Disney’s Animal Kingdom is a park that celebrates our lives with animals and conservation, as well as adventure and the whimsy of nature. Animal Kingdom has seen quite a few changes throughout the years with the addition of Pandora: World of Avatar and Expedition Everest. This park has made a name for itself as a park that contains an equal amount of thrills as it does quiet moments. Many guests enjoy the newer attractions at Animal Kingdom, however several older attractions continue to entertain guests to this day. If you have an upcoming visit to Disney World then don’t skip the oldest attractions at Animal Kingdom.
The Affection Section and Conservation Station
Located in Rafiki’s Planet Watch, guests board a train that transports them to this attraction that has been operating since the park’s opening day. The Affection Section is an interactive petting zoo with goats, pigs, cows, and other animals that guests can pet, brush, and interact with. The animals at The Affection Section are able to choose whether or not they feel like being pet which keeps them happy and healthy.
Across from The Affection Section you’ll find Conservation Station. This building contains a food kitchen so guests can watch the animal’s foods being prepared, a veterinary care center with a viewing window, and other activities like The Animation Experience where guests can learn how to draw classic Disney characters from a Disney animator.
DINOSAUR
Another attraction that has been in operation since the park’s opening is DINOSAUR. This thrill-ride takes guests back in time as they seek to find a dinosaur just before extinction hits. This attraction features loud and scary dinosaurs, tight turns, sudden dips, and bumps. This attraction has a height requirement of 40 inches or taller.
Festival of the Lion King
Festival of the Lion King is an exciting Broadway-style stage show that celebrates the Lion King film and its music. This performances uses live actors, stuntpeople, audio-animatronics, and puppetry to tell the story of the Lion King like you’ve never seen before.
It’s Tough To Be A Bug
Located within The Tree of Life, this 3D show uses 4D effects to tell the story of what it is like to be a bug. Starring Flik and other characters from the film A Bug’s Life, It’s Tough to be a Bug is an experience that guests won’t soon forget. Parents of small children should be aware that some scenes of the show might be frightening to young children due to the darkness and the appearance of scary bugs like spiders.
Kilimanjaro Safaris
One of Animal Kingdom’s most popular attractions is also one of its oldest. Kilimanjaro Safaris is an incredibly large attraction, and was the first of its kind. This safari-ride through the African savanna is an incredible experience where guests can see animals like giraffes, elephants, antelope, lions, and more. The animals during the safari have free range so guests never know what they might see or how close an animal may come to road. This attraction is popular for a reason; don’t skip it!
How do you feel about Animal Kingdom’s oldest attractions? Which one is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below!
Featured Photo: Megan Woodard.
Written by
Megan Woodard
Contributing Writer
Megan was born into a Disney family. Her first trip to Disney World was when she was only 18 months old. Now as an adult, Megan loves to share the magic of Disney with her two toddlers. Keeping up with Disney news and Disney World knowledge is a fun hobby for Megan. Disney World is her favorite place to be and continuously brings back her childhood joy.
