Tropical Americas Construction Accelerates at Disney’s Animal Kingdom in New Aerial Views

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January 18, 2026

Aerial overview of the Encanto Ride Construction inn Tropical Americas at Animal Kingdom

The Encanto Attraction Show Building Is Reaching New Heights at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

New aerial photos are giving us a colorful construction check in at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, where Tropical Americas is quickly moving from concept art to concrete reality. Shared by bioreconstruct on X, the latest overhead views show rapid progress on the upcoming Encanto attraction, the future Pueblo Esperanza village, and the final transformation of DinoLand U.S.A.

The most eye catching change is the Encanto ride building, which has shot up since officially going vertical in December 2025. Steel framing continues to rise almost nightly, with a massive crane looming over the site and visible to guests throughout the park. Interior framework has already begun, and some roofing materials are now being added to what will eventually become the Casita façade. While the structure is still skeletal, the scale makes it clear this will be a major new addition to the park, with the ride set during the film but expanding beyond the original story.

Nearby, the former Boneyard area is also buzzing with activity. This space will become home to a carousel as part of the fictional Pueblo Esperanza village. Crews have been moving large amounts of dirt and pouring early stage concrete, with forms outlining future walls and foundations. Steel pieces are staged throughout the site, some already standing upright, hinting that vertical construction here is not far off. The former DinoLand entrance is also being reworked into the new Tropical Americas entrance, bringing the whole area together into a cohesive land.

Time is officially ticking for what remains of DinoLand U.S.A. The small guest walkway between the two construction zones will close in just a few weeks, and the land’s final day of operation is set for February 1, 2026, with DINOSAUR, Restaurantosaurus, and The Dino Institute Shop closing for good the following day. DINOSAUR will eventually be replaced by a new Indiana Jones attraction, while some existing structures like the bathrooms and Chester & Hester’s Dinosaur Treasures will be repurposed for Tropical Americas.

Aerial Photo of Monstropolis Construction for Monsters Inc Land in Hollywood Studios

By

Chris B

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January 18, 2026

Aerial Photo of Monstropolis Construction for Monsters Inc Land in Hollywood Studios

Monstropolis Takes Shape: New Aerial Photos Reveal Progress at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

New aerial photos are giving us a bird’s eye peek at the transformation happening at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Monstropolis is officially coming out of hiding. Fresh images shared by bioreconstruct show steady construction progress on the upcoming Monsters, Inc. themed land, including major work on the long rumored suspended coaster and surrounding structures.

From the back side of the park, you can clearly spot the large tan construction zone just beyond Galaxy’s Edge. This area is home to the Monsters, Inc. coaster, and the latest photos show the gravity building really starting to take form. New concrete flooring has been poured, forms are in place, and large amounts of fill dirt now cover sections that were exposed in earlier updates. Even electrical conduits are being buried, a sure sign this project is moving beyond the early stages.

One of the more exciting details is the emerging outline of the guest facing side of the main building. The sharp angles and footprint visible from above are lining up closely with the previously released concept art. From the front of the park, Monstropolis construction now clearly occupies the upper left portion of the aerial view, while nearby changes include the removal of the PizzeRizzo and Gonzo’s Royal Flush signage as the area continues its transformation.

Construction activity is also ongoing over in the Animation Courtyard, which has been quietly evolving alongside the Monstropolis project. While Disney has not announced an opening timeline yet, the pace of work suggests things are staying on track. If the scream factory keeps humming along like this, Hollywood Studios could be welcoming guests to Monstropolis sooner rather than later.

‘Zootopia 2’ is Now 10th Highest-Grossing Film of All Time

By

Sara

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January 18, 2026

Zootopia 2 Shatters Records to Enter the All-Time Top 10

Eight weeks after its debut, Zootopia 2 continues to perform remarkably well, having never dropped out of the weekly top five. Its consistent box office draw has officially earned it a spot as the 10th highest-grossing movie in history. As the film remains in theaters, its global total continues to rise, further cementing its status as a massive commercial success.

Since making its record-breaking debut over Thanksgiving weekend 2025, Zootopia 2 has been a juggernaut. It launched with the biggest global opening ever for an animated feature and quickly joined the live-action Lilo & Stitch as one of only two films released in 2025 to cross the billion-dollar milestone.

According to latest industry data, the sequel has officially ascended to the #10 spot on the all-time highest-grossing films list. With a staggering global total of $1.67 billion, it has officially unseated Jurassic World. If momentum continues, the film is on track to hit $1.98 billion by month’s end, which would see it overtake Inside Out 2 at #9 and claim the crown as the highest-grossing Hollywood animated film in history.

This historic run has already made it the most successful release in Walt Disney Animation Studios history, surpassing the long-standing record held by Frozen II. (While Pixar’s Inside Out 2 still holds the top spot for Disney animation as a whole, that record is now firmly in Zootopia’s sights). With the franchise reaching new heights, it’s no surprise that Disney is already in early discussions for Zootopia 3.

Get 2 Days FREE at Walt Disney World: Limited Time Vacation Offer

By

Robbie

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January 18, 2026

Walt Disney World Summer 2026 Special Offer Score a massive value vacation with the “Buy 4, Get 2 Free” deal. When you book a select 4-night/4-day Walt Disney World package, you receive two additional nights and park days for FREE.

Travel Dates: May 26 – September 15, 2026.
Stackable Savings: This offer can be combined with the 2026 Kids Dine Free promotion.
Arrival Perk: All guests receive Free Water Park Admission (Typhoon Lagoon or Blizzard Beach) on their check-in day.

Unlock more magic with a flexible offer designed for every budget. Between May 26 and September 15, 2026, you can get two extra park days for free on select ticket purchases.

The Deal: Buy a 4-day ticket (or longer), get 2 days FREE (Valid on 6–10 day total duration).
Hotel Savings: This offer is stackable with current 2026 Disney resort hotel discounts.
Ticket Only: No hotel? No problem. You can purchase these promotional tickets independently.

This offer must be booked by February 15, 2026, but since it’s going to be popular, we encourage booking now. You can find these specials online here .

Guests can also save up to 30% on select Disney Resort hotels for stays most nights May 1 – October 4, 2026 while supplies last!

Lastly, don’t forget the popular $99 layaway plan sale! Until January 20, 2026, guests can book their layaway plan for only $99 down. January is the perfect time to plan your 2026 vacation, so take advantage of this while it’s available.

Ready to trade the stress of planning ? Let Get Away Today Vacations handle the logistics—so you can focus on making memories. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, they will help you build a customized itinerary that maximizes your time and budget at no extra cost to you. Click here today to start planning your perfect Disney getaway! And for a limited time get $10 off when you use our promo code for packages: CHIPANDCO

New Construction Permit Filed for Jungle Cruise in Disneyland

By

Sara

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January 18, 2026

Disneyland Files New Construction Permit for Jungle Cruise

Disneyland has officially filed a construction permit for several key enhancements to Adventureland’s Jungle Cruise. The upcoming work will focus on essential infrastructure and aesthetic updates, specifically targeting plumbing systems and rockwork repairs to keep the river expedition looking its best.

According to the filing, the permit covers “structural repairs to rockwork, removing and reinstalling posts with new footings, and adding leak prevention to an existing hatch door,” along with essential plumbing updates.

While the rockwork restoration could take place at any point along the river banks, the replacement of posts and footings suggests work within the attraction’s queue. Additionally, the hatch door modifications likely point toward improvements in a backstage maintenance area.

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This work is expected to occur during the attraction’s upcoming refurbishment, with the ride officially scheduled to close on February 17, 2026. While Disney has not confirmed a reopening date or announced any major creative changes, the scope appears to be maintenance-focused rather than a secondary overhaul following the 2021 reimagining.

Try the Secret Margarita from EPCOT’s Festival of the Arts 2026

By

Catherine

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January 17, 2026

Meet the Secret “La Artgarita”

If you are planning a trip to the 2026 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts, there is one “off-menu” experience you absolutely cannot miss. While the festival is famous for its vibrant murals and stunning Food Studios, one of the best treats is hidden inside the Mexico Pavilion.

Did you know there is a secret margarita at EPCOT this year? We went undercover to try it, and we have the lowdown on how you can grab one for yourself!

Meet the “La Artgarita”

Located at the legendary La Cava del Tequila, this year’s secret drink is a collaboration with Disney Fine Artist Dom Corona. This isn’t just a cocktail; it’s a work of art served in a limited-edition souvenir cup designed by Dom himself—featuring paintbrushes, palettes, and colorful stars.

What’s inside:

LALO Blanco High-Proof Tequila: A premium, punchy base.
Honeydew Liqueur: Adds a sweet, melon-forward profile.
Coconut Extract & Fresh Lime Juice: Provides a refreshing, tropical balance.
The Toppings: A fluffy layer of cold foam finished with a unique watermelon-cherry salt.

View this post on Instagram

The Verdict: Is it Worth It?

At $21, this is a premium offering, but the inclusion of the souvenir cup makes it a great value for collectors.

The flavor is incredibly refreshing—the tartness of the lime and the sweetness of the honeydew play perfectly together. However, be warned: because it uses high-proof tequila, this drink is quite strong! We wouldn’t suggest it if you’re looking for a “mild” drinking day around the World Showcase, but for tequila lovers, it’s a must-try.

How to Get It (The Secret Code)

You won’t find this drink listed on any physical menu or digital board. To order it, you have to be “in the know.”

Head to La Cava del Tequila (inside the pyramid at the Mexico Pavilion).
Approach the bartender or server.
Whisper the secret code: “Dom sent me.”

Important Dates

The La Artgarita is a limited-edition release for the festival. The EPCOT International Festival of the Arts runs from January 16 through February 23, 2026. Make sure you stop by before the festival ends to claim your secret sip!

Crew’s Cup Lounge & Yachtsman Steakhouse Closing for Refurbishment at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort

By

Sara

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January 17, 2026

Yachtsman Steakhouse and Crew’s Cup Lounge Closing Soon

Guests planning a visit to Disney’s Yacht Club Resort should take note that Yachtsman Steakhouse and the adjacent Crew’s Cup Lounge are preparing for a temporary closure. These popular dining destinations will be undergoing a routine refurbishment as part of a broader maintenance initiative across the resort.

The Walt Disney World website says the following:

“Disney’s Yacht Club Resort is undergoing exterior maintenance through late 2026, which will affect views throughout the Resort and, at times, require alternate paths of travel. In addition, Yachtsman Steakhouse will close in May 2026 for a refresh, with reopening expected by August 2026, and Crew’s Cup Lounge will close February 23, 2026, with reopening expected in May 2026. Guests may see or hear daytime work until the refurbishment is complete.”

The refurbishment schedule kicks off with Crew’s Cup Lounge, which is slated to close on February 23, 2026, with a planned reopening in May 2026. Yachtsman Steakhouse will follow suit shortly after, remaining shuttered until its anticipated return in August 2026. As this is part of standard resort upkeep, guests staying at the Yacht Club should expect to see and hear construction activity during daytime hours.

While the signature steakhouse last saw a major refresh in 2021—debuting updated nautical decor and a completely revamped menu—details on the 2026 project remain under wraps. It is currently unclear if this update will focus solely on aesthetics or if another culinary overhaul is in the works.

Avengers: Doomsday Trailers Breaking Records with Over 1 Billion Combined Views

By

Chris B

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January 17, 2026

Avengers: Doomsday Teasers Smash Records with Over 1 Billion Views and Counting

The hype train for Avengers: Doomsday is officially unstoppable. Marvel Studios has been dropping a new teaser each week, starting with the first one debuting ahead of Avatar: Fire and Ash in theaters, and the numbers are nothing short of superpowered. With four teasers now released, their combined views have blasted past 1.02 billion across social platforms, making Doomsday the biggest Marvel teaser rollout to date. According to The Hollywood Reporter, social engagement for each teaser averaged 188 percent higher than a typical Marvel drop, with record-setting numbers on Instagram and TikTok and dozens of organic trends taking over X, including Doomsday, Steve Rogers, Thor, X-Men, and Wakanda.

The teasers themselves have been packed with major reveals. The first confirmed the long-rumored return of Chris Evans as Steve Rogers, showing him coming home on a retro motorcycle, packing away his Captain America suit, and holding a baby, a quiet but emotional moment that sent fandom into overdrive. While Evans’ return to the MCU was known, this marked the first confirmation that he is indeed back as Steve Rogers, though Marvel’s multiverse door means this could still be a different version of the character.

The second teaser shifted the spotlight to Thor, with Chris Hemsworth portraying the God of Thunder praying to Odin for guidance as he prepares to face yet another world-ending threat, directly referencing the events of Thor: Love and Thunder

Things went fully mutant in the third teaser, which confirmed the return of the original X-Men cast. Patrick Stewart appears again as Professor X, joined by Ian McKellen as Magneto and James Marsden as Cyclops, alongside other familiar faces from the 20th Century Fox X-Men films. The most recent teaser brought Wakanda and Marvel’s First Family together, featuring Letitia Wright as Shuri, Winston Duke as M’Baku, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm, also known as The Thing. The film is directed by Russo Brothers and is set to hit theaters on December 18, 2026, with Marvel clearly signaling that Doomsday has already begun.

State Report Shows Guest Dies After Riding Revenge of the Mummy Coaster at Universal Orlando

By

Chris B

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January 17, 2026

State Report Shows Guest Dies After Riding Revenge of the Mummy Coaster at Universal Orlando

Guest Death Reported Following Ride on Revenge of the Mummy at Universal Orlando

A newly released state report has confirmed that a 70-year-old woman passed away after riding Revenge of the Mummy at Universal Orlando Resort last fall. According to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ quarterly report covering October through December 2025, the guest became unresponsive while riding the indoor roller coaster at Universal Studios Florida on November 25, 2025. She was transported to a local hospital, where she later died.

Due to privacy rules and how data is collected from exempt facilities, the report does not include the guest’s identity or an official cause of death, and the department does not receive updates beyond the initial incident assessment. The incident occurred on Revenge of the Mummy, a high-speed indoor coaster that opened in 2004 and is known for its dark ride elements, sudden launches, fire effects, and intense thrills themed around the Mummy films.

While incidents like this are extremely rare, reports like these often resurface broader conversations around rider health warnings and the importance of guests understanding attraction intensity guidelines. Universal has not issued a public statement related to the report, and Revenge of the Mummy has continued normal operation since the incident. As always, guests are encouraged to follow posted safety advisories and consult with medical professionals if they have concerns before experiencing high-intensity attractions.

Universal Orlando Teases New Coaster Theme Announcement and All Signs Point to Fast & Furious

By

Chris B

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January 17, 2026

Universal Orlando Teases New Coaster Theme Announcement and All Signs Point to Fast & Furious

Universal Orlando Teases New Fast & Furious Coaster with Announcement Coming Soon

Universal Orlando just hit the gas on speculation with a brand-new teaser promising the theme reveal for its next roller coaster at Universal Studios Florida on January 20, and theme park fans immediately noticed a few very loud clues. The short teaser features a revving engine sound paired with a speedometer climbing higher and higher, which has many expecting the attraction to be themed to Fast & Furious.

01.20.26 pic.twitter.com/Nlm8k1ENwX
— Universal Orlando Resort (@UniversalORL) January 17, 2026

That would line up closely with the Fast & Furious Hollywood Drift coaster already confirmed for Universal Studios Hollywood. The Hollywood version is already in testing, and building the same coaster in Orlando would allow for an expected construction timeline while also potentially saving on cost.

The New York setting is where things get especially interesting. While the Fast & Furious franchise fits the high-speed energy hinted at in the teaser, Universal could easily tailor the story and branding to the city streets vibe of this area of the park. At the same time, fans are keeping another classic Universal IP in the conversation. A Back to the Future themed coaster is not completely off the table yet, especially with the franchise enjoying a renewed spotlight through merchandise, references, and nostalgia-driven love across the parks. A DeLorean pushing the needle on a speedometer would certainly fit the visual language of the teaser just as well.

If this does turn out to be Fast & Furious, it could also signal a major change nearby. The existing Fast & Furious Supercharged dark ride has long been one of the most criticized attractions at Universal Studios Florida, and a new coaster could open the door for a re-theme of that ride space. Ghostbusters and Back to the Future both feel like strong candidates, given their growing presence in the parks and their deep Universal roots. Whatever Universal reveals on January 20, it feels like a turning point for this corner of the park, with speed, engines, and a fresh start very much on the horizon.

Opening Day of Disney Adventure World Completely Sold Out

By

Chris B

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January 17, 2026

Disney Cascade of Lights at Disney Adventure World

Disney Adventure World Opening Day Is Already Completely Sold Out

Disney fans across the globe wasted zero time locking in their plans for Disneyland Paris’ next big chapter, because opening day for Disney Adventure World is officially sold out. All day tickets are gone and Annual Passholder availability is fully booked for Friday, March 29, 2026, the date when Walt Disney Studios Park officially transforms into Disney Adventure World and debuts the highly anticipated Adventure Way expansion.

Opening Day of Disney Adventure World Completely Sold OutOpening Day of Disney Adventure World Completely Sold OutOpening Day of Disney Adventure World Completely Sold Out

Even passholders hoping to slip in early will need a little pixie dust, as Bronze Passholders are blocked out and only limited additional availability may open later for Silver and Gold Passholders. The good news is that passholder previews are planned ahead of the official opening, so some lucky fans will still get a sneak peek before the grand debut.

Opening Day of Disney Adventure World Completely Sold Out

The reimagined park is rolling out with a huge lineup right out of the gate. Adventure Way becomes the new central promenade, featuring a lush gazebo garden, a Tangled attraction, and the Regal View Restaurant & Lounge, with an Up themed ride already under construction for a future opening. Over in World of Frozen, guests will find Arendelle fully brought to life, including a walking and talking Olaf animatronic, the Frozen Ever After boat ride, and an additional boat show.

At night, Adventure Bay will glow with Disney Cascade of Lights, a brand-new nighttime spectacular designed to turn the lagoon into a shimmering centrepiece. And this is only the beginning, as a Lion King-inspired land is also on the way in a future phase.

With opening day demand already maxed out, Disney Adventure World is clearly shaping up to be one of the most talked-about park transformations in recent memory. If you managed to snag a spot for March 29, consider that a golden ticket moment. If not, keep watching for possible passholder availability and preview announcements as the date gets closer. One thing is certain: Disneyland Paris fans are more than ready to step into this new era of adventure.

Disneyland Handcrafted Review: Disney+ Unveils the Ultimate 1955 Time Machine

By

Robbie

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January 17, 2026

Release Date: January 22, 2026

Where to Watch: Disney+ and Disney YouTube

Director: Leslie Iwerks (The Imagineering Story, The Pixar Story)

For decades, the story of Disneyland’s construction has been told through glossy brochures and rehearsed anecdotes. Disneyland Handcrafted, the latest feature documentary from Academy Award-nominated director Leslie Iwerks, finally peels back the curtain to reveal the raw, gritty, and miraculous truth of how “The Happiest Place on Earth” was built in just 365 days.

The documentary focuses on the frantic year leading up to July 17, 1955. Using over 50 hours of unearthed 16mm archival footage and silent outtakes, Iwerks reconstructs the timeline of Walt’s “impossible dream.”

Unlike traditional documentaries, Disneyland Handcrafted ditches modern-day “talking heads.” Instead, it uses original audio recordings from the laborers, artists, and Imagineers who were actually on the ground. You aren’t just watching a history lesson; you are standing in the mud of Anaheim as the Mark Twain Riverboat is bolted together.

Why ‘Disneyland Handcrafted’ is a Must-Watch

1. Cinematic Restoration by ILM and Skywalker Sound

One of the most impressive technical feats is the restoration. Much of the original footage was silent and in varying states of decay. Industrial Light & Magic (ILM) upscaled the film to a stunning 2K resolution, while Skywalker Sound provided a meticulous “Foley” soundscape. The result is an ASMR-like experience where you can hear the scrape of a shovel and the hiss of a welder’s torch from 70 years ago.

2. A “Fly-on-the-Wall” Perspective

The film is refreshingly unpolished. It captures the unvarnished reality of 1950s construction:

Workers navigating beams without safety harnesses.
The “great big panic” as opening day approached with only 10% of plans finalized.
Walt Disney himself surveying the site, often looking vulnerable yet relentlessly driven.

3. Focus on the Artisans

While Walt is the visionary, the film’s heart belongs to the hand-painters, carvers, and welders. It highlights the “Handcrafted” nature of the park—reminding us that before it was a global empire, it was a project built by human hands and sheer ingenuity.

Final Verdict: 9.5/10

Disneyland Handcrafted is the definitive “origin story” the fans have been waiting for. It is an emotional, visceral, and highly technical achievement that honors the DNA of the Disney Parks. Whether you are a “Disney Nerd” or a lover of mid-century Americana, this film is a cinematic triumph.