Disney World Confirms Demolition of 26-Year-Old Animal Kingdom Theme Park Icon
Walt Disney World Resort has officially confirmed the demolition of one of the original icons of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, marking the end of a nearly 27-year era. This demolition is part of the ongoing transformation of DinoLand U.S.A. into a Tropical Americas-themed area named Pueblo Esperanza.
DinoLand U.S.A. first opened alongside Animal Kingdom on April 22, 1998. While the rest of the park was dedicated to showcasing real-life creatures, DinoLand U.S.A. celebrated the prehistoric past. The area combined the Dino Institute, a sciencey take on a thrill ride, with the carnival-like, touristy atmosphere of Chester and Hester’s Dino-Rama.
In August 2024, Disney confirmed the long-rumored plans for the area’s transformation, unveiling a Tropical Americas area—Pueblo Esperanza—designed to replace DinoLand U.S.A. The new land will feature two attractions inspired by Encanto (2021) and a rethemed version of DINOSAUR, which will receive an Indiana Jones-inspired makeover.
Much of DinoLand U.S.A. closed in January, including fan favorites like Chester & Hester’s Dino-Rama (hoe to the Fossil Fun Games), Chester & Hester’s Dinosaur Treasures, and TriceraTop Spin. As soon as the closure was finalized, construction walls went up, signaling the beginning of demolition.
Since then, major elements of the area have been torn down, including TriceraTop Spin, the Fossil Fun Games, and the oversized theming that gave DinoLand its kitschy charm. While most of the signage around Chester & Hester’s Dinosaur Treasures has been taken down, one final billboard remained until recently. The colorful mural, advertising the Dino Institute and Chester & Hester’s Dino-Rama, read: “When visiting Diggs County, see The Dino Institute. But if you want some real fun, visit Chester & Hester’s Dino-Rama! Rides! Games! Laffs!”
According to WDWNT, demolition crews took down this last billboard after the park closed on Sunday, April 6. The following day, April 7, Disney Park guests spotted the mural crumpled on the ground alongside other construction debris.
While the area’s demolition progresses, Disney has confirmed that several attractions and dining locations in DinoLand U.S.A. will remain open until the end of 2025. DINOSAUR, Restaurantosaurus, and The Boneyard will continue to operate until early 2026 when they will close for good. Pueblo Esperanza is set to open in 2027, though no specific dates have been provided.
What will you miss most about DinoLand U.S.A.? Disney Dining would love to hear from you in the comments!
