Should we be worried about expansion plans at Disney’s Animal Kingdom?
Animal Kingdom is in the midst of a massive change. The theme park is currently working on a Tropical Americas-themed expansion called Pueblo Esperanza, based on Encanto and Indiana Jones. The new land will replace the current DinoLand U.S.A., which has already been, and will continue to be, stripped down in the next year-plus. The removal of the land has been controversial among Disney Adults, to say the least.
We asked our readers, “What worries you about the Animal Kingdom expansion plans?” and got tons of responses.
Reader Alexandria wrote, “They keep mentioning rides and buildings to be put up for various purposes. However, they have yet to mention any animal plans. I want to learn about exhibit ideas, layouts, or interactive or walk through areas. I know animals themselves take time to procure, but at least share some plans.”
Reader Jared added, “That the expansion won’t include new animal exhibits. I wanna see capybaras, llamas, jaguars, sloths, etc.”
Reader Laura agreed, writing, “I’m worried that there won’t be any significant animal exhibits or trails featuring the amazing creatures of the tropical americas, which is something I’ve wanted to see at AK since before Pandora.“
Too often, we forget that what makes Animal Kingdom so unique and special — truly the rarest of the rare Disney Parks — is that it’s also a zoo/safari park. While DinoLand isn’t particularly known for its animals (save the ones of extinct variety), it’s a genuinely thought-provoking question.
Will we see new animals in Pueblo Esperanza? What kind of experiences should we expect? How will the expansion affect the park animals in general? These are all questions we’re dying to have answered.
Reader Amanda feels like the new expansion missed on possible attraction additions, writing, “I wish they’d incorporated an UP attraction. It would fit perfectly with South America.”
Come to think of it, that’s an EXCELLENT point, Amanda!
Reader Gary isn’t so much worried about the expansion offerings as much as the actual timeline, writing, “Nothing other than it will probably take them longer than they say it will.”
The Disney Parks are notorious for their delays and the frequency with which their projects get pushed further. We have our fingers crossed that since construction is technically already underway, the Pueblo Esperanza timeline will be able to meet its 2027 target, but only time will tell.
Some fans aren’t worried at all and are excited for the Animal Kingdom plans! Reader Chris wrote, “Nothing. I do hope they extend the hours a bit though. It’s a bummer when that park closes so early.”
While we understand the frustration that the park does close unusually early for a theme park, this has to do with animal welfare, and we can’t see that fact changing anytime in the future.
Click here to view all of the responses and continue to follow us at AllEars for all the latest Disney World coverage!
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Are you worried about this new Animal Kingdom land? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
To quote the great Ian Malcolm, “Now eventually, you do plan to have ANIMALS in your Animal Kingdom expansion?”