A significant milestone has been reached in the transformation of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, as vertical construction for the upcoming Encanto-themed attraction is now visible to park guests. This development marks the first time the structure has risen above the construction walls, offering a tangible sign of progress for the new Tropical Americas land. For months, work has been focused on foundations and groundwork, but the appearance of steel framework signals a new phase for this highly anticipated project. This article provides a look at the current construction status and reviews what we know about the attraction and its place within the park’s future.
Vertical Construction Begins
Recent visits to Disney’s Animal Kingdom have revealed the first steel beams rising from the former DinoLand U.S.A. area. While foundation work and some initial vertical elements have been underway for nearly two months, this is the first time that the structure is tall enough to be seen from guest pathways. The steel appears to be located toward the back of the construction site, near the park’s central pond. This suggests that crews may be building the main show building from the back forward, progressing toward the future guest entrance.
Although the current structure is only a fraction of the attraction’s expected final height, its visibility is a key indicator that the project is moving forward. Aerial photos from just days prior did not show this steel, highlighting the rapid pace of development. As construction continues, more of the building’s framework will likely become visible, giving a better sense of the scale and layout of the new ride.
The Encanto Attraction Concept
Encanto, inviting them to step inside the magical Casita. According to the details released by Disney, the story of the attraction begins the day after Antonio Madrigal receives his gift to communicate with animals, which transforms his room into a vibrant rainforest.
Guests will join Antonio on an exploration of his newly expanded room, encountering various members of the Madrigal family along the way. Concept art for the attraction’s interior shows a lush, colorful environment filled with animals and glowing lanterns, capturing the magical realism of the film. The exterior of the attraction is designed to look like the Casita itself, complete with its iconic colorful facade and blooming flowers, creating an impressive new landmark for the park.
Part of the Broader Tropical Americas Project
The Encanto attraction is a major component of the larger Tropical Americas project, which was officially announced in September 2023. This ambitious plan will completely retheme DinoLand U.S.A. into a new land inspired by the regions of Central and South America. In addition to the Encanto ride, this area is expected to feature experiences themed to Indiana Jones, further expanding the adventurous spirit of Animal Kingdom.
The project involves removing all traces of the former Dino-Institute and its surrounding attractions to make way for new ride systems, show buildings, and immersive environments. The confirmation that this concept is moving forward, reinforced by the visible construction, is an exciting development for the park’s future. The Tropical Americas land is currently scheduled to open in 2027.
Conclusion
The appearance of vertical construction for the new Encanto ride is a significant and visible step forward for the transformation of Disney’s Animal Kingdom. It confirms that after months of demolition and site preparation, the physical structure of the magical Casita is finally taking shape. As work progresses, guests will be able to watch this new corner of the park come to life, building anticipation for the journey into the enchanted world of the Madrigal family. This project promises to bring a new layer of storytelling and immersion to the park, and we will continue to monitor its development.
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.
