For this week's Travel Thursday, I explore my tips for the Animal Kingdom:


Quick Service Meal for Two: The Flaming Tree BBQ offers a great combination platter that can easily feed two people. It’s a bargain if you are on the Disney Dining Plan and even if you are not.

Single Rider Line: Expedition Everest has a single rider line that is a little tricky to find. As you are looking at the ride – go all the way to the building that houses the gift shop and look toward your left or just ask the staff person standing out front.

Air Conditioning (Nap) Breaks: Both the Festival of the Lion King show and the Finding Nemo the Musical shows are excellent and a great spot to cool off.

Characters: Adventurers’ Outpost is an indoor greeting area that hosts Mickey and Minnie and offers a Fast Pass. DinoLand and Discovery Island also have areas where Disney characters will be available.

Be Sure to Check Out:
  • The Dinosaur Play area – A great place for kids to run around.
  • If you are tired of navigating the crowds, take the Wildlife Express Train out to the Petting Zoo or go to the Flights of Wonder Show. It’s a nice break with some real animals.
  • Wilderness Explorers - Patterned after the Wilderness Explorers from the movie Up, this interactive adventure focuses on learning more about the animals and cultures featured in the Animal Kingdom. When you sign up, you receive a booklet highlighting 32 different badges. They discourage you from trying to get all the badges in one day. Throughout the Park, stations are marked with a symbol noting which badge you can receive at that station. The Wilderness Explorer guide will teach you a little bit about the animal or culture the badge is highlighting and then gives you a small challenge or question to complete. It's a great way to highlight all the animals and add an educational component to a fun day at the Animal Kingdom.
  • Kilimanjaro Safaris - This is a great ride through the African Safari. Take advantage of Animal Kingdom's evening hours and schedule a Fast Pass for sunset.