Disney has made big moves before, but nothing compares to what’s happening inside Animal Kingdom right now. By 2027, the park will look so different that longtime fans might struggle to recognize it. The biggest shift? A complete farewell to DinoLand U.S.A. and the arrival of something entirely new—Tropical Americas.
DinoLand’s Last Days
For years, DinoLand U.S.A. was both loved and criticized. Some adored its kitschy carnival games and dinosaur theming, while others felt it didn’t quite fit the rest of the park. Now, Disney has decided to close that chapter for good. Attractions like TriceraTop Spin and Chester & Hester’s Dinosaur Treasures shut down in early 2025, with The Boneyard following in September. Even DINOSAUR, one of the land’s biggest rides, is expected to close by 2026, along with the longtime eatery Restaurantosaurus.
Enter Tropical Americas
Replacing the land is an ambitious 11-acre expansion called Tropical Americas, also referred to as Pueblo Esperanza. Imagine stepping into a lively Latin American town filled with detail, storytelling, and culture. At the center of it all will be two headline attractions:
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An Indiana Jones adventure, sending guests deep into a temple in search of a mythical creature.
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Disney’s first-ever Encanto ride, bringing the Madrigals’ magical Casita to life.
To round out the experience, the land will include a massive new quick-service restaurant inside a hacienda, a hand-carved animal carousel, a kids’ play area, and a central fountain that ties everything together.
The Road to 2027
This overhaul isn’t happening overnight. Construction walls are already up, with phased closures removing pieces of DinoLand bit by bit. By the end of 2025, much of the area will be walled off. By 2026, the last remaining attractions will vanish, paving the way for the full Tropical Americas debut in 2027.
A Redefined Park
Animal Kingdom opened in 1998 with a focus on animals, conservation, and natural environments. Over time, the park has shifted toward blending real-world themes with fantasy, as seen in Pandora – The World of Avatar. With Tropical Americas, Disney is doubling down on that approach, giving the park a brand-new identity.
For fans, this is a bittersweet goodbye. The quirky DinoLand days are numbered, and by 2027, the park will feel like a completely different experience. One thing is certain: Disney isn’t holding back.
