Credit: DisneyDisney’s Animal Kingdom is set to say goodbye to a collection of fan-favorite experiences as the park announces the final day for DINOSAUR, The Dino Institute Shop, Restaurantosaurus, and Restaurantosaurus Lounge will be February 1, 2026.
The closures mark the beginning of a major reimagining of the park’s DinoLand U.S.A. area, paving the way for the highly anticipated Tropical Americas land, scheduled to debut in 2027.
The End of an Era
The Tropical Americas expansion promises to bring an entirely new adventure to Animal Kingdom, with plans for major attractions themed around Disney’s Encanto and the iconic Indiana Jones franchise. Guests can look forward to immersive rides, themed dining, and interactive experiences that will transform this area into a vibrant, storytelling-rich destination.
DINOSAUR, which has thrilled visitors with its time-traveling journey through prehistoric landscapes since its opening, will close after more than two decades of operation. Alongside it, the Dino Institute Shop and the popular dining spots Restaurantosaurus and Restaurantosaurus Lounge will also shutter their doors, giving way to the new themed land.
BREAKING: The final day to experience DINOSAUR, The Dino Institute Shop, Restaurantosaurus, and Restaurantosaurus Lounge is February 1, 2026, at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
The Tropical Americas land, featuring major Encanto and Indiana Jones attractions, is set to open in 2027. pic.twitter.com/vxCSTxO51L
— Drew Smith (@DrewDisneyDude) September 2, 2025
Disney has not yet revealed full details about the Tropical Americas attractions, but early concept art and park announcements suggest a mix of high-energy thrill rides, family-friendly adventures, and visually immersive environments that celebrate both the magic of Disney storytelling and the excitement of classic adventure films.
See it Before it is Gone
For guests who want a last chance to experience DINOSAUR and the surrounding area as it currently exists, Disney recommends planning visits well before the February 2026 closure. After that date, the focus will shift to the construction and preparation of the Tropical Americas land, which is expected to redefine the guest experience in this corner of Animal Kingdom.
As Disney continues to evolve its theme parks, the transition from DINOSAUR to the Tropical Americas land illustrates the company’s ongoing commitment to immersive storytelling and the integration of beloved Disney franchises into its park experiences. Fans can expect more updates, including announcements about attractions, dining, and entertainment, as the 2027 opening approaches.