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Disney World’s latest expansion promises fresh thrills, but it’s also delivering a gut punch to nostalgia lovers. Imagineers are trading beloved classics for new lands—think Zootopia replacing A Bug’s Life and Cars revving up Frontierland. Let’s break down the closures shaking up Orlando’s parks.
First up: It’s Tough to Be a Bug! at Animal Kingdom. This 4D bug-themed show has been squashed for good, closing March 17, 2025, to make room for Zootopia: Better Zoogether!—a Judy Hopps-led adventure launching this winter. Fans of Flik and Hopper have until March 16 to say farewell.
Over in DinoLand U.S.A., the Cretaceous era is ending. Dinosaur, the bumpy time-travel ride, faces extinction as Disney builds a Tropical Americas land featuring Encanto and Indiana Jones attractions. While Chester & Hester’s Dino-Rama closed in January, Dinosaur will limp along through 2025 before its 2027 replacement opens25. Pro tip: Ride it now before it becomes a relic.
Frontierland isn’t safe either. The Liberty Square Riverboat and Tom Sawyer Island—staples since 1973—are sailing into the sunset to accommodate Cars-themed expansions. No more raft rides to the island’s forts or steamboat tours along the Rivers of America. (Cue the banjo music.)
But wait—there’s more. Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster at Hollywood Studios is ditching Aerosmith for… The Muppets? Yep, the guitar-smashing coaster will soon feature Miss Piggy and Kermit, though Disney’s keeping the closure date under wraps.
Why the shake-up? Disney’s betting big on IP-driven lands to compete with Universal’s Epic Universe. Still, losing these rides feels like parting with old friends. As one Redditor lamented: “2025 is the year of mourning for Disney adults”.
Got a trip planned? Prioritize these rides before they vanish. And maybe pack a handkerchief—you’ll need it after that final spin on Dinosaur.
