5 Hidden Places to Cool Down at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Disney’s Animal Kingdom is an incredibly large park that is filled with attractions and wonderful things to discover. One of the reasons why Animal Kingdom is so unique is because of its many pathways and places to explore. Not only will guests find animals during their visit, but they will also discover nature and culture. Because of Animal Kingdom’s size and lush foliage, it tends to become quite hot. If you find yourself at Animal Kingdom and are in need of a quick break then check out these 5 hidden places to cool down at Disney’s Animal Kingdom!

1. Picnic Tables Near Trilo-Bites

As you make your way toward DinoLand U.S.A. you’ll come across Trilo-Bites. This snack stand serves up delicious snacks like Buffalo Chicken Chips, churros, and Dole Whip Orange soft serve. After you grab your snack, walk to the left and you’ll find our first hidden cool-down location. There are several picnic tables that are perfectly placed under shady trees. This is a great place to stop for a snack and cool off in the shade while you recharge for the rest of the day. Isle of Java, another snack location serving specialty coffee drinks and pastries, is also nearby if you are in the mood for a caffeine break!

2. The Boneyard Dig Site

If you have children then you’ll love our next hidden gem spot. After entering DinoLand U.S.A. you’ll come across The Boneyard, a massive play area for kids. There are play structures at The Boneyard that are suitable for kids of all ages and sizes, however the best spot here for cooling down is the Dig Site. When you enter The Boneyard, walk up the stairs near the large play structure. Walk across the Dino bridge and you’ll find the Dig Site. This area is covered with a canopy and has several large fans blowing. Kids can dig for dinosaur bones and grown-ups can relax and watch nearby. Both kids and adults will have a blast cooling off here!

3. Under the Giant Dino at DinoLand U.S.A.

There is a great hidden area to cool down as you make your way through the end of DinoLand U.S.A. Do you see the giant blue brachiosaurus smiling down on you as you exit? Walk under this statue and have a seat on the large ledges near her feet. Not only are you covered from the sun by the Dino but you’ll also catch a lovely breeze! This cool down spot is great if you are waiting on family to finish in the restroom or simply taking a rest before continuing to explore the rest of the park.

4. In the Otter Exhibit

Needing a quick place to cool down while walking through Discovery Island? Find the Asian Small-Clawed Otter exhibit! This exhibit has a portion that goes in-ground so guests can view the otters swimming in their enclosure. As you make your way toward the back of this area you’ll find a large blowing fan and a bench. This is a great place to stop and watch the cute otters while also cooling off!

5. Conservation Station

While not exactly “hidden”, it is true that many guests skip Animal Kingdom’s Conservation Station. In order to get to the Conservation Station guests must first board the train near Kilimanjaro Safaris to Rafiki’s Planet Watch. The train itself is a good way to cool down, but once guests disembark and walk to the Conservation Station they will be greeted with a great cooldown opportunity. Inside, guests can witness animal care up close. Animal nutritionists are onsite to answer questions about the animals’ diets, the veterinary care center is available for viewing, as well as the science center. The Conservation Station is a great indoor location for catching some AC while still experiencing attractions!

Do you know of any more hidden places to cool down at Animal Kingdom? Let us know in the comments below!

Featured Photo: Megan Woodard