Tropical Americas Breaks Ground at Disney's Animal Kingdom: Construction Officially Begins

26 days ago in "Tropical Americas"

Posted: Friday January 17, 2025 1:12pm ET by WDWMAGIC Staff

Disney's Animal Kingdom has officially begun its transformation with a groundbreaking ceremony for the Tropical Americas expansion on January 17, 2025.

This milestone marks the official start of construction on the park's next big project, which will reimagine the former Dinoland U.S.A. into a new land celebrating the cultures and wildlife of Central and South America.

The groundbreaking event was attended by the Tropical Americas project team, including Walt Disney Imagineering (WDI).

What to Expect from Tropical Americas

The Tropical Americas expansion promises to be a significant addition to Disney's Animal Kingdom, featuring:

  • An Encanto-themed attraction: Guests will step inside the magical casita to celebrate Antonio's gift of communicating with animals, exploring the Madrigal family's extraordinary world
  • An Indiana Jones adventure: Set to replace the DINOSAUR attraction after it closes in early 2026, this thrilling ride will take guests on an archaeological journey through a newly discovered Maya temple.

The new land will also include themed dining, entertainment, and lush environments inspired by the natural beauty and cultural richness of the region.

Construction Kicks Off

With construction walls already in place around the former Dino-Rama area, the groundbreaking marks the beginning of the physical transformation. Recent progress includes the removal of Dinosaur Treasures signage and the disassembly of TriceraTop Spin, clearing the way for site preparation.

Timeline for Completion

The Tropical Americas expansion is projected to open in phases, with the full land expected to debut by 2027.

Stay tuned for more updates as construction progresses and the Tropical Americas expansion takes shape at Disney's Animal Kingdom.

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Disgruntled Walt5 hours ago

Try me.

James Alucobond10 hours ago

Excuse me, they prefer the term "dragon fewmets".

Agent H13 hours ago

Ahh finally @disgruntled Walts origin story!

ToTBellHop13 hours ago

You won’t be happier when it’s dragon poop.

Disgruntled Walt13 hours ago

Goats pooped on my feet at Rafiki's Planet Watch when I was six. It was my first disgruntling experience. Replace it with Beastly Kingdom.

Ichabod Crane14 hours ago

JackCH14 hours ago

You beat me to that joke lol.

MisterPenguin14 hours ago

The only reason I ever go to WDW is to pet goats.

TheMaxRebo15 hours ago

Please ... Won't someone think of the sightlines?!?!?!

plutofan1515 hours ago

Waiting for someone to complain that construction equipment can be seen and 20 foot walls are needed in 3,2,1.......

Disgruntled Walt15 hours ago

So the Excavator finally came to Dinoland, USA!

gerarar15 hours ago

New excavator and construction equipment on site now. Source and more:

The Leader of the Club16 hours ago

I don’t think Rafiki’s will be bulldozed and replaced, but I could see it become inaccessible to guests as a cost-cutting measure. Heck, they’ve done it at least once already. https://www.wdwmagic.com/attractions/rafikis-planet-watch/news/21sep2018-rafikis-planet-watch-permanently-closing-in-october.htm

drew8116 hours ago

Rafiki’s provides opportunities that AZA desires for accreditation.