10 Things We Would Not Think of Missing at Animal Kingdom

Animal Kingdom is an incredible park that allows Disney magic to meet conservation and environmental education. The entire park is incredible but this list of not to miss attractions and activities is a great starting point for planning your day in Animal Kingdom.

10. Browse the Awesome Shopping Around Animal Kingdom.

Animal Kingdom has unique shopping opportunities that will have you stopping at every stand to explore the goodies they have available. My favorite thing about Animal Kingdom shopping is the array of products they offer from the countries repented in the park. Handmade products from around the world that range from jewelry and scarves to headbands and wood carving are available for purchase in Animal Kingdom.

9. Ride Kilimanjaro Safari In Early Morning or Late Afternoon.

Kilimanjaro Safari is one of the most popular attractions in the park. It gives guests the opportunity to get pretty close to some incredible exotic wildlife from the comfort of a jeep tour. Giraffes, hippos, lions and cheetahs are just a few of the animals you will see on the safari. While this ride is certainly an experience not to miss, I would advise guests to head straight to the ride in the morning or save it for late afternoon. The animals tend to be more active in the morning and spend the heat of the day resting in a cooler place out of sight.

8. Enjoy Lunch at Flame Tree Barbeque.

The delicious smoky smell of Flame Tree Barbeque is hard to miss as guests meander into Dino Land U.S.A. The delicious smoked meat and sides at this restaurant are not to be missed. The hearty portion sizes make sharing an easy option. Then again, will you be willing to share something as delicious as barbeque during a busy day in the park?

7. Explore the Ride Que and Ride Expedition Everest.

Expedition Everest is one of the most thrilling rides at Walt Disney World with breath taking drops backward and forward along with a scary yeti on the run. One ride on Expedition Everest is never enough for me. The ride que for Everest is just as fun as the actual ride. My family enjoys reading information on the walls and exhibits about the wildlife and terrain of Nepal and seeing the climbing gear and artifacts that are exhibited in the ride line.

6. Get Dizzy On Primeval Whirl in Dino Land U.S.A.

This rough, twirling coaster is a fun option for both children and adults. The circular car allows four riders to twirl through the coaster track surrounded by funny dinosaurs counting down to a meteor collision and extinction. Primeval Whirl one of the roughest rides I have experienced at Walt Disney World so it may not be a great option for guests with neck or back problems. Despite the rough nature of the ride it is consistently a favorite and an Animal Kingdom must do for my family.

5. Enjoy a Snack at Yak and Yeti Café.

Yak and Yeti Café is a fun walk up option for Asian noodle and rice dishes. Stir fry beef and noodles are my favorite snack at Yak and Yeti. The portions are huge making this restaurant a great option for sharing and a wonderful value for families.

4. Take a Photo with the Tree of Life.

The Tree of Life is a beautiful symbol of all Animal Kingdom stands for and a hallmark of Disney fun. Disney Photopass Photographers are available to take guest photos in front of the tree. Be sure to snap at least one photo of your group with the Tree Of Life during your time in Animal Kingdom. Take a closer look at the animal carvings and intricate roots when you visit the attraction that is inside the Tree of Life.

3. Visit Its Tough to Be a Bug.

It’s Tough to Be a Bug is a fun 3D family show that showcases the tiniest members of the animal kingdom, insects! This attraction will leave you laughing at the antics of stinkbugs, ants and ladybugs along with an array of other insects that are on the big screen. The show is cool and dark making it the perfect place to stop for a break from the heat.

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2. Enjoy Festival of The Lion King.

Festival of The Lion King is my favorite Walt Disney World Show. The vocalists, acrobats, dancers and elaborate costumes in the show top any other Disney show for me. Think Broadway style show in the middle of the happiest place on earth and you have Festival of The Lion King. This show will leave you singing and tapping your toes as Simba and his gang sings your favorite songs from The Lion King movie.

1. Watch the New Rivers of Light Nighttime Light Show.

Rivers of Light will debut in later in spring 2016. While I have not yet had the opportunity to enjoy this attraction I know that it will be a chart topping must do for my family when we plan future visits to Animal Kingdom. This emotional and elaborate light show will bring even more life to the Tree of Life with animal movement and light up the water between Discovery Island and Asia in Animal Kingdom.

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