Big things are in store for Disney World’s youngest theme park.
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Walt Disney Imagineering has filed new permits for the Tropical Americas project. This venture will incorporate significant alterations, particularly around Restaurantosaurus and a former meet and greet area. The outlined changes indicate an ambitious redesign aimed at making the dining and entertainment experience even more engaging for guests.
Key features of the Tropical Americas project include two major new attractions inspired by beloved Disney franchises: Encanto and Indiana Jones. The Indiana Jones attraction is particularly intriguing, as it will utilize the existing asset from the DINOSAUR ride—allowing fans to enjoy a new adventure with familiar elements. The future of the Restaurantosaurus remains bright, as it will not be demolished but repurposed to fit seamlessly into the new theme.
With the Tropical Americas project underway, guests can expect transformative changes that will redefine parts of Animal Kingdom.
While specific completion dates remain sparse, estimates suggest that the park’s new expansions will be ready by 2027, giving fans plenty of time to look forward to what’s next.
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As part of the wider changes, the transition away from DinoLand U.S.A. is on the agenda, with a detailed closure timeline already laid out. The area has been beloved for years, yet it is becoming clear that a fresh direction is needed. Some attractions, including the DINOSAUR ride and the Restaurantosaurus quick-service eatery, will close in phases leading up to 2026.
Interestingly, the original plans for the area featured attractions inspired by Moana and Zootopia.
However, these plans have since evolved. Following fan discussions and feedback, the focus shifted towards incorporating franchises like Encanto and Indiana Jones, which align more effectively with the adventurous spirit of Animal Kingdom.
Conversations among visitors often center around the appropriateness of the new attractions within the Animal Kingdom context. While some embrace the adventurous focus of Indiana Jones and the enchanting world of Encanto, others ponder whether these IPs resonate with the park’s dedication to celebrating animals and nature.
