It is no secret by now that DinoLand USA went extinct on February 2nd, 2026. Actually, this part of Disney’s Animal Kingdom (DAK) has been extinct for years. Anchored by the somewhat lovable attraction Dinosaur, DinoLand U.S.A. has always felt like a temporary land at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and well, that was intentional. Today’s article is a short, sweet goodbye to Dinosaur, as we were on hand to witness the last breaths of DinoLand USA. As always, you can follow us along visually over on YouTube, where we share our last day in DinoLand USA and more specifically on Dinosaur coming soon!
At this point in the DinoLand destruction, only a pathway to Dinosaur remains. As you will see in our YouTube video, we were only able to walk into the area and get to Dinosaur and the last food spot, Restaurantosaurus (yes, that is spelled correctly). We decided not to eat there that day, though. As our followers know, Yak and Yeti is our go-to place at Disney World, and we ate there of course!
Tropical Americas
Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Now Let’s talk about the replacement a brand new Indiana Jones ride that will not be based on any of the other Indy rides! From Disney, “In this new venture, the man with the hat has recently discovered a perfectly preserved Maya temple, and that can only mean one thing: it’s time to explore it. He’s heard rumors about a mythical creature deep within the temple — and he’s got to see it for himself. So, he brings us along on the adventure… but will there be snakes? We’ll just have to wait and see.” This attraction is slated to open in 2027 as part of the Tropical America’s are in Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
Here is an artist rendition of the Tropical America’s area in Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
The space will be lush and sprawling, featuring a large fountain in the center where the villagers like to gather and tell stories. Additionally, a woodcarver has created a giant working carousel featuring his favorite animals from Disney stories. It’s a new take on a classic attraction that young families are going to love.
That’s not all that will be located here – the new land will include not one but two signature attractions!
From Disney, “If you’re a fan of drawers, floors, and doors, let’s go! The first-ever “Encanto”-themed ride-through attraction is coming to Animal Kingdom, featuring the beloved Madrigal family from the Walt Disney Animation Studios film. Inside the Casita, Antonio has just received his special gift — the ability to communicate with animals — and his room has transformed into a rainforest. It’s time to go explore alongside him, and you never know what member of the family you might bump into…”
Final Thoughts on Dinosaur Closing
As we bid farewell to Dinosaur and the beloved DinoLand USA, we reflect on the memories made in this unique corner of Disney’s Animal Kingdom. The darkness of Dinosaur and the excitement of DinoLand USA will forever linger, reminding us of the somewhat silly part of Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Yet, as we say goodbye, we eagerly look toward the future and the exciting developments that await us with the new Tropical Americas area. With fresh attractions like the Indiana Jones adventure and an enchanting Encanto-themed ride, there’s so much to anticipate. Here’s to new journeys ahead. For more information on all of the expansions coming to Walt Disney World over the next couple of years, check out this article, Massive Walt Disney World News From D23! What’s Coming Next?!
