Disney World’s Animal Kingdom Is Open For Late Night

Disney World’s Animal Kingdom is open until 11 p.m. beginning Friday, May 27, according to the Orlando Sentinel. After three years of careful preparation, Disney’s zoology experts are satisfied that the change will not put stress on the animals. Scott Terrell, Walt Disney Parks and Resort’s director of animal and science operations explains.

“We’ve had three years to get ready for this. So we were able to start really intensely thinking about the animals three years ago. How we were going to bolster the population, how we were going to care for them, how we were going to be able to be sure they have a great experience just like our guests.”

Disney World’s Animal Kingdom added two new species of nocturnal animals to their Savanna exhibit. Six painted dogs and two hyenas have been transferred into the Animal Kingdom. The painted dogs came from the Cincinnati zoo. They are a species of wild dog with brown, black and white splotches and swirl designs on their coats.

In addition, the Animal Kingdom nearly doubled their overall number of all species on the Savanna section, to ensure that guests will be able to see examples of each species. They were careful both in the placement of nighttime attractions and in soundproofing shows and restaurants since some animals sleep at night. Many animals though are nocturnal, becoming more active late at night. Lions, for example, may be spotted relaxing during the day, but move about a lot more at night.

Disney World’s Animal Kingdom has a new restaurant as well, according to Inside The Magic. Adjacent to the Nomad Lounge, the new Tiffins restaurant is now open complete with soundproofing so animals will not be bothered by human partying. The décor and menu follows a South American, African, and Asian theme, with warmly painted goldenrod-colored walls and native style artwork. The menu features Lobster Popcorn Thi Curry soup as well as South American chocolate ganache. Tiffins also has sustainability goals, with whole sustainable fish and sustainable organic wine.

Lighting has been a major issue with the park. The park lighting mimics sunset during the night, casting long shadows and allowing animals to choose to appear in the light or rest quietly in the shade. Scott Terrell explains how new lighting is sensitive to the needs of animals.

“You see a very natural lighting pattern. You see areas of light and dark. They’re not in a football stadium. They’re in a very naturally, softly lit environment where they have the choice if they want to move into the darkness or out in the light.”

The new Tree of Life light display will be the centerpiece of the park according to The Motley Fool. It will be lit with glowing projections of animal spirits. By next year, there will be an Avatar-themed area spanning 12 acres, and hopefully, a Rivers of Light attraction to replace the idea of fireworks without all the noise will be completed by then.

At Disney World’s Animal Kingdom, this summer only, guests can enjoy The Jungle Book Alive With Magic show. It should be exciting and it is just Disney’s way of making up for the absence of the River of Lights extravaganza still under construction.

Disney World’s Animal Kingdom has been rising in popularity over its 18-year lifespan, however in the past, it has closed at 6 p.m. There are no rides and people often leave this park early. The park hopes to retain guests into the evening and nighttime hours with their new attractions and later hours. Late night gives park-goers the unique opportunity to view nocturnal animals while enjoying a break from the hot Florida sun.

Disney World’s Animal Kingdom offers late night guests a unique experience.