Disney’s Animal Kingdom is approaching a defining moment, one that will arrive quietly but carry lasting effects across Walt Disney World Resort.
By early February 2026, DinoLand U.S.A. will officially cease operations, completing a gradual process that began months ago. While guests have already witnessed several changes throughout the resort—including the closures of Rivers of America, Tom Sawyer Island, and Muppet*Vision 3D—this shift represents one of the most comprehensive updates in Animal Kingdom’s 27-year history.
DinoLand U.S.A. opened alongside the park in April 1998 and has since undergone multiple adjustments. In 2025, many of its remaining offerings were removed. The Boneyard playground closed permanently, followed by the shutdown of snack locations Dino-Bites Snacks and Trilo-Bites. What remained were Restaurantosaurus and the DINOSAUR attraction, both now confirmed to be nearing their final days.
According to Disney Experiences, February 1, 2026, will serve as the last opportunity for guests to experience those remaining locations. The following day, February 2, the closures will take effect, clearing the way for expanded construction tied to the upcoming Pueblo Esperanza land.
Pueblo Esperanza, inspired by the Tropical Americas, is scheduled to open in 2027 and will introduce two major attractions based on Encanto and Indiana Jones. Disney has already begun visible work on the Encanto experience, with construction reaching a vertical phase. The attraction will draw from Antonio Madrigal’s bedroom, highlighting the character’s animal-communicating abilities seen in Encanto (2021), where he is voiced by Ravi Cabot-Conyers.
Plans for the Indiana Jones attraction extend into the former DINOSAUR footprint. Disney has confirmed that the reimagined ride will be distinct from other Indiana Jones attractions around the globe, suggesting a new narrative and experience for guests.
The timing of DinoLand’s closure aligns with a broader repositioning of Walt Disney World as it enters 2026. While this year marked the end of several long-running experiences across multiple parks, the removal of DinoLand completes the transition of Animal Kingdom away from one of its opening-day lands.
In one month’s time, the park will no longer resemble the version guests have known for decades. As construction advances, Animal Kingdom will continue to reflect Disney’s evolving vision, setting the stage for its next era.
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