From thrilling nighttime adventures to the dawn of an all-new land, exciting transformations are underway across Walt Disney World Resort.
A New Chapter at Animal Kingdom
Disney’s Animal Kingdom is stepping into a bold future. In early February, the South Florida Water Management District approved permits for the park’s long-term evolution—internally referred to as “Project Ro.” The initiative includes infrastructure upgrades like modern stormwater systems and enhancements to parking and pathways, all while supporting environmental sustainability through careful mitigation efforts. The permit runs through February 2030.
As part of this visionary plan, the beloved DinoLand U.S.A. will be reimagined into Tropical Americas—a new land inspired by the stories, wildlife, and landscapes of the Americas. While TriceraTop Spin has already bid farewell, the fan-favorite DINOSAUR will remain open through 2025 before transforming into an all-new experience inspired by Indiana Jones.
At the heart of Tropical Americas, guests will soon step into the vibrant world of Disney’s Encanto. An upcoming attraction invites explorers into Antonio’s magical room for an interactive journey alongside the Madrigal family. Nearby, a whimsical woodcarver’s carousel featuring Disney animal favorites will bring color and charm to guests of all ages.
For guests looking to enjoy the parks after the sun sets, Disney After Hours at Magic Kingdom Park has returned for select nights through May 19, 2025. This limited-capacity, separately ticketed event grants shorter wait times, select complimentary snacks and beverages, and access to iconic attractions well into the night. Dates include: January 6, 13, 20, 27; February 3, 10, 17, 24; March 3, 17, 24, 31; April 7, 28; and May 5, 12, 19.
On May 5, while Magic Kingdom hosts one of its After Hours events, another special evening awaits at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. From 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., Extended Evening Hours will be available to guests staying at Disney Deluxe Resorts and other select hotels. These exclusive hours provide extra time to enjoy the park’s breathtaking offerings, from Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain to Avatar Flight of Passage.
The lineup for Animal Kingdom’s evening hours includes Na’vi River Journey and DINOSAUR, while It’s Tough to Be a Bug!—formerly housed inside the Tree of Life Theater—was also part of the offerings before its closure in March.
“[A]ttractions are subject to change and may not always be operational,” Disney reminds guests.
Looking ahead, guests can expect more late-night wonder this summer. According to the official park calendar on the My Disney Experience app, Extended Evening Hours return to Animal Kingdom on July 2. But take note: on that date, Magic Kingdom’s usual Wednesday extended hours will not be available. Instead, the park will close at 10 p.m., a notable change from the pattern maintained every Wednesday leading up to July.
Over at the Tree of Life Theater, March 16 marked the final performance of It’s Tough to be a Bug!. In its place, a brand-new adventure takes root—Zootopia: Better Zoogether. Arriving in winter 2025, this immersive stage show will feature beloved characters like Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde, blending cutting-edge effects with heartfelt storytelling.
Meanwhile, across the park at Magic Kingdom, a transformation of another kind is in progress. Frontierland is on the verge of a dramatic reimagining. Plans are underway to retire Tom Sawyer Island and the Rivers of America in favor of an entirely new land based on Pixar’s Cars franchise. As part of this expansion, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad has temporarily closed for refurbishment. It’s set to reopen in 2026, potentially as a major highlight of the new land’s debut.
As these magical enhancements continue to take shape, Disney Experiences invites guests to be part of a story still being written—where cherished memories meet bold new beginnings.
Will you be taking advantage of these extended hours at Animal Kingdom this summer? Or are you disappointed that Magic Kingdom won’t be offering them on July 2? Let us know in the comments down below!
