As Disney’s Animal Kingdom moves into 2025, it enters a new chapter of growth and change. The park, known for blending thrilling attractions with wildlife conservation, has several significant updates planned for the upcoming year. From construction projects to new shows and animal additions, these changes promise to make a lasting impact on the park experience. Here’s what you can expect during your visit in 2025.
Major Construction Projects Begin
Disney’s Animal Kingdom will kick off the new year with a significant focus on transforming the DinoLand U.S.A. area. Phase one of the project begins on January 13th, 2025, when several attractions and experiences in the land will close. These include TriceraTop Spin, Fossil Fun Games, and Chester & Hester’s Dinosaur Treasures Gift Shop.
The closure marks the start of a multi-phase project to reimagine this area of the park. While details about the long-term plans remain limited, the project represents one of the largest investments in Animal Kingdom in several years. Notably, the DINOSAUR ride and other favorite spots like as Restaurantosaurus and The Boneyard will remain open during this initial phase.
Introducing a Zootopia-Themed Show
Another highlight of Animal Kingdom’s 2025 updates is the introduction of a new Zootopia-themed show at the Tree of Life Theater. Titled Zootopia: Better Zoogether!, the show will feature Clawhauser, an Audio-Animatronic character, alongside an immersive 4D experience. This addition is set to replace the long-running It’s Tough to be a Bug, which will close sometime in 2025 to make way for the new production.
Disney has not yet announced an exact opening date for the Zootopia show, but it’s expected to debut later in the year. With its state-of-the-art effects and engaging storyline, the show aims to bring the world of Zootopia to life for park guests.
Animal Conservation Milestones
Animal Kingdom’s dedication to wildlife conservation continues in 2025 with the debut of a new Sumatran tiger named Bakso. Born in October 2024 under the care of the park’s animal specialists, Bakso marks a significant milestone for his critically endangered species. Guests will have the opportunity to see him on the Maharajah Jungle Trek early in the year.
Other recent animal additions, including three new lions and a baby elephant on Kilimanjaro Safaris, further highlight the park’s commitment to caring for and educating visitors about wildlife.
Recent Additions and Ongoing Enhancements
While much of the focus for 2025 is on new projects, there are some recent additions you may have missed during the last year. For example, the popular Burudika musical act has returned to the Africa section, and breakfast service has resumed at Satu’li Canteen after a multi-year hiatus.
Additionally, enhancements to interactive experiences like the updated shoulder banshees in Pandora and the introduction of a new character experience featuring Goofy add variety to the park’s lineup.
Preparing for Your 2025 Visit
Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning to explore the latest updates, a trip to Animal Kingdom in 2025 will offer a mix of exciting developments and familiar favorites. Be sure to stay informed about phased closures and opening dates by reading the DVC Shop blog or checking official Disney updates. With careful planning, you can make the most of your day at the park while exploring its ongoing evolution.
Closing Thoughts
Disney’s Animal Kingdom is poised for an exciting year ahead, with ambitious projects and notable additions shaping the visitor experience. From new attractions like the Zootopia show to conservation milestones and construction updates, 2025 marks the start of a significant era for the park.
Experience Animal Kingdom in Style
Between the incredible dining, the impeccable service, and proximity to the Animal Kingdom theme park, you don’t ever need to second guess planning a trip to Animal Kingdom Villas. If you’d like to view confirmed reservations for rent at Animal Kingdom Kidani Village or confirmed reservations for rent at Jambo House, you can experience Disney’s Deluxe resorts for less, even without being a DVC member!
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Jambo House
Kidani Village
Written by
Rachel Van Norman
Contributing Writer
Rachel fell deeply in love with all things Disney as a little girl. Now as a wife and a mother herself, she shares this Disney obsession with her son and everyone around her. From her love of princesses to eating all the Disney food, Rachel spends her time radiating Disney magic and keeping everyone up to date on Disney news.
