Discover the best things to do at Disney's Animal Kingdom, from thrilling rides to incredible animal encounters, live shows, and expert planning tips.

Disney's Animal Kingdom is unlike any other theme park in the world. While many guests visit expecting a zoo with a few rides, they quickly discover a breathtaking park filled with immersive lands, incredible attractions, live entertainment, and unforgettable animal encounters.

In fact, some of the best experiences at Animal Kingdom aren't rides at all.

As a Disney Travel Agent, I often hear guests ask, "Can we really spend a full day at Animal Kingdom?" My answer is always yes—especially if you slow down and experience everything this park has to offer.

This guide covers the very best things to do at Animal Kingdom, including rides, shows, walking trails, dining, and hidden gems that many visitors miss.

In This Guide You'll Discover

✔ Best rides

✔ Best attractions for families

✔ Best things to do with toddlers

✔ Best animal experiences

✔ Best live shows

✔ Hidden gems

✔ Rope drop strategy

✔ Lightning Lane recommendations

✔ Insider planning tips

✨ FREE Disney Vacation Planning

Booking your Disney vacation through me costs you nothing extra—but you'll receive personalized planning, customized itineraries, Lightning Lane strategies, dining recommendations, and expert support before and during your vacation.

Top 10 Things to Do at Animal Kingdom

Best Rides at Animal Kingdom

If attractions are your priority, these are the must-do rides.

(MAKE CHART)

Best Attractions for Families

Families with a mix of ages will enjoy:

• Kilimanjaro Safaris

• Festival of the Lion King

• Na'vi River Journey

• Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail

• Maharajah Jungle Trek

• Wildlife Express Train

• Affection Section at Rafiki's Planet Watch

These experiences are enjoyable without requiring everyone to meet height restrictions.

Best Things to Do with Toddlers

Animal Kingdom is surprisingly great for young children.

Top toddler-friendly experiences include:

• Kilimanjaro Safaris

• Na'vi River Journey

• Affection Section petting zoo

• Wildlife Express Train

• Gorilla Falls Trail

• Maharajah Jungle Trek

• Festival of the Lion King

• Finding Nemo: The Big Blue... and Beyond!

• Wilderness Explorers scavenger hunt

Related Reading: Disney World with Toddlers Guide and Best Disney World Hotels for Families.

Hidden Gems You Shouldn't Miss

Best Attractions to Rope Drop

Arrive before park opening and head to:

1. Avatar Flight of Passage

2. Na'vi River Journey

3. Kilimanjaro Safaris

4. Expedition Everest

5. DINOSAUR

For a complete touring strategy, read my Animal Kingdom One-Day Itinerary.

Which Attractions Are Worth Lightning Lane?

These experiences typically provide the biggest time savings:

• Avatar Flight of Passage

• Kilimanjaro Safaris

• Expedition Everest

• Na'vi River Journey

• DINOSAUR

Related Reading: Complete Guide to Lightning Lane and Is Lightning Lane Worth It?

Beyond the Attractions: Don't Miss These Animal Kingdom Experiences

One of the biggest mistakes first-time visitors make is treating Animal Kingdom like a ride-focused park. Some of its most memorable experiences happen when you slow down and explore.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Animal Kingdom a full-day park?

Absolutely. Between rides, animal exhibits, walking trails, live shows, dining, and immersive lands like Pandora, many guests easily spend an entire day exploring the park.

What is the best ride at Animal Kingdom?

Avatar Flight of Passage is widely considered the best attraction thanks to its immersive technology and emotional storytelling.

Is Animal Kingdom good for toddlers?

Yes! Attractions like Kilimanjaro Safaris, Na'vi River Journey, Festival of the Lion King, and the walking trails make it an excellent park for young children.

Should I buy Lightning Lane for Animal Kingdom?

If you're visiting during a busy season or have limited time, Lightning Lane can be especially valuable for Avatar Flight of Passage and Kilimanjaro Safaris.

Let Me Help You Plan the Perfect Animal Kingdom Day

Animal Kingdom rewards thoughtful planning. Knowing when to ride, when to watch a show, and when to explore the trails can completely change your experience.

As your Disney Travel Agent, I'll help you build a personalized itinerary that matches your family's interests and touring style—all at no additional cost.

My complimentary planning services include:

• Personalized resort recommendations

• Custom daily touring plans

• Lightning Lane guidance

• Dining reservation assistance

• Budget planning

• Ongoing support before and during your vacation

Whether you're dreaming of flying over Pandora, spotting giraffes on safari, or watching the Festival of the Lion King, I'll help you make every moment count.

✨ Ready to start planning? Contact me today for FREE Disney vacation planning services, and let's create your perfect Animal Kingdom adventure!

Continue the Series

Planning to visit all four Walt Disney World theme parks? Be sure to check out the rest of this ride ranking series:

• Best Rides at Magic Kingdom (Ranked)

• Best Rides at EPCOT (Ranked)

• Best Rides at Hollywood Studios (Ranked)

Together, these guides will help you prioritize the top attractions in every park and build a touring strategy that saves time while maximizing the magic.

Save This Disney Vacation Guide on Pinterest

Trying to decide if you want to travel on a Disney cruise or to Disney World? Save this guide on Pinterest so you can reference it while planning your vacation.

Grab These Free Disney Planning Resources:

• Ultimate Disney Planning Checklist

• Disney Budget Planner

• Lightning Lane Strategy Guide

• Disney Resort Comparison Guide

Ready to plan your dream Disney vacation?

Our expert Disney travel planners can help you customize your itinerary, book dining, and secure the best experiences—completely stress-free. Fill out my free no-obligation quote request form below or email me at bayley@storybookshorestravel.com

As a travel advisor specializing in Disney vacations, I help families:

• choose the best Disney resorts,

• create custom itineraries,

• secure dining reservations,

• understand Lightning Lane strategy,

• and simplify the entire planning process.

If you’re ready to start planning your Disney vacation, I’d love to help make the process stress-free and magical.

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