by Disney has taken a significant step forward in transforming Dinoland USA into Animal Kingdom, filing a key permit with the South Florida Water Management District for the first phase of the Tropical Americas expansion, also known as the name of Project Ro.
The permit includes a detailed site demolition plan, outlining which areas of Dinoland USA will be removed to make way for the new land’s first attractions.
Demolition details in the first phase
The permit site demolition plan reveals the first areas to be removed, focusing on Chester & Hester’s Dino-Rama, including its carnival-style Fossil Fun Games, TriceraTop Spin ride and Chester & Hester gift shop Hester’s Dinosaur Treasures. Removing these attractions is a first step in preparing for Tropical Americas, which will introduce new themed areas inspired by the vibrant cultures and rich ecosystems of Central and South America.
Preparing for the tropical Americas
The Ro Project filing marks a key step toward beginning work on the Tropical Americas, a land that will bring all-new experiences, including the first-ever “Encanto”-themed attraction, and an all-new Indiana Jones adventure . This new attraction will take visitors on an archaeological journey through a recently discovered Mayan temple, with Indiana Jones in the lead as they search for a mysterious creature believed to inhabit the depths of the temple.
The permit also addresses environmental impacts and measures to protect surrounding areas during the project, which aligns with Disney’s commitment to maintaining Animal Kingdom’s focus on conservation.
The first wave of closures will occur in January 2025, with the final day allowing guests to experience TriceraTop Spin, Fossil Fun Games, and the charming Chester & Hester’s Dinosaur Treasures store scheduled for January 12, 2025.
Although much of the Dino-Rama area will be closed, several DinoLand attractions will remain open, at least for now. DINOSAUR, The Boneyard, Restaurantosaurus, Dino-Bite Snacks and Trilo-Bites will still be available to visitors until later in 2025.
All lands in tropical America are expected to open in 2027.
