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Theme Parks

Sneak peek of Walt Disney World's new 'Avatar Land'

By Fox News
Published | Updated

Two years after Disney announced an “Avatar”-themed land inside Walt Disney World’s Animal Kingdom, the company has released the first concept art of what the Orlando-based attraction will look like.

The largest expansion in the history of the park, Walt Disney Parks & Resorts Chairman Tom Staggs unveiled concept art at D23 Expo this week in Tokyo.

“As these concept renderings show in epic scale, in the world of ‘Avatar,’ guests will encounter awe-inspiring floating mountains and wander through a nighttime jungle of bioluminescent plants that are alive with light and sound. Guests will also discover what it feels like to soar into the sky riding a Banshee,” said Staggs.

Here's a peak of what visitors may be able to do there:

1. Soar on the back of a Banshee

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(Disney)

Staggs said that he wanted guests to "discover what it feels like to soar in the sky riding a Banshee."  In this artist rendering, it looks like they may get that chance, as colorfully plumed Banshees --the fictional bird-like predators in the film -- carry park guests. It's all part of new nighttime shows and rides.

2. Party late under the Tree of Life

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(Disney)

Animal Kingdom, the location of Avatar Land, will stay open later for guests.  Outside, the Tree of Life will be transformed into the “Mother Tree” from the movie. At night the park will use electronics and light projections during a new nighttime experience.

3. Explore the Avatar jungle

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(Disney)

Guests will be able to wander through a nighttime jungle of bioluminescent plants  that are alive with light and sound. According to Disney, guests will also be able to encounter floating mountains, just as in the movie.

4. Take a boat ride through bioluminescent plants

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(Disney)

Renderings show guests taking a boat ride through a land of bioluminescent plants and strange fauna. Along with Avatar Land, the park will have nighttime entertainment, including live performers on Discovery Island and a new nighttime version of the Kilimanjaro Safaris. Disney said that Avatar Land is expected to open in 2017.