Credit: Inside The MagicThe major development was captured this week.
Disney’s next big project at Animal Kingdom is turning heads after a major development left fans both stunned and excited. The upcoming Encanto-themed attraction, which will be the centerpiece of the park’s reimagined Tropical Americas area, has taken a significant step forward.
Construction walls now surround large sections of the former DinoLand area, a crane has appeared on-site, and walkways are being redirected as crews prepare the ground for one of Disney’s most ambitious projects in years. The Boneyard playground officially closed on September 1, 2025, marking the start of a new era for the park, while the beloved DINOSAUR attraction remains open for now but will close on February 1, 2026.
A recent update, however, comes from the creative side. Jared Bush, the co-director and writer of the original 2021 Encanto film, has joined the Imagineering team to help bring the world of the Madrigal family to life within Animal Kingdom. Rather than simply repurposing material from the movie, Bush is reportedly crafting new dialogue exclusively for the ride, suggesting that the experience will go far beyond a traditional retelling and maybe lean into the Splash Mountain effect.
The wider project, known as Tropical Americas, aims to replace DinoLand U.S.A. with an immersive land celebrating the vibrant landscapes and cultures of Central and South America. The Encanto attraction is set to serve as one of its main draws, complemented by new dining experiences and other still-secret elements that will help redefine this corner of Animal Kingdom.
For years, Animal Kingdom has sometimes been viewed as a “half-day” experience compared to Magic Kingdom or EPCOT, and projects like Pandora: The World of Avatar have already helped reshape that reputation. Now, with Tropical Americas, Disney appears determined to complete that evolution.
Progress on Disney’s upcoming Encanto attraction at Animal Kingdom is moving faster than ever, and new aerial photos have given fans their clearest look yet at the project’s impressive scale.
As reported by BlogMickey, per bioreconstruct‘s photos, the ride has officially entered its vertical construction phase, with steel framing, foundation work, and tall concrete walls now visible within the construction zone. Images captured by the popular aerial photographer reveal significant progress on the site’s structural core, believed to be part of the show building where the main ride experience will take place.
A large crane now towers over the area, signaling that heavy construction is well underway. Observers have noted deep excavation sections across the site, sparking speculation that these could be tied to the attraction’s finale scene or advanced ride system. This milestone comes as Disney prepares to close the existing DINOSAUR attraction, officially marking the end of one era and the rise of a new one as Tropical Americas continues to take shape.
Guests can actually get an early look at the future of Animal Kingdom through a brand-new display inside the Walt Disney Presents gallery. Imagineering has debuted a detailed preview model highlighting three of Disney’s most anticipated projects: the new Monsters, Inc. coaster at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, an expanded Cars-themed area at Magic Kingdom, and the ambitious Tropical Americas land coming to Animal Kingdom.
The section dedicated to Tropical Americas gives guests a first glimpse of what’s to come, including the Encanto attraction as its star feature, alongside a beautifully designed animal carousel inspired by creatures from classic Disney films. The display also confirms that the current DINOSAUR ride system will be repurposed for the new Indiana Jones-themed adventure.
The model showcases pathways, greenery, and a central Pueblo Esperanza plaza complete with a decorative fountain, giving fans a sense of the land’s energy and atmosphere. With construction advancing and the preview now open, Disney’s vision for Animal Kingdom’s next chapter feels closer than ever.
“A vibrant new land is coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom, transporting guests into the lush rainforests and exciting stories of the Tropical Americas. Extensive Imagineering research has produced a sprawling land, rich with detail and authenticity,” the placard reads at the Walt Disney Presents display. “It will feature a central fountain, a quick-service restaurant, a hand-carved carousel, and two signature attractions–the first-ever Encanto-themed ride-through experience and a new Indiana Jones adventure unlike any other in the world.”
Not everyone is ready to say goodbye to DinoLand, though. Some longtime visitors are nostalgic for its quirky theming and classic attractions, and the sight of construction walls taking over familiar spaces has been bittersweet. Still, there’s a growing sense of anticipation as visible progress unfolds and the pieces of the new land begin to take shape. The mix of excitement and nostalgia is palpable among fans who are watching Disney transition from concept to construction in real time.
The park may be losing a dinosaur or two, but it’s gaining a vibrant new world inspired by family, culture, and the belief that everyone has something special to offer. With cranes rising and Imagineers hard at work, the future of Animal Kingdom looks brighter, livelier, and more enchanting than ever.
How do you feel about these huge Animal Kingdom developments? Let Inside the Magic know in the comments down below!