Opinions on Animal Kingdom can sometimes be divided. Many people mistakenly consider it a giant zoo, but this park offers much more than animal exhibits.
We’re talking top-tier thrill rides, Broadway-caliber shows, incredible interactive experiences, lush trails with up-close views of animals, immersive lands, and plenty of tasty treats – both sweet and savory – that make Animal Kingdom the total package as far as theme park experiences go.
In our humble opinion, Animal Kingdom is probably the most underrated park at Walt Disney World.
And yes, you could follow some advice and plan to visit only for a half-day to hit most of the big rides. But we consider this to truly be a full-day park if you want to experience it fully (and you should!).
Best Time to Visit
Animal Kingdom typically opens earlier than most other Disney parks, so it also closes earlier. Because of the early closing hours, many people start touring the park in the morning and leave hours before the park closes, making evening hours one of the best times to be here.
Sunsets, lower crowds, and the opportunity to experience Pandora after dark always make our nighttime visits to Animal Kingdom one of our favorite parts of the trip.
Important Note: This park is enormous and requires a lot of walking. Unlike Magic Kingdom, the layout can make backtracking difficult, so you’ll want to follow a solid itinerary so you don’t wear your feet out (or burn out the kids) by 11 a.m.
So, which attractions do you pick to make the most of your Animal Kingdom day? Luckily, there’s a huge variety ranging from Disney’s biggest coaster to an utterly unique safari experience (especially considering you’re in Orlando, Florida, and not the actual savannah).
Let’s dig into the best attractions at Animal Kingdom.
The Must-Do Rides
In this list, we’ve focused on the true rides in the park. Ranked in no particular order, we consider each one of these absolute musts for your visit!
Na’vi River Journey
First off, shame on all the people who say that this ride isn’t worth it. Please direct your cursor to the corner and leave our website now! Jokes aside, we freaking love Na’vi River Journey.
Immerse yourself on a dark boat ride through a bioluminescent Pandora forest that we find absolutely stunning. It is also next-level relaxing; it’s basically a mini-spa experience…on a boat. We say grab the Lightning Lane and don’t miss it!
Avatar Flight of Passage
Widely considered possibly the best ride in all of WDW, get ready to be “transformed” into your own Avatar and fly on the back of a banshee – 3D simulator-style – through gorgeous scenes across Pandora.
We’re not into major spoilers here, but this ride is next-level. It’s honestly a jaw-dropping experience, especially the first time you ride it. Don’t miss it. Buy the single Lightning Lane, or hit it last thing at night.
Kilimanjaro Safaris
Disney went all out when they created this one. Hop in an open-air ride vehicle and head out for a true 22-minute safari ride through the African Savannah. You will see giraffes, elephants, lions, and more, and it’s spectacular.
Pro Tip: If you’re visiting at a hotter time of year, go early in the morning or later in the evening. But our favorite way to do it? Go RIGHT after it rains to experience the most animal activity.
Kali River Rapids
We might not consider this one a true must-do, but if you’re visiting Animal Kingdom for the first time or are a lover of water rides, make sure it’s on your list!
This is a family-style raft ride through the jungle, and, fair warning, it can get turbulent. You should plan on getting wet but also be prepared for the possibility of getting SOAKED. And not the fun cooling-off kind, but the soggy underwear for 6+ hours kind (ask us how we know).
It’s very entertaining, though; everyone always cracks up during the entire ride!
Expedition Everest
Easily Disney’s most intense attraction, this ride brings serious thrills as you navigate the ups and downs of Mount Everest in an attempt to escape the legendary Yeti (who doesn’t care much for tourists).
This coaster has lots of literal and metaphorical twists and turns, and it’s a blast. Good luck riding it only once; everyone wants to “go again!!!” as soon as they’re off.
The Must-Do Attractions
Not your typical ride-style attraction, we still consider these Animal Kingdom offerings top knotch and must-dos for a great visit!
Festival of the Lion King
This is an incredible, Broadway-style show that tells the story of (you guessed it) The Lion King. We don’t know anyone who doesn’t like The Lion King, so we assume everyone will love it.
Kids will be entertained by all of the giant character puppets, and adults will be amazed at the acrobats. We have even been known to get full-body chills at some of the singing. Another one not to skip.
Pro Tip: This show can fill up during the busy seasons – you may want to secure a Lightning Lane if you’re using ‘em (if you have a free one) or grab your seat at least 30 minutes in advance. Also, the first and last shows of the day are the least crowded.
Zootopia: Better Zoogether!
This newer 3D show in the Tree of Life is quite zany and lively, but so was its predecessor, It’s Tough To Be a Bug. This is a quick and fun 10-minute show that typically you can just walk into (if it’s REALLY busy season, use a Lightning Lane or just know it might take 20 minutes of waiting for a show or two to cycle).
Because it’s fun for all ages, we say it’s a must-do!
Wilderness Explorers
More of an activity than attraction, this interactive adventure inspired by the movie Up encourages guests of all ages to explore Animal Kingdom while earning badges in wildlife education.
There are seven different signup locations throughout the park, and you’ll receive badges and learn about animals and plants as you go throughout the park. Super fun and a great distraction for younger ones, we even find this (free) activity great as adults!
Reminder
We did leave off a few things you’ll see on the attraction list at Animal Kingdom, but it’s worth noting that we love everything. We’re strictly listing what we consider the must-dos. So, if you want to see the Finding Nemo show or take the train to Rafiki’s Planet Watch, you should absolutely do so!
Animal Kingdom offers a unique blend of adventure, education, and entertainment that sets it apart from the other three Disney World parks.
It’s definitely more chill than the other parks, but we consider that a welcome change of pace and a good day. With all of the smallest thematic details and its immersive nature, it’s a park that grows on you and makes it great for revisiting again and again.
Have a blast at this beautiful park!
Be sure to check out similar guides to the best attractions at EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Magic Kingdom!