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It’s nearly time to say goodbye to DinoLand U.S.A., but for once, that’s not why we’re ranting.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom is counting down the days until its quirkiest land goes extinct. The area, known for its nostalgic charm, will soon be replaced by the bright and vibrant Tropical Americas, complete with new attractions based on Encanto (2021) and Indiana Jones.
Credit: Disney
Yet, as the closure approaches, DinoLand U.S.A. has never looked better—making the end all the more frustrating.
Recent Upgrades to DinoLand U.S.A.
While the full closure of DinoLand U.S.A. won’t occur until January 2025, certain attractions are already slated for closure. On January 13, 2025, attractions like TriceraTop Spin, Fossil Fun Games, and Chester & Hester’s Dinosaur Treasures will permanently shut down.
However, DINOSAUR, The Boneyard, Restaurantosaurus, and the snack stands will continue operating for now, with DINOSAUR confirmed to stay open at least until the end of 2025.
Credit: Disney
In a last effort to provide a fitting send-off, Disney has given DinoLand U.S.A. some much-needed attention in 2024. DINOSAUR, in particular, received extensive updates, with an Alioramus now restored to full motion, returning small effects to the ride that had been missing for years.
Meanwhile, Restaurantosaurus has been decked out in festive holiday decor for the 2024 season and welcomed back the fan-favorite Dino Institute interns—an atmospheric touch that has been absent from the land for years now.
A Frustrating Farewell
Though it’s exciting to see these improvements, it’s hard not to feel frustrated by the timing. The updates to DinoLand U.S.A. serve as a reminder that Disney had the potential to improve the area all along but chose not to until it was on the verge of closure. These enhancements prove that Disney knew what fans wanted but opted to wait until the land’s fate was sealed to make these changes.
Credit: Disney
DinoLand U.S.A. has long been criticized for lacking major intellectual property (IP) ties, which many argue contributed to its decline in relevance (at least in the eyes of Disney executives). The land, however, has always played a key role in Animal Kingdom’s conservation message—one that now seems at odds with Disney’s evolving vision.
While DinoLand U.S.A. needed a refresh, it’s hard to ignore the fact that demolishing the entire area might not have been the only option. These recent updates make it clear that Disney had the ability to give the land the attention it deserved, but chose not to until it was too late.
As the end of DinoLand U.S.A. approaches, the feelings of loss are compounded by the realization that this could have been avoided. The land’s closing isn’t just a shift in the park’s offerings—it’s a reminder that sometimes Disney’s decisions come with consequences that leave fans questioning what could have been.
How do you feel about the closure of DinoLand U.S.A.?
