Credit: DisneyFind out what we think is the best park in Walt Disney World.
Related: The Winners and Losers of Disney’s Complete Overhaul of Hollywood Studios
Magic Kingdom is, without a doubt, the quintessential Disney theme park. Even compared to its older sibling, Disneyland Park, Disney’s first Florida theme park is arguably the more recognizable and famous of the two.
Magic Kingdom consistently ranks as the most visited theme park destination in the world, a fact that likely won’t change. Part of the appeal of Magic Kingdom is its scope and scale, with the park offering tons of lands, areas, locations, rides, attractions, and shows to explore.
From classic dark rides like Peter Pan’s Flight and Haunted Mansion to iconic roller coasters and thrill rides like Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Space Mountain, there’s a near-endless assortment of fun and magical adventures to be had inside the Magic Kingdom.
But Magic Kingdom isn’t the best park at Walt Disney World.
Related: Winners and Losers of Disney World’s Latest 2025 Price Hikes
While guests are free to express their own feelings about Disney parks, there’s an argument to be made that Animal Kingdom is actually Disney’s best Florida theme park. It’s an entirely subjective thing to say, but there are a few key aspects about Disney’s Animal Kingdom that make it far more unique and memorable than Disney’s three other Orlando parks.
Animal Kingdom is the fourth and most recent theme park to join Walt Disney World. The park debuted in April 1998, and while it’s changed over the years, Animal Kingdom is still very much the same humble destination it’s always been.
A big part of what makes Animal Kingdom so incredible is its central theme. Disney is at its best when it blends education and entertainment, and Animal Kingdom excels at this. The park seeks to inform guests about the world around them and how crucial it is that we protect it, but at the end of the day, Animal Kingdom is also just really fun.
No matter where guests go in the park, they will be surrounded by wildlife, which will remind them how strong and meaningful our connection to the natural world is.
Another big reason we love Animal Kingdom so much is how cohesive the park feels.
It’s apparent that designers went to “infinity and beyond” to ensure that every area of the park blends together. There are certainly arguments to be made about specific areas of the park (we’re looking at you, DinoLand), but every part of Animal Kingdom is worth exploring.
Animal Kingdom also has an impressive list of attractions, some of which are considered the best at the entire resort. Expedition Everest ranks high on coaster enthusiasts’ lists thanks to its daring dips, intense turns, and impressive theming.
The roller coaster is one of the most expensive in the world and was a huge step forward for Disney. The same can be said for Avatar Flight of Passage, an unbelievably immersive flight simulation ride.
Flight of Passage can be found inside Pandora—The World of Avatar, which has become one of the biggest draws to Disney World since opening in 2017.
Kilimanjaro Safaris ties everything together. This attraction takes riders through a highly detailed and realistic recreation of the African savanna. During their journey, guests will have the chance to see dozens of different types of animals, ranging from flamingos to elephants.
At Conservation Station, guests can also take things at their own pace. Here, they can get up close to a variety of animals as they explore how Disney cares for its critters.
The food is also a standout at Animal Kingdom, ranging from quick bites to luxurious sit-down meals. Tiffins often ranks as not just one of Animal Kingdom’s best-rated eateries but one of the best in Walt Disney World. Tusker House, a character buffet, also ranks highly.
Guests will find some of the most unique and inventive treats inside Pandora’s Satu’li Canteen.
At the end of the day, which park you like the most is all about personal preference. Those seeking pure adrenaline-pumping action will find better options at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Magic Kingdom, and EPCOT, but for guests wanting to explore a fully realized theme park full of magic, it doesn’t get much better than Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
What’s your favorite theme park at Walt Disney World?