Disney calls the Animal Kingdom "A New Species of Theme Park" and indeed it is. It is unlike any Disney park you have visited before.

While some critics and Disney fans have panned the park saying "there's not enough to do", we would have to call it a good park only getting better! We enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere and elaborate theming and lush tropical feel.

That was before the addition of both Primeval Whirl and Expedition Everest: both rollercoasters. One is a family mad mouse ride while the other is an adventurous trek thru the Asian mountains on a quest for the fabled Yeti. Everest features the largest drop of any coaster ever built by Disney and even sends passengers soaring through complete darkness... backwards!

Also of note, is Festival of the Lion King at Camp Minnie Mickey. It's a Broadway-style celebration of Simba and his jungle friends. Extravagant stunts and extraordinary music set this show apart from anything you'll ever see anywhere.

Africa Dinoland USA Asia The Oasis Camp Minnie-Mickey Safari Village Conservation Station

Mickey's Jammin' Jungle Parade

Click here for an Animal Kingdom Map

PARK FACTS

Size: More than 500 acres (the other 3 theme parks combined could fit into Disney's Animal Kingdom)

Parking: Enough for 6,000 cars

Project Announced: June 5, 1995

Construction Began: August 1995

Grand Opening: April 22, 1998

Animals: About 1,500, representing 250 species -- most acquired from zoos accredited by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association.

Landscaping: More than 4 million (3,000 species) trees, plants, shrubs, vines, grasses, ferns, etc.

Disney's Animal Kingdom Fun Facts