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Animal Kingdom Rides Not Worth Your Time: What to Skip

Posted by: Steven Wilk December 15, 2024 Comments Off on Animal Kingdom Rides Not Worth Your Time: What to Skip

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Credit: D23/WDW Magazine

Disney’s Animal Kingdom is not only the largest Disney Park in the world, covering an expansive 580 acres, but also one of the most unique theme parks ever created. Blending the excitement of a theme park with the wonder of a zoo, it offers a one-of-a-kind experience for guests of all ages. While Magic Kingdom often steals the spotlight with its vast array of rides and attractions, Animal Kingdom offers a more immersive, nature-driven adventure.

However, with so much ground to cover and only so much time in a day, prioritizing attractions is key. Not all rides at Animal Kingdom are created equal, and while some are absolute must-dos, others can be skipped without missing too much magic.

Here’s a breakdown of rides you might consider bypassing during your visit to Animal Kingdom.

1. TriceraTop Spin

Location: DinoLand U.S.A.

If you’ve ever ridden Dumbo the Flying Elephant or The Magic Carpets of Aladdin at Magic Kingdom, you’ll find TriceraTop Spin to be a near-identical experience. The primary difference is that you’ll be seated in a triceratops instead of an elephant or a magic carpet. While the ride’s colorful theme and kid-friendly vibe make it a charming addition to DinoLand U.S.A., it lacks the wow factor of other Animal Kingdom attractions.

A colorful amusement park ride entrance, "TriceraTop Spin," features dinosaur-themed vehicles and vibrant green, orange, and yellow decorations. While enjoying the blue sky and trees in the background, consider this one of the rides to skip at Animal Kingdom if you're short on time.

Credit: Disney

Moreover, with DinoLand U.S.A. undergoing transformations (including the demolition of Primeval Whirl), rumors suggest this area may soon see a significant overhaul. Whether it’s a Zootopia or Moana-themed land in the future, TriceraTop Spin may not be around for long. For now, it’s a safe skip unless you have little ones who adore simple spinner rides.

2. It’s Tough to Be a Bug!

Location: Tree of Life

Located inside the iconic Tree of Life, It’s Tough to Be a Bug! is a 3D show inspired by Disney Pixar’s A Bug’s Life. Featuring interactive 4D effects like scents, mist, and air puffs, it’s an enjoyable way to cool off and escape the Orlando heat. However, given Animal Kingdom’s many live shows, animal exhibits, and rides, spending time watching this movie might not feel worth it—especially if you’re on a tight schedule.

That said, if someone in your group is a diehard fan of A Bug’s Life or if you need a break from the heat, this attraction could be worth a quick stop. Otherwise, consider exploring the nearby animal trails or hopping on Kilimanjaro Safaris instead.

3. Na’vi River Journey

Location: Pandora – The World of Avatar

Pandora – The World of Avatar is one of the crown jewels of Animal Kingdom, and its marquee ride, Avatar Flight of Passage, is a must-experience attraction. However, its sister ride, Na’vi River Journey, often leaves Guests underwhelmed. This slow-moving boat ride takes you through the bioluminescent forests of Pandora, offering stunning visuals and a serene atmosphere.

A group of people sit in a boat on an indoor ride, surrounded by colorful, glowing plants and futuristic, luminescent foliage. They look ahead, appearing engaged and entertained by the immersive environment.

Credit: Disney

While the Shaman of Songs animatronic is breathtaking, the ride itself is under five minutes long and often has wait times comparable to marquee attractions like Space Mountain or Expedition Everest. For those who value a relaxing experience or are looking to avoid thrill rides, Na’vi River Journey is a peaceful diversion.

However, if you’re focused on maximizing your time, this is one ride you can skip, especially if lines are long.

Why Skipping These Rides Makes Sense

Animal Kingdom is home to some of the most unique and popular attractions at Walt Disney World, including:

  • Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain: A thrilling coaster with a stunning view of the park.
  • Kilimanjaro Safaris: A safari adventure offering close-up views of exotic animals in a sprawling, open environment.
  • Avatar Flight of Passage: A groundbreaking ride that immerses Guests in the breathtaking world of Pandora.
  • Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond!: A reimagined stage show featuring characters from the beloved Pixar film.

With so many iconic experiences, focusing your time and energy on these standout attractions ensures a day full of unforgettable moments. Additionally, the park offers plenty of hidden gems like walking trails, cultural performances, and unique dining experiences that further enhance your visit.

Tips for Planning Your Animal Kingdom Day

  1. Arrive Early: Many attractions, like Kilimanjaro Safaris, are best experienced early in the day when the animals are most active.
  2. Leverage Lightning Lane: Use the My Disney Experience app to secure Lightning Lane reservations for popular attractions like Avatar Flight of Passage.
  3. Take Breaks Wisely: Use downtime to explore shaded walking trails like Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail or the Maharajah Jungle Trek. These peaceful areas often feature incredible animal encounters.
  4. Prioritize Shows: Don’t miss fan-favorite performances like Festival of the Lion King, which offers Broadway-caliber entertainment.
  5. Explore Pandora at Night: The bioluminescent glow of Pandora transforms the area into an otherworldly landscape after sunset—an experience you won’t want to miss.
Four performers in vibrant lion costumes with orange and yellow fur and face paint, energetically pose on stage. The background is dark, highlighting their expressive, theatrical gestures.

Credit: Disney

Animal Kingdom: More Than a Theme Park

Beyond the rides and shows, Disney’s Animal Kingdom immerses Guests in a celebration of wildlife, conservation, and storytelling. The park’s design and attention to detail make it a must-visit destination, whether you’re exploring the African savannah on Kilimanjaro Safaris, marveling at the floating mountains in Pandora, or enjoying a Dole Whip at Tamu Tamu Refreshments.

While some attractions might not make the cut for your itinerary, Animal Kingdom offers so much to see and do that it remains a highlight of any Walt Disney World vacation.

Do you agree with our list of rides to skip at Animal Kingdom? 

About Steven Wilk

Steven has a complicated relationship with Disney. As a child, he visited Walt Disney World every few years with his family. But he never understood why kids his age (and older) were so scared of Snow White or Alien Encounter. He is a former participant of the Disney College Program (left early…long story), and he also previously worked in Children’s publishing, where he adapted multiple Disney movies and TV shows. He has many controversial opinions about Disney…like having a positive view of Michael Eisner, believing Return of the Jedi is superior to The Empire Strikes Back, and that Toy Story Land and Galaxy’s Edge should have never been built (at least not at Hollywood Studios). Every year for the past two decades, Steven has visited either Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Aulani or went on a Disney Cruise. He’s happy to share any and all knowledge of the Disney destinations (and he likes using parenthesis a lot…as well as ellipses…)