Disney has unveiled the first look at its upcoming Encanto ride at Disney’s Animal Kingdom during the D23 event on August 14, 2026, giving fans a closer look at the attraction’s design, ride vehicles, and characters. The new ride will be part of the new Tropical Americas area, which is scheduled to open in 2027.
Based on the 2021 animated film, the attraction will take guests into the magical world of the Madrigal family and also expand on Antonio Madrigal’s connection with animals. The first look at the attraction has impressed fans, with DrewDisneyDude praising the upcoming experience, saying, “I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: the Encanto attraction coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom will be one of Walt Disney Imagineering’s BEST.”
What’s currently going on with Disney’s Encanto franchise?
Disney first announced the first-ever Encanto-themed ride on August 10, 2024, at the D23 event. The ride will be located in Pueblo Esperanza, the new Tropical Americas part of Animal Kingdom that is replacing DinoLand U.S.A. Walt Disney Imagineering showcased the model of the Encanto ride, which includes the kitchen of Casita and set pieces like a dresser, couch, cabinet, and piano.
The attraction added Antonio Madrigal’s story after he received his magical ability to communicate with animals. It recreated Antonio’s birthday celebration, with the model complete with colorful decorations and several animals. The model featured many animals, including a donkey, toucan, and capybara. The capybara, Chispi, is Antonio’s friend in the film.
The attention to detail of the attraction’s model makes it an exciting upcoming addition to Animal Kingdom. With ongoing construction and the first major model revealed, fans now have a clearer idea of how Disney plans to recreate the magical world of Encanto. Alongside the Encanto ride, the new land will also have an Indiana Jones ride and a carousel with Disney animal characters. The attraction is scheduled to open in 2027.
