‘Zootopia’ Retheme Officially Takes Over Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park is entering a new era, as the Zootopia (2016) retheme officially takes over Walt Disney World Resort’s most nature-driven park. With the debut of “Zootopia: Better Zoogether!” inside the Tree of Life, the characters from the hit 2016 film have arrived in full force, transforming the heart of Animal Kingdom into a celebration of teamwork, inclusion, and fun.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Gets a Zootopia Makeover

After months of anticipation, Zootopia: Better Zoogether! will open to the public on Friday, November 7. The show replaces It’s Tough To Be A Bug!, which permanently closed in March after entertaining guests for over 25 years. The new 4-D attraction combines physical sets, immersive effects, and cutting-edge animatronics to transport guests to the world of Zootopia — complete with an advanced Clawhauser figure similar to the one featured in Zootopia: Hot Pursuit at Shanghai Disneyland.

The show even reimagines the park’s lore, suggesting that it was Zootopia characters who carved the famous animal sculptures that adorn the Tree of Life. Early previews for Disney cast members and Annual Passholders took place this week, sparking intense debate among Disney Parks fans.

Fans Divided Over the Tree of Life’s New Direction

As with most Disney Park updates, the Zootopia retheme has sparked lively discussions among fans. While many are eager to welcome the new addition, others have expressed nostalgia for It’s Tough To Be A Bug! and its emphasis on conservation.

Former Walt Disney Imagineer Jim Shull added to the conversation when he described the new show as having “woke” undertones aimed at children. Following backlash, he deleted the post and issued a follow-up statement on X (formerly known as Twitter), saying he “missed the conservation message and the educational message about the insect world.”

Exclusive Treats and Merchandise Arrive at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

To celebrate the attraction’s debut, Walt Disney World Resort has introduced limited-edition Zootopia-themed food, beverages, and souvenirs across Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park.

The best bites always taste Better Zoogether! 🐾 Zootopia-themed bites are coming to Animal Kingdom on November 7 🌳

The best bites always taste Better Zoogether! 🐾 Zootopia-themed bites are coming to Animal Kingdom on November 7 🌳 pic.twitter.com/xSeOqcgq1j

— Disney Parks (@DisneyParks) November 3, 2025

The exclusive menu includes:

• Clawhauser’s Big Donut Macaron: A chocolate ganache and strawberry jelly macaron topped with rainbow sprinkles, available at Isle of Java on Discovery Island.

• Cub Soda: A Sprite-based beverage flavored with blueberry syrup and served with a pawpsicle-inspired ice cube, available at Eight Spoon Café.

• Bunny Burrow Brew: A Joffrey’s French Roast Cold Brew topped with condensed milk, whipped cream, and a sugar carrot garnish, sold at Isle of Java.

• Zoogether Popcorn Bucket: Found at Mahindi, Chakranadi, and Trek Snacks.

Meanwhile, new Zootopia: Better Zoogether! merchandise is appearing throughout the Disney park, including shirts, trading pins, a water bottle, and a LoungeFly backpack. Facebook user The Main Street Mouse shared images of the new line, posting:

New merchandise for Zootopia Better Zoogether opening this week at Animal Kingdom! @waltdisneyworld @disneyparks.

A Celebration of Zootopia and What’s to Come

The arrival of Zootopia: Better Zoogether! comes as excitement builds for Zootopia 2, set to premiere in theaters on November 26, 2025. All Zootopia: Better Zoogether! offerings at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park are available while supplies last. Fans can experience the new attraction and pick up themed treats and souvenirs beginning this Friday, November 7.

Which Zootopia-themed snack or drink are you most excited to try? Disney Dining would love to hear from you in the comments!