Would a cast member at the Harambe Station be able to tell us if there is still availability for the Animation Experience, since we were unable to get a fastpass? We only want to go to out to the C.S. if we can do the class. Thanks!”

Hey, Laura! This is such a great question, so thank you for stopping by today to chat with us! While at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park this summer, I was able to participate in one of the classes at The Animation Experience at Conservation Station. This was such a fun activity, much like ones we did years ago at Disney's Hollywood Studios and Disney's Art of Animation Resort. If you can, try to arrive early and sit close to one of the screens that give you a bird's eye view of the artist as she leads the session. No worries if you are close to the end of the line as the area reserved for this experience is quite small and most seats do offer a great view of the screens.

I stopped by Harambe Station last night to chat with one of the Cast Members working in that area and got some great information to share with you. She stated that the Cast Members working in that area do not generally have information in how large the crowd is at any time waiting in the standby queue for The Animation Experience. Also, the standby crowd length is likely to change before you arrive at the building. Your best bet is going to be to go early in the day for one of the first few classes. She said that it can be harder to get into the afternoon classes, particularly if it is a busy day at the park, such as any holiday weeks throughout the year.

A certain number of standby guests will be allowed in for each class and those remaining have to wait for the next class. As the day goes on, that stand-by queue does get long. So, I recommend that you do head to Harambe Station earlier rather than later if this experience is important to your family! I have always enjoyed heading to Conservation Station early in the day anyway so that we can possibly see some animal surgeries or procedures that may be performed that morning. Be sure to roam the building to see if there are any procedures to watch that day! Also, be sure to watch for any FastPass+ availability in the weeks and days leading up to your trip. Guests change their plans all the time, so you never know when you may find a spot!

I hope this information helps you have a wild adventure at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park, Laura. Thanks again for stopping by and please let us know if you have any other questions.

Brandy