The end is near for a once iconic land at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

While welcoming in change is an exciting prospect, change can still be bittersweet. Sadly, DinoLand U.S.A. will permanently close in 2026 to make way for the NEW Pueblo Esperanza— Tropical Americas-themed land featuring attractions from both Indiana Jones and Encanto. While speculation has been rampant on the land’s closure since the project was announced, we now know when DinoLand will go extinct.
Per an official Disney release, the final day to experience DINOSAUR, The Dino Institute Shop, Dino-Bites Snacks, Restaurantosaurus, and Restaurantosaurus Lounge is February 1st, 2026.

The land officially closes a day later, on February 2nd — never to reopen.
We had already seen the land close in waves, as TriceraTop Spin, Fossil Fun Games, and Chester & Hester’s Dinosaur Treasures closed in January 2025 during the first wave of closures.

The Boneyard and the Dig Site both permanently closed on September 2nd during the second wave.

Saying goodbye is surely difficult, but it’s easier knowing what’s replacing the land. A brand-new and unique Indiana Jones ride will take over for DINOSAUR, while an Encanto section equipped with a new attraction and animal-themed carousel helps bring the land to life. We’re even getting a new play area for kids that will hopefully carry on the legacy of the Boneyard and the Dig Site!

As of right now, the newly-themed land is slated to open sometime in 2027. Until then, stay tuned right here at AllEars for all the latest Pueblo Esperanza updates!
Disney Adults Are Sounding the Alarm on the Animal Kingdom Expansion Plans
How are you feeling about the Pueblo Esperanza project at Animal Kingdom? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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