Big changes are underway at Walt Disney World Resort’s Animal Kingdom as Disney sets its sights on an ambitious new expansion. DinoLand, U.S.A.—a beloved yet aging section of the park—will soon give way to Pueblo Esperanza, an all-new land incorporating the Encanto and Indiana Jones franchises. This evolution brings a wave of excitement but also signals the end of an era for certain attractions and character experiences.
Disney’s plans for reimagining DinoLand have been years in the making. During a major announcement two years ago, Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro joined forces with Imagineering’s Chris Beatty and Animation Studios’ Jennifer Lee to tease what was then a potential Moana and Zootopia-themed expansion. However, the vision has shifted to focus on the Tropical Americas, with Pueblo Esperanza emerging as the crown jewel of this transformation.
At the heart of this vibrant new land will be Casa Madrigal, the magical home from Disney’s blockbuster Encanto. The immersive centerpiece will showcase the film’s cultural richness and tropical setting while offering guests a new storytelling experience.
Preparations for this ambitious project have been quietly underway for some time. Last year, aerial photos captured by theme park photographer Bioreconstruct (@bioreconstruct) revealed significant site work, including the setup of construction offices and staging areas. According to Bioreconstruct:
“At the top of this aerial photo is site preparation for a staging area and offices. This area will support the redo of DinoLand USA into Tropical Americas at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.”
The first major closures in DinoLand are just around the corner. Disney has confirmed that TriceraTop Spin, Fossil Fun Games, and Chester & Hester’s Dinosaur Treasures will shut their doors for good after January 12, 2025. Meanwhile, other fan-favorite locations, including DINOSAUR, the Boneyard, and Restaurantosaurus, will remain open for now.
Interestingly, DINOSAUR—based on the 2000 film—will continue operating through the end of 2025. Although confirmation has been made about the Indiana Jones re-theme, many fans are skeptical about whether Disney will follow through on this transformation.
The closure of attractions has also impacted some character meet-and-greets. Bird-Watching and Bone-Digging Goofy and Pluto have been removed from their original location behind Chester & Hester’s Dinosaur Treasures to a new spot just outside Restaurantosaurus, according to Kenny the Pirate. These characters will stay until construction advances further—likely coinciding with DINOSAUR’s extended operation.
But what awaits guests when Pueblo Esperanza opens in 2027? Disney’s vision is ambitious. According to Disney Parks Blog, the land will feature a “lived-in” aesthetic, much like Harambe, and will include a sprawling hacienda-style quick-service restaurant—one of the largest at Walt Disney World. A central fountain will anchor the space, providing a gathering area surrounded by lush tropical scenery.
One of the most exciting additions will be a giant handcrafted carousel featuring animals inspired by Disney’s storytelling heritage and brought to life by a skilled woodcarver.
Of course, Pueblo Esperanza’s two signature attractions will be its real stars. Guests can look forward to a thrilling Indiana Jones adventure and a ride-through experience inside Antonio’s animal-filled bedroom from Encanto.
Elsewhere in Animal Kingdom, the Tree of Life Theater is preparing to replace It’s Tough to Be a Bug! with Zootopia: Better Zoogether. And over in Magic Kingdom, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will close for an extended refurbishment beginning January 6, 2025, with a reopening scheduled for 2026.
As Disney reimagines its parks, one thing is clear: Pueblo Esperanza promises to set a new standard for immersive storytelling.
What do you think of the changes coming to DinoLand, U.S.A.? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!
