The youngest of the Disney World theme parks has been a hub for animal lovers, enthusiasts, and conservationists for over two decades. With a mix of interactive attractions, exciting exhibits, and fun animal encounters—all with a Disney twist—Animal Kingdom engages Guests in understanding the importance of conservation. It also offers a fascinating look into the world of fish, mammals, birds, and more.
Don’t mistake Animal Kingdom for Disney’s version of a zoo. There’s so much to see, do, and experience in this park that it’s hard to decide which area to explore first. Next time you visit Animal Kingdom, kick off your adventure at Discovery Island—here are seven incredible things you’ll love about it!
7. The Tree of Life: Animal Kingdom’s Iconic Centerpiece
The Tree of Life stands as the iconic centerpiece of Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Taking over 18 months to complete, this massive structure isn’t an actual tree but was constructed from a repurposed oil platform.
Inspired by the baobab tree, it towers at 145 feet and features 8,000 branches covered in over 100,000 artificial leaves crafted from kynar. Designed to appear lifelike, the leaves come in five shades of green and sway with the wind, mimicking natural foliage.
6. Hidden Animal Carvings You Might Have Missed
One of the most mesmerizing aspects of the Tree of Life is its intricate carvings. The trunk and roots feature 325 detailed animal carvings, including an eagle, an owl, a ram, a tiger, and an elephant, among others.
Guests can walk around the tree’s base and marvel at the detailed artistry. These carvings are among the park’s most overlooked yet fascinating features! Be sure to take your time exploring every detail.
5. Disney’s Animal-Themed Décor Everywhere
All around Discovery Island, animal themes are woven into every shop and restaurant. Inside Island Mercantile, murals depict migratory animals.
At Discovery Trading Company, each corner represents animals from the northern, southern, eastern, and western hemispheres. Dining locations are no exception!
At Pizzafari, vibrant murals highlight different animal groups—those that carry their homes with them, nocturnal creatures, and upside-down dwellers. The restaurant also features over 500 hand-carved animal decorations from Mexico.
Meanwhile, Flame Tree Barbecue embraces a predator-prey theme with artwork depicting eagles hunting snakes and eels capturing crabs. (Don’t worry—the mouthwatering barbecue will keep your appetite intact!)
4. A New Chapter for Discovery Island’s Theater
It’s Tough to Be a Bug! has officially closed its doors at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. This quirky 3D show, located inside the base of the Tree of Life, entertained Guests for over two decades with its mix of humor, animatronics, and creepy-crawly surprises inspired by A Bug’s Life (1998).
But something new is buzzing into Discovery Island. Disney is currently preparing the space for Zootopia: Better Zoogether!, a brand-new theatrical experience set to debut in winter 2025. The upcoming show will bring the fast-paced, vibrant world of Zootopia to life in a way Animal Kingdom has never seen before.
Keep an eye on the My Disney Experience app for official dates and updates as the theater transforms for its next wild adventure!
3. Where to Find the Best BBQ at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
For those craving barbecue, look no further than Flame Tree Barbecue! This quick-service spot serves up fan-favorite dishes like:
- Ribs, Chicken, and Pulled Pork Sampler
- Smoked Pulled pork sandwiches
- Baked Macaroni & Cheese with Pulled Pork
- A selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
If there’s only one quick-service meal you grab at Animal Kingdom, let it be this one!
2. Hidden Mickeys You Can Hunt for in Discovery Island
Like many places across Walt Disney World Resort, Discovery Island is home to several Hidden Mickeys. Keep an eye out for these classic Disney Easter eggs inside Pizzafari and Adventurers’ Outpost.
At the Outpost, look for a giant postcard that may just reveal Mickey in an unexpected way! Have you spotted these before? Let us know in the comments!
1. Adventurers’ Outpost: Meet Mickey & Minnie!
One of the best character meet-and-greet locations in Animal Kingdom is Adventurers’ Outpost, where you can meet Mickey and Minnie dressed in their safari best! The experience is complete with charming mementos from their travels around the world.
Disney PhotoPass photographers are on hand to capture the magical moment. Be sure to check the My Disney Experience app for Lightning Lane reservations to avoid long waits for this unforgettable encounter!
Plan Your Next Adventure at Discovery Island!
Whether you’re admiring the intricate details of the Tree of Life, indulging in delicious barbecue, or meeting Mickey and Minnie, Discovery Island is packed with unforgettable experiences.
With upcoming changes on the horizon—like the arrival of Zootopia: Better Zoogether!—there’s always something new to explore! What’s your favorite Discovery Island experience? Let us know in the comments below!
