Disney World Unveils Monumental Magic Kingdom Expansion Plans

Walt Disney World and the Disneyland Resort are poised for significant expansions, as announced at Disney’s annual D23 convention on Saturday. New themed lands and attractions for several parks were revealed, showcasing a mix of beloved Disney villains and fan-favorite characters.

Disney World’s Magic Kingdom will soon welcome a new “land” dedicated to iconic villains. This area will feature characters such as Maleficent and Cruella de Ville, who traditionally play second fiddle to heroes and princesses. It will offer two new attractions, along with dining and shopping options. A timeline for the opening has not been disclosed.

Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro highlighted the ambitious scope of the villains’ expansion, emphasizing the creative opportunities it presents for Disney’s park designers, known as Imagineers. “Since the beginning, our Disney Villains have given us endless possibilities to tell new stories,” D’Amaro remarked. “In this new land, you’ll see storytelling on a grand scale that only Disney can deliver.”

Additionally, Magic Kingdom’s Frontierland will be expanded to include Radiator Springs from the “Cars” franchise. Iconic areas like the Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island will be reimagined as rugged terrains for rally races, featuring some of the world’s most famous racers. These updates mark the largest expansion in the park’s history.

In Animal Kingdom, a new land called Tropical Americas is slated to open in 2027. The area will boast an “Encanto” attraction and an “Indiana Jones” ride, enriching the park’s offerings with cultural and adventure elements.

Over at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, plans are in place for a new land inspired by Pixar’s “Monster’s Inc,” featuring the first suspended rollercoaster in any Disney park.

California’s Disney California Adventure will also benefit from these expansion efforts. Two new Marvel-themed attractions will enhance the Avengers Campus, while a new ride inspired by “Avatar: The Way of Water” is also in development.

The D23 convention wasn’t solely focused on parks. Disney also teased forthcoming movies and TV series, including “Moana 2,” “Incredibles 3,” and a live-action version of “Snow White.”