Disney Reveals New Theme Park Attractions Based On ‘Monsters, Inc.,’ ‘Encanto,’ ‘Coco,’ ‘The Lion King,’ And More

Disney offered new details about several animation-inspired theme park projects during its D23 fan event over the weekend, including attractions based on Monsters, Inc., Encanto, Coco, The Lion King, and Cars.

Anyone who follows Disney’s quarterly financial reports knows the company’s experiences division is by far the most dominant driver of operating profit for the Walt Disney Company. But what the D23 announcements show in undeniable detail is that the company’s experiences division is driven by and highly dependent on the animated properties on which the company has been built. It’s great for Disney when a Marvel movie makes a billion dollars. It’s far better when a film like Coco or Encanto breaks out and creates a multitude of other revenue opportunities.

Without animation, Disney just wouldn’t be Disney.

Anyway, here are the biggest animation-related announcements from the parks presentation:

Monstropolis

The Monsters, Inc. land will open at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Florida in 2027. Its centerpiece is Disney’s first suspended roller coaster, which will take visitors through the door warehouse seen in the Pixar film.

The land will also include a stage show featuring Mike and Sulley, with an original song by longtime Pixar composer Randy Newman, as well as locations inspired by Harryhausen’s restaurant and the Glob Theater.

Antonio’s Fiesta de Encanto

The family attraction will take visitors inside the Madrigal family’s magical Casita at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Its story unfolds on the day Antonio receives his gift and will include rooms created specifically for the ride.

Coco

Disney California Adventure is getting the first Disney Parks attraction based on Coco. Developed with Pixar Animation Studios, the boat ride takes place one year after the original film and carries visitors through Miguel’s memories of the Land of the Dead, while also incorporating elements from the upcoming Coco 2.

The Lion King

Disneyland Paris will receive the first attraction dedicated to The Lion King. The ride will follow Simba through the Pride Lands, from curious cub to king.

Villains Land

The new Magic Kingdom land will feature two major attractions, along with themed dining and shopping. Its story revolves around a corrupted wishing well whose dark magic attracts villains including Maleficent, Ursula, Hades, Jafar, and Cruella de Vil.

Piston Peak

Magic Kingdom’s new Cars-themed area will contain two attractions. Cars Ridge Run Rally is an off-road race through mountain trails, snowy peaks, and erupting geysers, while Miss Fritter’s Daredevil Spin-Along centers on the demolition-derby school bus from Cars 3.