Disney has taken a significant step forward in transforming Dinoland U.S.A. at 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 Project Ro.
The permit includes a detailed site demolition plan, outlining which areas of Dinoland U.S.A. will be removed to make way for the new land's first attractions.
Demolition Details in Phase One
The permit's site demolition plan reveals the first areas set for removal, focusing on Chester & Hester's Dino-Rama, including its carnival-style Fossil Fun Games, the TriceraTop Spin ride, and the Chester & Hester's Dinosaur Treasures gift shop. The removal of 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 Tropical Americas
Project Ro's filing marks a key milestone towards the start of work on Tropical Americas, a land that will bring all-new new experiences, including the first-ever "Encanto"-themed attraction, and an entirely new Indiana Jones adventure. This new attraction will take guests on an archaeological journey through a recently uncovered Maya temple, with Indiana Jones leading the way as they search for a mysterious creature rumored to inhabit the temple's depths.
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 take place in January 2025, with the final day for guests to experience TriceraTop Spin, the Fossil Fun Games, and the charming shop Chester & Hester's Dinosaur Treasures set for January 12, 2025.
While much of the Dino-Rama area will be closing, 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.
The entire Tropical Americas land slated to open in 2027.
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