Hiya, Emily!
Here at planDisney, it's never too early to start planning your next magical vacation, and I'm so glad you're once again trusting us at planDisney to help you with the process! Discussing a visit to
Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park is always one of my favorite things to do, so let's get right to your question!
Few things at Walt Disney World Resort bring me more joy than pairing an early morning coffee from
Kusafiri Coffee Shop & Bakery with a leisurely stroll through
Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail, but an evening that includes dinner from
Nomad Lounge and concludes under the bioluminescent lights of
Pandora - The World of Avatar is definitely one of those things. With an earlier closing time than other theme parks, it has become increasingly difficult in recent years to see Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park after dark. This January my husband and I managed to do so with the assistance of an early sunset and the latest possible dining reservation available at
Yak & Yeti Restuarant. After dinner, we walked through the park hand in hand under the string lights of Asia and the illuminated floating mountains in the
Valley of Mo'ara. Depending on the length of your dinner, you might find Cast Members directing you directly toward the exit, but on our last visit, we were fortunate enough to still have the opportunity to make our way through Pandora on our way out.
If you'd like to ensure you're able to see Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park in all of its nighttime glory, I have some great news for you, Emily! It was recently revealed that beginning in October Disney's Animal Kingdom would be open for Guests of
Deluxe Disney Resort hotels for 2 hours after the park's closure on select evenings as part of the
Extended Evening Theme Park Hours benefit. This is such a great perk that will not only enable you to enjoy the lights of Pandora, but you'll also have the opportunity to enjoy attractions with less wait! You can helpfully find when Extended Evening Hours will be offered at the various parks by checking the
Hours & Events Calendar online.
I hope this was helpful, Emily, and that you're able to make your way back to the magic soon! If you have any additional questions about a future visit, feel free to stop back by.
I'm always happy to help!
Hakuna Matata,
Lizzie