Disney’s Animal Kingdom with Toddlers: Everything to See and Do
Disney’s Animal Kingdom is a top choice of animal-loving toddlers. Animal Kingdom has been our son’s favorite for as long as we have been taking him to the parks. What it may lack in number of rides it makes up for in toddler-friendly attractions, shows, animal encounters and character interactions.
Here are some of the top attractions to add to your itinerary when traveling to Disney’s Animal Kingdom with toddlers.
The Wilderness Must Be Explored!
While geared more toward children a bit older, some younger kids may have fun collecting stickers for their Wilderness Explorer booklet. There are also some fun interactions that toddlers may enjoy along the way – like a scavenger hunt. When entering the park, stop at the Wilderness Explorer kiosk at the top of the hill, before you head down toward the Tree of Life. Wilderness Explorer stations are located throughout the park and little ones will have fun completing tasks and earning “badges”.
Toddler-friendly Rides at Animal Kingdom
Kilimanjaro Safari – Africa
This ride is one for the whole family, and I recommend making it your first stop, as the line can get long. It is located in Africa, to the back left of the park. You will ride in an open air safari vehicle and see a great variety of animals, including giraffes, hippos, elephants and lions. COVID precautions include plastic dividers between rows in the vehicle, plexiglass barriers in line where distancing is not possible and floor markings for adequate spacing in line.
Na’vi River Journey – Pandora
Na’vi River Journey is located in Pandora. Unlike Pandora’s most popular ride, Flight of Passage, Na’vi is a mellow boat ride that takes you through a bioluminescent rainforest. The line can be long, so if this is a must see ride for the family I recommend heading to this one first. You’ll find Pandora to the left of the Tree of Life. The whole area is definitely a must-see.
TriceraTop Spin – DinoLand USA
This ride is the Animal Kingdom’s version of the Dumbo ride of Magic Kingdom. Little ones can ride alone or with an adult as their triceratops flies around. This ride is found in DinoLand U.S.A., to the right of the Tree of Life as you enter the park. Note: This ride is scheduled for closure January 2025
It’s Tough to Be a Bug – Discovery Island
This 4D movie experience is located inside the tree of life. There is seldom a long line, but you can expect a bit of a walk to the entrance. Be sure to check out all of the animals hidden in the tree as you make your way to the movie theater. Note, there are some moments that can be a bit scary for young ones – darkness, loud noises, 3D and 4D effects – you know your child best to decide if this one is for them.
Other Fun Attractions for Toddlers at Animal Kingdom
Rafiki’s Planet Watch – Africa
From Africa, take the Wildlife Express Train to Rafiki’s Planet Watch. There, you will find several interactive Wilderness Explorer stations, a petting zoo known as the Affection Section and the Conservation Station where you can get a glimpse of some cool reptiles and amphibians.
Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail – Africa
After stepping off of the Kilimanjaro Safari you will find yourself at the start of the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail. Take a walk to hopefully get a better look at gorillas, zebras and other African animals.
Maharajah Jungle Trek – Asia
The tigers are certainly the stars of this self-guided walking tour where you will also encounter bats, monkeys and birds!
The Boneyard – DinoLand USA
This is a great place for little ones to run and play. The Boneyard is a giant playground designed to look like a fossil dig site equipped with tunnels, slides and climbing structures. It is also gated for added safety. Note: While there is no exact date at the time of this post, this attraction is planned to close in early 2025
Shows at Disney’s Animal Kingdom the Toddlers Will Love
A Celebration of Festival of the Lion King – Africa
A show for the whole family to enjoy. It is also a great place to duck out of the sun for a bit. Seating surrounds the performance floor so all seats are good seats! The show can be found just over the bridge into Africa and to the left.
Feathered Friends in Flight (formerly UP!) – Asia
A show for animal lovers that demonstrates how birds are trained and cared for at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
Character Encounters at Animal Kingdom
As always, make sure to check your My Disney Experience app for the most up-to-date character meet and greets available. Simply filter your map for Characters to see locations and times for available characters.
Donalds Dino-Bash! – DinoLand USA
Meet Donald, Daisy, Chip ‘n’ Dale dressed for a dino celebration.
Disney Pals at Adventurers Outpost – Discovery Island
Meet Mickey and Minnie in their safari outfits!
Other Character Meet and Greets
At the time of posting, some characters one can expect to see include Moana, Timon and Rafiki. Around Earth Day, April 20, you can always expect an influx of character sightings around the park.
