The version of Disney's Animal Kingdom that guests know, and have known for decades, will officially come to an end very soon.
Exciting transformations are sweeping Walt Disney World Resort as decades-old attractions make way for thrilling new lands inspired by beloved Disney and Pixar stories.
One of the biggest developments is unfolding at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Since mid-January 2025, the park has been phasing out the DinoLand U.S.A. area, ushering in a vibrant new land themed to the Tropical Americas: Pueblo Esperanza. This immersive space will feature experiences from both Encanto and Indiana Jones, with anchor attractions based on the two adventure-filled franchises.
Among the earliest changes, guests saw the closures of TriceraTop Spin and the Fossil Fun Games. Still, not everything has gone quiet in the land—DINOSAUR continues to welcome brave riders through 2025, and Restaurantosaurus remains open, recently transforming into the venue for the Daisy Duck Cool Kid Summer event.
Now, new permits filed for various parts of DinoLand U.S.A. suggest more closures are on the way. As reported by Kenny the Pirate, these include Trilo-Bites, the Wilderness Explorer Kiosk, and The Boneyard, which will officially close on September 2, 2025. A separate permit was submitted for electrical updates at Restaurantosaurus, though the restaurant currently has no closure date.
Meanwhile, over at Magic Kingdom Park, the future is fast approaching. On July 6, two cherished landmarks—Tom Sawyer Island and the Rivers of America—were permanently closed, signaling the beginning of a massive transformation in Frontierland. Disney has labeled this the “largest expansion” in the park’s 53-year history. The Liberty Belle Riverboat has also retired from the resort’s regular lineup. Earlier in the year, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad was temporarily closed for a major update, making it one of the first signs of the upcoming overhaul.
In its place, guests can look forward to Piston Peak National Park, a new land rooted in Pixar’s Cars universe. With family-focused attractions and immersive design, the new space aims to capture the spirit of adventure seen in the franchise.
Changes don’t stop there. At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, the park said goodbye to the Grand Avenue area earlier this year to prepare for a brand-new land: Monstropolis. This upcoming Monsters, Inc.-themed experience is set to include the first suspended roller coaster ever built at a Disney park, combining state-of-the-art thrills with fan-favorite characters.
With significant updates rolling out across multiple parks, guests are weighing how these enhancements might affect their upcoming trips. While some are opting to wait for the grand openings, others are embracing the opportunity to experience the parks in transition.
What do you think of all the new permits and evolving plans? Are you adjusting your vacation itinerary in response? Be sure to share your thoughts with us in the comments below!
I don’t like all the changes. If they feel like they have to add these modern things then build them in a different area. Don’t take away the things that have been a part of Disney World since it’s opening. Young people don’t pay for their tickets. It’s the parents and grandparents who fork out the money and they still want to experience the classic rides and exhibits.