Theme Park Report
The central tower of Casita is now rising above the Tropical Americas construction site at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, making the future façade of Antonio’s Fiesta de Encanto increasingly recognizable.
Aerial images reported by WDW News Today show steel framing for the multi-level structure alongside the ride’s largely enclosed show building. The framing includes projecting sections and a tall central tower, although the structure is not yet complete. Once the framework is finished, it is expected to receive themed paneling, roofing, and paint.
Casita, the magical house from “Encanto,” will serve as the entrance façade for Antonio’s Fiesta de Encanto. The attraction will take guests inside the home on the day Antonio receives his ability to communicate with animals. Its ride vehicles will resemble furniture brought to life by the house’s magic.
The ride building will eventually be concealed by the Casita façade and a mountainous backdrop. Crews have added steel framework to the top of the building, while nearby rounded structures are being prepared for additional themed elements and textured artificial landscape work.
Construction is also continuing throughout Pueblo Esperanza, the fictional community that will replace DinoLand U.S.A. The future village includes El Carrusel de los Animalitos, where most of the broad roof is now covered with plywood or other paneling. The attraction’s central roof element remains unfinished. The carousel will feature hand-carved wooden animals inspired by characters from Disney animated films.
A large circular concrete structure is under construction in the area between the carousel and the former Restaurantosaurus. Its position corresponds with the central gathering space and fountain shown in concept art and the Tropical Americas scale model. Crews are grading nearby pathways and installing underground infrastructure around the plaza.
The former Restaurantosaurus is being reworked into a new dining location, although Disney has not announced its name or menu. The former Chester & Hester’s Dinosaur Treasures is also being repurposed as a gift shop, with new pathways and infrastructure connecting the reused buildings to the village.
Elsewhere in the land, the former DINOSAUR attraction is being transformed into Indiana Jones and the Myth of the Jade Serpent. Upper sections of the attraction’s Maya pyramid façade have been installed, giving the building a more distinct profile.
Tropical Americas is scheduled to open in 2027. In addition to Antonio’s Fiesta de Encanto, Indiana Jones and the Myth of the Jade Serpent, and El Carrusel de los Animalitos, the area is planned to include a playground, shops, and dining locations within Pueblo Esperanza.
