Visiting Walt Disney World is a great way to make family memories to last a lifetime. But what is the best Disney World resort? Maximize your magical vacation with a stay at Disney’s AnimalKingdom Lodge, the perfect place to get a unique Disney experience!
Walt Disney had a vision, “If you can dream it, you can do it.” Walt had a dream to create an amazing place for families enjoy, and when you visit Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, you’ll see that it’s clear that Walt’s vision has turned into an amazing reality! Disney not only provides an amazing atmosphere and an unparalleled experience at their theme parks, but also when it comes to their resorts. I had the pleasure of staying at Disney’s AnimalKingdom Lodge this weekend during the Zootopia movie press trip, it is such a beautiful, detailed animal themed resort that truly enhances the Disney experience!
Disney’s AnimalKingdom Lodge is located on the Walt Disney World property, located on the West side near Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park. Boasting spectacular savanna views where hundreds of exotic animals live, award winning restaurants, a sparkling pool and jacuzzi, and an amazing collection of African art, this is magnificent resort is complete with all of the bells and whistles you know and love about Disney, and so much more! I don’t think I would ever choose another place to stay, It is the perfect Disney hotel for families of all ages and sizes with an amazing animal themed ambiance. There are many reasons that this is the best Disney World resort, here’s what I absolutely loved about this unique hotel, and why you simply cannot stay anywhere else!
10 reasons Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is the best Disney World resort
1. The celebration of African culture and animals
Get read to go on an African safari! This resort is fully decorated with African art and influences, everywhere you turn, there is a detail that makes you feel like you’re in the heart of Africa! There are 4 bountiful savannas that are filled with over 30 different species of animals native to Africa, they have some great educational animal programs, and everywhere you turn, there is an art piece to marvel at.
2. The amazing view of the exotic animals – right from your room!
Choosing a savanna view room means that you get to wake up each morning with an amazing view of wild African animals – over 30 different species! This was probably the coolest part about staying here, and is the top reason I think this is the best Disney World resort. I saw giraffes, an ostrich, buffalo, gazelles, zebras, and so many more animals. These rooms also have bunk bed options, perfect for families!
3. Relax, refresh and rejuvenate with wellness options
A sparkling pool. A soothing jacuzzi. The Zahanati massage and fitness center, where you can ease tension with a spa service. Also, take a leisurely walk around the resort to each savanna overlook, or use the jogging trails around the resort.
4. Exquisite cuisine at fine dining and quick service restaurants
Dine at your choice of unique restaurants, bars and lounges at the Animal Kingdom Lodge. From African inspired fine dining at Jiko, to quick service Mickey Mouse waffles at The Mara when you’re pressed for time, you will find that your breakfast, lunch and dinner is served! There are a few lounges and bars to socialize in as well, and room service is also available for most of the day.
5. The in-house activities
There are a host of additional activities and experiences that you can participate in at the Animal Kingdom Lodge. Learn to play an African djembe drum, take the Wanyama safari tour, where you can explore the savanna at the lodge and enjoy a fine dinner, and even roast marshmallows when the sun goes down at the Jambo House Campfire!
6. Wonderful staff experience
Disney’s Animal Kingdom strives to make your stay as seamless as possible. From the moment you check in, or land at the airport, their exquisite service begins. Your luggage is handled with care, your check in is quick and easy, and every place you visit in the hotel has staff members that are ready to assist you. They’ll even check you into your flight on your day of departure and check your bags onto your flight, taking them to the airport for you!
7. The family friendly amenities – great for kids!
There are so many great things for kids to do here at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge! If the pool and water slide wasn’t enough, there’s also a Hakuna Matata playground, Simba’s Cubhouse kids activity center, Pumbaa’s Fun and Games arcade, and even spend some nights catching movies under the stars at the Uzima pool! When the adults are ready to play, the Animal Kingdom Lodge offers child care if needed.
8. Free airport and Disney World resort wide transportation
One special perk you’ll get is free transportation to and from the airport, and to all Disney properties on the resort, including Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, both water parks, ESPN and all hotels – throughout your entire stay!
9. Comfortable rooms and sizes to fit your whole family
There are lots of room sizes to choose from, the largest being a 2 bedroom suite that sleeps 8 adults! No matter what size your family is, you can book something that suits your needs – whether it be one king sized bed, two doubles, and even bunk beds! Also, doors open to adjoin rooms, if needed.
10. Extra Magic hours at Disney Parks
When you stay at a Disney hotel or resort, you get early access to the theme parks before anyone else! That’s right, Extra Magic Hours happen at different parks each day before they open to the public. You’ll get an extra hour to ride all of the rides and experience the attractions without the crazy lines!
I had an amazing stay at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, in my opinion, it is the best Disney World resort! I highly recommend it, and getting a savanna view room is a MUST – request the Kudu Trail where I stayed, I saw plenty of animals each day. Take your family to Walt Disney World and experience the unique magic of Disney, African style! Lots of the animals you see inZootopia are found here at the lodge, the movie comes out in theaters March 4, 2016!
This is on my list of places to stay at Walt Disney World. Great post.
What a magical place to stay! My grandsons absolutely love animals and would LOVE to stay here!