Disneyland Paris is in the middle of a major transformation, and the changes underway could reshape how fans view the resort on a global scale.
The biggest shift is happening at Walt Disney Studios Park, which has officially been reintroduced as Disney Adventure World. The rebranding reflects a much larger vision, with new lands, attractions, and experiences designed to elevate the park beyond its long-standing reputation as Disneyland Paris’ quieter second gate.
That perception dates back years, but things began to change in 2018 when then-CEO Bob Iger announced a massive €2 billion investment plan. The goal was clear: expand the park and bring it more in line with Disney’s other international destinations. Now, those plans are finally becoming visible.
Disney confirmed the Disney Adventure World name during a 2024 presentation, aligning with speculation that the reveal would tie into the resort’s 30th anniversary. Alongside the new identity came previews of upcoming attractions, including ride vehicles themed to 2010’s Tangled. Guests can now experience Raiponce Tangled Spin, which has already opened.
Still, one of the most talked-about additions is the newly completed World of Frozen. The land invites guests into Arendelle, immersing them in the story of Anna and Elsa. This marks the third Frozen-themed land across Disney parks worldwide, following similar expansions in Hong Kong and Tokyo.
But Disney isn’t stopping there. Another major project is already in the pipeline: a Lion King-inspired land, currently referred to as the “Future Lion King Themed Area.” Based on the beloved 1994 animated film, the new land is expected to feature a headline attraction unlike anything currently found at the resort–or in the world.
Disneyland Paris has gradually shared more details about what’s to come, offering a clearer idea of how ambitious this expansion will be.
“Construction is set to begin in Fall 2025,” Disneyland Paris News explained at the time. “When the sun rises on this realm after the grand opening of World of Frozen, an all-new attraction blending a spectacular water experience with state-of-the-art Audio-Animatronics technology will plunge guests into the heart of the Pride Lands, where Simba will await them for an unforgettable adventure complete with iconic songs from the 1994 masterpiece.”
“After making their way to the caves beneath the 37-meter-high Pride Rock, guests will embark on a wondrous and sensational adventure through iconic scenes and sceneries from the beloved animated movie, navigating a path with three exciting slopes, including an impressive 16-meter-high descent,” the website shared.
“With a seamless blend of many Audio-Animatronics figures scattered across a highly detailed environment coming to life thanks to state-of-the-art special effects and an unforgettable soundtrack, this attraction will be one of the biggest at Disneyland Paris!”
That 16-meter drop places the attraction in a similar category to Disney’s larger water-based rides, suggesting it will deliver both storytelling and a strong thrill component.
“We are looking forward to launching the construction of this new immersive world inspired by The Lion King and its major attraction, which will mark another milestone for Disney Adventure World,” said Michel Den Dulk, Vice President and Portfolio Executive Creative Director at Walt Disney Imagineering.
“The main attraction will showcase the key features of Disney experiences: lovable characters, an unforgettable soundtrack, immersive décor and effects, and exciting thrills thoughtfully delivered throughout the adventure.” He added: “All of the Imagineers who work on this project have their hearts set on paying a vibrant homage to this timeless masterpiece by creating unforgettable memories for all our guests.”
Now, new details shared by DLPWorks on X are offering even more insight into what guests can expect.
According to the update, the attraction will feature a dual-loading platform, a design that helps move more guests through the ride efficiently. This suggests Disney is preparing for high demand from the moment the land opens.
The environment itself is also getting special attention. Rather than using standard landscaping, Imagineers are reportedly selecting plant species suited to the local climate and arranging them to resemble the African savanna, making the setting feel more authentic.
Guests will enter the experience by venturing beneath Pride Rock, which is expected to stand around 37 meters tall. From there, the attraction will guide riders through scenes inspired by The Lion King, combining physical sets, Audio-Animatronics, bioluminescent effects, and more.
Multiple slopes throughout the ride will build momentum, leading up to the final drop, creating a sense of progression and payoff.
All signs point to this being more than just a single attraction. With its large-scale design, detailed environment, and operational considerations, the Lion King land appears to be a fully realized immersive space.
For longtime fans, this evolution couldn’t come at a better time. Walt Disney Studios Park has faced criticism for years due to its limited offerings and inconsistent theming. The ongoing changes appear to directly address those concerns.
As Disney Adventure World continues to take shape, Disneyland Paris is entering a new chapter—one focused on immersive lands, familiar stories, and attractions built to draw visitors from across Europe and beyond.
How do you feel about Disneyland Paris getting this huge Lion King ride? Let us know in the comments down below!
