Credit: DisneyIf there’s one thing fans have learned about Walt Disney World, it’s that nothing stays the same for long. Classic attractions are reimagined, new lands appear seemingly overnight, and entire park areas undergo sweeping makeovers.
Right now, some of the most dramatic transformations are happening inside Disney’s Animal Kingdom—and the twist is that they’re already beginning work on a brand-new ride before one of the current attractions has even closed.
Animal Kingdom has always been known for its careful blending of nature, animals, and storytelling, but Disney is now steering it in a bold new direction. With new lands and beloved franchises moving in, guests can expect a different park experience in just a few years. At the center of this transition is one of the park’s original thrill rides, DINOSAUR, which is officially on the chopping block.
The End of an Era for DINOSAUR
DINOSAUR has been a staple at Animal Kingdom since the park opened its gates. For many guests, it’s a ride that balances science with thrills, sending riders back in time on a wild chase to rescue a dinosaur before meteors strike. Over the years, it’s become a love-it-or-hate-it attraction. Some fans adore its jerky ride system and suspenseful storyline, while others find it too rough or outdated compared to newer offerings.
Still, for many longtime visitors, DINOSAUR carries nostalgia. It’s one of the last remaining pieces of the park’s original concept of DinoLand U.S.A., a land that has long felt like it was waiting for something bigger. That something has now arrived. Disney has confirmed that DINOSAUR will permanently close on February 2, 2026, clearing the way for a blockbuster replacement themed to Indiana Jones.
The Popularity of Indiana Jones
Few characters in pop culture have the same staying power as Indiana Jones. The adventurous archaeologist, fedora and whip in hand, has captivated audiences for decades across multiple films, games, and theme park rides. Over in California, Disneyland guests have enjoyed Indiana Jones Adventure for years, making it one of the most beloved attractions on the West Coast.
Bringing Indy to Animal Kingdom is more than just replacing one ride with another—it’s about introducing a franchise with global recognition. Families who might not be drawn in by a dinosaur rescue mission may feel the pull of Indiana Jones’s daring escapades. The move also adds an adventure-driven story that meshes perfectly with the park’s larger vision of exploration and discovery.
Disney Takes Bold First Steps
What’s surprising isn’t just that Disney is replacing DINOSAUR, but how quickly they’re moving on the project. Most closures and replacements at Disney follow a predictable order: an attraction closes, walls go up, and only then does construction begin. This time, things are different.
Even though DINOSAUR will continue to operate until 2026, Disney has already taken bold steps toward its successor. The company isn’t waiting for the ride to shut down before making plans. Instead, they’ve already begun laying the groundwork for Indiana Jones to move in—literally.
The Permit That Signals the Future
The clearest sign that Disney is forging ahead came with filing a new construction permit. The paperwork points to work beginning at 501 Restaurantosaurus Road, right in the heart of DinoLand.
The description attached to the license is “General Construction and Building Infrastructure and Systems Enhancements.” That may sound vague, but the writing is on the wall to Disney fans who follow these developments closely.
This type of permit is typically filed ahead of large-scale attraction projects. In this case, it’s a strong signal that Disney has no intention of waiting until DINOSAUR closes to get moving on Indiana Jones. Work can be done behind the scenes and in surrounding areas while the ride is still operational, ensuring that once February 2026 arrives, they can dive right into the heavy lifting.
What Guests Can Expect From Indiana Jones
So, what will this new attraction actually deliver? Disney has teased the storyline, and it’s a thrilling one. Guests will join Indiana Jones on a trek into a Maya temple that holds the secrets of a mythical creature. The ride will take them through crumbling ruins and twisting passageways, and they will encounter a mix of mystery and action.
Suppose the existing Indiana Jones Adventure at Disneyland is any indication. In that case, guests can expect impressive sets, special effects, and a ride system that delivers high-energy thrills while keeping the storytelling front and center.
The difference is that the attraction will be customized for Animal Kingdom, potentially blending natural themes and unique cultural references that set it apart from its California cousin.
The ride promises to be more than just a swap of DINOSAUR’s vehicles for Indy’s storyline. Disney is crafting an entirely new narrative experience that ties into the larger expansion coming to Animal Kingdom, making this more than just a single attraction update.
What Else Is Coming to Animal Kingdom
Indiana Jones may be the headline change, but it’s only part of a larger overhaul. Disney is transforming the entire DinoLand U.S.A. area into the Tropical Americas, a lush land inspired by Central and South America, expected to debut in 2027.
Alongside Indy’s new adventure, guests can look forward to an Encanto experience where the Madrigal family’s magical home comes to life, and a brand-new Zootopia 4D show inside the Tree of Life, replacing It’s Tough to Be a Bug.
Together, these additions mark one of the most ambitious refreshes the park has ever seen. DINOSAUR will close on February 2, 2026, but construction is already underway to make way for what’s next. When the Tropical Americas opens its doors, Animal Kingdom will offer a mix of modern Disney favorites and timeless adventure storytelling—signaling an exciting new era for the park.