Animal Kingdom Ride Queue Disintegrates Under Guest Pressure
Pandemonium Ensues
Concrete is cracking, rides are closing, and longtime fans are holding on tight to one final prehistoric adventure before it’s gone forever. One of Disney’s original Animal Kingdom lands is heading toward extinction—and while the goodbyes are tough, what’s coming next has sparked a major wave of excitement.
After years of speculation, Disney has confirmed: DinoLand U.S.A. will officially close in 2026, ending a decades-long run of dino-sized thrills. So what’s next for the area that’s hosted DINOSAUR, TriceraTop Spin, and fossil digs since the late ‘90s?
Let’s just say the future involves a legendary archaeologist, a magical house, and a reimagined land unlike anything we’ve seen before.
When Will DinoLand Close at Animal Kingdom?
Disney isn’t pulling the plug just yet. Guests still have until the end of 2025 to experience everything from the Time Rover thrills of DINOSAUR to digging around the Boneyard or grabbing lunch at Restaurantosaurus. However, 2026 will be the final curtain for the land as it stands today.
Oh yeah, Disney just waiting to demolish Dinosaur. Lots of bruises in the queue.
Oh yeah, Disney just waiting to demolish Dinosaur. Lots of bruises in the queue. 😔 pic.twitter.com/fS0pz2U2jQ
— Dueling Park News (@DuelingParkNews) June 20, 2025
Already, the transformation is in motion. As of January 12, 2025, several staples—TriceraTop Spin, Fossil Fun Games, and Chester & Hester’s Dinosaur Treasures—will permanently close. Other areas will follow as construction begins for a major project that was first teased at D23 in 2023.
What’s Coming: Disney Unveils Tropical Americas
Replacing DinoLand is a brand-new immersive section of Animal Kingdom called Tropical Americas. Inspired by the vibrant landscapes and rich cultures of Central and South America, the new land will feature two headline experiences designed to wow guests of all ages:
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A brand-new Indiana Jones adventure: While not a clone of Disneyland’s existing ride, this new attraction promises an original storyline in which Indy explores a mythical jungle temple. Expect thrills, ancient mysteries, and a whole lot of heart-pounding excitement.
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Disney’s first-ever Encanto ride: Fans of the Madrigal family will finally get a chance to step inside the enchanted Casita. With doors that open on their own and a house that responds to emotions, the attraction is designed as a colorful, musical journey through Disney’s beloved animated film.
This dual expansion reflects a growing trend within the company: leveraging its most powerful franchises to create richly themed lands that combine storytelling and immersive design.
Why It Matters: A Shift in Disney’s Strategy
The closure of DinoLand represents more than just the end of a themed section—it’s a signal that Disney is prioritizing cultural and IP-based storytelling. The success of lands like Pandora and Galaxy’s Edge has shown that guests want more than thrill rides—they want full worlds to step into.
Tropical Americas aligns with that vision. By blending the adventurous spirit of Indiana Jones with the heartfelt magic of Encanto, Disney aims to breathe new life into Animal Kingdom while honoring both legacy and innovation.
The Final Countdown at Animal Kingdom
As the walls go up and construction begins, guests are making the most of their remaining time with DINOSAUR. Viral images from the ride’s crumbling queue have sparked renewed urgency to visit before it’s gone for good. Disney has made it clear that no refurbishment is planned—meaning what you see now is what you’ll get until the ride closes in 2026.
Love it or hate it, change is coming—and fast. So if you’re hoping to take one last trip through the Cretaceous period, don’t wait too long.
