
Walt Disney World Resort is in the midst of a massive transformation, with exciting changes set to reshape the landscape of its parks in the coming years.
Earlier this year, Disney’s Animal Kingdom bid farewell to three attractions in DinoLand U.S.A., making room for a brand-new Tropical Americas-themed land. This reimagined space will feature signature experiences inspired by Encanto and Indiana Jones.
One of the upcoming attractions will transport guests into Antonio Madrigal’s bedroom, after—as seen in the 2021 film—Antonio gains the miraculous ability to communicate with animals. Meanwhile, the former DINOSAUR ride will be revamped into an Indiana Jones adventure, expected to operate similarly to its Disneyland Resort counterpart.
At D23 Expo 2024, Disney Experiences chairman Josh D’Amaro reassured fans that every project announced was actively moving forward. “Dirt is moving,” he promised, a stark contrast to the 2022 Expo, which largely presented “blue sky” concepts without concrete timelines.
True to his word, Disney wasted no time dismantling DinoLand U.S.A. With TriceraTop Spin, Fossil Fun Games, and Chester & Hester’s Dinosaur Treasures now closed and the iconic DinoRama entrance sign removed, the park’s evolution is well underway.
A recently filed permit reveals just how extensive this transformation will be. As reported by WDWMagic, Disney has submitted an application to the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) for a 10-acre development known as the DAK Contractor Lot.
“The permit details infrastructure improvements in an undeveloped area between Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Western Way, near the Walt Disney World Horticulture department,” the report states. “The project includes: contractor parking, sidewalks, stormwater treatment systems, drainage collection, and conveyance systems.”
The Tropical Americas expansion is scheduled to debut in 2027, bringing guests an immersive experience in Pueblo Esperanza, complete with an Encanto attraction, an Indiana Jones ride, and a grand fountain. According to Disney Parks Blog, it will also feature “a giant working carousel featuring [a woodcarver’s] favorite animals from Disney stories.”
In addition to these changes, Disney’s Animal Kingdom will soon say goodbye to another long-standing attraction. It’s Tough to be a Bug!, housed inside the Tree of Life Theater since 1998, will close its doors on March 17. The closure makes way for a new Zootopia-themed show, Zootopia: Better Zoogether.
Elsewhere, Magic Kingdom is also undergoing a major facelift. The Frontierland area is set to be transformed with a new Pixar Cars-themed expansion. As part of this shift, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad has closed indefinitely. The beloved coaster is expected to reopen in 2026, with Disney teasing “a little bit of new magic.”
Until then, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure remains the primary attraction in Frontierland as Disney works to bring its ambitious plans to life.
What do you think about all these changes at Walt Disney World Resort? Let us know in the comments below!