Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park

The basics

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park features wildlife from destinations all around the world, from Sumatran tigers to African elephants and flamingos. Aside from usual theme park attractions, this park also offers up-close and personal experiences with some of the world’s most fascinating creatures. Guests also have the option to book a privately-guided VIP expedition for entrancing encounters with animals.

Things to know before you go

• Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park is open daily, but hours vary by season.
• Wheelchairs and strollers can be brought from home or rented from all Walt Disney World parks, as well as Disney Springs®.
• Stroller wagons and strollers larger than 31 inches (79 centimeters) in width and 52 inches (132 centimeters) in length are not permitted.
• Arriving at the parks early in the day is recommended so as to avoid long attraction lines.
• To avoid long lines for food and beverages, many people use the My Disney Experience app to place a mobile food order.
• To visit other parks, use the complimentary network of buses

How to get there

Florida’s Interstate 4 and State Route 429 both have exits that lead into the parks of Walt Disney World® Resort. A vast majority of visitors arrive by car, though it’s also possible to get to the parks via Walt Disney World Bus Transportation.

When to get there

Since the park is a popular destination among families and their children, the busiest time of year is when school is not in session. So expect long lines when visiting during summer vacation, spring break, winter holidays, and other public holidays when schools are off. If you want to avoid large crowds and long lines, the best time to visit is midweek during the school year.

Popular attractions at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Disney’s Animal Kingdom® may be known for its wildlife but it’s also known for its selection of popular rides such as the DINOSAUR Attraction, which lets guests witness a prehistoric world where dinosaurs reigned. Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain® is a thrilling steel roller coaster that loops in and around a mountain protected by a Yeti. Fans of the movie Avatar have two enchanting options: Na’vi River Journey is a magical water ride filled with scenes and characters inspired by the movie, while Avatar Flight of Passage takes guests on a 3D flight over Pandora’s breathtaking landscapes.

Ways to explore

Aside from the classic theme park attractions, including roller coaster rides and character meet-and-greets, Animal Kingdom also offers guided safari tours, the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail, the Maharajah Jungle Trek®, and other thrilling wildlife encounters in the great outdoors.

There are multiple ways to plan a trip to Animal Kingdom. For the most straightforward option, book a single-day ticket for full-day access to the park. You can also upgrade your ticket to the Park Hopper and see multiple parks in one day, or get the 4-Day, 4-Park ticket, which includes one day at each park.

Accessibility

There is a range of accessible accommodations available, but not all rides or attractions are wheelchair-friendly.

Age limits

There are no age restrictions, although individual rides may have age, height, and/or weight restrictions.

What to pack

Backpack, water bottle, sun and rain protection, phone and charger

What to wear

Wear weather-appropriate layers and comfortable walking shoes; you’ll be spending a lot of time outside.

Not allowed

Smoking outside of designated areas, folding chairs, outside alcohol and glass bottles, selfie sticks and tripods

Amenities

Restaurants, shops, ATMs, restrooms

Address

Animal Kingdom is one of four parks located at Walt Disney World Resort, just southwest of Orlando, Florida. To get there, drive, take a taxi or rideshare, or prebook a private shuttle or other transport option.

Driving

Animal Kingdom is roughly 30 minutes by car southwest of Orlando via Interstate 4. Paid parking is provided on-site, and trams are available to take you from the parking lot to the main entrance.

Public transportation

From Orlando, take the LYNX 300 bus to the Transportation and Ticket Center. From there, it’s a roughly 10-minute walk to Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, where you’ll find Disney Transport buses to Animal Kingdom.

Best times to visit

Animal Kingdom is typically open daily, though visiting hours depend on the day and time of year. Generally, the park is open from midmorning to evening.

Best days to visit

The park can be crowded, particularly on weekends and holidays. Aim for a weekday visit in the off-season for a calmer experience.

Best months to visit

If you can, avoid visiting during the summer, when heat and crowds can make prolonged time outside uncomfortable. The spring or fall shoulder seasons can be a good alternative.

Special events

Animal Kingdom hosts special events throughout the year, including Up Close with Rhinos, the private Wild Africa Trek, Festival of the Lion King, and more.