Hi there, Michelle!
Welcome to the Disney Parks Moms Panel! I'm so excited to hEAR you want to kick off your 2018 visit exploring
Disney's Animal Kingdom. You can absolutely take advantage of
Extra Magic Hours on the day of your arrival as your MagicBands should allow you entry to the park even if you don't have time to swing by Disney's Pop Century Resort. I'm a huge fan of
Online Resort Check-In so I recommend completing this once it becomes available in your "My Disney Experience" account. Once your room is ready, you'll be alerted via text or email!
Michelle, I had an opportunity to visit
Pandora- The World of Avatar last month and was blown away by this immersive land! I highly recommend seeing this area both during the day and at night, as the bioluminescence is breathtaking! Avatar Flight of Passage is the most unique attraction I've ever experienced, and I can't wait to fly on a banshee again on my next visit! Even though you are able to take advantage of Extra Magic Hours, I strongly recommend arriving early to minimize your wait time if you plan to head to Pandora first.
Best wishes for a magical vacation in January, Michelle! I hope you'll visit us again if you have any further questions.
Have a wonderful day!
Nancy