Disney park enthusiasts have long been wary of announcements that only tease early concepts or vague ideas, which often shift directions. However, that's no longer the case. Earlier this year at D23 Expo 2024, Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D'Amaro reminded fans that “Imagineers dream, create, design, and build these stories into real places.” He confirmed that the exciting projects announced were now officially in “active development.”
Following confirmation that DinoLand U.S.A. in Disney’s Animal Kingdom would transform into the Tropical Americas, featuring beloved Encanto and Indiana Jones themes, new permits reveal how demolition at the site is set to unfold.
In 2022, D'Amaro joined Disney executives Jennifer Lee and Chris Beatty to share blue-sky ideas for Animal Kingdom, hinting that Zootopia and Moana could eventually join the park. Fast-forward to Destination D23 in 2023, and Disney revealed a new focus: DinoLand would evolve into the Tropical Americas, a concept that only “considered” Encanto and Indiana Jones. By 2024, however, both franchises were confirmed, with the area officially named Pueblo Esperanza.
A classic fan-favorite attraction, DINOSAUR, will be reimagined with an Indiana Jones twist, while the surrounding area will house Disney Experiences’ first-ever Encanto attraction, the iconic Casita Madrigal from Disney Animation’s hit film.
Disney will close several experiences in early 2025 to make way for the new area, which the company describes as hosting “two signature attractions” alongside the overall Pueblo Esperanza experience. TriceraTop Spin, Fossil Fun Games, and Chester & Hester’s Dinosaur Treasures will permanently close on January 13, while details about how long DINOSAUR and Restaurantosaurus will remain open have yet to be announced.
“Just like Harambe, the land feels lived in, with a long, rich history—plus, there’s a large hacienda that will be one of the largest quick-service restaurants at Walt Disney World Resort,” shared Disney Parks Blog. “The space will be lush and sprawling, featuring a large fountain in the center where the villagers like to gather and tell stories.”
Clearly, Pueblo Esperanza is more than just the Encanto and Indiana Jones headliners—it’s designed to be a place that draws Disney World visitors in for its immersive ambiance.
In another exciting addition, a local woodcarver has crafted a massive carousel featuring his favorite Disney animals. This new twist on a classic attraction will be perfect for young families. But first, Disney must clear out DinoLand U.S.A. and the new demolition permit offers a preview.
According to WDWMagic, “The permit's site demolition plan reveals the first areas set for removal, focusing on Chester & Hester's Dino-Rama, including its carnival-style Fossil Fun Games, the TriceraTop Spin ride, and the Chester & Hester's Dinosaur Treasures gift shop.” The outlet added that the permit covers environmental considerations, supporting Disney’s commitment to conservation at Animal Kingdom.
Following the D23 Expo, Disney offered more glimpses into the new area’s planned attractions. The Indiana Jones-themed ride promises to be “different from any other Indiana Jones experience around the world,” and the Encanto attraction will take guests through Antonio Madrigal's magical rainforest bedroom. Disney has confirmed that the Tropical Americas expansion at Walt Disney World Resort is slated to open in 2027.
And that’s not all—the Walt Disney World Resort is in the midst of a complete evolution. As EPCOT’s World Celebration wraps up, Disney is shifting focus to Magic Kingdom Park’s Frontierland, where Cars and Disney Villains are set to make their debuts.
In addition to DinoLand and Frontierland, Disney will be introducing a Monsters, Inc.-themed roller coaster to Disney's Hollywood Studios—the first of its kind.
What are your thoughts on the Walt Disney World Resort’s transformation?
