Disney Attractions That Educate And Entertain

Walt Disney had a passion for learning and education, and this concept is still seen throughout the parks today. Many of Walt Disney’s early attractions and ideas came from a place of innovation, and “edutainment” was an important aspect for Disney attractions. Disney even planned an entire park surrounding the idea of “edutainment”, something that both entertains and educates. EPCOT’s original concept was a park that was full of knowledge and fun. While the original vision for EPCOT has changed, the idea of education and entertainment hasn’t. There are still several attractions throughout all 4 Disney parks that seek to educate and entertain at the same time. Let’s explore them together.

Kilimanjaro Safaris at Animal Kingdom

This attraction located in Disney’s Animal Kingdom provides guests with an excellent opportunity to learn about wild animals in a way that is up close and personal. Kilimanjaro Safaris is an African safari experience located within central Florida. Guests can observe animals in a habitat that very closely resembles their natural one, and with no obvious fences and barriers guests can see these animals as if they were still in the wild. You never know what you might see during your ride experience, as these animals can roam with some getting quite close to your ride vehicle. While you ride, a knowledgeable Cast Member drives your vehicle and tells you about each animal you encounter, detailing facts about the species and about conservation in general. This attraction is a wonderful experience for all guests, but especially for those who are interested in zoology.

Hall of Presidents at Magic Kingdom

Walt Disney was quite the patriot, and guests can see his love of America within Liberty Square at Magic Kingdom. Located within Liberty Square is The Hall of Presidents. This audio-animatronic show features every president in United States History and is updated during each election year. Guests can enjoy listening to the history of the United States from famous figures like Abraham Lincoln and George Washington. This show runs for about 25 minutes.

Living With the Land at EPCOT

Located in EPCOT, Living with the Land is an attraction that has gained popularity from its calm ride experience and interesting educational aspect. Living With the Land is located within The Land pavilion and is a boat ride attraction that takes guests through a working greenhouse and fish farm. This attraction showcases how EPCOT uses new technology and horticultural advances in order to supply fresh food and even fish to the Disney parks. This attraction also goes into detail about how humans work with the land, and different biomes and environments throughout the world.

Spaceship Earth at EPCOT

Also at EPCOT, Spaceship Earth is an attraction that resides within the iconic “EPCOT ball”. This slow-moving dark ride takes guests through the history of mankind, beginning at the discovery of fire and ending with space travel and the internet. Audio-animatronics and intricate scenery tell the story of our progress as a culture and a society. Guests can see famous scenes like the painting of the Sistine Chapel, and the first moon landing. At the end of the attraction, guests are invited to make their own future with interactive screens in their ride vehicles.

Do you enjoy attractions that educate as well as entertain? Let us know your favorite “edutainment” attraction at Disney World in the comments below!

Featured Photo: Emily Murray.