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Disney Closes DinoLand U.S.A., Deletes the Land from All Official Materials

As of today, DinoLand U.S.A. is no more. The iconic land, which has been a fixture at Disney’s Animal Kingdom since the park’s grand opening in 1998, has officially closed its doors and disappeared from park maps and the My Disney Experience app. The closure marks the beginning of a significant transformation, as Disney ushers in a new era with plans for a Tropical Americas-themed land, Pueblo Esperanza.

The DINOSAUR entrance
Credit: Inside the Magic

Disney’s Animal Kingdom: Where Adventure and Conservation Meet

Disney Animal Kingdom
Credit: Inside the Magic

Disney’s Animal Kingdom is a park unlike any other, blending thrilling attractions with an unparalleled focus on wildlife and conservation. Divided into themed areas, the park offers something for everyone. Guests can embark on a journey through Pandora – The World of Avatar, encounter majestic animals on Kilimanjaro Safaris, and brave the icy peaks of Expedition Everest. The park also boasts popular dining options, including Nomad Lounge and Satu’li Canteen, which cater to a wide variety of tastes.

DinoLand U.S.A. once added a playful, prehistoric element to the park’s lineup. However, today marks the end of its run as Disney looks to the future with an all-new vision for the space.

DinoLand U.S.A.’s Extinction

primeval whirl attraction at disney's animal kingdom dinoland usa
Credit: Becky Burkett

When Animal Kingdom opened on Earth Day in 1998, DinoLand U.S.A. was a major part of its lineup. The area was home to beloved attractions like Dinosaur, an intense time-travel adventure, and Primeval Whirl, a spinning coaster with a carnival theme. Chester & Hester’s Dino-Rama brought a quirky roadside amusement park aesthetic, while the Boneyard served as a popular playground for children.

Over time, however, DinoLand’s appeal began to wane. Primeval Whirl closed permanently in 2020, leaving much of the land feeling sparse. The closure fueled rumors of a larger overhaul, and in 2023, Disney confirmed that DinoLand would be reimagined.

Today, the transformation officially begins. Chester & Hester’s Dinosaur Treasures, Fossil Fun Games, and TriceraTop Spin have all closed permanently. While Dinosaur, the Boneyard, and Restaurantosaurus will remain open until 2025, the removal of DinoLand from official maps signifies the start of its phased retirement.

Below, you can see how the land has become extinct online with the My Disney Experience app thanks to reporter Scott Gustin, “Here’s the new digital map at Animal Kingdom that shows the future footprint of the Encanto ride in the upcoming Tropical Americas-themed land.”

Pueblo Esperanza: A Village of Hope

dinoland usa entrance
Credit: Becky Burkett

Replacing DinoLand U.S.A. is Pueblo Esperanza, a new land inspired by the vibrant cultures and biodiversity of Tropical Americas. Described as a “Village of Hope,” the area will immerse guests in a richly detailed environment reminiscent of Harambe Village in the park’s Africa section.

The new land will feature two major attractions. One will be the first-ever Encanto ride at any Disney park, taking over the former Dino-Rama area. The other will be an Indiana Jones-themed attraction, set to replace Dinosaur. Both promise to bring an exciting mix of storytelling and thrills to Animal Kingdom.

Disney aims to have Pueblo Esperanza ready for guests by 2027, with construction beginning immediately following today’s closures.

What’s Next for Animal Kingdom?

The closure of DinoLand U.S.A. is just one of several changes underway at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Over in the Tree of Life Theater, It’s Tough to Be a Bug is set to close in 2025 to make way for Zootopia: Better Zoogether!—a new show expected to debut in late 2025.

With these updates, Animal Kingdom is evolving to reflect Disney’s commitment to immersive storytelling and innovative experiences. While fans may miss the nostalgia of DinoLand U.S.A., the park’s future promises a fresh wave of magic for visitors of all ages.

A Final Goodbye

DinoLand U.S.A.’s closure marks the end of an era for Disney’s Animal Kingdom. For nearly 25 years, the land provided guests with prehistoric fun and quirky charm. As it fades into Disney history, the arrival of Pueblo Esperanza signals a bright and hopeful future, ensuring that Animal Kingdom remains a must-visit destination for years to come.

Alessia Dunn

Orlando theme park lover who loves thrills and theming, with a side of entertainment. You can often catch me at Disney or Universal sipping a cocktail, or crying during Happily Ever After or Fantasmic.

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