As much as we love the Disney World of the past, it’s the exciting changes and innovations that keep us coming back to the parks.
Animal Kingdom
Disney has recently announced a TON of theme park expansion plans — from new lands in Disneyland and Tokyo Disney to more than one expansion in Disney World — we’re excited about them all. But, if you ask us, there’s one update in particular that we can’t wait for!
In September 2023, Disney dropped some MAJOR hints about what’s next for Disney World — including some serious updates in Animal Kingdom. We’re talking Pandora: World of Avatar-sized updates. That’s right — we’re talking about a potential Encanto and Indiana Jones land in Animal Kingdom.
©Disney
Disney Parks Chairman Josh D’Amaro shared that Disney is “building on what makes Animal Kingdom so, so special” with The Tropical Americas! New experiences inspired by Encanto and the fan-favorite character Indiana Jones are “being considered” for what is currently DinoLand, U.S.A.
Imagineers have taken inspiration from some of the most biodiverse areas on the planet in the regions just north and south of the equator here in the Western Hemisphere, including the northern part of South America, stretching up into Central America.
DinoLand, U.S.A.
Disney shared concept art of this potential new land, and we’ve taken a deep dive into what might be coming.
We know that there are plans for Casa Madrigal based on the art, and what looks like some sort of boat ride. Fans of the film know that the house can change shape and look different on a whim, which would make for an interesting ride full of potential hijinks.
Casita
Of course, this is Animal Kingdom, and with Disney getting inspiration from the Tropical Americas, it would make sense for more animal exhibits to be included in this expansion. Just think about all the different animals that could join the park. Disney could even incorporate Antonio’s gift of talking to animals into the experience.
DinoLand
As far as the Indiana Jones part of this expansion is concerned, well, there’s one theory we’re REALLY hoping comes true — that the Indy-themed ride in Disneyland will finally come to Disney World. In fact, it uses the same track system as DINOSAUR, which is currently in DinoLand anyway. It likely wouldn’t take a full demolition of the current ride to make this part of the expansion happen!
Indiana Jones Adventure ride in DIsneyland
We know this means the end of DinoLand, U.S.A. as we know it, but many folks feel this area is underutilized and a bit outdated. It’s possible that this expansion would breathe some new life into Animal Kingdom and convince people it’s more than a “half-day park!”
Indiana Jones Adventure
Stay tuned to DFB as we continue to bring you the latest updates on Disney park expansions and more.
Disney Dropped 6 Clues About the Teased Encanto and Indiana Jones Lands in Animal Kingdom
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I’ll believe it when I see it. Lots of concepts and ideas that don’t come to fruition. Remember all the MK add ons? Where’s the beef?!
Indiana Jones – DEFINITELY! I’d vote for something Coco over Encanto. Didn’t really like that movie.