemic put a halt to these ambitious plans, leaving the fate of Reflections uncertain—until now.
Walt Disney World is no stranger to innovation when it comes to accommodations. From value picks like Pop Century to opulent getaways such as the Grand Floridian, there’s a stay for every kind of Disney guest. In recent years, new additions like Disney’s Riviera Resort, inspired by European elegance, have shown Disney’s commitment to expanding and diversifying its hospitality options. But Reflections, with its unique lakeside charm, has always sparked the most debate among fans.
The initial plans for Reflections were nothing short of ambitious. Marketed as a Disney Vacation Club (DVC) resort, it was set to offer a variety of luxurious accommodations. Yet, fan reactions were mixed. Some heartbroken fans mourned the demise of River Country, Disney’s first water park, while others found the concept art for Reflections less than inspiring. Then came the pandemic, seemingly sealing the project’s fate.
Recently, however, a new permit filed by Walt Disney Imagineering has reignited hope. This permit, concerning construction near the Copper Creek Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, hints at “site and facility improvements.” Intriguingly, the same construction company mentioned in the 2019 permit for Reflections is listed once again, suggesting that the lakeside lodge could be making a comeback.
Will Reflections truly rise from the ashes? With a permit valid through March 2027, Disney seems either patient or prepared for a long-term project. Fans eagerly await more details, perhaps coming soon at this year’s D23 Fan Event starting on August 9.
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Source: Inside the Magic