Welcome to the Disney Parks Moms Panel, Regina! It's a great idea to plan out your park days, dining reservations and how you're going to navigate it all before you arrive. You won't be left with any unnecessary surprises and you'll be able to relax and enjoy the magic even more!
You can absolutely enjoy a full day at
Animal Kingdom before leaving to relax with a luxurious dinner at California Grill. After a long day in the park, you'll be happy to wind down and enjoy some great food. I love the menu and the atmosphere at
California Grill. The view is pretty spectacular too!
There are
lockers in the front of the park if you want to store a change of clothes, or if you have clothes that don't easily wrinkle, keeping them in your backpack is another option. Depending on what time of year you are visiting, you may find yourself hot and sweaty after a day of adventure at Animal Kingdom, so if heading back to your resort to shower isn't possible, having a fresh set of clothes to change into as you make your way to dinner is a great idea.
Leave yourself plenty of time to get to your reservation. I'd suggest an hour or more, just to be sure. We've had the unfortunate instance happen when we left only just enough time, and then saw the bus leaving as we walked up to the bus stop. We then had to wait until the next one came, and we were stressed. Don't let that happen! Leave extra time and even if the bus is waving goodbye to you as you run to the stop, you'll know that you're not going to be late, even while waiting for the next one. Plus, if you arrive at the Contemporary Resort early, there is plenty to explore until your reservation.
Have fun, Regina!
Marcy