Big changes are on the horizon at Walt Disney World Resort’s Animal Kingdom as Disney officially pulls back the curtain on its next major expansion. With the closure of key attractions in DinoLand, U.S.A., Disney is making way for an all-new land inspired by Encanto and Indiana Jones. Naturally, this transformation comes with some bittersweet goodbyes, as beloved characters and experiences are shuffled around the park.
If this feels like déjà vu, you’re not wrong. Disney first teased these plans two years ago when Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences (formerly Disney Parks, Experiences, and Products), joined forces with Walt Disney Imagineering’s Chris Beatty and Animation Studios’ Jennifer Lee during a major Parks presentation. Back then, whispers of Moana and Zootopia-themed expansions swirled, but the vision has since evolved. Enter Pueblo Esperanza, a vibrant land inspired by the Tropical Americas.
At the heart of Pueblo Esperanza will be the enchanting Casa Madrigal, the magical home from Disney’s 2021 hit film Encanto. This immersive experience will transport guests to a world of rich culture, lush landscapes, and heartfelt storytelling that brings the film to life.
Thanks to the eagle-eyed lens of theme park photographer Bioreconstruct (@bioreconstruct), fans got a sneak peek last year at the early stages of this ambitious project. Aerial shots revealed significant site prep, including construction offices and staging areas. As Bioreconstruct noted:
“At the top of this aerial photo is site preparation for a staging area and offices. This area will support the redo of DinoLand USA into Tropical Americas at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.”
With the transformation now officially underway, Disney has confirmed several DinoLand attractions will close permanently after January 12, 2025. TriceraTop Spin, Fossil Fun Games, and Chester & Hester’s Dinosaur Treasures will all bid farewell. However, fan-favorite spots like DINOSAUR, the Boneyard, and Restaurantosaurus will remain open for the foreseeable future.
Interestingly, Disney has also announced that DINOSAUR, based on the 2000 film of the same name, will operate through the end of 2025. While a confirmation has been made about the eventual Indiana Jones re-theme, fans remain skeptical about whether this change will come to fruition.
As DinoLand enters its final chapter, some fan-favorite character experiences are finding new homes. The Bird-Watching and Bone-Digging Goofy and Pluto meet-and-greet has been removed from behind Chester & Hester’s Dinosaur Treasures and relocated to just outside Restaurantosaurus, according to Kenny the Pirate. This duo will stick around until the next phase of construction begins—likely overlapping with DINOSAUR’s extended operation.
But what can guests expect when Pueblo Esperanza debuts in 2027? Disney is pulling out all the stops to bring the Tropical Americas to life. According to the Disney Parks Blog:
“Just like Harambe, the land feels lived in, with a long, rich history—plus there’s a large hacienda which will be one of the largest quick-service restaurants at Walt Disney World Resort.”
The area will be lush and inviting, centered around a beautiful fountain that doubles as a gathering space. Among its unique offerings will be a handcrafted carousel featuring animals from Disney’s storytelling legacy, carved by skilled artisans.
The main attractions are a thrilling ride inspired by Indiana Jones and a journey through Antonio’s magical bedroom from Encanto, where the animals will seemingly come to life in a way only Disney can deliver.
Elsewhere in Animal Kingdom, It’s Tough to Be a Bug! will close as the Tree of Life Theater prepares to welcome Zootopia: Better Zoogether. Over at Magic Kingdom, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will close for refurbishment on January 6, 2025, with a reopening planned for 2026.
How do you feel about these bold changes? Let us know in the comments below!
