Welcome to Animal Kingdom

! We’re exploring the Park to discover What’s New! Come along!

What’s New in Animal Kingdom’s Decor

The Lion King is taking over Animal Kingdom

, and that’s clear right from the parking lot! Guests will see banners advertising the Park’s on-going celebration of the 25th anniversary of the animated movie ahead of the release of the live-action version of the film this summer!

Banners feature stylized artwork depicting iconic images from the film.

In Discovery Island, these banners on the light fixtures are embellished with dangling, colorful leaves!

Banners are also over the Park’s tapstiles.

On the pathway that leads toward Tiffins and Nomad Lounge, guests can pose with this new Lion King photo op wall!

This wall — sure to become an Insta-success! — depicts a savanna at sunset, with creatures passing a massive yellow sun.

What’s New in Animal Kingdom Specialty Eats

The Park has several new, limited-time treats that celebrate The Lion King, too! Find out where you can dig up this Bugs and Grubs Waffle Cone here!

You’ll say “thank you” when you try the refreshing Asante Slush we reviewed here!

The boozy Serengeti Sangria is a flavorful drink with a kick! And look at the gorgeous color! Find out more about the Serengeti Sangria here!

We LOVED the Simba’s Sunset that features Dole Whip and three fruity sauces! Read all about it here!

If you prefer your frozen treats between two cookies, order up Simba’s Ice Cream Sandwich! See what makes this classic sandwich extra special here!

What’s New in Animal Kingdom’s Asia

At Royal Anandapur Tea Company, guests can partake in brand new latte art that’s — surprise, surprise! — celebrating The Lion King! We shared all the details about this cool addition here!

But lattes aren’t the only things getting the royal treatment. Joffrey’s Mini Donuts have also brought back a lion design — different than the previous one which had a ring of buttercream representing a mane. The new donut is upside down here, but turn your head a bit to see the outline of a young lion with perky ears.

Yak and Yeti Local Foods Cafe haas a Red, White, & Blue Margarita this weekend! At $9, it’s comprised of strawberry puree, frozen classic margarita, and blue curacao liqueur. Happy Memorial Day weekend!

You’ll recall from our last What’s New at Animal Kingdom that we had a little fun with monkey puns. Well, water is still drained from both “Monkey” Islands… but we’re not going to drop any more monkey puns. Mostly because the primates who live here are gibbons, and we’re fresh out of gibbon puns. 😉

Still no official word on why the water has been drained, but we’ll keep an eye on it.

What’s New in Animal Kingdom’s DinoLand, USA

Dino-Bite Snacks

has brought back its Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Sandwich and Floats!

You’ll want to check out our review of the Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Sandwich from last month’s Tasting Sampler. It was a true stand-out, and we’re glad it’s back!

What’s New in Animal Kingdom Merchandise

We found a couple of new-to-us kids’ tee shirts in the Park. This one features a good reminder in a Park full of creatures: Do Not Feed Wild Animals.

We also spotted this awesome Dinosaur shirt! We all know a dino aficionado who needs this one!

For the grown-up kids: an Aladdin shirt featuring the OG Aladdin, Genie, Abu, and Iago!

What’s New in Animal Kingdom at Night

Last night was the premiere of two updated nighttime offerings in the Park. The Tree of Life Awakening occurs multiple times each night and features colorful projections on the Park’s icon. This show has been updated with an all-new The Lion King vignette.

And Rivers of Light: We Are One began a new chapter with an updated storyline, new imagery from Disneynature films, and additional projections of classic Disney animation like Bambi, Pocahontas, The Lion King, and more.

That’s it! Lots of celebration happening in the Park, and we can’t wait to enjoy a summer full of these tasty treats, colorful homages to The Lion King, and general liveliness!

Will you be exploring Animal Kingdom this summer? Let us know what you can’t wait to see!