According to various insider sources, I am hearing that a planned expansion to Animal Kingdom is being significantly downgraded in funding. The removal of carnival-style roller coaster, Primeval Whirl, was reportedly planned with the intent to bring in an E-Ticket attraction as replacement. Now, however, with Disney’s financial plans modified post-pandemic, and a Guardians of the Galaxy attraction at Epcot far over budget, it appears Animal Kingdom will be getting far less… if anything at all.
Dinoland USA may be bereft of one attraction as plans to expand the area are reportedly being put on hold until at least 2025. That’s from an inside source, not official company release, so keep in mind we’re in rumor territory here. That said, the source has been very accurate in the past. Beyond the potential downgrade, I’m also told that Disney might be looking to replace Primeval Whirl with an attraction available to more guest (i.e. not a thrill ride).
Primeval Whirl Demolition — Image Courtesy: Blog MIckey
While these rumors — or leaks — are quite early, it does seem to line up with some of what we’re seeing out of Bob Chapek’s view of the parks. Is Walt Disney World headed for a period of scaled-back additions once the two coasters come out next year? It certainly could be the case. There’s been significant push back from Disneyland fans in regards to an Avengers Campus that feels late Eisner-esque. Whether or not that continues into the future is something we’ll be closely watching.
