Animal Kingdom

Introduction

Welcome to Your Guide to the most magical place on Earth…. Animal Kingdom is like no other theme park I’ve ever been to. It’s part safari adventure, part amusement park, and completely immersive. You can go on thrilling rides like Expediton Everest, and walk through the magical land of Pandora. You’re also surrounded by stunning wildlife and lush landscapes that make you feel like you’re in the heart of the wild. It’s an incredible blend of nature and entertainment that’s a must-visit.

What can I say about Animal Kingdom besides it is the best park at Disney World. It is my favorite park. If you love animals this is the park for you. It also has one of the most magical lands you will ever see and that is Pandora.

Welcome to our Animal Kingdom Guide

This guide is here to turn your Animal Kingdom experience into a breeze. Packed with insider tips, it’s your trusted companion for dining, attractions, shows, freebies, and I included a guide to make the most of Animal Kingdom with your little ones. This guide will be your new best friend. Let’s get started and become Animal Kingdom Pros…………………….

Animal Kingdom will let everyone inside the park an hour before the park opens, no matter where you are staying. Everyone is allowed inside Animal Kingdom and you have to wait in the Oasis until the park opens. Disney Resort guest get Early Entry and can start going on rides 30 minutes before the park opens everyone else has to wait until the park opens.

1. Early Entry ……………..

Early Entry is a perk for Disney Resort guests (staying at a Disney Resort. This gives Disney Resort Guests to the rides at Animal Kingdom 30 minutes before the park opens to the general public. To see if your hotel is included check this list ⇒CLICK HERE

To use Early Entry a cast member will either scan your magic band on your ticket. To find the Early Entry entrance look for Cast Member with Early Entry Signs (see video below). If you have Early Entry, I recommend getting to Animal Kingdom 30 Minutes before early entry. So, an hour before the park opens.

Important Note: Not all rides are open during Early Entry at Animal Kingdom Here is the list of the attractions that are available during Early Entry.

Which rides should you do first:

Early Entry:

Avatar Flight of Passage,
Na’vi River Journey,
and then head to the Safari ride if it’s open.

If not head to Expedition Everest and then to the Safari Ride.

*if you have little ones that don’t meet the height requirements for Avatar you can do a rider switch for Avatar Flight of Passage

Rope Dropping ……………..

Wondering what “Rope Drop” is? It’s when parks open for the day, and guests are let in after the ropes are removed. Essentially, it means arriving before opening time. For Animal Kingdom, aim to be there at least 30-45 minutes especially without Early Entry access.

Which rides should you do first if you are Rope Dropping:

Avatar Flight of Passage,
Na’vi River Journey,
and then head to the Safari Ride.

*if you have little ones that don’t meet the height requirements for Avatar Flight of Passage you can do rider switch.

2.Getting to Animal Kingdom

Non-Disney Transportation (car):

Parking at Disney varies: standard is $35, preferred ranges from $45 to $55 for all day. If you’re park hopping, you only pay once. Guests of Disney Resort hotels and select Annual Passholders get standard parking included. They can upgrade to preferred for a fee (ranges from $15-25 per day). The parking lot opens 90 minutes before early entry. After parking, proceed to security and then enter Animal Kingdom.

Bus:

Disney resort guests can utilize complimentary buses to reach the park. After going through security, proceed to Animal Kingdom’s entrance for ticket scanning. Buses are stroller and wheelchair friendly. For bus times, check the My Disney Experience App under your resort tab; buses typically start running 90 minutes before park opening.

Side Note: You don’t need a car seat in the bus and they are stroller friendly, but you have to fold up your stroller. They are also wheelchair friendly.

Uber or Lyft:

You will be dropped off at the parking lot on the side and then you will head to security and then go inside Animal Kingdom’s entrance where they will scan your ticket, magic band, phone etc.

IMPORTANT NOTE for Everyone:

Animal Kingdom will let everyone inside the park an hour before the park opens, no matter where you are staying. Everyone is allowed inside the Oasis. I always recommend to get there at 45-50 minutes before the park opens if you have Early Entry and 30 minutes if you are rope dropping.

3. Attractions,Shows,and Entertainment ……..

Animal Kingdom is divided into 6 lands. The Oasis, Discovery Island, DinoLand U.S.A., Africa, Asia, and Pandora: The World of Avatar. Throughout these lands you will find various rides, several walk-through exhibits, an indoor theater, three amphitheaters, a conservation exhibit, and a children’s playground.

Zootopia: Better Zoogether will be opening Nov. 7th 2025

The Oasis this is the first land you will see as you enter Animal Kingdom. Guest Services is located here, as well as, the stroller and other rentals. A lot of guests just walk through this area and don’t realize there are animals here.

The Oasis Rides/Attractions

None

The Oasis Rides Experiences

The Oasis Exhibits- There are
different animals you can find
here like am iguana, anteater,
and a babirusa

The Oasis Character

Di’Vine
Pluto
Pocahontas

The Oasis tips:

Di’Vine Usually shows up here by the entrance at the top on the hour.
There are animals here and a lot of people miss them. There are babirusas, anteaters, iguanas and others.
There is a hidden bridge here with an amazing waterfall

Discovery Island Rides/ Attractions

Discovery Island Experience and Shows

Wing Encounters (bird show)
Merry Menagerie (only during the Holidays)
The Tree of Life
Wilderness Explorers (see kid section for details)
Viva Gaia Street Band (live music) See Various Animals as you walk thru the Tree of Life Garden
See Different Animals like otters, flamingos, and monkeys
Discovery Island Trails
NEW!!!! Zootopia: Better Zoogether

Discovery Island Character Meets and Greets

Kevin
Dug
Mickey and Minnie Mouse at Adventurers Outpost
Moana at the Character
Landing
Judy Hopps
Nick Wilde

Discovery Island Tips:

Make sure you stop at the Wilderness Explorer hut and pick up your free Wilderness Explorer book to collect stickers throughout the park
During the Holidays you can see Merry Menagerie here. Life size animal puppets interact with guests
Discovery Island and Island Mercantile open an hour after the park closes.
You can also enjoy live music from Viva Gaia Street Band
Eight Spoons Cafe is on of my favorites quick service spots

DinoLand U.S.A Rides/ Attractions (this area is probably going to be replaced)

Dinosaur (40”) (closing 2/2/26)

DinoLand U.S.A Experience and Shows

NEW!!! Eco-Rhythmics
Finding Nemo the Big Blue and Beyond (musical show)
Dino Sue (reproduction of an
actual T-Rex)

World Discovery Character Meets and Greet

Donald Duck
Daisy Duck
Goofy
Chip and Dale
Santa-during the Holidays

DinoLand Tips:

You can meet Chip and Dale dressed as Dinosaurs here. They are soooo cute

Africa Rides/ Attractions

Kilimanjaro Safari
Wildlife Express Train
Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail (this is not a ride it is a trail where you can see animals, I added it here because you can find it on the app)

Africa Experiences and Shows

Rafikis Planet Watch (petting zoo, drawing, classes and see more animals here)
Festival of the Lion King (acrobatics, music, and so much
more based on the Lion King)
Tam Tam Drummers of Harambe
Kora Tinga Tinga (live entertainment)
Harambe Village Street Band
The Animation Experience at Conservation Station

Africa Character Meets and Greet

Rafiki (at Rafiki’s Planet Watch)
Timon (at Rafiki’s Planet Watch)

Africa Tips:

If you are looking for a drink with little to no wait time head to Dawa Bar
There are great photo spots next to Harambe Market
Rafikis Planet Watch is a Must Do if you have little ones
If it is raining head to the Safari. Animals love the rain and they will definitely be out.
Best seat in the Safari ride is the left hand side( the side of the driver)
The Safari and most of the animal exhibits close before the park closes.

Asia Rides/ Attractions

Expedition EverestLegend of the Forbidden Mountain (44”)
Kali River Rapids (38”) **
** opens an hour after the park opens (currently closed)

Asia Experiences and Shows

Feathered Friends in Flight (bird show)
Maharajah Jungle Trek (trail where you can see birds, tigers, bats, etc.)
There is a splash pad and interactive water fountain before you enter the Maharajah Jungle Trek
Beats & Strings

Asia Character Meets and Greet

Asia Tips for Kids:

There is a hidden companion bathroom inside the Maharajah Jungle Trek
Upcountry Landing is a great place for a quiet break
There is a splash pad and interactive fountain as you head to the Maharajah Jungle Trek

Pandora The World of Avatar Rides/ Attractions

• Avatar Flight of Passage (44”)

• Na’vi River Journey

Pandora Experiences and
Shows

Windtraders- gift shop where you can make your own avatar

Pandora Character Meets
and Greet

• None

The Oasis Rides/Attractions

None

The Oasis Rides Experiences

The Oasis Exhibits- There are
different animals you can find
here like am iguana, anteater,
and a babirusa

The Oasis Character

Di’Vine
Pluto
Pocahontas

The Oasis tips:

Di’Vine Usually shows up here by the entrance at the top on the hour.
There are animals here and a lot of people miss them. There are babirusas, anteaters, iguanas and others.
There is a hidden bridge here with an amazing waterfall

Discovery Island Rides/ Attractions

Discovery Island Experience and Shows

Wing Encounters (bird show)
Merry Menagerie (only during the Holidays)
The Tree of Life
Wilderness Explorers (see kid section for details)
Viva Gaia Street Band (live music) See Various Animals as you walk thru the Tree of Life Garden
See Different Animals like otters, flamingos, and monkeys
Discovery Island Trails
NEW!!!! Zootopia: Better Zoogether

Discovery Island Character Meets and Greets

Kevin
Dug
Mickey and Minnie Mouse at Adventurers Outpost
Moana at the Character
Landing
Judy Hopps
Nick Wilde

Discovery Island Tips:

Make sure you stop at the Wilderness Explorer hut and pick up your free Wilderness Explorer book to collect stickers throughout the park
During the Holidays you can see Merry Menagerie here. Life size animal puppets interact with guests
Discovery Island and Island Mercantile open an hour after the park closes.
You can also enjoy live music from Viva Gaia Street Band
Eight Spoons Cafe is on of my favorites quick service spots

DinoLand U.S.A Rides/ Attractions (this area is probably going to be replaced)

Dinosaur (40”) (closing 2/2/26)

DinoLand U.S.A Experience and Shows

NEW!!! Eco-Rhythmics
Finding Nemo the Big Blue and Beyond (musical show)
Dino Sue (reproduction of an
actual T-Rex)

World Discovery Character Meets and Greet

Donald Duck
Daisy Duck
Goofy
Chip and Dale
Santa-during the Holidays

DinoLand Tips:

You can meet Chip and Dale dressed as Dinosaurs here. They are soooo cute

Africa Rides/ Attractions

Kilimanjaro Safari
Wildlife Express Train
Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail (this is not a ride it is a trail where you can see animals, I added it here because you can find it on the app)

Africa Experiences and Shows

Rafikis Planet Watch (petting zoo, drawing, classes and see more animals here)
Festival of the Lion King (acrobatics, music, and so much
more based on the Lion King)
Tam Tam Drummers of Harambe
Kora Tinga Tinga (live entertainment)
Harambe Village Street Band
The Animation Experience at Conservation Station

Africa Character Meets and Greet

Rafiki (at Rafiki’s Planet Watch)
Timon (at Rafiki’s Planet Watch)

Africa Tips:

If you are looking for a drink with little to no wait time head to Dawa Bar
There are great photo spots next to Harambe Market
Rafikis Planet Watch is a Must Do if you have little ones
If it is raining head to the Safari. Animals love the rain and they will definitely be out.
Best seat in the Safari ride is the left hand side( the side of the driver)
The Safari and most of the animal exhibits close before the park closes.

Asia Rides/ Attractions

Expedition EverestLegend of the Forbidden Mountain (44”)
Kali River Rapids (38”) **
** opens an hour after the park opens (currently closed)

Asia Experiences and Shows

Feathered Friends in Flight (bird show)
Maharajah Jungle Trek (trail where you can see birds, tigers, bats, etc.)
There is a splash pad and interactive water fountain before you enter the Maharajah Jungle Trek
Beats & Strings

Asia Character Meets and Greet

Asia Tips for Kids:

There is a hidden companion bathroom inside the Maharajah Jungle Trek
Upcountry Landing is a great place for a quiet break
There is a splash pad and interactive fountain as you head to the Maharajah Jungle Trek

Pandora The World of Avatar Rides/ Attractions

• Avatar Flight of Passage (44”)

• Na’vi River Journey

Pandora Experiences and
Shows

Windtraders- gift shop where you can make your own avatar

Pandora Character Meets
and Greet

• None

Lightning Lanes At Animal Kingdom

List of Lightning Lanes at Animal Kingdom

Dinosaur
Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain
Feathered Friends in Flight
Festival of the Lion King
Finding Nemo: The Big Blue and Beyond!
Kali River Rapids
Kilimanjaro Safari
Na’vi River Journey

Single Pass

Important Note:

Animal Kingdom Doesn’t have Tier 1 or 2. All of their Lightning Lanes are on the same Tier.

If your little ones didn’t meet the height requirements for a specific ride, Disney World gives out height ride certificates for some rides, you can save the certificate and bring it back when they are tall enough and they will get priority access to the ride with the family. Not all rides have it so ask a cast member.

Single Rider Option

A few rides at Disney World have the single rider lane option. If you are okay with your party being split up this is a great option to cut down your wait time by 50%. The single rider option at Animal Kingdom is Expedition Everest- Legend of the Forbidden Mountain. FYI guest using single rider must be at least seven years old.

Night Show at Animal Kingdom

Animal Kingdom is the only park that doesn’t have fireworks because of the animals, but they do have a night show projection on the Tree of Life. It is called Tree of Life Awakening. After night falls, pay special attention to the Tree of Life at the center of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park, in Discovery Island. Approximately every 10 minutes, flickering fireflies magically appear and stir to life the wondrous animals spirits carved into the tree’s towering trunk—bringing to light a stunning visual swarming with vivid color and animated imagery. It is truly a magical experience for all ages.

Extras- More Magic

Animal Kingdom offers different experiences (tours) for an additional cost. All these experiences require reservations. Here are the ones currently being offered:

Caring for Giants:

Get a closer look at the majestic African elephants at Disney’s Animal Kingdom and you can learn what it takes to take care of them. This is a 60 Minute experience. You will meet with a guide and you’ll learn all about the Elephants. You will be able to see the elephants from 80-100 feet away. Guests must be 4 years of age or older for this experience.

Wild Africa Trek:

This is a privately guided VIP expedition of the Safari where you will have close encounters with the animals. This is 3 hour trek. You also get complimentary photo services during this experience, and you will end your expedition with delicious snacks. This is recommended for tweens, teens and adults.

Savor the Savana:

This is a private safari that includes tapas, beverages and more. Your safari begins with a journey deep into the heart of the Harambe Wildlife Reserve. You’ll also have access to one of the most secluded and breathtaking private viewing areas the savanna has to offer. This is recommended for tweens, teens and adults.

Up Close with the Rhinos:

During this experience you’ll get to be close-up with the rhinos at Animal Kingdom. This is a 60-minute guided adventure, where you’ll get to go backstage to meet the rhinos. Guests must be 4 years of age or older for this experience.

Starlight Safari at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge:

For this experience you get to witness the wild come to life at night. This is open to all Disney World Guests. You don’t have to stay at Animal Kingdom Lodge for this experience. You will be provided a night vision device to see the animals as you go through this night time safari. Guests must be 8 Years of age or older.

4.Dining at Animal Kingdom

This section will show you all the dining options per land and will specify which are quick service, character, and which ones are mobile order friendly. Important Note: all character dining always needs reservations. Animal Kingdom has some of the best food in all of Disney World. Some of my favorites are Nomad Lounge, Tiffin’s, Eight Spoons Café, & Yak & Yeti.

Important Note: Kids under 3 years old eat for free at family style restaurants including character meals.

Dining Reservations Tips:

If you can’t find dining reservations check the app after 11:30pm. Availability opens up at night.

Third Party Services that you can use:

mousedining.com this is a third-party service that emails you notifications of when there is availability. The service is free for 6 alerts and email only, or $9 a month for 50 alerts and texts, or $90 a year for 100 alerts.

addmoremagic.com they make the reservations for you. You select the restaurant you want your party size and they do all the work. The cost for this is $3 per person for the first 3 guests and $1 a person for each guest after the third person.

Disney Dining Plan Hack:

If you are planning on purchasing the dining plan and going to EPCOT save your snack credits and you can use them on some of the festival booths. In my opinion this is the best way to use your snack credits.

Disney Dining Plan:

Is it worth the cost? Here is a link https://www.distripplanner.com/ to a calculator that where you input your family’s needs and will help you determine if the Disney Dining Plan worth the cost for your family.

Main Entrance

Discovery Island

Africa

Asia

DinoLand U.S.A

Pandora

5.Animal Kingdom with Little Ones

Animal Kingdom is perfect for little ones, they have the best playground in all of Disney World and a petting zoo. They also have a train that little ones can ride and it takes you to a petting zoo

Important Note:

Take me To:

Kilimanjaro Safari
Na’vi River Journey
Rafiki’s Planet Watch (train ride to Rafiki’s Planet Watch)

Rides:

Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail
Kilimanjaro Safaris
Maharajah Jungle Trek
Na’vi River Journey (rides)
Rafiki’s Planet Watch (my favorite it has a
train ride, a petting zoo, and if you get
there before 11am you can see animals
get there checkups.)

Shows:

Feathered Friends in Flight
Festival of the Lion King
Finding Nemo: The Big Blue and Beyond!

Dinosaur

Chip
Dale
Daisy Duck
Donald Duck
Kevin
Mickey Mouse
Minnie Mouse
Moana
Rafiki
Timon
Dug
Russell
Pocahontas
Goofy
Pluto

Kilimanjaro Safar
Na’vi River Journey
Rafiki’s Planet Watch (train ride to Rafiki’s Planet Watch)
Triceratop Spin

Rides:

Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail
Kilimanjaro Safaris
Maharajah Jungle Trek
Na’vi River Journey (rides)
Triceratop Spin (rides)
Rafiki’s Planet Watch (my favorite it has a
train ride, a petting zoo, and if you get
there before 11am you can see animals
get there checkups.)

Shows:

Feathered Friends in Flight
Festival of the Lion King
Finding Nemo: The Big Blue and Beyond!

It’s Tough to be a Bug
Dinosaur

Chip
Dale
Daisy Duck
Donald Duck
Kevin
Mickey Mouse
Minnie Mouse
Moana

Playgrounds/Play Areas/Petting Zoo

Affection Section:

This is inside Rafiki’s Planet Watch. It is an animal petting zoo. It provides hands on encounters with animals like sheep, goats, pigs and so much more. To visit the Affection Section, you must take the Wildlife Express Train to Rafiki’s Planet Watch. The last daily train departs from Harambe Station at 4:30 PM.

Pandora: The World of Avatar:

Across the Na’vi River Journey ride there is an area with interactive drums for little ones to play with and plenty of seating for parents

Asia:

There is an interactive fountain and mini splash pad before you head to the Maharaja Jungle Trek. It’s great during the summers to cool off.

Rider Switch?

So How Does It Work

Here's How It Typically Works

Rider Switch Is Available On The Following Rides

Best Place To Wait During Rider Switch And Keep The Kiddos Entertained:

Rider Switch?

So How Does It Work

Here's How It Typically Works

Rider Switch Is Available On The Following Rides

Best Place To Wait During Rider Switch And Keep The Kiddos Entertained:

Kids Free Interactive Activities

Wilderness Explorers To begin, pick up a Wilderness Explorer handbook from headquarters—located on the bridge between the Oasis and Discovery Island—or drop by Wilderness Explorer Troop Leader locations in Africa, Rafiki’s Planet Watch, Asia, Dinoland U.S.A. and Pandora – The World of Avatar.Set out on a series of fun, nature-themed challenges on your way to becoming an official Wilderness Explorer.Self-guided activities range from animal observation to learning important wilderness skills. Collect over 25 badges and earn the right to echo the Wilderness Explorer call: Caw! Caw! Roar! Complete the activities on your own, or take on each task as a group.

Baby Center:

The Baby Center at Animal Kingdom is located in Discovery Island next to Creature Comforts (Starbucks). It is an air-conditioned location that is fully staffed and features lots of helpful amenities for families with babies, toddlers, and kids. They include the following:

Private nursing room with rocking chairs
Changing room with tables
Restroom facilities
Feeding area with highchairs
Kitchen with microwave and sink
Main room with television, table and seating
On-site shop offering formula, baby food, juice, diapers, wipes, sunscreen, over-the-counter medications and clothing for purchase

We love stopping by to take breaks they have seating for parents and children and they always have a movie or cartoons playing. Also, if your child gets lost at Animal Kingdom this is where you can find your child.

Dining w/Kids

Best Quick Service Places to Eat with Picky Eaters or Kiddos that Have Allergies:

Pizzafari Quick Service – Discovery Island (allergy friendly & great for picky eaters). Mobile Order Friendly
Restaurantosarus Quick Service- located in DinoLand U.S.A it’s perfect for picky eaters and you can mobile order.
Nomad Lounge- this is one of our favorites places to eat. It has a small menu but lots of options for little ones, and they area is perfect for little ones they have lounge chairs. Order the Churros they are amazing. (this is not a quick service but one of our favorites and it has options for picky eaters)

Character Dining

Tusker House:

It is located in Africa and it is one of my favorites. The food is amazing and you can meet Mickey, Donald, Goofy, and Daisy. The have breakfast, lunch and dinner available.

Quiet Area to Eat and Relax with Little Ones

Nomad Lounge- this is one of our favorites places to eat. It has a small menu but lots of options for little ones, and they area is perfect for little ones they have lounge chairs. Order the Churros they are amazing.
**If you are looking for a healthy option on the kid’s menu, check the items that say Kids’ Disney Check Meals *****

Quiet Area

These are my favorite areas to get away from the crowds and also perfect for naps.

Stroller Tips:

I definitely recommend a stroller for kiddos. Especially if they are under 7 years old. I personally don’t recommend the Disney Strollers because they are hard and not very comfortable. They also don’t recline when kiddos fall asleep.

Stroller Rules:

Strollers larger than 31” (79 cm) in width and 52” (132cm) in length are not permitted. Stroller wagons are also not permitted.
Strollers are not allowed on escalators. Use of strollers is permitted on elevators and ramps, available at certain locations.
A child must be removed from his or her stroller while riding on a parking lot tram.
Do not leave personal belongings in an unattended stroller.
Strollers may be moved by a Cast Member due to operational needs.

Going Through Security with a stroller:

Do these 3 things Before You Head to Security:

Make sure everything is cleared from underneath your stroller, remove all bags, umbrellas, toys, foo, coolers, etc., before you head to security.
Remove all your electronics and anything containing metal and set them on your stroller caddy. This includes phone chargers, battery packs, sunglass cases, makeup compacts.
Open up your sunshades on your stroller and now you are ready to head to security

Heading to security:

The adult pushing the stroller will go to the stroller security check point. Everyone else will go through the regular metal detector line. Your family will be separated. Don’t worry you won’t need tickets yet. I suggest handing all the stuff from the stroller to the people heading through the regular metal detector.
Once its your turned to be checked they will check your stroller caddy and the stroller. They will ask you to leave your kiddo on the stroller as you walk through the metal detector. The stroller and your kiddo will not go through the metal detector. There is one exception if your kiddo is old enough to walk, they will make you take your kiddo through the metal detector with you.
If you the metal detector detects anything they will send you to a second checkpoint if not you are free to join the rest of your party.

Disney Stroller Rental Prices

Single Stroller (recommended for children 50lbs or less)……………………Daily: $15…………….Multi-Day: $13 per day

Double Stroller: (recommended for children 100lbs or less……………….Daily: $31…………… Multi-Day: $27 per day

Third party stroller companies to rent strollers, cribs, playpens etc. from:

Kingdom Strollers
https://www.kingdomstrollers.com/?ref=odhmzdm
They drop off your stroller at your resort and pick it up and they don’t charge extra for this service.
Baby Quip
https://www.babyquip.com?a=b92f0ba

Resort Hopping with Little Ones

If you are considering resort hopping and not sure which resorts are the best and easiest to access for kiddos here are my favorites. The best way to get to the resorts without any dining reservations is to take Disney Transportation from Disney Springs.

** there is a skyliner scavenger hunt you can also do. You pick up the Scavenger Hunt inside any of the Skyliner resorts. ***

The skyliner resorts are definitely my favorite resorts for kiddos and the reason why is because you have multiple resorts within reach and all of them have activities for kiddos. The resorts listed below are my favorites:

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
o They have a Nemo Playground, Cars Land, Little Mermaid Section, and Lion King. It makes for great pictures and kiddos have so much fun here
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
o Love their playground and they have an area called Caribbean Cay that has lounge chairs and is very peaceful and quiet. I love taking breaks here. It is perfect for naps.
Disney’s Riviera Resort
o They have outdoor games for kiddos to play with and beautiful wall art of Peter Pan and Rapunzel
Disney Boardwalk
o This is my favorite and it’s a perfect resort to end the day in. They have free live entertainment and you can watch the EPCOT fireworks from here.

My Favorite things to do at other resorts:

Contemporary, Polynesian, and the Grand Floridian:

You can watch the Magic Kingdom fireworks from here. My favorite location is the Contemporary. During the holidays they also have gingerbread décor at the Grand Floridian and Contemporary.

Fort Wilderness Resort Campground:

They have pony rides for little ones and horseback riding for adults. Pony rides are walk on and horseback riding requires reservations. Chip and Dale Sing a Long this is so much fun. During Halloween and Christmas guests decorate the campgrounds.

Animal Kingdom Lodge:

You can see the Safari animals roaming around for free and they also have the Strings of Memories Activity where you go around the resort doing different activities with cast members and when you finish each activity you collect a bead. You can collect 8 beads in total.

Movie under the stars:

All resorts have a movie under the stars. We pack snacks and drinks and go watch a movie. It’s one of our favorite things to do.
The Disney Resorts that have playgrounds: https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/recreation/playgrounds/

6. Animal Kingdom Freebies

1. Wilderness Explorer- you can collect a free book in Discovery Island and collect over 20 stickers as you go through Animal Kingdom. Find all the Cast Members dressed as Wilderness Explores to collect your stickers.

2. The Animation Experience at Conservation Station- free drawing classes. It is a 25-minute class where a Disney animator gives you step-by-step instruction on how to draw your own version of a popular Disney character. There are set times for this experience so check your app for the times and availability.

3. Celebration buttons- you can pick them up at Guest Services and some of the shops.

7. Lightning Lane Strategy

I don’t usually recommend purchasing Lightning Multi Pass at Animal Kingdom unless you are going during a busy time (holidays, spring break, summer, jersey week)

If you want to ride Avatar Flight of Passage I recommend rope drop that ride or if you have early entry head to that ride first.

Animal Kingdom Doesn’t Have Tiers. All their attractions are in the same category.

What Lightning Lanes to Book First at Animal Kingdom (these are the lightning lanes that sell out first)

The remaining lightning lanes I would book as they become available Genie+ Strategy for Little Ones

Here is the order I would book the Lightning Lanes Animal Kingdom. This strategy is for little ones. I’m only going to be using the no heigh requirements attractions.

The rest of the attractions I would select as they become available.

8. Mobile App Basics

My Disney Experience App Basics this app is going to be your best friend at the park. I’m going to walk you through some of the important features in the app like how to order food, book lightning lanes, find characters, entertainment and so much more. Hope this is helpful.

9. Discounted Disney Merchandise

There are 2 Disney Character Warehouses at the outlets where you can find discounted Disney merchandise from the parks. Most of the merchandise there is over 50% off. They have everything clothes, loungefly bags, mickey ears, and so much more. They get new stuff in every day except on Sundays. If you want the best stuff, get there early. The character warehouse on Vineland is a lot bigger and has more selections of items. The store at Internation Drive is smaller but a lot more organized and you can sometimes find more loungefly bags there. Here are the locations to both stores:

Disney Character Warehouse
4969 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819
Disney Character Warehouse
8200 Vineland Ave #1252, Orlando, FL 32821

If you like Antique Disney Merchandise there is a store in Lakeland, Fl that sells antique Disney items, resort furniture, and props from rides. Here is the address:

Lakeland Antique Mall
3530 US Hwy 98 N, Lakeland FL 33809

10. Animal Kingdom Tips

Animal Kingdom has a secret entrance. Go through the rainforest café gift shop exit the back doors to find additional turnstiles for a less crowded Animal Kingdom Park entrance. It isn’t open for Early Entry.
Kusafiri Coffee Shop & Bakery, as well as Yak & Yeti Local Food Cafe have some of the best breakfast options in the park.
Discovery Trading Company and Island Mercantile in Discovery Island are open an hour after the park closes.
Animal Kingdom allows all guest inside the park an hour before it opens. You just have to wait in the Oasis if you don’t have Early Entry.
Avatar Flight of Passage has the lowest wait times early in the morning, after 2pm, or at the end of the night.
There is a bathroom in the queue for Avatar Flight of Passage
Do not leave the park early. You have to see Pandora at night.
The best time to ride Kilimanjaro Safari is in the morning, late afternoon (near sunset), and during the rain.
Best spot on Kilimanjaro Safari is the left side a.k.a. the driver side.
Best Photo Spot for Expedition Everest is as you enter Asia from Discovery Island, turn right towards Yak & Yeti restaurant, you’ll come to a big corner at the lake with Everest in the background.
The best photo spot for the tree of life is in the Tree of Life Garden Train located in Discovery Island
If you have little one’s pack lots of snacks and small toys to help throughout the day.
If you can’t book your dining reservations check at night after 11:30pm. For some reason there is a lot of availability at night. Also, use third party services like mousedining.com and addmoremagic.com to help you find the hard dining reservations.
If you aren’t purchasing Lightning Lane Multi Pass go on the Major rides either the first hour of the park at the end of the night.
Disney will still let you into the queues for rides up until the park closes. So even if you jump in the queue 10 minutes before the end of the day, Disney will let you ride.
Use mobile food ordering at Quick Service Restaurants. It will save you so much time.
There is a secret photo spot that says “You Are Most Beautiful.” It’s in the African Harambe Market, but you have to search for it in the back-left corner near a cast member entrance.
There is hidden walkway to Pandora that is very peaceful. You can find the trail on the backside of Festival of the Lion King, you’ll pass a restroom building and the go under a bridge. You’ll capture beautiful pictures and will take you to Pandora.
FYI you can join walk-up list at a lot of the restaurants at Animal Kingdom, even character meals.
If you want a drink without the long line head to Dawa Bar in Africa

You can search for a specific ride and tap on it to learn about its Forecasted Waits and look at the graphs to see what time is the busiest for that ride/attractions
Park Must Haves – mobile charger, sunscreen stroller cover, a refillable water bottle, extra socks, Ziploc bags, cooling towels, stroller fan
Take out all metal items from your pockets/bags as you head through security. This includes sunglasses cases, chargers, and makeup compacts.
If you have food allergies you can ask to look at the Allergy Binder. These binders provide a list of all the ingredients you can find in each restaurant’s meals.
You can make your own Avatar inside Windtraders gift shop. They scan your face an create your own Avatar for $85.
You can leave park at any time and come back later.
You don’t have to go all the way for guest services for help. Just look for cast members standing under blue umbrellas and they are also guest services
You can plan your park day before your get to the park by using the free Disney Genie Service in the My Disney Experience App
Don’t Skip Rafiki’s Planet Watch. There is a petting zoo, the park’s vet location, and free drawing classes.
At every character dining meal, they are supposed to give you a card with all the characters signature on it, so make sure you ask for it before you head out.
Do not skip Finding Nemo the Musical and Festival of the Lion King they are great shows.
Do not wear new shoes to Disney World, you’ll feet will hate you.
Ride Kali River Rapids early rather than later to experience shorter ride wait times and you’ll have enough time to dry off.
Restaurantosaurus and Pizzafari have a lot of indoor seating so these 2 places are perfect to get away from the heat.
Best bathrooms are located next to the Finding Nemo Show, the entrance to Pandora, and the bathrooms next to Festival of the Lion King.
Flame Tree Barbecue has lots of seating and you will have a beautiful view of Expedition Everest
Best view of Flotillas with Characters is the pathway from Africa to Pandora under the bridge, you’ll be eye level with the Flotillas and they actually slow down a bit here.
Check dining hours a lot of the quick service places close early
Skip preferred parking here (unless you have mobility issues). It is a very short walk and there are trams available
If you place a mobile food order and can’t make the time you selected you can modify your pick up window

1. Animal Kingdom has a secret entrance. Go through the rainforest café gift shop exit the back doors to find additional turnstiles for a less crowded Animal Kingdom Park entrance. Itisn’t open for Early Entry.

2. Kusafiri Coffee Shop & Bakery, as well as Yak & Yeti Local Food Cafe have some of the best breakfast options in the park.

3. Discovery Trading Company and Island Mercantile in Discovery Island are open an hour after the park closes.

4. Animal Kingdom allows all guest inside the park an hour before it opens. You just have to wait in the Oasis if you don’t have Early Entry.

5. Avatar Flight of Passage has the lowest wait times early in the morning, after 2pm, or at the end of the night.

6. There is a bathroom in the queue for Avatar Flight of Passage

7. Do not leave the park early. You have to see Pandora at night.

8. The best time to ride Kilimanjaro Safari is in the morning, late afternoon (near sunset), and during the rain.

9. Best spot on Kilimanjaro Safari is the left side a.k.a. the driver side.

10. Best Photo Spot for Expedition Everest is as you enter Asia from Discovery Island, turn right towards Yak & Yeti restaurant, you’ll come to a big corner at the lake with Everest in the background.

11. The best photo spot for the tree of life is in the Tree of Life Garden Train located in Discovery Island

12. If you have little one’s pack lots of snacks and small toys to help throughout the day.

13. If you can’t book your dining reservations check at night after 11:30pm. For some reason there is a lot of availability at night. Also, use third party services like mousedining.com and addmoremagic.com to help you find the hard dining reservations.

14. If you aren’t purchasing Genie+ go on the Major rides either the first hour of the park at the end of the night.

15. Disney will still let you into the queues for rides up until the park closes. So even if you jump in the queue 10 minutes before the end of the day, Disney will let you ride.

16. Use mobile food ordering at Quick Service Restaurants. It will save you so much time.

17. There is a secret photo spot that says “You Are Most Beautiful.” It’s in the African Harambe Market, but you have to search for it in the back-left corner near a cast member entrance.

18. There is hidden walkway to Pandora that is very peaceful. You can find the trail on the backside of Festival of the Lion King, you’ll pass a restroom building and the go under a bridge. You’ll capture beautiful pictures and will take you to Pandora.

19. FYI you can join walk-up list at a lot of the restaurants at Animal Kingdom, even character meals.

20. If you want a drink without the long line head to Dawa Bar in Africa

21. You can search for a specific ride and tap on it to learn about its Forecasted Waits and look at the graphs to see what time is the busiest for that ride/attractions

22. Park Must Haves – mobile charger, sunscreen stroller cover, a refillable water bottle, extra socks, Ziploc bags, cooling towels, stroller fan

23. Take out all metal items from your pockets/bags as you head through security. This includes sunglasses cases, chargers, and makeup compacts.

24. If you have food allergies you can ask to look at the Allergy Binder. These binders provide a list of all the ingredients you can find in each restaurant’s meals.

25. You can make your own Avatar inside Windtraders gift shop. They scan your face an create your own Avatar for $85.

26. You can leave park at any time and come back later.

27. You don’t have to go all the way for guest services for help. Just look for cast members standing under blue umbrellas and they are also guest services

28. You can plan your park day before your get to the park by using the free Disney Genie Service in the My Disney Experience App

29. Don’t Skip Rafiki’s Planet Watch. There is a peƫng zoo, the park’s vet location, and free drawing classes.

30. At every character dining meal, they are supposed to give you a card with all the characters signature on it, so make sure you ask for it before you head out.

31. Do not skip Finding Nemo the Musical and Festival of the Lion King they are great shows.

32. Do not wear new shoes to Disney World, you’ll feet will hate you.

33. Ride Kali River Rapids early rather than later to experience shorter ride wait times and you’ll have enough time to dry off.

34. Restaurantosaurus and Pizzafari have a lot of indoor seating so these 2 places are perfect to get away from the heat.

35. Best bathrooms are located next to the Finding Nemo Show, the entrance to Pandora, and the bathrooms next to Festival of the Lion King.

36. Flame Tree Barbecue has lots of seating and you will have a beautiful view of Expedition Everest

37. Best view of Flotillas with Characters is the pathway from Africa to Pandora under the bridge, you’ll be eye level with the Flotillas and they actually slow down a bit here. Another great spot is the amphitheater where Kite tails used to take place, and Nomad Lounge outdoor seating

38. Check dining hours a lot of the quick service places close early

39. Skip preferred parking here (unless you have mobility issues). It is a very short walk and there are trams available

40. If you place a mobile food order and can’t make the time you selected you can modify your pick up window

11. Disney World Park Must Haves

Park Must Haves for Kiddos

I will include a link to my Amazon Storefront where I have all my park must haves

Fan
Cooling Towels
Sun Screen
Cooling Patches (for summer)
Stroller Cover
Rain Coats/Ponchos
Large Ziploc bags
Change of clothes for kiddos
Snacks
Small Toys ( I usually pick some small toys from the dollar store)
Small cooler
Reusable Straws
Blanket if you are going in the winter
Bandaids
Hand Sanitizer

Amazon Storefront Link

https://www.amazon.com/shop/anidisneywtoddlerskids

11. Disney World Park Must Haves

Park Must Haves for Kiddos

I will include a link to my Amazon Storefront where I have all my park must haves

Fan
Cooling Towels
Sun Screen
Cooling Patches (for summer)
Stroller Cover
Rain Coats/Ponchos
Large Ziploc bags
Change of clothes for kiddos
Snacks
Small Toys ( I usually pick some small toys from the dollar store)
Small cooler
Reusable Straws
Blanket if you are going in the winter
Bandaids
Hand Sanitizer

Amazon Storefront Link

https://www.amazon.com/shop/anidisneywtoddlerskids

Things I always pack in my bag for my kiddo:

Snacks
Stroller cover
Small toys
Sunscreen
Fan
Refillable Water Bottle
Toilet Seat and Seat Covers
Wipes and Antibacterial Wipes
Lollipops
Extra Set of Clothes
Ziploc Bags
Band-Aid’s
Cooling Patches

12. How to Beat the Crowds

Here are some tips:

1. Try to get to the park at least an hour before the park opens. Animal Kingdom allows all guest inside on the Oasis an hour before the park opens.

2. Go on the more popular rides at the end of the night most guests are leaving by then

3. Check a crowd calendar map. UnderCover Tourist has a free one that shows when historically are the busy times and low times. https://www.undercovertourist.com/orlando/crowd-calendar/

4. You can also use StandySkipper if you are purchasing the Lightning Lane Multi Pass. It is a third party service that books lighting lanes for you. You just let it know what lighting lanes you want and the times and it does the work.

Animal Kingdom

Introduction

Welcome to our Animal Kingdom Guide

Welcome to our Animal Kingdom Guide

SKIP TO

1. Early Entry ……………..

Which rides should you do first:

Rope Dropping ……………..

Which rides should you do first if you are Rope Dropping:

2.Getting to Animal Kingdom

Non-Disney Transportation (car):

Bus:

Uber or Lyft:

IMPORTANT NOTE for Everyone:

3. Attractions,Shows,and Entertainment ……..

The Oasis Rides/Attractions

The Oasis Rides Experiences

The Oasis Character

The Oasis tips:

Discovery Island Rides/ Attractions

Discovery Island Experience and Shows

Discovery Island Character Meets and Greets

Discovery Island Tips:

DinoLand U.S.A Rides/ Attractions (this area is probably going to be replaced)

DinoLand U.S.A Experience and Shows

World Discovery Character Meets and Greet

DinoLand Tips:

Africa Rides/ Attractions

Africa Experiences and Shows

Africa Character Meets and Greet

Africa Tips:

Asia Rides/ Attractions

Asia Experiences and Shows

Asia Character Meets and Greet

Asia Tips for Kids:

Pandora The World of Avatar Rides/ Attractions

Pandora Experiences and Shows

Pandora Character Meets and Greet

The Oasis Rides/Attractions

The Oasis Rides Experiences

The Oasis Character

The Oasis tips:

Discovery Island Rides/ Attractions

Discovery Island Experience and Shows

Discovery Island Character Meets and Greets

Discovery Island Tips:

DinoLand U.S.A Rides/ Attractions (this area is probably going to be replaced)

DinoLand U.S.A Experience and Shows

World Discovery Character Meets and Greet

DinoLand Tips:

Africa Rides/ Attractions

Africa Experiences and Shows

Africa Character Meets and Greet

Africa Tips:

Asia Rides/ Attractions

Asia Experiences and Shows

Asia Character Meets and Greet

Asia Tips for Kids:

Pandora The World of Avatar Rides/ Attractions

Pandora Experiences and Shows

Pandora Character Meets and Greet

Lightning Lanes At Animal Kingdom

List of Lightning Lanes at Animal Kingdom

Single Pass

Important Note:

Single Rider Option

Night Show at Animal Kingdom

Extras- More Magic

Caring for Giants:

Wild Africa Trek:

Savor the Savana:

Up Close with the Rhinos:

Starlight Safari at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge:

4.Dining at Animal Kingdom

Dining Reservations Tips:

Third Party Services that you can use:

Disney Dining Plan Hack:

Disney Dining Plan:

Discovery Island

Africa

Pandora Experiences and
Shows

Pandora Character Meets
and Greet

Pandora Experiences and
Shows

Pandora Character Meets
and Greet