Disney World for babies: Animal Kingdom

Of all the Walt Disney World theme parks, Disney’s Animal Kingdom is the largest at the resort and the largest Disney theme park in the world, but that is because most of the 500 acres of park land have been set aside for the animals that live there. For the youngest visitors to Animal Kingdom, there might be less rides to choose from but the African safari and live musical shows add to the fun.

Even though babies and toddlers have a hard time being patient while waiting for a show to begin, there are plenty of musical and visual delights for audiences of all ages during performances of the Festival of the Lion King and Finding Nemo: The Musical, both of which are based on popular animated films. Younger kids will also appreciate Mickey’s Jammin’ Jungle Parade, and there is no need to worry about whether or not the fireworks will upset the little ones—Animal Kingdom does not host fireworks shows so as not to upset the animals.

As far as rides are concerned, the must-see attraction of Disney’s Animal Kingdom is appropriate for all ages: the Kilimanjaro Safari allows riders to share the land with African animals on the savanna as they ride in a rugged open-sided safari vehicle. Be sure to have cameras at the ready in order to photograph the giraffes, lions, antelope, rhinos, warthogs, zebras and other stunning species roam the land. In Dionland USA, the TriceraTop spin is a good way to introduces younger kids to carnival rides, and preschoolers and older kids can stretch their legs in the Boneyard play area—but be prepared to chase the kids around once they are set loose!