When Disney announced an Encanto (2021) attraction for Animal Kingdom, excitement came quickly — followed by a familiar wave of skepticism. Fans have seen plenty of new rides announced with bold promises, only to be delivered in a way that feels rushed or overly safe. But as more details quietly emerge about this project, it’s becoming clear that Disney is approaching this one differently.
One of the most encouraging signs is how far along the attraction already is behind the scenes. Voice recording for the ride is nearly complete, and instead of pulling audio from the movie, Disney brought back the original cast to record new material specifically for the attraction. That decision alone sets this project apart.
Reuniting the entire Madrigal family isn’t easy. Coordinating that many actors requires time, patience, and a clear creative plan. Disney wouldn’t take that extra step unless the story of the ride truly mattered. This signals that the attraction isn’t just meant to showcase familiar characters — it’s meant to feel like a meaningful continuation of the world audiences fell in love with.
The ride itself centers on a key moment from the film: the day Antonio receives his magical gift. From there, guests will move through Casita and into Antonio’s jungle-inspired room, with characters like Mirabel and Bruno guiding the experience. Rather than retelling the film beat for beat, Disney has confirmed the attraction will expand beyond the movie’s story, allowing for new moments and surprises.
That creative choice is especially important for Animal Kingdom. The park thrives when attractions blend emotional storytelling with immersive environments. Encanto fits naturally here, both visually and thematically. Its focus on family, nature, and responsibility aligns closely with what Animal Kingdom was always meant to represent.
The attraction will anchor the Tropical Americas land, replacing DinoLand U.S.A. and joining a reimagined Indiana Jones experience and a new village carousel. Together, these additions aim to give the park a stronger sense of place and energy — something it has needed for years.
Construction progress supports that momentum. The show building has begun rising, a sign that development is moving steadily rather than stalling. With an opening set for 2027, Disney appears comfortable giving this ride the time it needs instead of forcing it onto a faster timeline.
For fans who have grown cautious, this slow, intentional approach feels reassuring. It suggests Disney isn’t chasing trends — it’s building something designed to last.
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