Imagine running through the heart of Walt Disney World, not just for the thrill of the marathon, but for a sneak peek at something magical—something that has fans buzzing with excitement. This weekend, runners got an exclusive ground-level view of the highly anticipated ‘Encanto’ ride building in Animal Kingdom, and the photos are nothing short of captivating.
But here's where it gets even more exciting: these aren’t just any photos. Shared by our reporter during the marathon on January 11, they offer a rare glimpse of the construction site, with runners passing by the fencing and the towering steel framework of what will soon become a beloved attraction. And this is the part most people miss—the crane, construction vehicles, and remnants of the former DinoLand, U.S.A. are all visible, blending the park’s past with its future.
Another stunning shot comes courtesy of bioreconstruct on X (formerly Twitter), known for their aerial views but equally skilled at capturing the magic from the ground. Their photo (https://x.com/bioreconstruct/status/2010358929805525473) highlights the structural frame of the ‘Encanto’ ride building, a sight that’s usually hidden from guests.
The construction has been moving at a breathtaking pace since it officially went vertical in December 2025. With steel being added almost nightly and a crane dominating the skyline, it’s hard not to feel the excitement building. Guests often catch glimpses of the crane in action during the day, a reminder that something extraordinary is taking shape. But here’s the controversial part: as DinoLand, U.S.A. makes way for the Tropical Americas land, some fans are nostalgic for the old attractions. What do you think—is this change a step forward or a loss of Disney history?**
Set to open in 2027 as part of the Tropical Americas land, the ‘Encanto’ ride promises to transport guests into the heart of Casita on the day Antonio receives his gift of speaking to animals. The ride’s façade will be the iconic Casita itself, nestled in the fictional Pueblo Esperanza village, and the ride vehicles? They’ll be magical furniture brought to life by the enchanted house. It’s a concept that’s as imaginative as it is innovative.
Did you catch a glimpse of this construction while running the marathon? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your experiences in the comments or on social media. And if you’re craving more Disney Parks updates, be sure to follow WDW News Today (https://wdwnt.com/) on Twitter (https://twitter.com/wdwnt), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/WDWNewsToday/), and Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/wdwnt/).
So, what’s your take? Are you thrilled about the ‘Encanto’ ride, or do you have mixed feelings about the changes coming to Animal Kingdom? Let’s spark a conversation!
