Disney’s Animal Kingdom might be the Walt Disney World Park that opens the earliest, but it is also the theme park that closes its door first each evening. As a result, many consider Animal Kingdom to be a half-day park, utilizing their park-hopper tickets to enjoy the offerings at another Disney Park, stroll around Disney Springs, or relax at their resort pool.
While I am a firm believer that Animal Kingdom is truly a full-day park, there is no denying that many of the park’s activities close at or even before 5:00PM. These include all activities at Rafiki’s Planet Watch, both indoor and outdoor shows, Wilderness Explorer kiosks, many animal exhibits and treks, and most character sightings and meet-and-greets. If you are now wondering, “Well, what IS there to do in the evenings at Animal Kingdom,” you will find the answers below.
1. Meet Mickey and Minnie
The queue to meet Mickey and Minnie Mouse on Discovery Island typically stays open until 6:00PM each day. This allows you to prioritize meeting Moana and the many characters found DinoLand U.S.A. earlier in the day.
2. Play in The Boneyard
Speaking of DinoLand U.S.A., did you know that The Boneyard Fossil Fun Site remains open until park closing? This dinosaur-themed playground and dig area is a wonderful way to unwind at the end of a busy day. While it is somewhat shaded, it will also feel a little more comfortable to play and supervise the younger members of your travel party after the heat of the day has subsided. It is well-lit and a safe place to play all day long!
3. Make a Dinner Reservation
Animal Kingdom has undoubtedly some of the best park food in Walt Disney World. Instead of grabbing something quick, take the time to enjoy a delicious meal at a table service restaurant. Yak and Yeti serves pan-Asian food along with American favorites in a beautiful Nepal-inspired setting. Tusker House continues its all-day character dining with a dinner buffet where you’ll have the opportunity to meet Mickey, Donald, Daisy, and Goofy. Tiffins offers an upscale menu in a fine dining environment paying homage to world travel with a focus on Africa and Asia. There is even a Rainforest Café situated near the park entrance! All of the above-named restaurants tend to be popular choices, so advanced reservations are recommended, but check the My Disney Experience app or visit the hostess stand for the opportunity to join the walk-up list if you are unable to secure a reservation before your park visit.
4. Ride Attractions
With the exception of Kilimanjaro Safaris which normally closes its queue between 5:00-6:00PM, the remainder of Animal Kingdom’s exciting attractions stay open through park closing. This includes Expedition Everest, Kali River Rapids, TriceraTop Spin, DINOSAUR, It’s Tough to be a Bug!, and the crowd-pleasing Na’vi River Journey and Avatar Flight of Passage. The land of Pandora is impressive during the day and at night, so after hopping on your favorite ride, take time in the evening to explore the stunning scenery and waterfalls.
5. View Tree of Life Awakenings Show
The Tree of Life is extraordinary; its beauty makes you stop in your tracks. If you stay at Disney’s Animal Kingdom until sunset, you’ll have the opportunity to view a light projection show on this remarkable park icon. Tree of Life Awakenings occurs approximately every 10 minutes beginning at dark until the park closes. While short in duration, viewing the beautiful musical imagery is a must-do for all-day guests.
While at first glance it may seem that Disney’s Animal Kingdom begins to wind down its offerings mid-afternoon, with careful planning and a little strategy you’ll be able to fill the entire day’s itinerary with exciting and unique activities at this immersive Walt Disney World Park. What is your favorite thing to do in the evening at Animal Kingdom? Tell us in the comments below!
Featured Photo: Emily Murray.
Written by
Shelley Wehler
Contributing Writer
Shelley is a stay-at-home mother of two girls living outside of Charlotte, North Carolina. Her love of all things Disney has grown even more as she sees the magic come alive through the lens of her young daughters. She spends her free time keeping up with the latest in Disney news and daydreaming of her next trip to the parks!
