Hi again:
Barring extraordinary circumstances, I always advise everyone to take it easy and get settled in on the first day of a Disney vacation. If you are landing at 1:00 p.m., you may not make it to Animal Kingdom Lodge until 2:30 or 3:00. Your children are probably going to be happy just hanging out at the amazing pools at Animal Kingdom Lodge. For dinner, plan on making a reservation on one of the Resort's restaurants.
There are a whole host of
recreational activities to take advantage of at Animal Kingdom Lodge, including an arcade and movies. As you check in, request an activity guide from the front desk for a schedule of organized activities. Although subject to change, we found the following programs, among many others, available during our last stay: ceramics, cookie decorating, pin trading, and folktale storytelling. A highlight of our last stay was our kids taking part in the evening "Primal Parade," a noisy but quick march through the lobby led by a Cast Member where children banged drums and rattled shakers. The resort is home to a children's activity center, Simba's Cubhouse, for children 3-12 years old
There are several savannas spread out along the Resort. When you check in, ask for copies of the Wildlife Field Guide. The field guide is a fun way for you and your kids to learn about the Resort's animals. The guide will provide not only a listing of the animals roaming the resort's savannas, but will also provide animal identification pointers, behavioral tips, and check boxes to record any animals you spot. Although the animals may be subject to change, our family spotted the following animals on our last trip: Ankole Cattle (look for one walking a bit awkwardly, as if one horn is heavier than the other horn), Zebra, Okapi, Greater Kudu, Impala, Nyala, and ostriches.
Enjoy your vacation.