More change is in the air over at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, along with the major construction starting for the conversion of Dinoland USA into the Tropical Americas.
On March 16, 2025, Disney will say a final farewell to the (beloved by some) It’s Tough to Be a Bug! attraction. If you’ve ever sat in the Tree of Life theatre, you know the drill: you pop in for a tiny, fun, and for many, a child-terrifying 3D adventure.
This 3D show has been delighting (and, as already mentioned, scaring) visitors since it opened in 1998. However, after 480 million years on Earth and almost three decades at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, it’s time for this attraction to go the way of the Dinosaurs (sorry, Dinoland USA fans, that might be a bit to soon).
Let’s take a quick trip down memory lane, shall we? It’s Tough to Be a Bug! features the characters from Disney/Pixar’s A Bug’s Life. The show had guests interacting with insects in a way that can only be done at Disney—from tickles under your seat, creepy-crawly effects, and a lot of “What did I just step on?” antics. While some might have found it a little too buggy, it’s always been a fan favourite.
But don’t worry! As always with Disney, change is just the beginning of something new and magical! The Tree of Life theatre won’t be hollow for long. In its place, we’ll get to enjoy the exciting new show Zootopia: Better Zoogether!
So, grab your safari hat, and let’s drive into the details of what’s coming next at Disney’s Animal Kingdom!
Introducing Zootopia: Better Zoogether! – A New Adventure Awaits!
Soon, Animal Kingdom will welcome Zootopia: Better Zoogether! to the Tree of Life theatre later in 2025. Based on the wildly successful Disney movie Zootopia, this show will bring the vibrant city of Zootopia to audiences in a way like never seen before. Get ready for an immersive experience that is a lot less (child-crying-inducing) scary and a lot more heartwarming.
What We Expect to See:
- Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde returning to the spotlight. I mean, who doesn’t love a bunny cop and a sly fox duo? This show will let you join Judy and Nick on a wild ride through the colourful streets of Zootopia.
- State-of-the-Art Technology: Disney has shown glimpses of some of the technology scheduled to be used in the new attraction, so if you thought It’s Tough to Be a Bug! had impressive effects, wait until you see the cutting-edge technology Disney is bringing to this show. Expect mind-blowing visuals, interactive moments, and the iconic Zootopia characters you’ve been waiting for.
- Feel-Good Vibes: Zootopia was a movie that made us all dance in our seats (or around the living room) while reflecting on how we treat others and how we fit into the world. Zootopia: Better Zoogether! Is expected to bring those important themes to life, but with a fun, Disney twist.
What Does This Mean for You?
If you’ve been planning your next Disney vacation for late 2025, this is one change you won’t want to miss. While the It’s Tough to Be a Bug! closure may be a little bittersweet (for some), with all the other changes happening at Animal Kingdom, the introduction of Zootopia: Better Zoogether! is going to bring a new wave of excitement to the park.
Final Thoughts: A New Chapter for Animal Kingdom
In Disney, change is always magical. The closure of It’s Tough to Be a Bug! may have a few of us feeling nostalgic, but the arrival of Zootopia: Better Zoogether! is exactly what Animal Kingdom needs to stay at the top of its game.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned Disney pro like us, there’s always something new and thrilling to discover.
