New Details of Indiana Jones Adventure Ride in Tropical Americas

Hey Disney Vacationers, buckle up because Disney dropped some serious news that’s going to have you reaching for your fedoras and whips. If you’ve been dreaming of stepping into the shoes of the one and only Indiana Jones, your wish is about to come true in a whole new way. Disney shared new details on the Indiana Jones Adventure ride in Tropical Americas coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World in 2027, and construction is kicking off this year.

A New Chapter in the Indiana Jones Legacy

This isn’t just any ordinary ride we’re talking about. Disney has crafted an all-new story that’s unlike anything you’ve seen in other Indy attractions around the world. Imagine this: Indiana Jones, the ultimate adventurer, has stumbled upon a perfectly preserved Maya temple deep in the heart of the Tropical Americas. And if you know Indy, you know what that means — he’s got to explore it.

But it’s not just any old temple. There are whispers of a mythical creature lurking deep within its ancient walls, and Indiana Jones is determined to uncover the truth. And here’s the best part — he’s not going alone. You’re coming along for the ride, and let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want to be a part of that adventure?

A Nod to the Classic Indiana Jones Adventure

As I shared in a previous article, the new Indiana Jones attraction is a perfect nod to the classic scene in “Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark.” Remember that iconic opening scene where Indy navigates traps and treasure in a temple? That’s the kind of vibe you can expect here, but with a fresh twist that’s all about exploring the rich history and culture of the Tropical Americas, specifically Central and South America.

From Dinosaurs to Treasure Hunts: A Retheming with Purpose

Now, if you’re familiar with Animal Kingdom, you might be asking, “Where’s this new ride going to fit in?” Well, Disney’s got that covered. The new Indiana Jones adventure is set to be a retheme of the current Dinosaur attraction. Yes, the same building, track layout, and ride system, but with a completely new story and experience.

And here’s why that’s genius. According to Josh D’Amaro, Disney Experiences Chairman, work on this attraction will begin immediately, but Dinosaur will stay open for a bit longer. Why? Because retheming an existing ride takes way less time than starting from scratch, and it helps keep the park’s ride capacity in check. It’s a win-win for everyone.

Welcome to the Tropical Americas Land: Disney’s Newest Frontier

But let’s zoom out a bit. This Indiana Jones adventure is just one piece of a much bigger puzzle. Disney is also working on a brand-new section of Animal Kingdom called the Tropical Americas Land. This 11-acre expansion is going to be a game-changer, and it’s set to break ground later this year.

Josh D’Amaro shared some exciting details during the Horizons: Disney Experiences Showcase at D23, and let me tell you, this land is going to be something special. Picture a lush, sprawling environment that feels like it’s been lived in for centuries, similar to the charm of Harambe Village in the Africa section of the park.

In the heart of this new land, you’ll find a massive fountain where villagers gather to tell stories and share their culture. And that’s not all. There’s also going to be a large hacienda that will become one of the biggest quick-service restaurants in all of Walt Disney World Resort. So, not only will you be able to dive into an epic Indiana Jones adventure, but you’ll also get to soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this new land.

The Magic is in the Details

Of course, it wouldn’t be Disney without those magical little details that make everything so immersive. One of the coolest features of the new Tropical Americas Land is a giant working carousel, crafted by a local woodcarver who’s brought his favorite Disney animals to life. One of the Disney animals you’ll see include Kevin from UP. This isn’t your average merry-go-round — it’s a beautifully detailed, handcrafted piece of art that families with young kids (and let’s be real, the adults too) are going to love.

This new wooden carousel will be the first outside of the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World.

Why This Matters for You

So, what’s the big deal with all of this? First off, it shows that Disney is continuing to innovate and expand in ways that keep fans excited and coming back for more. The Indiana Jones Adventure ride isn’t just a new attraction; it’s an experience that taps into the rich history of both Disney and the Indiana Jones franchise. By blending the timeless appeal of Indy with the rich cultural backdrop of the Tropical Americas, Disney is offering something truly unique.

Plus, this new land is going to add even more depth to Animal Kingdom, making it a destination that’s not just about the animals, but about the stories and cultures from around the world. Whether you’re a die-hard Indiana Jones fan or someone who loves Disney’s ability to create immersive worlds, there’s something in this new expansion for you.

Wrapping It Up

The countdown is on, folks. With construction starting this year and the Indiana Jones Adventure set to open in 2027, we’ve got a lot to look forward to. This isn’t just another theme park addition — it’s a whole new chapter in the Disney experience, one that’s going to take us on a journey through ancient temples, lush landscapes, and the heart of adventure itself.

So, keep your eyes peeled for more updates, because this is one Disney experience you won’t want to miss. And remember, while everyone’s buzzing about the Indiana Jones Adventure ride, there’s always something new and exciting happening at Disney. Stay tuned, because Disney is just getting started.

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Meet the Author: Nate Bishop

I’m a die-hard Disney fan with 38 years of visits under my belt, having stepped into Disney World 120+ times. Proud to be a Disney Annual Passholder, a Vacation Club member since ’92, a Castaway Club Member, and a runDisney enthusiast. Oh, and I’ve graduated from the Disney College of Knowledge. Need Disney insights or planning tips? I’m your guy!