Secrets About DINOSAUR at Animal Kingdom

As talk swirls over possibly replacing DinoLand USA at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, it seems only necessary to focus some attention on that area’s anchor attraction: DINOSAUR.  The exciting dark ride takes you on a mission to rescue an Iguanodon from the clutches of extinction.

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So let’s hope aboard our Time Rover and explore some secrets about the classic Animal Kingdom attraction.

1. Opening Day

It was initially called Countdown to Extinction when the Park opened in 1998. However, after the film Dinosaur (2000) was released, it was renamed and rethemed to tie it into the movie. Walt Disney Feature Animation produced the movie and told the story of an Iguanodon named Aladar and his journey to survive in a world filled with dangerous dinosaurs. The ride’s mission to save the Iguanodon mirrors the film’s central theme of preservation and survival.

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2. Ride Vehicles

The DINOSAUR ride utilizes Disney’s innovative Enhanced Motion Vehicles (EMVs) called Time Rovers. These specially designed vehicles allow Guests to travel back in time and experience the thrill of encountering dinosaurs up close. The EMVs feature immersive motion simulation synchronized with the ride’s storyline and thrilling effects.

3. Track Layout

It has a layout and ride system similar to Indiana Jones Adventure: Temple of the Forbidden Eye at Disneyland in Anaheim.

4. Record Setting

At its debut, the ride featured Walt Disney World’s largest audio-animatronics.

5. No T-Rex? No problem.

The ride does not feature a Tyrannosaurs Rex. Although the original attraction had plans to include the larger-than-life dinosaur, the recent discovery at the time of the Carnotaurus made Disney change both the ride (and the Dinosaur movie).

Whether you’re a dinosaur enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or simply looking for an immersive experience, DINOSAUR at Disney’s Animal Kingdom offers something for everyone. It also educates Guests about the importance of conservation and the delicate balance of ecosystems.

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Hopefully, it will remain, even if they axe the rest of Animal Kingdom’s DinoLand.