As Disney fans eagerly await the exciting transformation of DinoLand U.S.A. at Disney’s Animal Kingdom into the upcoming Tropical Americas area, it’s the perfect time to reflect on other Disney lands that have come and gone.

These lands, though no longer in existence, played a pivotal role in shaping Disney’s magic and paving the way for what we now enjoy in the parks. From Holidayland to Camp Minnie-Mickey, let’s take a nostalgic trip through some extinct Disney lands and the new adventures that took their place.

1. Holidayland (Disneyland)

Opened: June 16, 1957
Closed: September 1961
Replaced by: New Orleans Square

Once a nine-acre picnic area located just outside Disneyland’s gates, Holidayland was designed to host large events, complete with playgrounds, sports fields, and a circus tent. It had the capacity to hold up to 7,000 guests and was intended to be a fun, outdoor venue for Disneyland visitors.

Despite its size, Holidayland was a bit too detached from the heart of Disneyland. Lacking proper shade, restrooms, and nighttime lighting, the area was more trouble than it was worth. When guests would try sneaking into Disneyland after attending events, the park decided it was time to shut it down. By 1961, Holidayland was closed and eventually transformed into the beloved New Orleans Square, home to attractions like Pirates of the Caribbean and The Haunted Mansion.

2. Old Tomorrowland (Disneyland)

Opened: 1955
Closed: 1967
Replaced by: New Tomorrowland

Tomorrowland was Disneyland’s first glimpse into the future, opening with the park in 1955. Sponsored by companies looking to showcase their cutting-edge technology, this land featured futuristic exhibits that were designed to predict what the future might look like. It was more about real science than science fiction.

However, by the mid-1960s, many of these displays were outdated. Walt Disney himself knew Tomorrowland needed a refresh, and in 1967, Disneyland underwent a major overhaul. The new Tomorrowland introduced timeless attractions like Adventure Thru Inner Space and The PeopleMover, as well as a more forward-thinking vision of the future.

3. Mickey’s Birthdayland / Mickey’s Starland / Mickey’s Toontown Fair (Magic Kingdom)

Opened: June 18, 1988
Closed: February 11, 2011
Replaced by: Storybook Circus (part of New Fantasyland)

Mickey’s 60th birthday celebration in 1988 introduced a temporary land called Mickey’s Birthdayland at Magic Kingdom. Featuring a circus theme, this area included a Birthday Party Tent where guests could meet Mickey and enjoy various character shows.

The popularity of the land led to its rebranding as Mickey’s Starland in 1990 and then Mickey’s Toontown Fair in 1996, which offered even more interactive experiences like Goofy’s Barnstormer and the chance to visit Mickey and Minnie’s houses.

In 2011, Mickey’s Toontown Fair closed to make room for Storybook Circus, part of the New Fantasyland expansion, which brought even more magic to the park.

4. Disney California Adventure’s Original Layout

• Opened: February 8, 2001

• Overhauled: 2007–2012

• Reimagined as: Cars Land, Pixar Pier, Buena Vista Street, etc.

Originally themed around California’s culture and landmarks, DCA received criticism for its lack of cohesion and immersive storytelling.

In response, Disney embarked on a $1.1 billion overhaul between 2007 and 2012. The transformation introduced Cars Land, Pixar Pier, and a complete rebranding of Paradise Pier into Pixar Pier. The update completely revitalized the park, bringing in new visitors and improving guest satisfaction dramatically.

5. Camp Minnie-Mickey (Animal Kingdom)

Opened: April 22, 1998
Closed: January 6, 2014
Replaced by: Pandora – The World of Avatar

Camp Minnie-Mickey was a temporary land at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. It served as a placeholder until the more elaborate Beastly Kingdom could be developed. This rustic, woodland-themed area featured character meet-and-greets, the Festival of the Lion King show, and a few smaller attractions.

In 2014, after years of speculation, Camp Minnie-Mickey closed to make way for Pandora – The World of Avatar, an immersive land based on the blockbuster movie by James Cameron. Pandora brought a whole new level of storytelling and adventure to Animal Kingdom, forever changing the park’s landscape.

What’s Replacing DinoLand U.S.A. at Disney’s Animal Kingdom?

As part of Disney’s ongoing efforts to keep its parks fresh, exciting, and immersive, the closure of DinoLand U.S.A. is only the beginning of a thrilling new chapter for Animal Kingdom. During the 2023 D23 Expo, Disney Imagineers teased that DinoLand would be replaced by a completely new area themed around Tropical Americas.

This will include an Indiana Jones-inspired attraction and a new play area for families, ensuring the magic continues at Animal Kingdom. These changes are part of Disney’s ongoing commitment to offer new stories and adventures to guests.

Looking Back, Moving Forward

The world of Disney parks is constantly evolving, and with the potential closure of DinoLand U.S.A., we’re about to witness another incredible transformation. Even though some beloved lands have come and gone, they’ve made way for fresh experiences that will continue to captivate visitors for years to come.

Which extinct land do you miss the most? Or, what transformation are you most excited to see in the future?