Woo hoo! Disney's Animal Kingdom is 11 years old today! Since it opened on Earth Day in 1998, there have been many changes to the Animal Kingom map. And (with only a few exceptions IMHO), those changes have been great. I thought this would be a good day to point out my five favorite things to do at Disney World's newest park.
- Expedition Everest: Located in Asia (page 47 in Mouse Map). Fast, exciting, unexpected twists and turns, excellent theming. Take your time walking through the queue. Top tip: FASTPASS or the Single Riders Line is a must!
- Pangani Forest Exploration Trail: Located in Africa (page 46 in Mouse Map). Walking tour through the forest with gorillas, birds and fish. Thank heavens for digital cameras, or I'd spend way too much money on processing film! Plenty of benches for rest breaks. Top tip: Talk with the docents at the major stops.... they enhance your touring experience with interesting facts.
- Festival of the Lion King: Located in Camp Minnie-Mickey (page 45 in Mouse Map). Awesome indoor pageant of music, dance and exotic costumes. Words can't describe it! Every seat has a good view of the stage area. Check the park map for show times. Top tip: Arrive no later than 15 minutes before the listed show time.
- Kilimanjaro Safari: Located in Africa (page 46 in Mouse Map). The quintissential Animal Kingdom experience is my husband's favorite attraction! Take a two-week 20-minute tour through the savannah of Africa. Top tip: Arrive at Animal Kingdom exactly at opening time and walk quickly to Africa for an early-morning ride.
- Pizzafari: Located on Discovery Island (page 44 in Mouse Map). A relaxing counter-service restaurant with pizza, sandwiches and salad. Huge colorful paintings decorate the walls of the large dining rooms ... plus the tables and chairs! A fun, cool place to hang out! Top tip: If you follow my favorite park-touring tip to arrive at the park very early, then you'll be ready for a mid-day break. Head to Pizzafari around 11 AM to beat the lunch crowds.
Whew! It was hard to pick just five favorites. Other attractions on my Animal Kingdom touring list includes the Discover Island Trails and It's Tough to be a Bug (page 44), Maharaja Jungle Trek (page 47), Dinosaur! and Finding Nemo: The Musical (page 48).
So what's your favorite spot at the Disney's Animal Kingdom map? Any more tips for other guests? Click Questions/Feedback below and share!
