Disney's Animal Kingdom
Disney Parks · Lake Buena Vista, FL
About this park
A unique blend of zoological park and immersive storytelling, and the largest Disney theme park in the world. Real animal habitats sit alongside major thrill rides and richly themed lands including Africa, Asia, and Pandora – The World of Avatar. The park's focus on nature, wildlife, and conservation creates an experience unlike any other Disney gate.
Highlights
- Kilimanjaro Safaris with free-roaming animals across an expansive savanna
- Pandora – The World of Avatar, one of the most immersive themed lands ever built
- Expedition Everest and Avatar Flight of Passage for thrill seekers
- Walking trails and animal encounters woven throughout every land
- Best park for early-morning touring when animals are most active
Fun facts
- Opened on Earth Day (April 22, 1998), reflecting its conservation-first mission.
- The Tree of Life is not a real tree — it's built on a repurposed oil rig platform, with more than 300 animal carvings hand-sculpted into its trunk and roots.
- Disney planted over 40,000 trees and four million shrubs before opening day to create naturalistic habitats.
- At roughly 580 acres, Animal Kingdom is the largest Disney theme park in the world — more than double the size of Magic Kingdom.
- Expedition Everest was once the most expensive roller coaster ever built, costing an estimated $100 million.
Attractions (17)
7 rides · 5 shows · 5 experiences
- Affection Section
- Avatar Flight of Passage
- Conservation Station
- Discovery Island Trails
- Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain
- Feathered Friends in Flight!
- Festival of the Lion King
- Finding Nemo: The Big Blue... and Beyond!
- Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail
- Kali River Rapids
- Kilimanjaro Safaris
- Maharajah Jungle Trek
- Na'vi River Journey
- Tree of Life Awakenings
- Wildlife Express Train
- Winged Encounters – The Kingdom Takes Flight
- Zootopia: Better Zoogether!
Retired attractions (6)
Parks are always evolving, always innovating, always improving. When it’s time to make room for new amazement, saying goodbye to old favorites is never easy. Here’s a look back at some beloved rides, shows and attractions from the past.