Disney's Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World
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Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park is located in Bay Lake, Florida. With 580 acres, it’s the largest theme park in the world. It opened on Earth Day in 1998. The park is themed around animal conservation. It combines attractions and rides with hundreds of live animals.
When trying to come up with ideas for a new theme park, a zoological park was mentioned. The Disney Company questioned whether or not a zoo would be exciting. Imagineer Joe Rohde was the master mind behind the idea. He brought a live Bengal tiger into a board meeting to prove animals are exciting.
The park’s icon is the Tree of Life. This man-made structure is covered in carvings depicting animals. It also houses the 4-D film called It’s Tough to Be a Bug! The other main attraction is Kilimanjaro Safaris, where you can travel through a large field designed to look like an African savanna, complete with animals.
How to Get There
The nearest major city to Disney’s Animal Kingdom is Orlando, Florida. Guests flying into Orlando International Airport can get to Walt Disney World by using Mears Transportation, renting a car, or using a ride-share service. Once on Disney property, you can take advantage of the free busses, ferries, and monorails.
Rent an RV For Your Visit to Disney's Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World
Visit Disney's Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World
The best time of year to visit Disney's Animal Kingdom is January or September when the crowds are low and the weather is mild. During the summer season, arrive when the park opens. The animals retreat to shaded areas later in the day when the temperature rises.
Kilimanjaro Safaris is not to be missed with 34 animal species on display. The top thrill rides in this park are Dinosaur, Avatar Flight of Passage, and Expedition Everest. You also want to save time for the live entertainment options such as Festival of the Lion King, featuring choreographed stunts.
Ticket Information
Disney's Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World tickets can be purchased at the gate, but it is highly recommended that guests purchase them online before arriving. Tickets range in price from $109 to $159, depending on which day you go.
Family-Friendly Options
All ages can enjoy rides like Na'vi River Journey and TriceraTop Spin, and character meet and greets are popular among families. Larger groups can spend time together walking along the Discovery Island Trails or the Maharajah Jungle Trek while spotting porcupines, vultures, kangaroos, lemurs, and other animals. Little ones can become Wilderness Explorers. This free program is a self-paced scavenger hunt throughout the park. Kids earn badges while learning about conservation. Those with infants will appreciate the baby care center with its quiet feeding and changing areas.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit
Arrive at Disney's Animal Kingdom when the gates open. Head straight to the major rides. With Expedition Everest and Kilimanjaro Safaris under your belt, head to the other rides before the lines get too long. Eat lunch at one of the park’s restaurants and then spend the afternoon walking the trails to see how many animals you can spot. Remember to bring your camera so you can get some amazing animal photos, as well as pictures with your favorite characters.
Disney's Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World Accommodations
Campgrounds Nearby
Hidden in the expanse of the Florida Disney parks is one of the best campgrounds in the state. Fort Wilderness allows you to enjoy a Disney vacation RV-style. Experience the best of Florida with these camping sites that let you spend a day catching fish, floating down a river in a canoe or kayak, ride through the forest on a guided horseback ride, or try your hand at archery.
Fort Wilderness in Orlando has a themed campground with all the magical features that characterize Disney parks. You can take a step back in time to the American Frontier and ride a horse or practice your skills with a bow and arrow. Regardless of your campsite’s location, it will be separated from the other campers with landscaped greenery.
Located on Lake Davenport in Clermont, Florida, Lake Magic RV Resort is 6 miles from Disney and 31 miles from Legoland. The property sports two pools, a dance hall, volleyball court, and badminton. There are planned activities, arts and crafts, and a dog park.
Activities Near Disney's Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World
Things to Do
Fishing
If you enjoy catch-and-release fishing, Disney offers guided excursions on Seven Seas Lagoon, Bay Lake, World Showcase Lagoon, and Crescent Lake. You can bring your own gear or use the rods, reels, and bait they provide. Fishing is also allowed in the river at Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside Resort.
Swimming
Swimming is strictly prohibited on the lakes, lagoons, and inlets on Disney property, but each of their resorts includes extravagantly themed swimming pools. Guests staying at these resorts can swim for free during regular hours.
Boating
Boating opportunities abound near Disney's Animal Kingdom with pontoon boats, kayaks, and canoes available for rent at nearby resorts. In addition to renting a vessel, you can charter guided tours throughout the property.
National Sites
Weather, Safety & Accessibility
Weather & Packing
Casual clothing is best when visiting Disney's Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World. This is typically T-shirts and shorts. You’ll want a bathing suit during the hot summer months. From November through March, you’ll need to pack warmer clothes. Bring a lightweight jacket for evenings, a rain poncho for unexpected showers, and comfortable walking shoes.
Safety & Accessibility
No glass containers are allowed in Disney's Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World, other than small baby food jars. Wagons are not permitted, but you can bring a stroller if it’s no larger than 31 inches wide and 52 inches long. For the safety of the animals, plastic straws and balloons are not allowed. Wheelchairs and ECVs can be rented here, or you can bring your own. Most attractions are accessible and offer assistance for those with visual or hearing disabilities.
Conclusion
The United States encompasses many beautiful areas that you will want to explore. While visiting Florida, take a day to enjoy the attractions and rides at Disney's Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World. There’s something for everyone with savannas featuring live animals and spectacular entertainment.
FAQ
Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground is nearby, offering 750 acres of pine and cypress forests. They have 843 RV sites with full or partial hookups available.
Yes. RVs are welcome in Disney's Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World parking lot. Fees are $30 per day for oversized vehicles.
This theme park closes earlier than the other Disney theme parks. They don't offer any nighttime fireworks, due to the animals.
Disney's Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World is a relaxing park that has rides and attractions for all ages. With the exception of a few thrill rides, children can enjoy all of the exhibits.
Pets are not allowed in the park, but Disney does have a kennel on their property. Service animals are permitted.