The Baby Care Center is located immediately inside the park, just to the left after you enter, near Guest Relations. It's a great place for diaper changes, nursing, feeding, and a quiet break with little ones.

Yes! You can find FuelRod kiosks at Celebrity 5 & 10 (near the front of the park) and in the gift shop near Tower of Terror. Purchase a FuelRod or swap it for a freshly charged one anytime you need it.

Hollywood Studios offers Rider Switch at rides with height requirements or more intense experiences. This includes Slinky Dog Dash, Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, and Tower of Terror. Be sure to ask the Cast Member at the ride entrance for help setting it up.

Yes! Hollywood Studios has some amazing character experiences, including Disney Junior friends, Star Wars characters, Toy Story pals, and more. You can check who’s out and where by using the “Characters” filter on the My Disney Experience app. Character meet-and-greets are listed with times and locations throughout the day.

Hollywood Studios does not have traditional splash pads or playgrounds like some of the other parks. Plan for lots of walking and seated shows to give little legs a break!

If you need a calmer break, head to the shaded courtyard area near Echo Lake, or relax while watching a show like Frozen Sing-Along Celebration or MuppetVision 3D. Both are air-conditioned and lower energy compared to racing around rides.

The best place to go with a napping child in a stroller is Star Wars Launch Bay. There's A/C, low crowds and benches with dim lighting.

If your family can stay up for it, Fantasmic! is a spectacular nighttime show combining fireworks, characters, and water effects. Seats can fill up early, so try to arrive about 45 minutes before showtime if you want a good view. It’s especially magical for older kids and adults.

Yes! Many quick-service restaurants offer Mobile Order through the My Disney Experience app. Popular spots include Woody’s Lunch Box, Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo, ABC Commissary, and Backlot Express. It’s highly recommended to place your order early in the day, especially around peak lunch and dinner times.

Yes, there are several. Oga’s Cantina in Galaxy’s Edge is the most popular (reservations strongly recommended). Baseline Tap House offers craft beers and small bites. There are also lounge-style areas at 50’s Prime Time Café and Hollywood Brown Derby.

Hollywood Brown Derby is considered the signature dining experience, but 50’s Prime Time Café and Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater are also guest favorites for fun, themed meals.

Here's the full list of your sit-down dining options & their highlights:

1. Hollywood Brown Derby

• Signature dining (upscale, fine dining vibe)

• Famous for the Cobb Salad and Grapefruit Cake

• Great spot for a quieter, elegant meal

2. 50’s Prime Time Café

• Retro 1950s home-style kitchen theme

• Comfort food like fried chicken, meatloaf, and pot roast

• Servers stay “in character” and playfully remind you to mind your manners

3. Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant

• Dine in booths shaped like vintage cars under a "night sky"

• Watch old sci-fi movie clips while you eat

• Burgers, milkshakes, and classic American fare

4. Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano

• Cozy, slightly hidden Italian restaurant

• Pasta dishes, steak, chicken parm, and more

• Great option for comfort food in a more casual setting

5. Roundup Rodeo BBQ

• Newer restaurant inside Toy Story Land

• Family-style, all-you-care-to-enjoy BBQ

• Themed to feel like you’re dining inside one of Andy’s homemade creations

Bonus Sit-Down Options (with caveats):

Hollywood & Vine

• Character dining experience

• Breakfast features Disney Junior friends

• Lunch and dinner usually feature Minnie Mouse and seasonal events (ex: Halloween, Christmas, Spring themes)

• Buffet-style meal

Oga’s Cantina (Kind of sit-down)

• Lounge inside Galaxy’s Edge (Star Wars land)

• Reservations highly recommended

• Mostly drinks and small snacks, very limited food menu

• Time limits apply (usually 45 minutes)

Mobile ordering is a lifesaver — and lots of spots at Animal Kingdom offer it! Here’s a quick list:

• Satu’li Canteen (Pandora) — The best quick service in the park. Healthy, customizable bowls.

• Flame Tree Barbecue (Discovery Island) — Huge portions of BBQ favorites and seating by the water.

• Restaurantosaurus (DinoLand U.S.A.) — Classic burgers, fries, and even a create-your-own sundae bar.

• Harambe Market (Africa) — African-inspired quick bites in an open-air market setting.

• Yak & Yeti Local Food Cafes (Asia) — Asian-style quick eats like honey chicken and fried rice.

Pro Tip: Order EARLY (like before 11AM) even if you plan to eat later — pick your return time and skip the crazy lunchtime lines.

Yes, but it’s a little different than other Disney parks! Animal Kingdom’s bars are mostly walk-up counters, woven beautifully into the natural theming. Here are the best spots:

• Nomad Lounge (Discovery Island): The best lounge in the park! Beautiful indoor and outdoor seating with craft cocktails and small plates. Located right outside Pandora, it’s a relaxing hidden gem. Pro Tip: Get the churros — trust me.

• Dawa Bar (Africa, near Tusker House): An open-air bar featuring African beers, specialty cocktails like the African Margarita, and shaded spots to sit.

• Thirsty River Bar (Asia, near Expedition Everest): Perfect for grabbing an Everest-themed drink (like the Yeti Sunset!) as you roam.

• Pongu Pongu (Pandora): Home of the famous Night Blossom slushy (non-alcoholic) and the Rum Blossom (for adults). A must-try!

Arrive early and use Lighting Lane Multi Pass strategically.

Book a Lightning Lane for popular attractions like Flight of Passage and Kilimanjaro Safaris.

Pro Tip: Consider going to Pandora or Africa first when the park opens to avoid the mid-morning rush.

Yes! Animal Kingdom has FuelRod kiosks where you can either buy a portable charger ($30 one-time fee) or swap your used FuelRod for a fully charged one at no extra cost.

You can find FuelRod stations at:

• Island Mercantile (Discovery Island) — near the entrance

• Windtraders (Pandora – The World of Avatar) — inside the gift shop after Flight of Passage

• Garden Gate Gifts (near the park entrance, next to the Rainforest Cafe exit)

Other charging tips:

• Some quick-service restaurants (like Satu’li Canteen and Restaurantosaurus) have indoor seating with outlets you can discreetly use while dining.

• Pack your own portable charger — heavy app usage (Genie+, mobile ordering, maps, etc.) drains your battery fast!

• Lower your screen brightness and close unused apps to save battery life during the day.

Pro Tip:

Swap your FuelRod as often as you need! If your phone drains fast with heavy Genie+ use (which it often does), these kiosks are lifesavers for keeping you powered up without needing to stop for long.

Capture the magic at Animal Kingdom with Disney PhotoPass! Whether you’re visiting for the first time or you’re a seasoned Disney pro, PhotoPass is an incredible way to make sure you don’t miss a single magical moment. Here’s everything you need to know about using PhotoPass at Animal Kingdom:

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What is PhotoPass?

Disney’s PhotoPass service allows you to have professional photos taken by Disney photographers throughout the park. These photographers are stationed at key locations, such as iconic landmarks, character meet-and-greets, and even during certain attractions. All the photos are automatically linked to your My Disney Experience account, so you can easily access, download, and share them.

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How to Get Started with PhotoPass

1. Activate PhotoPass

- You can purchase Memory Maker (which includes unlimited downloads of your photos) in advance or once you arrive at the park.

- Once activated, Disney photographers will scan your MagicBand or admission card at every photo spot to link the photos to your account.

2. Download the My Disney Experience App

- If you haven’t already, download the My Disney Experience app from the app store. This app is essential for viewing, downloading, and sharing your photos throughout the day.

3. Locate Disney Photographers

- Disney photographers are stationed at key spots throughout Animal Kingdom. Look out for photographers in iconic locations like:

- Tree of Life (Discovery Island)

- Pandora – The World of Avatar (especially near Flight of Passage)

- Expedition Everest (near the entrance and by the bridge)

- Kilimanjaro Safaris (at the entrance to the ride and in Africa)

- Character meet-and-greets (like Mickey & Minnie at Adventurers Outpost)

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How to Get Your Photos

- After your photo is taken, the Disney photographer will scan your MagicBand or park ticket to link the photo to your account.

- Check My Disney Experience App: You’ll find all of your photos in the Photos section of the app.

- It may take a few minutes for photos to appear in your account, but you’ll get notifications when they are available.

- Download Your Photos:

- If you’ve purchased Memory Maker, you can download your photos for free right from the app.

- If you don’t have Memory Maker, you can still purchase individual photos from the app or website.

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Where to Find PhotoPass Opportunities at Animal Kingdom

Here are some key spots to find Disney PhotoPass photographers at Animal Kingdom:

- Tree of Life:

- Perfect photo op in front of the iconic Tree of Life, with its amazing carvings of animals. Look for photographers here in the morning and late afternoon when the lighting is just right!

- Pandora – The World of Avatar:

- Get your photo taken in front of the floating mountains or by Pongu Pongu (the perfect spot for a magical shot).

- Don’t forget the photo opportunity by the Shaman of Songs (outside Na'vi River Journey).

- Expedition Everest:

- Perfect for a thrill-seeker photo before or after your ride. Capture the excitement of the ride or take a family shot by the Expedition Everest sign.

- Africa (Kilimanjaro Safaris):

- Snap family photos with the authentic African architecture as your backdrop.

- Character meet-and-greets also happen here, with Disney photographers ready to snap a few memories.

- DinoLand U.S.A.:

- Look for fun photo opportunities by the Dinosaur fossil sculptures and TriceraTop Spin.

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Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your PhotoPass Experience

1. Don’t Skip the Character Photos!

- While in the park, make sure to stop by the character meet-and-greets. Disney photographers will take professional shots that make for amazing family mementos. Check the My Disney Experience app for character locations and wait times.

2. Look for Magic Shots

- Some photographers will capture "Magic Shots." These are photos where magical characters, icons, or effects are added to your picture afterward. For example, you might hold out your hand and see Tinker Bell appear! Ask your photographer if a Magic Shot is available!

3. Ask for a Family Photo

- Don’t be shy! Ask the photographer for a group shot or a family portrait. They’ll make sure you’re positioned in a way that gets the best shot.

4. Take Advantage of Memory Maker

- Memory Maker is the way to go if you plan on taking a lot of photos. With this, you can download all of your photos, including ride photos, and share them with your family or friends. It’s well worth it for families who want to make sure all of their memories are captured.

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PhotoPass and Ride Photos

Some attractions, like Expedition Everest, Kilimanjaro Safaris, and Avatar Flight of Passage, will capture ride photos of you while you’re on the ride! Don’t forget to ask for the photo when you exit the ride. You can link these photos to your Memory Maker if you’ve purchased it.

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Can I Use PhotoPass at Other Parks?

Yes! Your Disney PhotoPass photos are linked to your My Disney Experience account across all of the Disney parks, so you can use it at Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and Hollywood Studios as well.

- Simply visit each park’s designated photo spots, and you’ll have photos waiting for you on the app.

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By using PhotoPass, you’ll be able to preserve your memories from Animal Kingdom and all of Disney World in a way that is professional, seamless, and easy to share with loved ones. Make sure to stop by PhotoPass locations throughout the park and take advantage of these opportunities — you’ll be glad you did!

Yes, Animal Kingdom celebrates several seasonal events throughout the year! Here's what you can look forward to:

• Holidays at Animal Kingdom (November - January)
  

  • The park gets into the holiday spirit with Tree of Life Awakenings, a magical nighttime projection show on the Tree of Life that’s full of vibrant colors and winter themes.

  • Merry Menagerie in Discovery Island features life-sized animal puppets in the style of winter-themed animals.

  • Festive dining and treats can be found throughout the park, with special holiday desserts and drinks.

  • Special holiday character meet-and-greets, including Santa Goofy and Donald Duck in his winter gear.

• Earth Day at Animal Kingdom (April)
  

  • Since Animal Kingdom is all about nature and conservation, Earth Day is a big deal here! Celebrate Earth Day with special activities and experiences that teach guests about conservation efforts.

  • You’ll also find limited-time treats and fun sustainability-themed events across the park during this time.

• Wildlife Wednesdays (Seasonal)
  

  • During certain times of year, Animal Kingdom hosts Wildlife Wednesdays, where you can get up close and personal with a variety of animals in the park through special demonstrations and shows. These are educational, fun, and interactive!

Animal Kingdom offers a variety of character meet-and-greets throughout the park. Here's where you can find your favorite Disney characters:

• Mickey & Minnie Mouse (Adventurers Outpost) (Discovery Island)
  

  • Meet Mickey and Minnie in their safari gear! This is a great spot to get a fun family photo.

• Donald Duck (DinoLand U.S.A.)
  

  • Look for Donald in his fun, wild outfit — you can meet him near the entrance of the DinoLand U.S.A. area.

• Chip & Dale (Camp Minnie-Mickey)
  

  • These lovable chipmunks are often found near the entrance to Discovery Island, bringing their playful energy to fans.

• Goofy and Pluto (Outdoors, Discovery Island)
  

  • Head to Discovery Island to see Goofy and Pluto in their animal-themed outfits.

• Russell & Dug from Up! (Discovery Island)
  

  • A fantastic experience for families, Russell (the Boy Scout) and Dug (the dog) meet guests in the Discovery Island area, near the Tree of Life.

• Character Cavalcades
  

  • Throughout the day, look out for spontaneous character cavalcades (mini-parades) that feature characters from The Lion King, Pocahontas, and others, cruising through the park on floats.

Dress comfortably for the weather, as Animal Kingdom is mostly outdoors.

• Light, breathable clothes are key for Florida’s heat and humidity.

• Hat and sunscreen are a must!

• Comfortable shoes (you’ll be walking a lot).

• Poncho or rain gear — the weather can be unpredictable, and Kali River Rapids will get you soaked!

✅ Kilimanjaro Safaris

✅ Flight of Passage

✅ Festival of the Lion King show

✅ Walking the Maharajah Jungle Trek and Gorilla Falls Trails

(And honestly? Just wandering and soaking it all in — this park is full of hidden magic.)

The best times to visit Animal Kingdom are during off-peak seasons like mid-January to mid-February, mid-April to early June, and mid-September to mid-November.

Why? Less crowded means shorter wait times for attractions, and the weather is usually more manageable (Florida summers are HOT).

If you're a resort guest plan to arrive at least 45 minutes before official park opening. Please check the my Disney Experience to see what times, Early Entry is.

• Why? It's a perk of staying on property.

Otherwise, it depends on your plans that day!

Head to indoor shows like Festival of the Lion King or Finding Nemo: The Big Blue... and Beyond!

The Baby Care Center is great for families with little ones needing a quiet space.

Also, don't underestimate just chilling in the shady Discovery Island Trails — lots of trees, hidden animal carvings, and mini waterfalls to explore while you regroup.

Yes! You can pick up a physical park map at the entrance or download a digital version on the My Disney Experience app.

The app is a great resource for navigating the park, checking wait times, and finding hidden spots like restrooms and water refill stations!

The Wild Africa Trek is a private, guided safari tour through the Africa section of Animal Kingdom. During this 3-hour experience, you’ll walk across rope bridges, explore animal habitats, and get up close with African wildlife like giraffes, hippos, and crocodiles. You’ll also enjoy a safari-style snack in a secluded area.

• To book, visit the Disney World website or the My Disney Experience app to check availability and make reservations. It’s recommended to book in advance, as this popular experience can fill up quickly.

The Caring for Giants Tour gives you an up-close look at Animal Kingdom's elephants. This 60-minute tour provides insight into how Disney cares for these magnificent creatures, with an emphasis on their conservation efforts. You’ll also have the chance to ask questions and learn from animal care experts.

• This experience costs around $35 per person. To book, you can use the My Disney Experience app or Disney World website.

The Up Close with Rhinos Tour is a unique 60-minute experience that allows you to learn about black rhinos in a more intimate, behind-the-scenes setting. Your guide will share insights about rhino care and the species' endangered status while you observe the animals up close.

• The cost is approximately $40 per person (cost will change) Reservations can be made via My Disney Experience or the Disney World website.

A Private Safari Tour offers an exclusive, customized experience where a guide takes you through Animal Kingdom’s Kilimanjaro Safaris. You’ll be able to see animals like lions, giraffes, and zebras in a private vehicle, with a tour tailored to your interests. This 2-hour experience provides a personalized look at the savanna and wildlife.

• The price starts at around $350 (price will change) for a private group of up to six guests. You can book this experience through the My Disney Experience app or the Disney World website.

Savor the Savanna is an evening safari experience that combines a guided tour through the Harambe Wildlife Reserve with a gourmet African-inspired dinner. As you explore the savanna at sunset, you’ll see animals like lions and giraffes, then enjoy a delicious dinner with wine, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages.

• The experience lasts about 3 hours and costs around $170 per person. (Price subject to change) To book, visit the Disney World website or My Disney Experience app.

Yes, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge offers a night safari tour, where you can explore the savanna at night. Using night-vision goggles, you'll get a chance to view animals like giraffes, zebras, and antelopes in a different light. This unique 2-hour experience provides insight into nighttime animal behavior.

• The cost is approximately $90 per person. Booking is available through My Disney Experience or the Disney World website. (Price subject to change)

You can book all of these experiences through the My Disney Experience app or the Disney World website. Many of these tours and dining experiences can be booked up to 180 days in advance, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead to ensure availability.

Here's how they stack up (based on food quality, atmosphere, and ease with families):

1. Tiffins Restaurant (Discovery Island): ✨ Upscale dining featuring global cuisine and a peaceful, immersive atmosphere. Perfect for a special experience.

2. Yak & Yeti Restaurant (Asia): 🌏 Crowd-pleasing Pan-Asian dishes in a beautiful, detailed setting. Great portions and family-friendly.

3. Tusker House Restaurant (Africa): 🍽️ Character dining with Mickey and friends in safari gear! Buffet-style with African and American options — a top pick for kids and characters.

4. Rainforest Cafe (Outside Entrance/Exit): 🌳 A familiar favorite — fun for kids with animatronic animals, jungle thunderstorms, and hearty American fare.

Important Tip: The Rainforest Cafe at Animal Kingdom has a secret entrance into the park through the gift shop! BUT — there’s only one MagicBand scanner at this entrance, so during busy times (like mid-morning or lunch rush), it can really back up. If you’re in a hurry, it might be faster to go back out to the main park entrance instead.

Not checking Flame Tree Barbecue's seating area!

Most people grab food and sit at the first table they see — but if you walk all the way down to the waterfront seating, you get gorgeous views of Expedition Everest across the water. It's quiet, shady, and one of the best hidden lunch spots in the park.

Easiest Sit-Down to Grab Without a Reservation: Nomad Lounge (next to Tiffins) No dining reservation? No problem! Nomad Lounge takes walk-ups via the app. Jump on the Walk-Up Waitlist when you’re about 30 minutes out — it’s a gorgeous, shaded, relaxing spot with amazing small plates and drinks.

What I Wish I Knew About Nomad Lounge: Kids are absolutely welcome here. Even though it’s "a lounge," it's totally family-friendly — comfy seating, shaded outdoor deck, and easy small bites like sliders and churros. Great place to recharge mid-day without feeling rushed.

Animal Kingdom typically opens at 8:00 AM and closes at 7:00 PM.

However, the park’s hours can vary based on the time of year, special events, or early park entry for Disney Resort guests. Be sure to check the My Disney Experience app or the official website the day before your visit for exact hours.

You are allowed to bring snacks, drinks, and water bottles into the park, but there are some restrictions.

• No large coolers, alcohol, or loose ice.

• Consider bringing portable snacks like granola bars, fruit, or crackers to keep your energy up throughout the day.

• Hydration is key — bring a refillable water bottle to use the water fountains or get a free cup of water at any quick service location.

Yes! Animal Kingdom celebrates seasonal events with special food and drinks:

• Holiday Treats (November - January):
  

  • Festive cupcakes, holiday-themed beverages, and special desserts are available throughout the park. You can find gingerbread-flavored treats at Satu’li Canteen and Festival of the Lion King cupcakes near Harambe Market.

• Summer Bites (June - August):
  

  • Cool down with specialty frozen treats like the Frozen Coca-Cola at Pongu Pongu or Frozen Apple Fizzat Dawa Bar.

Yes, Animal Kingdom offers premium dining experiences such as Tiffins Signature Dining and Nomad Lounge. Tiffins offers a fine dining experience with global cuisine, while Nomad Lounge provides small plates and craft cocktails with beautiful views of Pandora.

• Both require reservations, which can be made through My Disney Experience or the Disney World website. These dining experiences are a great way to relax after a day of exploration.