Exciting things are on the horizon in Disney World! We’re talking new rides, a new land, and new dining options. Animal Kingdom is about to look a whole lot different, so let’s talk about what’s going to change.
Cuban Sandwich with fries at Restaurantosaurus
Recently, Disney dropped some BIG news about the future of Dinoland U.S.A. in Disney’s Animal Kingdom. This kitschy, quirky land will soon become a colorful, vibrant new area for people to explore. It’s called Pueblo Esperanza, and Disney Imagineers are drawing inspiration from the Tropical Americas. Here’s what we know so far.
During the 2023 D23 Expo, Disney announced that Imagineers are creating a new area inspired by the Tropical Americas! In fact, Pueblo Esperanza will highlight the Tropical Americas through the stories of Encanto and Indiana Jones.
©Disney
Now Disney’s ready to confirm another anticipated closure we’ve all been waiting on for a while. Our beloved Restaurantosaurus finally has an official closing date!
Inside of Restaurantosaurus
The last day to experience Restaurantosaurus before it closes its doors forever on February 2nd, 2026, will be on February 1st, 2026. Right now is the perfect time to refuel here before your next wild adventure in the park. While you’re dining here on the fan favorite Foot-long Hot Dog with Chili and Cheese, an order of A-Maize-ing Magic Munch Fries, or the S’moresosaurus Shake, you might even catch a performance from the Dino Institute Intern — while he’s on a break from his internship duties, singing original dino-themed tunes.
Make sure you stop by before it goes extinct!
These closures are all underway to make room for the upcoming Pueblo Esperanza land in Animal Kingdom, themed to the tropical Americas.
Pueblo Esperanza Concept Art ©Disney
So far, we know this land will have two signature attractions, including an Encanto ride featuring the Madrigal family and a new Indiana Jones adventure ride!
Take a DEEP DIVE into the Pueblo Esperanza Carousel concept art HERE!
Disney will also build a new Carousel attraction designed for all ages. Look out for some familiar characters on this new attraction, including Kevin from Up!
A carousel featuring the resident wood carver’s favorite animals.
©Disney
Disney’s concept art depicts Spanish-style architecture, lots of tropical plants, and vibrant colors. A large fountain will act as a focal point in the land, and Disney is calling it a place “where stories will be told by gathering villagers.”
Pueblo Esperanza
©Disney
We’re still waiting for an exact opening date, but for now, we know that Pueblo Esperanza will open sometime in 2027. Disney also confirmed that construction is set to begin in the fall of 2024, adding, “But don’t worry, you’ll still have plenty of time to experience Dinosaur again (and get that dino).”
In the meantime, you can learn about EVERYTHING you can enjoy in Disney’s Animal Kingdom RIGHT NOW!
The Tropical Americas — An Encanto Transformation in Walt Disney World’s Animal Kingdom
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I don’t know why Disney can’t keep the restaurant and its menu by just re-theming it? Indy is an archaeologist after all which, in theming, would be similar to a paleontologist…..Why do they have to totally destroy everything that already took time, labor and money to build and that people genuinely love??? Sad and smh….
I love Restaurantosaurus and am really annoyed they are getting rid of it! What are they thinking?! Another great restaurant being destroyed by execs who don’t have a clue what the people want and/or like. They’ve screwed up FrontierLand with Carsland. Is there no end to their destruction? Thanks for letting me vent.
It is sad. Every company goes through generational changes. After about 3 turnovers of administration and employees, the history fades dramatically. In the excitement and need to be “fresh” and different , no one knows or needs the past (you know just old stuff) and soon everything looks and feels like everything else, in this case, like other amusement parks. And eventually, the only real theme between entertainment companies is keeping up and getting their share of the tourist dollar.
I am interested in the “villagers come to share stories” line…Could Disney be bringing back some more street performances? With all of the closures I am glad that we did a quick Disney World trip last month. Most of the parks are going to be at a lower ride capacity for the next couple of years good thing another park didn’t open up nearby (wink).