Rafiki’s Planet Watch at Walt Disney World’s Animal Kingdom will close on February 23, 2026, to make way for “a new Bluey adventure,” according to the Walt Disney World website. As is typical with most theme park closures, this means the day before will be the final day of operation, giving guests until February 22 to visit the area before the shutdown begins.
The closure will impact all attractions at Rafiki’s Planet Watch. According to the Walt Disney World website, the Wildlife Express Train, which transports guests to the area; Conservation Station, home to various animal exhibits; and Affection Section, a petting zoo, will all “temporarily close.” However, the site states only that The Animation Experience “will close,” without specifying that the closure is temporary.
The shutdown is part of preparations for the new Bluey and Bingo character experience, which was announced late last year.
Disney describes the upcoming offering as an excursion where families can interact with Bluey and Bingo through play, dancing, and photo opportunities. The experience will also feature animals native to Bluey’s home country of Australia.
The new Bluey offerings are scheduled to open summer 2026, though Disney has not yet announced an exact date.
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