After all the whirlwind announcements we heard at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, we had been waiting for Disney to make a move on the transformation of DinoLand, U.S.A. at Animal Kingdom to the Tropical Americas.
DinoLand U.S.A.
We learned that an Indiana Jones ride is poised to take over DINOSAUR, while an Encanto attraction will also be part of this new land. We had seen some initial permits filed a while back, but now it looks like things are really kicking into gear!
Disney has filed three new permits all related to the Tropical Americas retheme at Animal Kingdom! Each permit’s description is listed as, “Provide labor, material and/or electrical for construction,” which as you might have guessed could really mean anything.
DinoLand, U.S.A.
It’s probably an intentional move on Disney’s part to keep these permits as vague as possible so they don’t reveal too much information about what’s going on here.
We do know that Buena Vista Construction Company is listed as the contractor on all three permits — which is a construction company that Disney itself owns and operates from Disney World property.
@Disney
The addresses listed on the permits match up with three separate buildings in an area that is currently backstage at DinoLand — so we’re not sure if these permits are related to new construction or are instead potentially related to preparing the area for construction just yet. The fact that the expiration dates on the permits are the standard one year likely means that more will be on the way soon.
Map of planned construction areas
Based on the model of the Tropical Americas land we saw at D23, it does look like the Encanto ride will have a large show building, so it’s possible that Disney might need to revamp some of the backstage space into usable space for the ride. Ultimately, though, these permits are an exciting sign that means this retheme is gaining some actual momentum.
Puebla Esperanza model
The land, which Disney announced will officially be named Pueblo Esperanza, is slated to open in 2027 and will highlight the Tropical Americas through the stories of Encanto and Indiana Jones.
Pueblo Esperanza will become home to two signature attractions — an Encanto ride featuring the Madrigal family and a new Indiana Jones adventure ride!
Pueblo Esperanza Model
The new land will feature classic Spanish-style architecture with a large hacienda that will also serve as one of the largest quick-service restaurants at Disney World. The rich and lush color and biodiversity of the Tropical Rainforest will be on full display and at the center of Pueblo Esperanza will be a large fountain where stories will be told by gathering villagers.
We can’t wait!
We’ll be on the lookout for more updates about this massive transformation, so stay tuned to Disney Food Blog for everything you need to know!
EVERYTHING We Know About the Tropical Americas Transformation at Animal Kingdom
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Sounds great. Looking forward to learning more and it’s completion. I will miss that sneaky Dr. Grant Seeker in his quest to bring back an iguanodon, extra large!