Animal Kingdom

OrlandoSentinel.com Staff

The most recent addition to the Disney World theme park family is Disney's Animal Kingdom. This Orlando theme park combines the classic rides, shows and attractions that Disney is known for with a completely new Disney animal experience. It's certainly more than your average zoo!

Walk into Animal Kingdom and your eyes will be drawn to the massive tree that greets you at the park's entrance. The Tree of Life features hundreds of intricate carvings of the animal kingdom, including lions, bears, birds and more. These hand-carved designs are meant to symbolize the world we share with the many creatures that inhabit it.

Even though the park's main attraction is the animals, that doesn't mean there is a shortage of thrilling rides to enjoy.

In Dinoland, U.S.A., the park's dinosaur-themed area, you can enjoy classic carnival-style rides, as well as dig for fossils in The Boneyard. You can also ride Dinosaur, which will take you on a time-traveling adventure to rescue a needy dinosaur millions of years in the past.

If you're looking to cool off on a hot day at the park, the Kali River Rapids are for you. Hop into your raft with your companions and blast down rushing waters. Look out for waterfalls and other obstacles. Just remember, it'll be hard to stay dry on this ride.

Possibly the most unique experience at Animal Kingdom is Kilimanjaro Safaris. Climb aboard a truck with your very own tour guide and head out into the uncharted jungles of Africa. On your journey, you'll see lions, zebras, elephants, hippos and countless other animals living in an open environment. Your truck may even have to stop along the way to let an ostrich cross the dirt road. The breathtaking trip puts you in close contact with many creatures you're likely to have only seen behind bars at traditional zoos.

There are also other chances to get up-close and personal with the animals. Check out any of the exploration trails to enjoy a nature walk through winding paths with stops along the way to see tigers, gorillas and bats. In many areas of the park, you'll also see smaller exhibits showcasing exotic birds and reptiles.

For the young ones, the area of the park known as Camp Minnie-Mickey provides numerous opportunities to meet and greet with Disney's classic characters. Youngsters can get autographs and pose for photos that they'll remember for a lifetime.