New year, fresh starts—and for Walt Disney World Resort, that means saying goodbye to beloved experiences as the parks gear up for sweeping transformations this January 2025.
Disney is embarking on what could be its boldest chapter yet, introducing brand-new lands while bidding farewell to fan favorites. This transformation marks a major push to reimagine the Central Florida resort for the next generation of guests.
Ever since the D23 Expo 2022, Disney enthusiasts have eagerly awaited the next wave of magic under the Disney Experiences brand. Over the last two years, Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro has unveiled a mix of thrilling new additions and bittersweet goodbyes. As D’Amaro shared at last year’s Expo, “dirt is moving,” and it’s clear Disney is delivering on those promises.
One of the most anticipated projects is the transformation of DinoLand U.S.A. into the Tropical Americas at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. This exciting new area will showcase Encanto and Indiana Jones as its main attractions. It will be known as the vibrant “Pueblo Esperanza,” designed to immerse guests in the cultures of the Tropical Americas.
Another Animal Kingdom shift is happening at the Tree of Life Theater, where It’s Tough to Be a Bug! will close to make way for Zootopia’s Better Zoogether, a cutting-edge 3D experience.
Magic Kingdom, however, is seeing perhaps the most controversial change, as Frontierland will be reimagined, leaving its traditional Western roots behind. Tom Sawyer Island and the Rivers of America will make way for a new Cars-themed land. While not a direct replica of Disneyland’s Radiator Springs, the area will feature new attractions crafted to delight guests of all ages.
But that’s not all. After years of speculation, Magic Kingdom will introduce a dedicated Disney Villains land, a thrilling expansion for fans of Disney’s most iconic antagonists.
As Disney looks to the future, January is a month of closures for several beloved attractions. Among the most significant was Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, which made its final run on January 5, 2025, before undergoing an extensive refurbishment. It’s set to reopen in 2026, with Disney promising “a little bit of new magic,” possibly inspired by Disneyland’s updates.
Kali River Rapids and EPCOT’s Gran Fiesta Tour also joined the list of early January closures, beginning seasonal maintenance on January 6. Both are slated to reopen in March 2025.
The next wave of shutdowns is set for end of business January 12, with several attractions across Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom closing their doors.
At Magic Kingdom, Tomorrowland’s Astro Orbiter will temporarily close for refurbishment on January 13, with plans to return in summer 2025. However, Animal Kingdom will see the permanent closure of TriceraTop Spin, Chester & Hester’s Dinosaur Treasures, and Fossil Fun Games, marking the end of an era for DinoLand U.S.A.
TriceraTop Spin, which has been delighting guests since 2001, and Fossil Fun Games, which opened in 2002, will bid farewell alongside the Chester & Hester’s main gift shop. This closure also impacts meet-and-greet locations, with Goofy and Pluto relocating within the park.
Surprisingly, the fan-favorite DINOSAUR ride will remain open until late 2025, giving guests more time to enjoy this prehistoric adventure.
While January’s closures signal major changes, they’re paving the way for Disney’s ambitious vision. Still, with so many attractions going dark, some fans are left wondering if 2025 will be the right time to visit the Most Magical Place on Earth.
What are your thoughts on these changes? Share your opinions with us in the comments below!
I more upset with the closure of the Rivers of America than anything thats happening at Disney. Carsland belongs in Hollywood Studios. Leave Rivers of America alone. Walt Disney would agree.