Disney’s Animal Kingdom is a is a treasure trove of enchanting wildlife adventures, featuring captivating attractions and immersive experiences. To make the most of your visit, understanding the park’s operating hours is crucial. Animal Kingdom typically opens its gates at 8:00 AM. Closing times vary, so checking the schedule for the specific day of your visit is recommended.
Finding the Sweet Spot: Best Times to Visit Animal Kingdom
Choosing the right time to visit Animal Kingdom can significantly impact your overall experience. For a more serene atmosphere and shorter queues, consider planning your visit on weekdays, especially from Tuesday through Thursday. These days often see fewer crowds, allowing you to enjoy popular attractions with minimal wait times.
Animal Kingdom Rope Drop Strategy
For those eager to make the most of their day at Animal Kingdom, the rope drop strategy is a game-changer. Being there as the park opens provides a significant advantage, allowing you to dive into premier attractions with minimal waiting. Be sure to head straight to iconic rides like Avatar Flight of Passage and Festival of the Lion King!
Discount Disney World Tickets
Looking for ways to save on your Disney World adventure?
Save Now
What time does Animal Kingdom open: A Monthly Schedule
When does Animal Kingdom open? The opening time varies depending on the day. Here’s a link to the official opening and closing times for WDW park hours. You can search day by day on the calendars. These include the park hours, hopper hours, and daily entertainment schedule.
However, these operating hours are subject to change based on several factors, including the day of the week, seasonal fluctuations, and the occurrence of special events. It’s essential to stay informed, as the magic unfolds differently on each day.
Generally, Monday to Thursday showcases similar operating hours, with the park extending its magic into the later hours on Friday nights. If you’re seeking shorter lines and a more relaxed experience, weekdays are often considered the optimal times to visit.
It’s important to note that Disney typically releases opening and closing hours only about 10 weeks in advance. While some information is based on predictions, it’s always wise to double-check the official website just before your visit to ensure you have the most up-to-date information for planning your magical adventure.
Animal Kingdom Hours January 2024
| Dates | Day of the Week | Animal Kingdom Park Hours | Park Hopper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1-3, 7 | Various | 8am-7pm | 2pm-7pm |
| Jan 4-6 | Thu, Fri, Sat | 8am-8pm | 2pm-8pm |
| Jan 8 | Sun | 8am-6pm | 2pm-6pm |
| Jan 9-22, 26, 27 | Various | 8am-6pm | 8am-6pm |
| Jan 23-25, 28-31 | Various | 9am-6pm | 9am-6pm |
Animal Kingdom Hours February 2024
| Dates | Day of the Week | Animal Kingdom Park Hours | Park Hopper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feb 1-29 | Various | 9am-6pm | 9am-6pm |
Animal Kingdom Hours March 2024
| Dates | Day of the Week | Animal Kingdom Park Hours | Park Hopper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 131 | Various | 9am-6pm | 9am-6pm |
Animal Kingdom Hours April 2024
| Dates | Day of the Week | Animal Kingdom Park Hours | Park Hopper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 1-30 | Various | 8am-7pm | 8am-7pm |
Animal Kingdom Hours May 2024
| Dates | Day of the Week | Animal Kingdom Park Hours | Park Hopper |
|---|---|---|---|
| May 1-31 | Various | 8am-8pm | 8am-8pm |
Animal Kingdom Hours June 2024
| Dates | Day of the Week | Animal Kingdom Park Hours | Park Hopper |
|---|---|---|---|
| June 1-30 | Various | 8am-8pm | 8am-8pm |
Animal Kingdom Hours July 2024
| Dates | Day of the Week | Animal Kingdom Park Hours | Park Hopper |
|---|---|---|---|
| July 1-31 | Various | 8am-8pm | 8am-8pm |
Animal Kingdom Hours August 2024
| Dates | Day of the Week | Animal Kingdom Park Hours | Park Hopper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 1-31 | Various | 8am-8pm | 8am-8pm |
Animal Kingdom Hours September 2024
| Dates | Day of the Week | Animal Kingdom Park Hours | Park Hopper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sep 1-30 | Various | 9am-6pm | 9am-6pm |
Animal Kingdom Hours October 2024
| Dates | Day of the Week | Animal Kingdom Park Hours | Park Hopper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 1-31 | Various | 9am-6pm | 9am-6pm |
Animal Kingdom Hours November 2024
| Dates | Day of the Week | Animal Kingdom Park Hours | Park Hopper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 1-30 | Various | 9am-6pm | 9am-6pm |
Animal Kingdom Hours December 2024
| Dates | Day of the Week | Animal Kingdom Park Hours | Park Hopper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 1-31 | Various | 9am-6pm | 9am-6pm |
Magic Hours at Animal Kingdom
Note: Extra Magic Hours at Animal Kingdom were discontinued in Spring 2011 and are no longer offered. If one day magic hours are brought back you will for sure hear from us.
Even though magic hours are not available, there is still Early Theme Park Entry available for Disney Resort hotel guests, giving them an extra 30 minutes before other visitors.
Other Park Hours
Disney’s Hollywood Studios Hours
FAQs: Your Animal Kingdom Guide
What time do gates open at Animal Kingdom?
Usually 8am (or 9am off season) but it can vary day by day.
Does Animal Kingdom have magic hours?
Evening Extra Magic Hours at Animal Kingdom were discontinued in Spring 2011 and are no longer offered.
Is there an evening show at Animal Kingdom?
Yes, there is. The show is called “Rivers of Light: We Are One” and it takes place on the Discovery River. You can check the showtimes on the official Walt Disney World website.
How early should I get to Animal Kingdom?
It is recommended that you arrive at least 30 minutes before the park opens to ensure that you have enough time to go through security and get to the entrance3.
Do you get wet at Animal Kingdom?
Some attractions at Animal Kingdom involve water and you may get wet. For example, Kali River Rapids is a water ride that can get you soaked. You can also get wet at the “Festival of the Lion King” show if you sit in the front rows.
Should you go to Animal Kingdom in the morning or afternoon?
It depends on your preference. If you want to avoid crowds, it’s best to go in the morning. However, if you want to see the “Rivers of Light” show, you should plan to visit in the evening.
DearDaughter loves to sing and dance. When she was 8, she wanted to grow up to be superstar ballerina and a performer. Not anymore. She wants to do something even better than that. Stay tuned what that is.
