Plan a Visit to Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park
At Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, which is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, you and your family can take an incredible safari adventure through an amazing landscape, watch exotic animals in their native habitats, view fantastic live shows such as Festival of the Lion King and enjoy thrilling attractions like Expedition Everest. Disney’s Animal Kingdom, which opened on Earth Day, April 22, 1998, as the fourth theme park at Walt Disney World Resort (behind Disney’s Magic Kingdom Park, Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios), draws an estimated 9.6 million visitors annually.
At the dedication of Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park in 1998, Michael Eisner, former CEO of The Walt Disney World Company, remarked: "Welcome to the kingdom of animals . . . real, ancient and imagined: a kingdom ruled by lions, dinosaurs and dragons; a kingdom of balance, harmony and survival; a kingdom we enter to share in the wonder, gaze at the beauty, thrill at the drama, and learn."
Encompassing more than 500 acres, Disney’s Animal Kingdom is the largest theme park at Walt Disney World Resort. Disney’s Animal Kingdom consists of the following areas: Oasis, Camp Minnie-Mickey, Discovery Island, Africa, Rafiki’s Planet Watch, Asia and DinoLand USA. Highlights of Disney’s Animal Kingdom include Expedition Everest, an amazing ride that blends roller coaster-like thrills with a theme based on the folklore of the mysterious yet; Kali River Rapids, a wild rafting adventure along the scenic Chakranadi River; Kilimanjaro Safaris, a jeep adventure into the heart of Africa full of exotic wildlife; Festival of the Lion King, a fantastic production that boasts characters and hit songs from Disney’s animated film, The Lion King; and Mickey’s Jammin’ Jungle Parade, a lively musical street party. Stroll around the trails that wind toward the Tree of Life, the theme park’s 50-foot-wide icon that boasts more than 300 animal carvings.
Choose from a variety of dining opportunities at Disney's Animal Kingdom such as Rainforest Cafe, Restaurantosaurus and Tusker House Restaurant & Bakery. Other Animal Kingdom eateries include Ananadapur Ice Cream, Camp Soft Serve, Chakranadi Chicken Shop, Dawa Bar, Dino Bite Snacks, Flame Tree Barbecue, Harambe Fruit Market, Harambe Popcorn, Kusafiri Coffee Shop & Bakery, PetriFries, Safari Barbecue, Safari Coffee, Safari Popcorn and Tamu Tamu Refreshments. For fine dining, check out Jiko - The Cooking Place or Boma, both of which are located at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge. Reservations are strongly recommended for both Boma and Jiko - The Cooking Place.
Shopping for souvenirs at Disney's Animal Kingdom? Look no farther than the following Animal Kingdom shops: Beastly Bazaar, Chester & Hester's Dinosaur Treasures, Creature Comforts, The Dino Institute Shop, Disney Outfitters, Duka la Filimu, Garden Gate Gifts, Island Mercantile, Mandala Gifts, Mombasa Marketplace/Ziwani Traders, Out of the World and Outpost.
If you plan on visiting Disney's Animal Kingdom during the holidays, don't miss Mickey's Jingle Jungle Parade! Join Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck, Minnie Mouse, Goofy and other popular Disney characters during this lively and colorful parade. Mickey's Jingle Jungle Parade, which takes place from late November through early January, boasts great holiday music and eclectic holiday decorations.
Ideally located in the Southwest corner of Walt Disney World Resort, Disney’s Animal Kingdom is easily accessible via Interstate 4, Highway 192 and Highway 429. Disney’s Animal Kingdom also lies just West of Florida’s Turnpike and within a 30-minute drive Southwest of downtown Orlando. Disney’s Animal Kingdom is open daily at 9 AM; closing hours are seasonal, so always check hours online before visiting Walt Disney World Resort.
Seeking the latest specials on spacious accommodations that provide convenient access to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park? Check out Westgate Resort properties at www.westgatedestinations.com today!
Orlando to Host NBA All-Star 2012 The most magical week in sports is returning to Orlando for the second time, as the city has been selected to host NBA All-Star 2012. Orlando also hosted the 1992 All-Star Game. The 61st NBA All-Star Game will be played on Sunday, Feb. 26, at the Amway Center, which will also host the T-Mobile Rookie [...]
Walt Disney: Motivational Speaker In addition to being an innovator, visionary and genius, Walt Disney was one heck of a motivational speaker! Below are 10 of my favorite Walt Disney quotes: “All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them.” “The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing.” “We are [...]
Celebrate LEGOLAND Florida’s First Christmas LEGOLAND Florida is getting into the holiday spirit with the first annual Christmas Bricktacular. Festive decorations and sounds of the season will fill The Beginning and Fun Town through the holidays, Dec. 8-31, followed by Kids’ New Year’s Eve on Dec. 31. With more than 50 rides, shows and attractions all dedicated to families with [...]
Call Today for Westgate’s Cyber Monday Deal! Buy 2 Nights, Get the 3rd Night Free!
Must stay 3 nights. Must book on Cyber Monday (November 28, 2011) only for travel thru December 21, 2012. Offer is subject to black-out dates and rate plan availability. Normal deposit and cancellation policies app...
Westgate Resorts: Cyber Monday Deal! Cyber Monday Deal Buy 2 Nights, Get the 3rd Night Free! Must stay 3 nights. Must book on Cyber Monday (November 28, 2011) only for travel thru December 21, 2012. Offer is subject to black-out dates and rate plan availability. Normal deposit and cancellation policies apply. Offer is valid for participating properties only. For more [...]
Westgate Resorts: Black Friday Special! Black Friday Special Stay 2 nights for as low as $139 for entire stay (excluding taxes and resort fees). Studio $139 ($69.50 per night) 1 Bedroom $179 ($89.50 per night) 2 Bedroom $209 ($104.50 per night) Must book on Black Friday (November 25, 2011) only for travel thru December 21, 2012. Offer is subject to [...]
