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 Hollywood Studios' and Epcot's spectacular nighttime shows, AK isn't even open (generally) 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- Review of the thrill ride.
- Expedition Everest Video- See the thrill ride in an exclusive About.com video.
- Finding Nemo- The Musical- Review of the 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- (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.)
Top Disney's Animal Kingdom Thrill Rides
Dining
Here are two of the park's 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.
Disney's Animal Kingdom 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 a limited number of times daily. Check the schedule, 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.
