There always seems to be something happening around Walt Disney World, doesn't there? And while we've been busy keeping up with all the holiday excitement, Disney has been making some changes around the parks and resorts, too!
This week brought some welcome news for families flying into Orlando, a familiar Magic Kingdom favorite back on the tracks, and a new way to enjoy one of Animal Kingdom's most popular lounges.
There are also a few resort updates and a little good news for families with young children.
Let's see what's changing around Disney World!
Disney's Airport Luggage Service Just Got Even Better!
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort, including Gran Destino Tower, is among the newly added resorts.
If you've ever arrived at Orlando International Airport and wished you could skip the baggage carousel and head straight to Disney World, you're going to like this update!
Disney has expanded its complimentary Airport Luggage Transfer pilot program to three more resorts, and I'm happy to see two of our Port Orleans favorites joining the list!
As of October 29, the newest participating resorts are:- Disney's Coronado Springs Resort, including Gran Destino Tower
- Disney's Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter
- Disney's Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
That brings the total to nine participating Disney resort hotels, joining All-Star Movies, All-Star Music, All-Star Sports, Art of Animation, Caribbean Beach, and Pop Century.
So, How Does It Work?
It's actually pretty simple!
Guests flying into Orlando International Airport on eligible domestic flights can register ahead of time, check their luggage with their airline, and head to their Disney resort without stopping at baggage claim.
Disney takes care of transporting the checked bags to the resort, where guests can pick them up through Luggage Assistance or request delivery to their room.
Disney says to allow up to four hours after flight arrival for luggage to reach the resort.
The service also includes a departure option for eligible guests, which is another nice convenience when it's time to head home.
Currently, the participating airlines are American Airlines, JetBlue, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines.
Registration for arriving guests is available from 30 days until 24 hours before their flight. Regular airline baggage fees still apply, and the service doesn't include transportation for passengers.
I love seeing Disney expand something that can take a little hassle out of travel day. Here's hoping even more resorts are added in the future!
You can find the complete details and registration information on Disney's official Airport Luggage Transfer page.
All Aboard! The Walt Disney World Railroad Is Running Again!
Walt Disney World Railroad. Photo: © Disney / Disney PhotoPass.
There's just something about hearing that train whistle at Magic Kingdom!
After several weeks of refurbishment, the Walt Disney World Railroad reopened on October 29, a little earlier than its previously scheduled return.
The railroad had been closed since late September while work took place near the Main Street, U.S.A. station.
Now, before we get too excited, the train isn't back to its full grand-circle route just yet.
With construction continuing around Magic Kingdom's future expansion areas, the railroad is still operating on a shortened route.
But I'll take the sound of a steam engine rolling through Magic Kingdom any day! Hopefully, we'll be enjoying the complete loop again before too long.
Nomad Lounge Is Finally Taking Reservations!
Nomad Lounge at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
If you've ever wanted to stop by Nomad Lounge at Disney's Animal Kingdom but didn't feel like taking your chances with the walk-up list, I've got some good news!
Beginning October 28, Disney opened advance reservations for visits starting November 8, 2026.
And if you've never been, Nomad Lounge is tucked beside Tiffins Restaurant on Discovery Island. Between the cozy atmosphere, outdoor seating, and delicious small plates, it's a wonderful spot to slow down and enjoy Animal Kingdom for a little while.
Previously, guests had to rely on walk-up availability. That's still an option, but I love that there's now another way to visit!
Annual Passholders Have Another Reason to Be Excited!
As a Walt Disney World Annual Passholder, I'm always happy to see a new perk pop up, and this one definitely caught my attention!
Disney is offering eligible Annual Passholders a limited-time Nomad Lounge special through December 18, 2026.
The offer includes two qualifying small plates and two select beverages for $49, plus tax and gratuity, subject to Disney's offer restrictions.
A new reservation option AND an Annual Passholder special? That's a pretty nice combination!
Changes Are Underway at Port Orleans Riverside
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside.
Disney's Port Orleans Resort – Riverside is getting some attention, and guests visiting the resort may notice a few temporary changes around the main lobby.
Part of the check-in and guest services area has been sectioned off for refurbishment work. Both services are still available, although their locations within the lobby may shift while the work continues.
There are also two smaller changes worth mentioning.
The restrooms in the affected lobby area are temporarily closed, with guests being directed to the facilities near River Roost. The guest mailbox has also been relocated to Fulton's General Store.
Disney's larger refurbishment project at Riverside is expected to continue into 2027.
Port Orleans has such a beautiful, relaxed atmosphere, and I'm looking forward to seeing how everything comes together once the work is finished!
We'll Have to Wait a Little Longer for Trader Sam's Tiki Terrace
Trader Sam’s Tiki Terrace at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort.
Well, it looks like we'll have to wait a little longer to enjoy those glowing tiki lights and tropical evenings at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort!
The reopening of Trader Sam's Tiki Terrace has been pushed back again, with the outdoor lounge now expected to remain closed through mid-December 2026.
The delay is connected to ongoing refurbishment work at the resort's Great Ceremonial House.
The terrace had previously been expected to reopen in late October, so this is another change to the anticipated schedule.
Disney hasn't announced an exact reopening date yet.
The good news? Trader Sam's Grog Grotto, the indoor lounge, remains open.
I know plenty of Disney fans are looking forward to having the outdoor terrace back. Hopefully, those orange umbrellas and twinkling lights will be welcoming guests again in time for the holidays!
Dumbo's Indoor Playground Has More Room for Little Ones Again!
Dumbo the Flying Elephant’s indoor playground at Magic Kingdom.
Here's a little Magic Kingdom update that families with younger children will be happy to hear!
The second level of the indoor playground at Dumbo the Flying Elephant reopened by October 26, after being unavailable for quite some time.
If you've never been inside, the playground is part of Dumbo's wonderfully colorful circus-themed queue area in Storybook Circus.
Instead of a traditional waiting line, children can explore climbing structures and play areas while parents and caregivers enjoy a little time off their feet.
With the upper level available again, there's even more room for little ones to climb, play, and burn off some of that Disney excitement!
Sometimes it's the smaller updates like this that are especially nice to hear about.
There's Always Something New Around Disney World!
From making airport arrivals a little easier to welcoming back familiar Magic Kingdom favorites, this week's changes brought a little bit of everything.
And with the holiday season approaching, there's still so much to look forward to around Walt Disney World!
We'll keep sharing the latest news, changes, and little discoveries here at The Pixie Packed Family, along with the Disney experiences we love sharing as a family.
If you're getting ready for your next visit, be sure to explore our Free Disney Vacation Planner and Ultimate Park Day Packing Checklist.
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