Happy Earth Day!
Today, we celebrate the one place we all call home, our beautiful planet Earth. The official Earth Day theme for 2024 is Planet vs. Plastics. And there are few large-scale places that better showcase their commitment to conserving our home than Disney's Animal Kingdom.
Officially opening on April 22nd, 1998, Animal Kingdom is Walt Disney World's fourth park. It centers around the themes of the natural environment and conservation.
Its varied lands include the Oasis, Discovery Island, Africa, Rafiki's Planet Watch, Asia, and DinoLand U.S.A..
When the park opened, there was a blank space where Pandora--The World of Avatar would come to be built. This was meant to be space for an expansion called Beastly Kingdom, devoted to creatures of fantasy and mythology. Camp Minnie Mickey, a rustic summer camp area with meet and greets occupied the space until January 5th, 2014. Pandora would open on May 27th, 2017.
In honor of the park's 26th anniversary, here are some of my top favorites at Animal Kingdom.
Ride: Expedition Everest - Legend of the Forbidden Mountain
This is an incredibly highly-themed roller coaster. The story is that you are taking a train to Mount Everest. You pass through a museum telling the story of the Yeti who lives in the mountain before getting on the train. It is 199.5 feet tall, the tallest attraction in Walt Disney World.
Show: Festival of the Lion King
This show is performed in a theater in the round. It is presented as a celebration of Simba and his friends, including a band of four human singers. Guests are seated in one of four sections, with each section receiving a different animal name: giraffe, warthog, elephant, and lion. It involves singing, dancing, acrobatics, aerial dance, an interactive sing along, and more.
Dining: Nomad Lounge
Nomad Lounge is my absolute favorite of all of the dining experiences at Animal Kingdom. It offers a variety of cocktails and small plates - but if you ask, you may be able to order off of the Tusker House menu, too. It is so tranquil to sit on the water and enjoy your food and drinks. As a bonus, you may be able to catch a view of one of the few remnants of Beastly Kingdom while you dine!
Be sure to check out DinoLand, U.S.A. soon - rumor has it, an area themed around the Tropical Americas is coming soon as a replacement! This area is rumored to have attractions themed to Indiana Jones and Encanto. I'll keep you updated as more details are released!
How do you feel about Animal Kingdom? Is it a half-day or full-day park for you? Not sure? Don't worry, I can help you decide! One of my services is dedicated planning for you and your family. I can put together a park schedule based on your wants and needs. Are you ready for your adventure? Email me today at s.mattoon@keytotheworldtravel.com to get started or click the button below:
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