Disney has revealed significant plans for an area of its Animal Kingdom theme park, announcing that the former DinoLand USA will be transformed into a vibrant Tropical Americas-themed land by 2024. The announcement was made during the recent D23 convention, marking a bold step forward in the park’s continuous evolution.
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A key highlight of the upcoming area is the new attraction, “Indiana Jones and the Myth of the Jade Serpent.” For the first time, the iconic character will be represented by an animatronic model based on actor Harrison Ford, who shared his excitement in a surprise video appearance at the convention. At 84 years old, Ford expressed enthusiasm for this latest venture, noting that he will be the face of Indiana Jones as guests experience the ride.
The attraction itself will immerse visitors in a thrilling storyline set within a mysterious Mayan temple. Here, adventurers will explore a passageway leading to the underworld, an area said to be guarded by a formidable giant serpent. This blend of mythology and adventure promises to deliver a captivating experience for fans of the franchise and newcomers alike.
The construction of the new Tropical Americas area is already underway, signalling a fresh direction for the theme park. This transformation comes as a response to the closing of DinoLand USA, which had been a staple of Animal Kingdom since the park opened its doors 28 years ago. The DinoLand area officially ceased operations in February, indicating the start of a new era for the park.
The Tropical Americas land will not only feature this Indiana Jones ride, but it will also include an interactive ride based on Disney’s “Encanto.” Visitors can look forward to journeying through the enchanting Casa Madrigal, as well as experiencing a central carousel filled with beloved Disney characters. This carousel will replace the traditional horses with figures such as Pua from “Moana” and Nigel from “Finding Nemo,” adding a unique twist to the classic attraction.
Concept art has been released showcasing the new area, which is set in the fictional town of Pueblo Esperanza, meaning “village of hope.” Visitors can expect an array of dining options and shops to enhance their experience as they explore this part of the park. Disney’s focus on storytelling and immersive environments will be a key feature of the Tropical Americas theme.
Fans of Animal Kingdom have expressed their sentiments regarding the closure of DinoLand and its attractions. One notable ride, DINOSAUR, took guests on a thrilling journey through time to rescue an Iguanodon—all while racing against an impending asteroid collision. Many visitors have fond memories of that experience, making the transition to new attractions feel bittersweet.
While some attractions within DinoLand USA, such as TriceraTop Spin, Chester & Hester’s Dinosaur Treasures, and the Boneyard, have already closed to make way for construction, the excitement surrounding the upcoming Tropical Americas land is palpable. Disney fans eagerly anticipated transformations were shared at the D23 conference, alongside announcements of new expansions at other parks, including a Cars-themed land at Magic Kingdom and an Avatar-themed area at Disney’s California Adventure.
As the opening date draws nearer, the anticipation surrounding the Indiana Jones and Encanto attractions, along with the enchanting new environment, builds excitement for what lies ahead at Disney World’s Animal Kingdom. With these dynamic changes, the park reiterates its commitment to providing innovative experiences for guests of all ages.