Disney's Animal Kingdom is perhaps the most thematically consistent Disney park in the States. Animal Kingdom also makes for some stunning photography, as evidenced by this beautiful nighttime photo of the Tree of Life by Len Yokoyama. (Len's original trip report is here.)
Want to take a deeper dive into the fascinating history of the park? Oh, the stories told and the rare concept art to share! My multi-part series on this amazing place goes all in.
The Creation of the Park: From it's humble beginnings when the icon was to be something very different from the end result, the Imagineers led by Joe Rohde fought for what they believed in and who this park would draw. Was CEO Michael Eisner behind them?
Disney's WILD Animal Kingdom Transforms: Why did the proposed Beastly Kingdom disappear? Our first trip surprised us with the park's very different approach and content. Our now vintage photos tell the whole story.
The True Life Adventure Continues: The guest response to the park and its eventual evolution begins. Will it ever become "Natazu" and more than a half day destination on the Walt Disney World property?
Extinct Attractions: Opening Day attractions begin to disappear. The crowds continue to drain away, and the suits struggle with what to do next.
Plans for a Rollercoaster Go Back to the Beginning: It's now clear that Disney has a relatively empty theme park on its hands and faces criticism previously unseen until the opening of Disney's California Adventure next door to Walt's park in Anaheim. How will another thrill ride impact things?
Expedition Everest Brings Them In: But what is next? Can a cute little dinosaur, an equally cute fish, and a new expensive restaurant transform this park into one that draws more guests? My impressions this visit startle me a bit and make me rethink all I know about the place.
Future Plans Draw Ire and Confusion: Disney's "Potter Swatter" for Florida surprises fans and detractors alike. Can Imagineering pull off something spectacular to move them ahead of Universal Orlando Resort as guests to the state begin leaving Disney World for a day at Universal? I did, and so did Len. (My trip report here, and Len's here.) Then I gave up two whole days! (Trip report here.)
Holding Pattern?: What is going on here? Disney slides on its reputation... but maybe not.
Success Finally Comes: Disney scores a hit that makes fans come back. The future is definitely mixed. This is the last part of the series for now.
(Art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)
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