The highly anticipated, and somewhat maligned, Disney’s Polynesian Resort Island Tower is in its final stages of construction. While it is set to open on December 17th, 2024, the expansion is far from finished considering the timeframe. Let’s dive into the latest updates on this addition to Walt Disney World’s Seven Seas Lagoon which should open 12 weeks from the date of publication.
As these wide shots show, the structure itself is complete, however elements like balcony railings are still missing from quite a few rooms. In the first photo, the Grand Floridian Resort Wedding Pavilion can be seen in the foreground. The grounds surrounding the tower, and the waterfront areas, remain in rough shape. However, those details are commonly the final additions to a new resort.
Polynesian Island Tower Porte Cochère
For many guests, the porte cochère will be their first introduction to the new Island Tower. At present, though, it is one of the areas of the resort that appears furthest from completion. The overhang structure is just starting to get exterior paneling to give it some shape and detail. The entire area remains unpaved, with mounds of dirt strewn about.
The north end of the complex, closest to Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort, shows a bit more promise. While there isn’t much to this area besides walkways, those walkways have been poured and landscaping has begun to be installed.
Polynesian Island Tower “Terrace Gardens”
The Island Tower promises to have four “terrace gardens”, two on each side of the tower. Seen above is one of the two which face the Seven Seas Lagoon. One side of the terrace has had a colorful mural installed, which features bamboo shoots and waterfalls.
The other lagoon-facing terrace has no artwork installed yet. Instead, it has artificial flowers installed at the edge of the balcony, which are currently protected with tarps.
Ground Level: Dining and Walkways
Wailulu Bar & Grill, the recently announced dining location at the Island Tower, is taking shape. The quick-service outlet will offer both indoor and outdoor seating. The outdoor seating area can be seen at the far left of the first photo, with wooden accent columns now taking shape. To the right, the central lobby windows take stage, offering a clear view of Seven Seas Lagoon. Walkways will once again connect the Polynesian Resort and Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort. The waterfront walkways have been inaccessible since the start of construction in 2023.
Stay tuned to MainGatePass.com for more updates as Disney’s Polynesian Resort Island Tower prepares to welcome its first guests this December.
