We’re gearing up for a BIG addition to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park next year!
Earlier in 2026, DinoLand, U.S.A. closed completely to make way for the Tropical Americas land coming to the park. This new land will feature attractions inspired by Indiana Jones and Encanto, along with new shopping and dining. We can’t wait to check it out when it opens in 2027, but for now, we’ve got a big construction update!
Currently, the entire area is surrounded by construction walls, but there is plenty to be seen as you’re walking past on your way to Asia or Discovery Island. There are several large pieces of construction equipment onsite, and we’ve noticed that some brick walls are being built up.
Also, more buildings are starting to take shape. Here, you can see the structure of a large building (perhaps the ride building for the Encanto attraction?) as well as some exterior theming elements.
Coming down the hill, you can see directly over the wall into some of the construction site. There are lots of materials in this space waiting to be used, and you can see the demolition of what once was Chester & Hester’s Dino-Rama.
In the distance, we can still spot the old Chester & Hester’s Dinosaur Treasures gift shop and adjoining restrooms. It seems as though that building may remain standing and just get retrofitted as a new gift shop or other business. Work with what you’ve got as much as you can!
We’re hoping to get more updates on this land at D23 in August. During the Disney Experiences showcase, we often get news about upcoming projects in the parks, and since this is the next big addition to Disney World, it will likely be on the docket. We’re excited to learn attraction names and details, along with opening dates. Fingers crossed for more details soon!
We’ll let you know if any more announcements are made, so stay tuned by subscribing to our newsletter and YouTube channel and following us on social media.
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