HAA Disney: Top 10 – Animal Kingdom – Happily Adventures After

Hey Howdy HAA Everyone!

Welcome back to Happily Adventures After! We’re thrilled to introduce our exciting new weekly series, “HAA Disney: Top 10”!

Welcome to our HAA Disney: Top 10 of Disney’s Animal Kingdom! Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Walt Disney World’s 4th and most expansive park. As Disney has noted, since its grand opening on Earth Day, April 22, 1998, Animal Kingdom has provided guests with an immersive experience that combines the magic of Disney with the beauty and awe of the natural world.

From thrilling attractions to breathtaking animal encounters, this park is a testament to Disney’s commitment to conservation and storytelling. This park marked a bold departure from Disney’s traditional theme park formula, introducing a mix of education and entertainment, known as “edutainment.” After the challenges faced by EPCOT, Disney was determined to ensure that Animal Kingdom would captivate audiences of all ages.

At 580 acres, Disney’s Animal Kingdom is not just the largest theme park in the world—it’s a haven for over 1,700 animals across 250 species. Whether you’re exploring the African Savannah on Kilimanjaro Safaris or trekking through Pandora – The World of Avatar, there’s something truly magical for everyone.

Here’s a Fun fact: One of the planned lands for Animal Kingdom, the mythical Beastly Kingdom, was unfortunately cut due to budget overruns. But the Imagineers behind it didn’t let their creativity go to waste—they took their talents to Universal Orlando, adding a little friendly competition to the Orlando theme park scene.

We can’t wait to take you on a journey through the wilds of Disney’s Animal Kingdom in our latest HAA Disney: Top 10. In no particular order, as Peter Pan himself would say, “Here we go!”

1. Maharajah Jungle Trek in Asia
This lush walking trail in Asia is a hidden gem. I love exploring the Anandapur Royal Forest’s ancient palaces and cascading waterfalls. It’s a peaceful, family-friendly trek where we enjoy spotting animals like tigers, gibbons, and even the elusive Komodo dragon. Despite my fear of birds, the vibrant aviary is a highlight. This tranquil escape from the park’s hustle is enhanced by knowledgeable Cast Members who share insights about the wildlife. It’s a serene experience I treasure with my family.

2. Kilimanjaro Safaris
We adore Kilimanjaro Safaris for its thrilling, ever-changing encounters with wildlife across diverse landscapes. From sunbathing lions to playful giraffes, each safari is unique. The exceptional guides and realistic setting make this a must-do. It’s a favorite because it feels like a real safari adventure, and we enjoy learning about the animals while spotting them through our guide.

3. Guest Relations at Animal Kingdom’s Front Entrance
Disney’s Guest Relations has consistently provided outstanding service. We’ve had countless positive experiences here, from resolving issues to providing detailed information. This location stands out for its exceptional customer service, and the Cast Members here always go the extra mile. One memorable instance involved helping a young girl find her lost notebook—an example of the remarkable care they offer.

4. Tusker House Restaurant Breakfast
Tusker House is our go-to for a fun, hearty breakfast buffet. We love the Mickey Waffles and the vibrant atmosphere, complete with character meet-and-greets. It’s also a strategic choice, allowing us to rope drop E-Ticket attractions like Avatar Flight of Passage. This meal is not only delicious but also a great way to start our Animal Kingdom day.

5. Holiday Offerings
Animal Kingdom’s holiday decorations are a highlight. From the towering Christmas tree to the festive Diwali lanterns, the park transforms into a magical wonderland. The Merry Menagerie with its charming animal puppets and the Tree of Life Awakenings projection show make the holidays even more special. I love how the park celebrates both Christmas and Diwali, adding a unique touch to our visits.

6. DinoLand USA Backstory
DinoLand USA’s backstory is a fun, imaginative tale that enhances the experience. The story of dinosaur discoveries and time-traveling tours adds depth to the area. We have many fond memories of Triceratops Spin and Dinosaur, and while Primeval Whirl was not my favorite, the overall charm of DinoLand makes it memorable.

7. Tree of Life
The Tree of Life is a stunning symbol of Animal Kingdom, with intricate animal carvings and a captivating 3-D show, It’s Tough to Be a Bug! I love how this iconic tree represents the park’s theme and provides a beautiful focal point. The craftsmanship is remarkable, making it a standout feature for me.

8. The Wildlife Express and Rafiki’s Planet Watch
The Wildlife Express Train and Rafiki’s Planet Watch offer a unique, educational experience. The train ride provides a charming view of backstage areas, while Rafiki’s Planet Watch showcases Disney’s conservation efforts. I enjoy the relaxing train ride and the chance to see animal care up close.

9. Kali River Rapids
Kali River Rapids is a blast, despite the usual critiques. I love the thrill and the memories it brings, like the time we got soaked with Minnie Mouse poncho saving the day. The ride’s conservation message adds depth to the fun, and it’s always a highlight for us, even if we end up drenched.

10. Anandapur Ice Cream Truck
The Anandapur Ice Cream Truck holds a special place in my heart. It’s where my family and I enjoy soft serve ice cream while people-watching near Expedition Everest. This little tradition adds a sweet touch to our park visits, making it a delightful stop. I can’t quite explain it, but this spot holds a special place in my heart. My mom and I love to grab soft serve (I go for vanilla, and she gets a swirl), along with a bottle of ice-cold water (yes, we know about refill stations, but sometimes you just need a cold drink!), and head over to Expedition Everest to people-watch. It’s become a fun tradition for us, watching adventurers face the Forbidden Mountain while enjoying our treats. It’s a perfect way to relax and savor delicious ice cream. I highly recommend this spot for both the treats and the people-watching experience! Just a heads-up: it’s all outdoor seating, so you might get wet if it rains.

Bonus!

I absolutely love the Festival of the Lion King. The live entertainment is phenomenal, with impressive sets, talented actors and dancers, and a top-notch performance. While I don’t see it every time, it’s definitely a must-see! I might be a bit biased since The Lion King is one of my favorite Disney films. Despite its excellence, both my mom and I find the theater can be hot and stuffy, which affects our experience (it triggers my chronic migraines, and my mom, although perfectly healthy, feels like she can’t breathe well). Nonetheless, I highly recommend catching this show—it’s truly excellent!

As we know, though Walt Disney’s original vision for a park dedicated to animals and conservation didn’t initially come to fruition, it laid the foundation for what we now know as Disney’s Animal Kingdom—a place where the magic of nature meets the wonder of Disney storytelling. With its unique blend of thrilling attractions, live performances, and breathtaking landscapes, Animal Kingdom celebrates the beauty and diversity of our planet.