New Monsters Inc. Land Timeline Leaves Fans Disappointed

If you’re dreaming of exploring the world of Monsters, Inc., we’ve got some news: you’ll be waiting a little longer than you hoped. Despite fan excitement, Disney seems to be eyeing a 2028 opening for the rumored Monsters, Inc. Land at Hollywood Studios. And with everything else going on, that might be the earliest we see it.

Hollywood Studios Needs the Laughs

Hollywood Studios has become a mishmash of bold franchises—Star Wars, Toy Story, Mickey & Minnie—but it’s still missing something for younger kids. A land themed to Monsters, Inc. could fill that gap perfectly. Imagine a thrilling dark ride that takes you through the scream/laugh energy facility, or a wild spinning door ride where you bounce from one child’s bedroom to the next. Even a comedy club experience hosted by Mike Wazowski would be a hit.

But instead of kicking this project into gear now, Disney is focused elsewhere.

All Eyes on Animal Kingdom and Magic Kingdom

First up is Tropical Americas, the major transformation coming to Animal Kingdom. It will replace the outdated DinoLand U.S.A. area. Tropical Americas is expected to bring a lush new environment with attractions based on Encanto and Indiana Jones. It opens in 2027, and Disney is all-in on making that debut smooth.

Then there’s Piston Peak, which might not sound huge, but if you’ve seen Planes: Fire & Rescue, you know it’s full of potential for water-based attractions and high-flying thrills. That project could take over part of Frontierland alongside the upcoming Villains Land, probably the most anticipated expansion in Disney history.

Why Monsters Inc. Got Pushed

Disney is juggling a dozen major projects right now, and stacking them too close would create staffing headaches and budget bloat. Spacing out these lands—Tropical Americas in 2027, Monsters, Inc. in 2028, and Villains Land closer to 2030—can maximize guest hype and investment returns.

What’s Going on in Villains Land?

Rumors swirl about a full-on “Dark Kingdom” concept. Picture a rollercoaster where you’re escaping the Evil Queen’s dungeon, or a spooky walk-through castle filled with villain cameos. Disney could lean into special effects, intense storytelling, and even unique food offerings like poisoned apple desserts or Jafar’s fire-roasted kebabs.

It’s the kind of project that eats up time and budget—but delivers in a massive way. It is sure to rope in fans, but more than likely, it won’t open until a few years after Monsters Inc. Land makes its debut.

The Long Game

Here’s how the rumored timeline is shaping up:

• 2027: Tropical Americas (Animal Kingdom)

• 2028: Monsters, Inc. Land (Hollywood Studios)

• 2028–2029: Piston Peak (Magic Kingdom)

• 2029–2030: Villains Land (Magic Kingdom)

It’s a long wait for Mike and Sulley, but if Disney pulls this off, the back half of the decade might be the biggest expansion in Disney World’s history.

Especially if a particular fifth gate starts its development…