Bluey’s Wild World opened at Disney’s Animal Kingdom in late May 2026, but one piece of the land was not ready on day one. Jumping Junction, the walkthrough habitat at the center of the experience, has now started welcoming small groups of guests for test runs. Here is what that early access means and what visitors might find inside.
What a Soft Opening Means Here
A soft opening is a trial period before a permanent, fully advertised debut. During this phase, Disney lets a small number of guests experience the space while Cast Members observe how everything works.
For Jumping Junction, access is limited and unannounced, with no set schedule. If you happen to be nearby when test runs are taking place, you may get the chance to walk through. Disney wants to confirm that guest flow and the habitat work as intended before opening more widely.
What Guests Can Expect
Jumping Junction is built around Australian wildlife, in keeping with the Bluey theme. The habitat is home to about 20 kangaroos and wallabies. Most have not been named yet, though one red kangaroo goes by Big Red.
Before testing began, guests could only view the animals from outside the fence. Now, those who enter during test runs can walk the pathways inside the habitat for a closer look. Keep in mind this is a viewing and walkthrough habitat, not a hands-on attraction, so guests observe the animals rather than interact with them.
Why Access Is Currently Limited
Jumping Junction did not open with the rest of Bluey’s Wild World. The walkthrough was delayed to give the animals time to settle in. Cast Members say the animals have lived in the habitat since May 20 and are adjusting well.
Test runs are kept small on purpose, capping out at roughly 60 guests per day. That modest number explains why getting in is not guaranteed. One guest reported walking through on Sunday, June 7, at around 4 p.m., showing that these sessions happen during regular park hours rather than at a fixed time. Small groups help the animals keep acclimating while the team monitors how guests move through the space.
What This Land Formerly Housed
The area was previously home to Affection Section, a petting zoo where guests could interact with goats and other animals. As part of the transition to Bluey’s Wild World, those residents were rehomed and the space was reimagined for the Australian animals living there now.
The approach has shifted from direct contact to observation, a pretty bug change for families who remember the old petting zoo.
Final Thoughts
The start of soft openings marks a steady step forward for Bluey’s Wild World. With about 20 kangaroos and wallabies settling in and small groups now walking the pathways, the habitat is moving closer to a full debut on a timeline shaped by the animals’ comfort. For now, a bit of patience and good timing will serve you well. Keep an eye on park updates as access expands.
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.
