Wildlife Express Train to Close as Disney Prepares For Bluey’s Animal Kingdom Debut
Big changes are coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom!
In summer 2026, a new Bluey-inspired experience is coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom, which means a closure is coming soon to the park. Let’s get into it!
Wildlife Express Train to Close
Animal Kingdom’s Wildlife Express Train will close on February 23, 2026, in order to make way for the new Bluey experience coming to Conservation Station.
Disney did not include a reopening date, but we expect the closure to last for at least a few months.
Photo: Disney
The Wildlife Express Train has transported guests to Rafiki’s Planet Watch since the park opened in 1998.
The closure includes the train ride itself and access to Rafiki’s Planet Watch. Guests won’t be able to visit the Conservation Station or Affection Section petting zoo during the closure.
Rafiki’s Plant Watch at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
The train has been a staple of the Animal Kingdom experience for decades. It provided the only access to the park’s behind-the-scenes animal care facilities.
Bluey’s Arrival
The Wildlife Express closure paves the way for a brand-new Bluey experience at Conservation Station, which is expected to include games, interactive activities, and more.
Disney has previously shared that the new Bluey adventure will open sometime this summer. That likely means a June, July, or August debut.
Ready to experience the new Bluey adventure when it opens? Let the expert travel advisors at MickeyTravels help you book your next magical vacation. Whether it’s Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, or Adventures by Disney, we’ve got you covered.
