Disney to Debut 'Encanto' and Indiana Jones Rides at Animal Kingdom
Disney has announced significant updates to Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, including new lands and attractions. At the D23 fan convention, Josh D'Amaro, Chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, revealed plans for a new land at Hollywood Studios themed around "Monsters Inc." and "Indiana Jones." Additionally, Disney's Animal Kingdom will feature a new Indiana Jones-themed ride and an Encanto-themed attraction, both set to debut in 2027. The Animal Kingdom will also see a Zootopia show in 2025 and the creation of a Tropical Americas expansion, which will replace the Dino-Land U.S.A. area.
In further developments, Epcot will introduce a new Test Track, and Frontierland at Magic Kingdom will welcome two Cars-themed attractions. These updates are part of Disney's broader expansion plans, which also include doubling the size of the Avengers Campus at Disney California Adventure Park in Anaheim, California, and adding four new cruise ships to their fleet. The company has also partnered with Epic Games, the creator of Fortnite, for future projects.
The Tropical Americas expansion at Animal Kingdom will span 11 acres and feature a large quick-service restaurant themed around a hacienda. The new Indiana Jones attraction will replace the current Dinosaur ride, incorporating a unique story set in a preserved Maya Temple. Construction for this expansion is set to begin this fall and be completed by 2027. These changes aim to enhance the visitor experience and introduce new storytelling elements to the parks.
