Walt Disney World continues its relentless reimagining of Animal Kingdom with upcoming changes to DinoLand USA. Recent permit filings by Walt Disney Imagineering outline the first phase of demolition in this area, signaling the start of a significant transformation. Here’s what you need to know about the attractions affected, the demolition process, and plans for what’s next.
Demolition Details and Attractions Affected
The permits submitted by Walt Disney Imagineering focus on the Dino-Rama section of DinoLand USA. Construction walls will go up starting January 13th, closing off the area to guests and officially beginning the demolition phase. The permits reference “facility demo” for specific locations within the land, including the following attractions and offerings scheduled for removal by January 12th:
- TriceraTop Spin
- Fossil Fun Games
- Chester & Hester’s Dinosaur Treasures Gift Shop
This initial phase of work will clear much of the existing Dino-Rama space as Disney prepares for the next chapter in the area’s development.
What’s Coming to DinoLand USA?
The upcoming changes are part of a larger plan to reimagine this section of Animal Kingdom. DinoLand USA will eventually give way to a brand-new Tropical Americas-themed land. Concept art and filings suggest this transformation will draw inspiration from Disney’s Encanto, with plans for a new ride as a centerpiece.
The former Primeval Whirl plot and backstage areas will be repurposed for the new attraction, which is set to take over a central space in the upcoming land. This move reflects Disney’s commitment to enhancing guest experiences with fresh storytelling and immersive environments.
Timeline and Broader Plans
While demolition for the Encanto-themed attraction begins soon, other areas of DinoLand USA will remain intact for now. For instance, the DINOSAUR attraction remains open through 2025, providing guests with an opportunity to experience the ride before its planned reimagining into an Indiana Jones-themed adventure.
The phased approach to this project allows Disney to manage the transition without completely closing off the land to visitors, ensuring continued enjoyment of certain experiences while construction advances.
What It Means for Guests
The changes to DinoLand USA mark a thoughtful evolution for Disney’s Animal Kingdom, inviting guests to imagine new stories and experiences. While some classic attractions will soon say goodbye, the promise of an Encanto-inspired land and future projects continue to uphold Disney’s legacy of innovation.
For visitors planning a trip in early 2025, be prepared for construction walls and changes to familiar spaces. However, the work being done now sets the stage for exciting new offerings in the years to come.
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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.
