I LOVE THE DISNEY’S ANIMAL KINGDOM!
From the hidden gems to the e-ticket experiences, you’re able to spend hours exploring and escaping the real world in one of the most unique theme parks in the world! That being said, there are a few attractions that you really don’t need to spend your time waiting for…and it’s not because they’re bad. In fact, most of the list was created by attractions that had their day in the limelight and have slowly started to become routine.
Remember that we’re all about providing insider tips, trips and plans to make your vacation as pleasant and memorable as possible. If I were to say that everything is amazing…well you wouldn’t give me any credibility right?
IT’S TOUGH TO BE A BUG
Disney’s description of It’s Tough to be a Bug: “Discover what it’s like to be a bug during this 3D film and live show inspired by the Disney•Pixar film A Bug’s Life.”
Let’s be honest: I still have no idea how this attraction is drawing guests.
Back in 1998, the concept of creating a 3D movie based around characters from a movie that was still 6 months out was groundbreaking! In today’s market though, you’re going to be hard pressed to find someone who can actually name the characters or the movie itself.
We’re waiting for the closing sign to show up, as the version of this attraction in Disney California Adventure was closed back on March 19, 2018 to make way for a Marvel-themed experience.
- Don’t waste time in the line if it’s more than a 5-minute wait
- Unless it’s raining, just avoid it.
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Feathered Friends in Flight
Disney’s description of Up! A Great Bird Adventure:”Flock together with Russell, Dug and their fine-feathered friends for an informative foray into bird-watching.”
And this is why in 2020, Disney re-opened the attraction after the pandemic shutdown as a non-UP inspired experience.
When Flights of Wonder closed, we thought that there was a chance that Disney would retool and reimagine the experience into a more thrilling and educational show that would draw the attention of guests. And then they announced that it was going to be adapted with characters from Disney-Pixar’s movie Up….well that made us realize that although it’s a pleasant way to sit down for 30-minutes, little changed.
When should you see this show? Honestly, this is a one-and-done show where a YouTube video can substitute the live experience easily.
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NA’VI RIVER JOURNEY
Disney’s description of the Mad Tea Party: “Journey deep into a bioluminescent rainforest in search of the Na’vi Shaman of Songs”
And here’s controversy!
The fact that Na’vi River Journey is in the same conversation as Flight of Passage is a disservice to every single guest who’s thinking about visiting Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
I’m all about giving credit when it’s due, but after going on this boat ride multiple times…and actually using a FastPass+ reservation that I booked 60 days in advance…I actually apologized to my partner after it was over.
When should you try this attraction? We walked on to the Na’vi River Journey during evening extra magic hours…twice! Similar to Spaceship Earth at EPCOT, there are huge lines during the day but after the park gets settled and folks start finding their pace, you’re able to find that the times will decrease at River Journey.
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TRICERATOP SPIN
Disney’s description of TriceraTop Spin :”Fly high on a dinosaur around a twirling tin-toy top at this delightful carnival-inspired attraction”.
What does Dumbo, Astro Orbiter, the Magic Carpets of Aladdin and TriceraTop Spin have in common? They’re all spinners. AND at least all the other ones are themed to a Disney IP!
Just skip it…and if you really want to do a spinner…go with the originator and head to New Fantasyland with Dumbo!
Related Article – Top Tips Before You Go To The Animal Kingdom
The 5th Attraction
With Disney shutting down and fully removing Primeval Whirl, the last attraction to skip could be many things but here’s where we get controversial.
After riding DINOSAUR on our last trip, it has become incredibly bumpy and not a smooth ride. The audioanimatronics need a full redo and the experience is dated.
I would put the last attraction to skip as DINOSAUR, and that’s even with my personal love of that experience. It’s just seen better days.
Did we get it right? What attractions would you add to the list? Let me know via social media @StepstoMagic!
