Disney World President Challenges Opinions on MuppetVision and DinoLand Closures

Walt Disney World Resort has been undergoing substantial changes in recent years, with more updates on the horizon. From the creation of new lands like Villains Land in Magic Kingdom to the ongoing transformations in Animal Kingdom, Disney is making moves that have had fans and industry experts buzzing.

However, not all changes are met with excitement. Several closures have left visitors heartbroken, and one particularly controversial statement from Disney World President Jeff Vahle has caught the attention of many.

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Among the most notable closures are Muppet*Vision 3D and DinoLand U.S.A., two beloved areas that have recently shut down or are in the process of transitioning.

As construction continues on new expansions, Disney is revisiting its approach to certain park sections that have been criticized for being “underutilized.” The changes come amid the transformation of familiar spaces into new, thematic experiences, but some Disney fans are struggling to embrace the shift.

Over in Hollywood Studios, the much-loved Muppet*Vision 3D closed its doors in June 2025. Fans of the Muppets tried to rally for the show’s survival, but their pleas fell on deaf ears.

Related: Disney Reveals Muppet Experience Costing $267

As the iconic Muppet Courtyard was demolished, Disney announced the area would be reimagined into something entirely different—an update that has fans both excited and upset. The area, expected to be completed by 2028, will feature a Monsters, Inc. (2001)-themed land, offering a fresh experience for guests.

The closures also extend to DinoLand U.S.A., a once-popular section of Disney’s Animal Kingdom. The phased closure of DinoLand began earlier in 2025, with the final piece—the DINOSAUR attraction—set to close in February 2026.

The area will be repurposed into Tropical Americas, a new section that will showcase two major areas: one themed around the Indiana Jones franchise and another centered on the animated film Encanto (2021). The new land is slated to open in 2027, offering a new adventure for fans to explore.

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In an exclusive interview, Disney World President Jeff Vahle weighed in on the park’s ongoing transformations, particularly the closures of Muppet*Vision and DinoLand. He expressed that these areas, while beloved by some, had become “underutilized” in the face of new opportunities.

In the past year, we have broken ground on major expansions in three of our theme parks. We are building Monstropolis in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Tropical Americas in Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Villains- and Cars-themed areas in Magic Kingdom. Construction of Disney Lakeshore Lodge, a new Disney Vacation Club property next to Fort Wilderness Resort, is also well underway.”

We know that everything at Walt Disney World is somebody’s favorite, so we were extremely thoughtful about that. These lands and attractions will deliver some incredibly creative experiences while also bringing new life to underutilized areas.

While his words convey a sense of respect for the legacy of the attractions, many fans feel that the sentiment doesn’t address the true emotional connection visitors had to these nostalgic spots.

Vahle went on to explain that Disney’s investment in new lands is just one part of a broader strategy that also includes the updating and revamping of existing attractions.

The upcoming Zootopia (2016)-themed 3D show “Better Zoogether,” set to debut in the Tree of Life Theater this November, is an example of the company’s commitment to enhancing its current offerings while bringing fresh perspectives to older spaces.

Additionally, attractions like Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad are receiving updates, with both expected to reopen in 2026 with exciting new scenes.

Disney’s dedication to revitalizing its parks extends beyond the new lands and attractions currently under construction.

While many guests are excited about the new experiences that Disney promises to bring to its parks, there are others who remain skeptical. The transformation of Muppet*Vision and DinoLand marks a significant shift in the park’s evolution, one that some fans are finding hard to accept. The closures of these beloved areas may signal the end of an era for some Disney enthusiasts, but for others, it’s an opportunity to embrace the future of the resort.

What do you think about Disney’s decisions regarding Muppet*Vision and DinoLand closures? Do you agree with Jeff Vahle’s stance on these areas, or do you think Disney is making a mistake? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!