Animal Kingdom is yet
another incredible achievement from the Disney "Imagineers". They've
recreated a safari in the savanna, a modern African village and Dinosaurs all in one park.
Animal Kingdom will instill an appreciation for animals and the desire to learn about the
natural world.
Opened to the public in April 1998, Animal Kingdom is the
newest addition to Walt Disney World. In his dedication speech to Animal Kingdom, Michael
Eisner (the CEO of Disney) described the park as "... a kingdom of animals... real,
ancient and imagined". It includes the rides of an action theme park along
with stage shows, shopping, themed dining at the Rainforest Cafe and
of course, animals.
The park is designed much like the Magic Kingdom with a
central hub and other parks around it. The Hub is created by Safari Village, with
six other sections surrounding it. Many of the visitors services are located in this
section, with the remainder to be found in The Oasis, the entrance to the
park.
The Tree of Life is located in the center
of Safari Village. This beautiful, man-made tree has the images of over 300 animals carved
in it's trunk and branches. It also houses the exciting, It's Tough to be a Bug
presentation featuring the characters from Disney/Pixar's A Bug's Life. It's one
of the most exciting attractions in all of Disney!
Africa and Asia contain
most of the live animals. You should head to these areas in the early morning to see the
animals at their most active and to beat the large crowds. First time visitors to
Animal Kingdom will want to head to Africa at rope drop.
Africa contains the Kilimangaro Safaris, an
adventure through over 100 acres of grassland. This is Animal Kingdom's
signature ride and is best seen in the early morning. The heat of central
Florida makes the
animals rest in the shade for the hottest parts of the afternoon. You'll know the feeling.
Africa also is where you board
the train to the Conservation Station, a terrific resource for learning
about endangered animals and their environment. There's a small petting zoo and live
animal demonstrations along with information about conservation efforts going on in your
home town.
If you've had enough of live animals, you can see some
extinct ones in Dinoland USA. Among other attractions, this area features
The Boneyard, a large excavation area for kids and Countdown to
Extinction, a wild motion simulator ride.
Camp Minnie-Mickey is where some more
traditional Disney activities take place. Designed like a summer-camp in the woods, you
can follow trails to meet all your favorite Disney characters.
Camp Minnie-Mickey also has the Legend of the lion king
stage show. This outstanding production is one of the best live shows Disney has to offer.
Don't miss it!
ANIMAL KINGDOM
