The landscape of Walt Disney World Resort is entering a bold new era, as beloved classics make way for ambitious expansions designed with the next generation of guests in mind.
Magic Kingdom Park is at the heart of these changes. In what Disney is calling the “largest expansion” in the park’s 53-year history, July 6 marked the permanent closures of two longtime Frontierland staples: Tom Sawyer Island and the Rivers of America. The Liberty Belle Riverboat is also being retired as part of this transformation. Earlier this year, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad temporarily closed for refurbishment, further signaling the arrival of something entirely new on the horizon.
That “something” is Piston Peak National Park—an all-new area inspired by Pixar’s Cars universe. This upcoming land promises attractions and experiences crafted for families, with storytelling and theming that build on the energy of the beloved animated franchise.
But Magic Kingdom isn’t the only park undergoing major change. At Disney’s Animal Kingdom, a sweeping reimagining of DinoLand U.S.A. has been unfolding since January 2025. TriceraTop Spin and the Fossil Fun Games were among the first to permanently close as Disney Experiences initiated the transition to a brand-new land themed to the Tropical Americas.
Welcome to Pueblo Esperanza. This future addition to Animal Kingdom will celebrate the stories and settings of Disney’s Encanto and Indiana Jones. Signature attractions inspired by both properties are already in development, with other parts of the land still operating. The fan-favorite DINOSAUR attraction remains open through the rest of 2025, and Restaurantosaurus continues to serve guests—now also hosting the colorful and fun Daisy Duck Cool Kid Summer event.
Recently filed permits confirm that several more locations in DinoLand U.S.A. are entering their final season. Kenny the Pirate reports that sites such as Trilo-Bites, the Wilderness Explorer Kiosk, and The Boneyard will soon be impacted. In fact, The Boneyard is officially set to close on September 2, 2025. Another permit hints at electrical work inside Restaurantosaurus, though no closure date has been announced yet.
The excitement isn’t limited to the Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom. Over at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Grand Avenue has already closed to clear the way for Monstropolis—an immersive new space themed to Monsters, Inc. This land will include a groundbreaking suspended coaster, the first of its kind at any Disney theme park.
With so many developments underway across the Central Florida parks, fans are taking notice. While some are choosing to delay their next visit, others are leaning into the changes with curiosity and optimism.
How do these updates affect your future Disney vacation plans? Join the conversation and share your thoughts with us in the comments!
