Why Disney Fans Are So Mad About the Changes at the Polynesian Village Resort

One of Disney World’s most iconic hotels is getting a major new addition — but some fans have a few reservations about the expansion!

Polynesian Village Resort

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is about to have a brand new set of Disney Vacation Club (DVC) rooms! Construction is well underway at the Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Villas and Bungalows. In fact, it’s currently set to open next month! But, as exciting as it is to have something new to experience at Disney World, some fans have a few concerns about what changes the Island Tower might bring.

The Island Tower is located on Seven Seas Lagoon, offering waterfront views. According to Disney, the new villas will be “inspired by the early concepts for Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort.”

Concept Art ©Disney

We’ve been keeping a close eye on construction at the Island Tower with the opening date just about a month away, and sharing any official updates about what guests can expect when the expansion officially opens its doors.

Construction progress

We shared a few big updates on the Island Tower on our Facebook page a few months ago, and while there is definitely excitement about the addition, some commenters also raised concerns about what changes the expansion might bring with it.

One worry that came up was the potential for long lines and waits for the Monorail at the Polynesian Village Resort once the Island Tower is filled with guests. Reader Linda wrote, “Can’t imagine the line for the monorail with all the extra people staying there…”

Two Bedroom Suite Preview ©Disney

The expansion will add over 200 new guest rooms to the hotel, so it might end up being important to consider traffic patterns and peak times of day when taking transportation to the parks when it opens. Of course, we’ll check out all of the changes once it officially opens, but it’s worth keeping on your radar for now if you have a trip planned before the dust settles!

Monorail

Other commenters also pointed out that the Monorail might not be the only area with increased demand. Reader Pam said, “Will there be a new indoor restaurant or only a pool bar/grill[?] O’hana will be impossible to get into without another restaurant.”

Breakfast Skillets at ‘Ohana

The Island Tower expansion will include the Wailulu Bar & Grill, a casual walk-up pool bar and grill. This spot will feature an all-day menu for lunch and dinner, plus specialty coffee and on-the-go morning pastries for breakfast. But since it’s not a Table Service restaurant like ‘Ohana, it is possible that ‘Ohana reservations might be in higher demand after the Island Tower opens.

Some of our readers also commented about the overall look of the Island Tower expansion, saying that the aesthetic of the taller building changes the vibe of the Polynesian Resort area for them. Amy said, “Aww. Kinda seems like it will diminish the charm of the Polynesian. Let’s hope not.”

Island Tower Construction

As exciting as it can be to have a brand new addition to explore in Disney World, we also understand the concerns about potential growing pains that can come along with it. That’s why we’ll be sure to check out the Island Tower — and all of its related changes — in ultra-detail when it opens so we can report back with any important details you need to know! Keep an eye on DFB for more coverage on the Island Tower when it opens next month!