Expansion at Animal Kingdom: Could We See A Moana Land?

Hey Disney Vacationers—this one’s big. At the 2022 D23 Expo, Disney gave us a first look at a potential expansion at Animal Kingdom. And it wasn’t just vague dreams and blue-sky talk. We saw real concept art. We got details. And we finally saw signs that something big could be replacing the tired DinoLand USA section of the park.

Let’s break it all down, piece by piece, so you know exactly what’s coming (or could be coming) to Animal Kingdom.

The Expansion at Animal Kingdom: What Disney Revealed

During the “A Boundless Future” presentation at D23 Expo, Disney Parks Chairman Josh D’Amaro introduced early concept art for what could be the next major expansion at Animal Kingdom.

And the concept? A full Moana-themed land.

This wouldn’t just be a meet-and-greet. This is an entire area with rides, theming, and full immersion into the world of Moana.

According to the presentation, Imagineer Chris Beatty and Walt Disney Animation Studio’s Jennifer Lee shared early development ideas for both a Moana area and a Zootopia area—both being considered for the space currently occupied by DinoLand USA.

That space has been a quiet corner of the park since Primeval Whirl closed and was demolished. Right now, it’s mostly just seating and pavement. But Disney just dropped a giant hint that something major could be coming.

Moana Land: Details in the Concept Art

Here’s what we saw in the concept art for the possible expansion at Animal Kingdom:

• A spinner ride with large sails—very much inspired by Polynesian sailing and the ocean travel from the movie.
• A log flume-style water ride with boats drifting past Moana’s wa‘a kaulua canoe, gliding beneath waterfalls, and entering a show building—something that could rival classic Disney water attractions.

These are not vague sketches. The concept art is detailed. The features are clear. And the inclusion of both a family-friendly spinner and a flume ride suggests that Disney has already invested time and thought into this layout.

Why This Expansion Feels Different

Disney fans are used to seeing broad, brushstroke-style concept art that never turns into anything. But this time is different.

Unlike the vague “what if” images for Villains, Coco, and Encanto at Magic Kingdom, this concept art for Animal Kingdom’s expansion feels far more locked-in. The detail level is unusually high for something still in early stages. That’s not typical unless a project has legs.

And Disney knows fans are going to zoom in on every inch of this art. They don’t release this kind of detail unless they’re testing the waters with purpose.

My Take: Does Moana Belong in Animal Kingdom?

Let’s get real for a second.

I love Moana. It’s a strong story, beautiful visuals, and powerful characters. But it’s a little strange that Disney’s doubling down on it right after launching Journey of Water at EPCOT.

Personally, I would’ve liked to see Moana fully celebrated in just one park—with a big ride, a big land, and a big tribute. Having it split across EPCOT and potentially Animal Kingdom feels scattered. A full flume ride in Magic Kingdom’s Adventureland—now that would’ve been my pick. But here we are.

If Disney had a clearer plan from the start, maybe we wouldn’t be getting a walk-through in one park and a log flume in another.

What About Zootopia?

While Zootopia was mentioned in the same presentation, we didn’t get nearly as much art or detail. Moana clearly stole the spotlight in this early reveal.

That doesn’t mean Zootopia is off the table, but if we’re betting on which idea is further along, it’s clearly the Moana land.

How Likely Is This Expansion at Animal Kingdom?

Here’s the thing: not all concept art turns into real attractions. Sometimes it’s a test. Sometimes it’s marketing. And sometimes it’s a teaser that fades away.

But this feels different.

The Moana art has depth, clarity, and specific attraction layouts. It looks like something Disney could actually build. And with DinoLand USA already sitting half-empty, the location is ready.

According to theme park reporter Jim Hill, Animal Kingdom is next in line for a major update. The park’s been unchanged for years—minus some nighttime show adjustments and the occasional seasonal festival. It’s time for something big.

This could be it.

Why the Expansion at Animal Kingdom Makes Sense Now

Look at the timeline:

• Primeval Whirl is gone.
• Dino-Rama is lifeless.
• The space is sitting there, waiting for new energy.
• Animal Kingdom has the lowest ride count of any Disney World park.

Adding a Moana land would fix that. It would give families more reasons to spend a full day in the park. It would bring Disney IP into a park that still feels more like a hybrid between theme park and nature preserve.

The timing lines up. The location makes sense. And the concept art gives us our clearest clue yet.

Final Thoughts: Should We Get Hyped?

Let’s manage expectations.

This expansion at Animal Kingdom is still in the early phase. Nothing’s officially greenlit yet. But when Disney shows this much detail, they’re usually signaling intent. Moana looks like the frontrunner.

If it happens, guests could be stepping into a lush, tropical land with flowing waterfalls, bold rides, and the spirit of the ocean alive in every corner.

It’s not confirmed. But it feels close.

And for Disney fans who’ve been watching DinoLand slowly fade away, that’s the most exciting part.

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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!