Time is running out to experience three classic attractions at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida, before they take their final bows for the season.
Attraction closures and refurbishments are nothing new for theme parks, and even the iconic Walt Disney World Resort isn’t immune to the occasional shutdown. Guests often arrive to find beloved rides unexpectedly unavailable, whether for regular maintenance or major overhauls.
As the Central Florida destination embraces one of the most transformative periods in its history—bringing new lands and reimagined classics to life (goodbye, Frontierland as we know it!)—Disney Experiences (formerly Disney Parks, Experiences and Products) is tidying house for what promises to be a bold future.
Ever since the “blue sky” teasers at the 2022 D23 Expo, fans have been eagerly awaiting updates. Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro has spent the last two years aiming to deliver on those ambitious promises. From the Destination D23 event in 2023 to this year’s D23 Expo, D’Amaro assured fans that progress is well underway, often quipping, “Dirt is moving.” Still, he hasn’t shied away from admitting that the company doesn’t always get it right, offering a transparent look at Disney’s evolving vision.
Among the biggest changes is the much-anticipated overhaul of DinoLand U.S.A. at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, set to transform into the Tropical Americas. The revamped area will feature attractions inspired by Encanto and Indiana Jones, with the latter expected to replace the fan-favorite DINOSAUR ride. Meanwhile, the Tree of Life Theater will debut Better Zoogether, a Zootopia-themed 3D show, replacing It’s Tough to Be a Bug!
Over at Magic Kingdom, Frontierland is undergoing its most radical reimagining yet. Tom Sawyer Island and the Rivers of America will give way to a Cars-themed land. Additionally, the long-rumored Disney Villains land is finally becoming a reality, offering an eerie new space dedicated to Disney’s most infamous characters. Details on just how expansive this area will be remain under wraps, but fans are already buzzing.
Of course, progress comes with a price. In just one week, three iconic attractions across three different parks—Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom—will take their final bow, at least temporarily.
- January 6: Big Thunder Mountain Railroad (Magic Kingdom) — Closing for extensive updates, set to reopen in 2026 with “a little bit of new magic.”
- January 6: Kali River Rapids (Disney’s Animal Kingdom) — Seasonal closure, reopening March 2025.
- January 6: Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros (EPCOT) — Closing for refurbishment, reopening March 15, 2025.
Rumors suggest Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will see upgrades akin to its Disneyland counterpart in California, but Disney has yet to confirm specifics. However, it seems likely the enhancements will align with Frontierland’s broader transformation.
Additional closures in January include:
- January 13: TriceraTop Spin (Disney’s Animal Kingdom) — Permanently closing as DinoLand U.S.A. begins its transformation.
- January 13: Chester & Hester’s Dinosaur Treasures and Fossil Fun Games (Disney’s Animal Kingdom) — Permanently closing.
- January 13: Astro Orbiter (Magic Kingdom) — Undergoing refurbishment, reopening summer 2025.
Not all is lost, though. Disney confirmed that DINOSAUR will remain operational through 2025, giving fans a bit more time to enjoy the classic ride.
As Walt Disney World ventures into this bold new era, fans naturally feel a mix of excitement and nostalgia. While the future promises incredible experiences, the closures leave many wondering if 2025 will be the best time to visit.
What do you think of these changes? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
I think that the tropical America should be between avatar and Africa and that Dino land should remain the same. They should keep the rivers of America the same as well because of the nostalgia and that it goes well with Tiana’s restaurant in Magic Kingdom.