What To Expect After DinoLand USA Closes At Disney World

(KMDL-FM) If the emotional catalyst behind Disney Theme Parks is making lasting memories, then we can only hope that your memory won't fail you, because in the next few days, one of those memorable Disney attractions will become just that, a memory. Disney Parks has confirmed the permanent closure of a popular attraction next month.

If you ask me, a trip to any Disney Park is like a trip to Mardi Gras in New Orleans. Everybody should go at least once. Then, based on your experience, you can decide whether or not you want to go again. Many people make multiple trips to Disney Parks. Then there are people like myself who only visit the parks to enjoy their comfortable benches located outside the gift shops.

Staff Photo / Jude Walker

When Is The Best Time of the Year to Visit Walt Disney World in Florida?

For a large number of Louisiana Disney fans, the best time to visit the House of Mouse is in just a few weeks. A large number of Louisiana residents will be making the pilgrimage to Orlando for a Disney vacation during Mardi Gras break. We thought we should let you know that there will be one attraction you won't be able to enjoy, unless you are heading to the park this weekend.

You'd have to think that for the folks who put this attraction together, dreamed it up, built it, operated it, and now are closing it, the emotions would fall into the bittersweet category. While one door is closing, another one will be opening as Disney has already announced what will be replacing the attraction that is set to close on Groundhog Day.

Which Disney World Attraction is Closing in February of 2026?

The attraction we are saying goodbye to is DinoLand USA. The attraction is located in the Animal Kingdom Park of the sprawling Disney campus in Central Florida. The attraction first welcomed guests beginning in April of 1998.

It featured the DINOSAUR ride, we old timers know it as Countdown to Extinction. There was also the Chester&Hester's Dino-Rama area too. All of that will be going by the wayside, but don't cry for Disney; they've got something special planned to go in its place.

What Is Being Built at Disney World To Replace DinoLand USA?

The new attraction that will be built on the remains of dinosaurs. Wait, I guess technically they're all built on the remains of dinosaurs. Okay, built on the remains of DinoLand USA. The new attraction will be called Puebolo Esperanza.

It will feature an Indiana Jones experience and an Encato-themed attraction. I am sure it will be spectacular, as most things, except for dealing with strollers, are at Disney. We can look for opening announcements to come in 2027.