‘It’s Tough to Be a Bug!’ Closing Date

Last Chance to Experience It’s Tough to Be a Bug! Before Zootopia Takes Over

Disney’s Animal Kingdom is preparing for yet another exciting change, but with new beginnings come bittersweet farewells. If you’ve ever marveled at the hidden world of insects beneath the Tree of Life, now is the time to visit before It’s Tough to Be a Bug! takes its final bow. This opening-day attraction will officially close on March 17, 2025, making way for the much-anticipated Zootopia: Better Zoogether! show debuting this winter.

'It's Tough To Be A Bug' poster found inside the Tree of Life with just a spotlight illuminating Flik with the show title etched on a massive green leaf. — ‘It’s Tough To Be A Bug!’ poster found inside the Tree of Life.

A Look Back at It’s Tough to Be a Bug!

When Disney’s Animal Kingdom opened in 1998, It’s Tough to Be a Bug! was one of its original attractions. Nestled inside the park’s iconic Tree of Life, this 4D experience brought guests into the world of Flik and his tiny friends from Pixar’s A Bug’s Life. With animatronics, special effects, and plenty of unexpected surprises, the attraction introduced audiences to the often-overlooked world of insects. From a skunk’s smelly spray to a startling finale with Hopper, the show became a memorable part of the park’s original lineup.

The attraction wasn’t just a fun show—it was a perfect fit for Animal Kingdom’s message of conservation and respect for nature. By shrinking guests down to the size of a bug, Disney encouraged appreciation for even the tiniest creatures in the ecosystem. For nearly 27 years, It’s Tough to Be a Bug! has entertained guests of all ages, making it a nostalgic favorite for many.

Picture of the iconic Tree of Life at Disney's Animal Kingdom theme park with a massive elephant head carved into the wood roots at the base of the tree trail on a partly cloudy day. — Animal Kingdom’s Tree of Life

What’s Next: Zootopia Takes the Stage

As It’s Tough to Be a Bug! makes its exit, the Tree of Life Theater will soon welcome an entirely new adventure. Coming Winter 2025, Zootopia: Better Zoogether! will immerse guests in the vibrant biomes of Zootopia, alongside fan-favorite characters like Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde. Disney promises a high-energy show that brings the world of Zootopia to life like never before.

'Zootopia: Better Zoogether!' concept art poster by Disney where Judy Hopps, Nick Wilde, and friends are all running in front of the Tree of Life at Dsiney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park. — Disney’s ‘Zootopia: Better Zoogether!’ Concept Art Poster

Why You Should Visit Before March 17

Did you know that It’s Tough to Be a Bug! actually opened before A Bug’s Life hit theaters? This unique attraction debuted alongside Animal Kingdom in April 1998, while the Pixar film didn’t release until November of that year! That means guests met Flik for a short time before they knew his story.

Don’t miss your final chance to be an “honorary bug” before this original piece of Disney’s Animal Kingdom history is gone forever.

Book Your Magical Adventure Now!

Don’t wait until it’s too late! Plan your trip to Disney’s Animal Kingdom to experience It’s Tough to Be a Bug! before it’s permanent closure. Let Fairytale Journeys Travel, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, handle every detail of your Disney vacation. Their expert advisors make planning seamless and stress-free, ensuring you don’t miss a single magical moment.

Contact them today to start booking your unforgettable Disney getaway!

If you’ve already booked directly with Disney Cruise Line, you may be eligible to transfer your reservation to Fairytale Journeys Travel and receive onboard credit. Everything in your reservation will remain unchanged.

To benefit from a personal Fairytale Journeys Disney Cruise Line expert, visit their website. This way, you’ll get the support you need for seamless Disney cruise planning. Most importantly, their services are 100% free to use.