In brief
At first glance, Disney's Animal Kingdom might seem to come up short in comparison to its sister Walt Disney World parks. Instead of the Magic Kingdom's few dozen rides, this park has only a handful. Instead of Disney-MGM Studios' and Epcot's spectacular nighttime shows, AK isn't even open after dark. What it lacks in traditional park amenities however, AK makes up for with its elaborate themeing, its inviting aura, and its focus on animals. Less frantic than the Magic Kingdom, AK immerses you in its lush, tropical lands and sets the stage for some leisurely hang time with its vast menagerie. Not quite a zoo, not quite a theme park, Disney takes a dash of both, mixes it with pixie dust and creates a unique and engaging hybrid species.
Highlights
- Expedition Everest themed coaster
- Finding Nemo- The Musical stage show
- Kilimanjaro Safaris
- Dinosaur trackless, high-speed dark ride
- It's Tough to Be a Bug 3-D film
- Maharaja Jungle Trek exploration trail
- Kali River Rapids raft ride
- Festival of the Lion King show (I'm torn on recommending this one. Most people rave about it; I find the show hyperactive and don't care for its lame audience participation.)
Dining
Not many choices. Here are two of the better restaurants:
- Rainforest Cafe- Straddles the front gate, accessible from inside or outside the park. Like the restaurant at Downtown Disney and others elsewhere in the chain, it has great food, generous portions and high-concept themeing.
- Tusker House Restaurant- Intriguing, exotic choices.
The Top 10 Best Walt Disney World Rides and Shows
Tips
- Animal Kingdom generally closes at sunset; plan your day accordingly.
- The line for Kilimanjaro Safaris, the park's signature attraction, and Expedition Everest can get enormous. Check DAK's Fastpass attractions and learn how to make the most of the Fastpass program.
- Try to catch an early morning or sunset Kilimanjaro Safaris ride, when more of the animals are likely to be visible.
- The Finding Nemo- The Musical show is presented four times daily. Arrive at least 30 minutes before the performance, and be prepared to wait in a long line. Don't be too discouraged by a huge queue; the 1500-seat theater swallows a lot of people.
- Disney has toned down the thrill elements in Dinosaur since its debut. Wimps may still find it unsettling, but moderate adventurers should be fine and will want to experience the outstanding E-Ticket attraction.
New for 2009:
Walt Disney World 2009 Ride Guide- Discover what's new at Disney World for the 2009 season.
New for 2010
Give a Day, Get a Disney Day- Free Disney Park Tickets in 2010
Learn how to get a free Walt Disney World park ticket by offering a day of volunteer service.
Show and Tell: Share Your Best Disney World Photos.
Show and Tell: See other users' best Disney World photos.
Guide to Walt Disney World Hotels
Are you planning a trip to Disney World? Great! Plenty of fun awaits you and your travel mates. Before you get there, however, you'll need to make plans, including hotel reservations. Check out About.com's Guide to Walt Disney World Hotels.
