by Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, Elisabeth Haywood
Happy Birthday, Animal Kingdom Park! On this day in 1998, the fourth theme park at the Walt Disney World Resort opened its gates to the public for the very first time. Over the past 25 years, Animal Kingdom has become a beloved destination for guests from all around the world, offering thrilling rides, unique animal encounters, and unforgettable entertainment.
One of the most distinctive features of Animal Kingdom is its focus on the natural world. The park's design and attractions are inspired by a variety of habitats, from the lush rainforests of Asia and Africa to the rugged mountains of the American Southwest. Animal Kingdom is home to over 2,000 animals from 300 different species, making it one of the largest animal parks in the world.
One of the park's most popular attractions is Expedition Everest, a thrilling roller coaster that takes guests on a high-speed journey through the Himalayan mountains. The ride features an 80-foot drop and reaches speeds of up to 50 miles per hour, making it a must-do for thrill-seekers. Other popular rides include Avatar Flight of Passage, which simulates a ride on a banshee from the movie Avatar, and Kilimanjaro Safaris, a guided tour through a savanna where guests can spot lions, elephants, and other wildlife.
Animal Kingdom is also home to a variety of live shows and entertainment options, including Festival of the Lion King, a Broadway-style show featuring music and acrobatics inspired by the movie The Lion King, and Finding Nemo - The Musical, a puppet-based production based on the Pixar film. There are also plenty of opportunities to meet and interact with animals up close, including getting a behind-the-scenes look at the park's veterinary facilities.
Over the years, Animal Kingdom has undergone several expansions and updates, including the addition of the Pandora - The World of Avatar land in 2017. This immersive land transports guests to the fictional world of Pandora, featuring lush forests, floating mountains, and bioluminescent plants. The land includes two attractions, Avatar Flight of Passage and Na'vi River Journey, as well as themed dining and shopping options.
As Animal Kingdom celebrates its 25th anniversary, there are plenty of reasons to visit and explore this unique theme park. From thrilling rides to up-close animal encounters to immersive lands, there's something for everyone at Animal Kingdom. Happy Birthday, and here's to many more years of adventure and discovery!
If you would like to plan a trip with Elisabeth, please fill out the quote form here.
I am so excited to come see you guys. My daughter turned 7 on April 22nd. We will be there this weekend!