Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge

Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Review

Secluded and relaxing, Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge truly feels as if it is a continent away from the noisy excitement of the theme parks. First-time visitors often stop for a moment to take in the lobby; filled floor-to-ceiling with animal carvings and featuring a panoramic view of the South African-inspired savanna, it is one of Disney's best-themed resorts.

Balconies on savanna-view guest rooms, perfect for gazing at zebra and giraffes, provide surprisingly peaceful havens from the theme parks. Early morning is the best time to slip out onto your balcony with a cup of coffee and soak in the hushed surroundings; expect to see zebra, ostrich or giraffe, depending on your room location. Guest rooms at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge do tend to be on the dark side, especially the rooms with bunk beds. (Some standard rooms are available with one queen-sized bed and one bunk bed for the kids.)

Nightly campfires with storytelling delight children. Both restaurants at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge, Boma and Jiko, are consistently pleasing and worth a try even if you are unfamiliar with African cuisine (Restaurants at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge). The zero-entry swimming pool (no steps) makes it easy for smaller kids to swim; there's also a 67-foot water slide, hot tubs and a children's pool. Zawadi Marketplace, just off the lobby, is one of the largest retail shops in Disney and features one-of-a-kind treasures from Africa.

A unique deluxe resort, Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge is built around a private animal reserve. Three separate savannas encompass 33 acres and are home to over 200 mammals and birds (three dozen species). The savannas are lit up each night with a simulated full moon. Inside the lobby, look for artifacts collected from or inspired by African tribes. Animal Kingdom Lodge (including new section Kidani Village) house the largest permanently displayed collection of African art in the U.S. African cast members are happy to share about their home countries. Because of the resort's proximity to the animals, balloons are not allowed on the premises, and straws are cardboard. (Reviewed 4/1/2007)

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Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge is located: on Walt Disney World property near the Animal Kingdom theme park.
2901 Osceola Parkway, Lake Buena Vista, Florida 32830-1000
Phone: (407) 938-3000; Reservations: (407) 939-7429
Web site: Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge

^{As is common in the travel industry, the writer was provided with complimentary accommodations for the purpose of reviewing those services. While it has not influenced this review, About.com believes in full disclosure of all potential conflicts of interest. For more information, see our ethics policy.}