Walt Disney World Resort is gearing up for a massive transformation, with major updates set to change the landscape of multiple parks over the next few years.
In a significant move, three beloved attractions in DinoLand U.S.A. at Disney’s Animal Kingdom shut their doors in mid-January. This closure paves the way for a brand-new land themed to the Tropical Americas, inspired by the hit franchises Encanto and Indiana Jones.
Guests can look forward to an immersive Encanto attraction centered around Antonio Madrigal’s room—where, in the 2021 film, he discovers his incredible ability to communicate with animals. Meanwhile, the fan-favorite DINOSAUR ride will be transformed into an Indiana Jones adventure, likely drawing inspiration from the thrilling experience found at Disneyland Resort in California.
Walt Disney Imagineering is wasting no time. During D23 Expo 2024, Disney Experiences chairman Josh D’Amaro reassured fans that every announcement made was in motion. “Dirt is moving,” he said, marking a stark contrast to the 2022 Expo, which leaned heavily into “blue sky” ideas with no firm commitments.
His words are proving true. The closure of TriceraTop Spin, Fossil Fun Games, and Chester & Hester’s Dinosaur Treasures, alongside the removal of the iconic DinoRama entrance sign, signals that Disney is full steam ahead with its ambitious plans.
A newly filed permit sheds light on just how large this transformation will be. According to WDWMagic, Disney has submitted an application to the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) for a 10-acre development known as the DAK Contractor Lot.
“The permit details infrastructure improvements in an undeveloped area between Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Western Way, near the Walt Disney World Horticulture department,” the report states. “The project includes: contractor parking, sidewalks, stormwater treatment systems, drainage collection, and conveyance systems.”
The Tropical Americas expansion is slated to open in 2027, bringing with it the Encanto and Indiana Jones attractions, and will be known as the Pueblo Esperanza. The area will feature a grand fountain and, according to Disney Parks Blog, “a giant working carousel featuring [a woodcarver’s] favorite animals from Disney stories.”
But that’s not the only big change coming to Animal Kingdom. This week, Disney confirmed that It’s Tough to be a Bug!, the long-running show inside the Tree of Life Theater, will officially close on March 17. The 1998 attraction, based on Pixar’s A Bug’s Life, will make way for a new Zootopia-themed experience, Zootopia: Better Zoogether.
Meanwhile, over at Magic Kingdom, another major reimagining is underway. Disney is set to overhaul much of Frontierland, with the Pixar Cars franchise taking center stage. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad has already closed indefinitely, hinting that its transformation is the first phase of this ambitious project. Disney has confirmed the beloved coaster will return in 2026, “with a little bit of new magic.”
For now, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure remains the sole anchor of Frontierland, keeping the spirit of the area alive until the Cars expansion takes shape.
What do you think about all these big changes at Walt Disney World Resort? Let us know in the comments below!
