The D23 Disney Experiences Showcase in Anaheim, California, brimmed with excitement this summer. Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro energized the crowd with news of upcoming attractions. Channeling Oprah Winfrey’s famous giveaway moment, D’Amaro declared, “You get a car! You get a car! You get a car!”
“Standing before 13,000 fans to share our ambitious plans was incredible,” D’Amaro told USA TODAY. “The crowd’s energy inspired me to do even more.” Cheers erupted at the Honda Center as fans learned about a Villains land at Walt Disney World and a new Coco attraction at Disney California Adventure.
But excitement gave way to disappointment for some. Two Cars-themed rides will replace Tom Sawyer Island and Rivers of America in Magic Kingdom. Fans also voiced concerns about Muppet*Vision 3D’s possible closure for a Monsters, Inc.-themed coaster. Disney has not confirmed the coaster’s exact location.
“I appreciate our fans’ speculations,” said D’Amaro. “It shows they care, dream, and hope just as we do.”
Major Changes for Disney Fans
Closure of DinoLand U.S.A.
Disney’s transformation of DinoLand U.S.A. at Animal Kingdom has been brewing since the 2022 D23 Expo. The closure of Primeval Whirl during the pandemic signaled the shift. While closures were initially expected this fall, Disney delayed them until after the holidays.
On January 13, TriceraTop Spin, Fossil Fun Games, and Chester & Hester’s Dinosaur Treasures will close. The fate of attractions like DINOSAUR and The Boneyard remains uncertain. Fans have flocked to DinoLand for one last visit, cherishing memories of the land that opened in 1998.
Joe Rohde, a Disney Legend, recently reflected on DinoLand’s storytelling, sparking nostalgia among longtime fans. The beloved area will make way for a new Tropical Americas-themed land called Pueblo Esperanza. This new land will feature a large hacienda with one of the largest quick-service restaurants at Walt Disney World. Guests can also expect a new Indiana Jones attraction and Disney’s first Encanto-themed ride.
The End of “It’s Tough to Be a Bug”
Disney confirmed the closure of “It’s Tough to Be a Bug,” a 3D and live-action show inspired by Pixar’s “A Bug’s Life.” The show’s closure date remains unannounced. It will be replaced by a new Zootopia-themed show called “Better Zoogether,” debuting in Winter 2025.
The new experience will immerse guests in the Zootopia film’s unique biomes. Visitors will interact with beloved characters like Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde. Some fans have mixed feelings about the change, lamenting the loss of the conservation message in “It’s Tough to Be a Bug.” Others question how the Zootopia theme fits with Animal Kingdom’s overarching ethos.
Changes to Tom Sawyer Island and Rivers of America
Unlike Disneyland, where Tom Sawyer Island will stay open, Disney World’s version will close. The Rivers of America area will also close to make way for two new Cars-themed attractions. The exact closure dates remain unknown, but Disney has shared a glimpse of what’s to come.
One ride will be a high-speed race rally, offering guests a thrilling experience. The second will cater to younger guests, providing a family-friendly adventure. While many look forward to the new attractions, others are nostalgic for the peaceful charm of Tom Sawyer Island and Rivers of America. Petitions to preserve these areas have surfaced, reflecting fans’ love for the iconic spaces.
Embracing Change While Honoring Legacy
Josh D’Amaro emphasized the importance of balancing Disney’s legacy with new experiences. “We aim to make every change better than what came before,” he said. “Walt wanted us to be bold and keep innovating.”
As Disney parks evolve, fans can expect exciting new attractions alongside efforts to preserve beloved classics. D’Amaro reassured guests that Disney values fan feedback. The goal is to balance innovation with nostalgia, creating magical experiences for generations to come.
