Is There Still a Place to Play? Finding Disney World Playgrounds After The Boneyard Closure

For years, parents visiting Disney’s Animal Kingdom breathed a sigh of relief when they reached DinoLand U.S.A. The Boneyard—a massive, multi-level archaeological dig-site playground—was the ultimate holy grail for families. It gave kids the chance to burn off steam, dig for dinosaur bones, and run wild while adults rested in the shade. However, with the reimagining of DinoLand U.S.A. underway to make way for new Tropical Americas experiences, the beloved Boneyard has officially closed its gates. This has left many parents asking a crucial question: Are there any playgrounds left in Disney World? The short answer is yes! While Disney has phased out a few classic play areas over the years, several fantastic spots remain across the theme parks and resorts where little ones can climb, slide, and explore. Here is your ultimate guide to finding the best Disney World playgrounds and play areas now that The Boneyard is gone. 1. Magic Kingdom: Play Areas in Queue Lines & Splash Zones While Magic Kingdom doesn't feature a traditional, standalone playground like The Boneyard, it does offer interactive queue elements and a cooling splash area that double as great entertainment for kids. Dumbo the Flying Elephant (Interactive Big Top Tent Queue): If you have toddlers, this is a lifesaver. Instead of standing in a traditional line, guests are given a pager (like at a restaurant) and invited into an air-conditioned circus tent filled with a soft-play playground. Kids can climb and slide while parents relax until their number is called. Casey Jr. Splash ‘N’ Soak Station: Located near the Dumbo area, this circus-themed water play area is pure heaven on a hot Florida afternoon. Pack a change of clothes (or swim diapers), because kids will get soaked running through the water cannons and elephant sprays. 2. EPCOT: Play and Discovery Zones EPCOT has leaned heavily into interactive play spaces recently, making it one of the best parks for families with young children. PLAY! Pavilion (Status Check): While Disney previously announced a dedicated PLAY! pavilion for the former Wonders of Life building, its opening timeline remains uncertain. However, EPCOT still delivers on play! The Seas with Nemo & Friends Play Area: After experiencing the ride and looking at the giant aquariums, kids can explore a post-show play area featuring interactive games, climbing structures, and marine-themed activities themed to Finding Nemo. EPCOT Festival Play Areas: During seasonal festivals (like the International Flower & Garden Festival), EPCOT frequently sets up temporary, beautifully landscaped garden mazes and play areas for children. 3. Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Honey, I Shrunk the Kids… Replaced? Historically, Honey, I Shrunk the Kids Movie Set Adventure was Hollywood Studios' answer to The Boneyard. Unfortunately, that was closed years ago to make way for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Currently, Hollywood Studios lacks a dedicated, traditional playground. However, families looking to keep toddlers entertained can rely on: Disney Junior Play and Dance!: Located in the Animation Courtyard, this high-energy, indoor interactive party allows little ones to dance and play along with characters like Doc McStuffins, Vampirina, and Mickey Mouse. 4. Disney’s Animal Kingdom: What’s Left After The Boneyard? With The Boneyard closed, Animal Kingdom is temporarily without a traditional playground. However, the park still offers fantastic ways for kids to interact with nature and burn off energy: The Wilderness Explorers Program: This is a free, self-guided scavenger hunt throughout the entire park. Kids complete challenges, earn sticker "badges," and learn about conservation, animals, and culture. It’s an amazing way to keep kids engaged while walking through the park. Discovery Island Trails: Walking these lush, winding trails allows kids to spot kangaroos, flamingos, and lemurs up close at their own pace. Don't Forget the Disney Resorts! (Hidden Playground Gems) If you are staying on property—or even if you just want to take a break from the parks—several Walt Disney World Resort hotels feature incredible, dedicated playgrounds that are free for guests to use. Disney's Art of Animation Resort: Features a great playground in The Lion King courtyard area. Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort: Offers a colonial fort-themed playground near the main pool. Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge: Features playgrounds near the Jambo House and Kidani Village pool areas, where kids can sometimes spot animals nearby! Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground: Home to multiple traditional playgrounds scattered throughout the cabin and campsite loops. Tips for Traveling with Energetic Kids Post-Boneyard Losing The Boneyard is tough for families who rely on playground breaks to keep tantrums at bay. Here are a few tips to help your little ones decompress on your next Disney vacation: Utilize Open Spaces: EPCOT’s World Celebration gardens, the lawns near Cinderella Castle in Magic Kingdom, and the pathways around Discovery Island in Animal Kingdom offer great open spaces for kids to stretch their legs safely. Schedule Resort Mid-Day Breaks: Head back to your hotel midday to let the kids swim in the resort pool or play on the resort playground during peak park heat. Embrace Interactive Queues: Take advantage of rides with immersive lines, such as Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run or The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh, which feature hands-on elements for waiting kids. The Bottom Line While saying goodbye to The Boneyard is the end of an era for Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Disney World still offers plenty of ways for kids to play, splash, and explore. By planning ahead and knowing where the remaining play zones and interactive queues are located, you can ensure your family has a magical, stress-free vacation!