Animal Kingdom rewards early risers: the animals are most active in the cool morning and the park often closes earlier than the other Disney parks. Visit on a weekday, arrive at opening and ride Flight of Passage and the safari first.
Animal Kingdom rewards early risers: the animals are most active in the cool morning and the park often closes earlier than the other Disney parks. Visit on a weekday, arrive at opening and ride Flight of Passage and the safari first.
Animal Kingdom is part zoo, part theme park, with Pandora: The World of Avatar, the Kilimanjaro Safaris, Expedition Everest and the Tree of Life at its center. It is the Disney park locals call best in the morning, because the animals are out and moving before the Florida heat sets in.
Disney's Animal Kingdom at a glance
- Opened: April 22, 1998 (Earth Day)
- Where: Walt Disney World, on the west side of the property near Blizzard Beach
- Hours: vary by day and season. Always check the official park calendar for your date.
Disney's Animal Kingdom calendar: month by month
| Month | Crowds | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| January | Low to moderate | Very busy New Year's week, then one of the quietest stretches of the year |
| February | Moderate | Presidents' Day week is busy; the rest of the month is comfortable |
| March | High | Spring break weeks bring big crowds |
| April | High | Easter and spring break early in the month, calmer late April. The park's anniversary falls on Earth Day, April 22 |
| May | Low to moderate | A sweet spot until Memorial Day weekend |
| June | High | Summer break starts; hot, with afternoon storms |
| July | High | Peak summer; the week of July 4 is among the busiest of the year |
| August | Moderate | Crowds drop once Florida schools go back in mid-August |
| September | Low | Usually the quietest month; peak of hurricane season |
| October | Moderate | Fall breaks and Halloween events; pleasant weather returns |
| November | Moderate | Thanksgiving week is very busy; early November is calmer. Holiday decorations arrive on Discovery Island |
| December | Moderate | Early December is manageable; about December 20 to New Year's is peak. Holiday decorations and seasonal entertainment |
Crowd levels are the typical pattern. Holidays, school breaks and special events can shift them, so check the official calendar for your dates.
The best days of the week to go
| Day | Crowds | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | Moderate | Busier after long weekends |
| Tuesday | Low to moderate | Often one of the calmer days |
| Wednesday | Low to moderate | Often one of the calmer days |
| Thursday | Moderate | Weekend arrivals start |
| Friday | Moderate to high | Long-weekend visitors arrive |
| Saturday | High | Florida residents and passholders join the crowds |
| Sunday | Moderate to high | Busy morning, often easing by evening |
The best time of day
- Opening: the best time for the safari, when animals are most active, and for Avatar Flight of Passage before the line grows.
- Midday: the hottest part of the day. Shows and shaded walking trails are the move.
- Evening: the park usually closes earlier than Magic Kingdom and EPCOT. Pandora glows after dark, so stay for sunset if the park is open late.
Disney's Animal Kingdom seasonal events
- Holiday season (November and December): Seasonal decorations and entertainment around Discovery Island.
Event dates are announced by the park each year, so confirm them on the official calendar before you book.
Weather to plan around
- Summer (June to September): hot and humid, with short afternoon thunderstorms most days. Outdoor rides pause for lightning, usually for under an hour.
- Hurricane season: June 1 to November 30. Most days are unaffected, but watch the forecast and consider travel insurance.
- Winter (December to February): mild and dry, with the occasional cold snap. Great for walking, chilly for water rides.
- Spring and fall: warm, comfortable and usually drier.
See our guide to the best time to visit Orlando for more.
Local tips
- Check closing time before you plan dinner. Animal Kingdom often closes earlier than the other parks.
- Parts of DinoLand U.S.A. are being reimagined. Check the park map for what is open during your visit.
- Bring a light rain jacket in summer; many areas are outdoors with limited cover.
Disney's Animal Kingdom tickets
Compare tickets with live prices and traveler reviews below.
Bookings are covered by Viator's Lowest Price Guarantee: find the same tour cheaper elsewhere and Viator refunds the difference. Terms
1. Walt Disney World Orlando Resort Base Ticket
Escape into a place where magic has the power to transport us into stunning worlds, favorite stories and far-off galaxies. With this Walt Disney World® Base Ticket, you can do Walt Disney World® at your own pace.
Why it made our list
- Rated 2.6 out of 5 by 177 travelers
- Flagged by Viator for excellent quality
- Takes about 1 day to 10 days
2. Walt Disney World Orlando Park Hopper Tickets
Gather friends and family in a place where all are welcome, and the memories made together last forever and ever. With a Walt Disney World® Park Hopper Ticket, you can visit multiple magical parks on the same day.
Why it made our list
- Rated 2.8 out of 5 by 116 travelers
- Flagged by Viator for excellent quality
- Takes about 1 day to 10 days
3. Walt Disney World Admission with Water Park and Sports Option
With a Walt Disney World Ticket with Water Park and Sports Options, you can do Walt Disney World® at your own pace. These tickets allow you to visit one park per day, as well as visits to Blizzard Beach, Typhoon Lagoon, a selection of both full size and mini golf courses and more!
Why it made our list
- Rated 2.7 out of 5 by 34 travelers
- Takes about 1 day to 10 days
Frequently asked questions
What time of day is best at Animal Kingdom?
Morning. Animals are most active when it is cooler, and the most popular rides are easiest right after opening.
Is Animal Kingdom a full day?
Many visitors do it in a long morning to mid-afternoon, since the park often closes earlier than the others. Staying for Pandora at night is worth it when the park is open late.
When is Animal Kingdom least crowded?
Weekdays in September, January after New Year's week and late April to mid-May are usually the calmest.
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