Disney has released the first details and concept art for The Wetlands, the outdoor recreation area planned for Disney Lakeshore Lodge. The new waterfront resort is projected to open at Walt Disney World in summer 2027, and three new renderings offer a close look at what to expect from the pool complex, lazy river, and children’s water play areas.
The Wetlands will be situated just beyond the lobby along the Bay Lake waterfront. The design carries the nature-inspired theme of Disney Lakeshore Lodge throughout, aiming to give families a place to be active while keeping quieter spots available for those who want to relax. Here’s a closer look:
Lakeside Lagoon
At the center of The Wetlands is Lakeside Lagoon, a zero-entry feature pool with a beach-style entry point that makes it accessible for all ages. The concept art shows a spiral waterslide built into a treehouse-style tower alongside a poolside bar and lounge area, making it the social centerpiece of the recreation space.
Daydream River
Winding through The Wetlands is Daydream River, a lazy river that puts Disney Lakeshore Lodge in a small group of Walt Disney World resort hotels with that amenity. Renderings show guests floating past oversized wetlands-inspired scenery, including towering cattails and stylized dragonflies.
Heron Shores & Otter Springs
Two children’s areas round out the water play options. Heron Shores features dry and wet climbing structures, while Otter Springs is a dedicated splash zone with water features and slides for younger kids. Both areas draw from the lyrics of Colors of the Wind (specifically the line “the heron and the otter are my friends”) tying the space back to the resort’s Pocahontas connection.
Perspective Pond
On the quieter side of the resort, Perspective Pond offers a leisure pool and whirlpool spa with evening views of Magic Kingdom fireworks over Bay Lake.
A Nod to River Country
Disney has confirmed a commemorative plaque will be placed somewhere in The Wetlands to honor a historic attraction that previously occupied the site. While Disney hasn’t specified which attraction, the location points to Disney’s River Country, Walt Disney World’s original water park, which operated on the shores of Bay Lake from 1976 until it closed in 2001.
Resort Benefits
As a Walt Disney World resort hotel, Disney Lakeshore Lodge guests will have access to complimentary transportation across property and early theme park entry. Magic Kingdom is reachable directly by boat from the resort.
Disney Lakeshore Lodge is on track to open in summer 2027. Details on dining and additional resort amenities are still to come.
