Animal Kingdom is undergoing a large-scale transformation, joining the recent overhauls seen at Magic Kingdom and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. As part of the updates, several attractions have closed permanently, and beloved experiences have been moved or replaced to make way for new offerings.
The centerpiece of this work is the upcoming Tropical Americas land, scheduled to open in 2027. This new area will take over most of DinoLand U.S.A., with the DINOSAUR attraction remaining only until February 1, 2026, when it will close for good.
The transformation includes the introduction of Pueblo Esperanza, a new themed section that will feature Encanto and Indiana Jones-based attractions. Some hints of the land’s design can already be seen from the air, giving guests a preview of what’s to come.
Animal Kingdom’s meet-and-greet locations are also adjusting to the construction. Goofy has been relocated from his former spot to the Africa section of the park, near a new mural and a backstage gate, per WDWNT. The character now appears close to Harambe Market, which will shut temporarily on October 20, 2025, as Disney reshapes the area.
During the closure, Harambe Market’s menu will focus on American staples such as hamburgers and chicken strips to accommodate the shutdown of Restaurantasaurus. The previous offerings will move to Kusafiri Coffee Shop & Bakery, which will stay open for longer hours to serve guests.
Guests planning visits to Animal Kingdom, Magic Kingdom, or Disney's Hollywood Studios should keep an eye on schedule updates over the next year, as more modifications are expected while these parks undergo major changes. At all three parks, guest flow has been affected by closures and redirections due to construction, and it only seems to be getting worse as the overhauls continue.
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