Disney held a groundbreaking ceremony for the new Tropical Americas land replacing DinoLand, U.S.A. at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
Tropical Americas Groundbreaking
The groundbreaking ceremony was on January 17, 2025, with Imagineers and executives using shovels to break into the dirt of the former Dino-Rama. (via WDWMagic)
After months of permits, the first phase of DinoLand closures was earlier this month. Chester & Hester’s Dino-Rama, including TriceraTop Spin, Dinosaur Treasures, and Fossil Fun Games closed. Construction walls split the land in half as DINOSAUR, The Boneyard, and Restaurantosaurus remain open. “Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond!” will not be affected.
Construction work so far includes removing signs from Dinosaur Treasures and dismantling TriceraTop Spin.
The remainder of the land is rumored to close in one year. DINOSAUR will remain open for at least all of 2025.
Tropical Americas Land
The 11-acre Tropical Americas land will take over the DinoLand footprint, with most of the space turned into the fictional town of Pueblo Esperanza. Among the new offerings will be a carousel featuring carved Disney animal characters, including Kevin from “Up.”
DINOSAUR will become an Indiana Jones attraction. The thrill ride already uses the same ride system and similar ride track as Indiana Jones Adventure at Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea. However, the Tropical Americas attraction will feature a new Indiana Jones story.
A brand new attraction will be inspired by “Encanto.” Guests will visit the Madrigal family’s Casita on Antonio’s birthday when he receives his gift of talking to animals. Disney said the ride will “go beyond” the movie.
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