Disney World and Animal Kingdom are filled with so much detail and so many things to see or do around every corner. For that reason I am breaking down the fun land by land. Here I take a look at Dinoland U.S.A. inside Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
The story of Dinoland U.S.A. is that dinosaur bones were discovered near an old gas station owned by a couple, Chester and Hester. To research the bones paleontologists and students flooded the area. Chester and Hester saw a business opportunity so they built “Chester & Hester’s Dino-Rama” a dinosaur themed carnival that along with the actual fossils would draw tourists to the site and make them rich. All of that lead to the eclectic land you can visit today that is Dinoland U.S.A.
Location
Dinoland U.S.A. is located in Animal Kingdom. As you enter the park you want to veer right twice as you approach the Tree of Life you will see a large dinosaur fossil and sign welcoming you to Dinoland.
If you are approaching from the other side throughout the day you would come through Asia as you pass Expedition Everest.
Animal Kingdom is a large park and it may take longer to get from one land to the next then you think. If you are trying to be on time for a reservation, or FastPass make sure you allow ample time to get where you need to be.
Attractions
DINOSAUR:
- Height 40” or taller
- Lightning Lane Included With Genie+
- Accessibility: Must transfer from wheel chair/ECV, video captioning, assistive listening, translation devices.
- On Ride Photo
Go back in time in your Time Rover to bring an iguanadon back to the present. But be careful it seems you may have jumped back to the wrong day and a meteor shower is approaching, not to mention other dinosaurs. This ride is a lot of fun and is thrilling without any roller coaster style action. It is very bumpy though so keep that in mind for any medical concerns. It is also dark and things pop out at you so this can easily be frightening on children and jumpy adults.
TriceraTop Spin:
- Any Height
- Accessibility: Must transfer to Wheelchair
Perfect for little ones this ride is just like the classic Dumbo attraction but with a Triceratops.
Fossil Fun Games:
- Any Height
- Accessibility: May Remain in Wheelchair/ECV
- Extra Cost – $6 per game
Dinoland U.S.A. offers several carnival style games that you can play, at an additional cost. To play you buy a voucher at the souvenir stand nearby. You then give the voucher to the game attendant. Just like at the carnival if you win you get a prize. Check around each game at the prizes before you play as they can differ. Some of the prizes are absolutely adorable stuffed dinosaur characters from Dinoland USA and Mickey and Minnie in Dinoland gear. You have to win these prizes you can’t buy them. The games usually close earlier than the park so keep an eye on their closing times if you want to play later in the day. This is a unique attraction at Disney World and the only area where you will see games like this.
The Boneyard:
- Any Height – Suggested 10 and Under
- Accessibility: May Remain in Wheelchair/ECV (But this is not a very accessible activity)
Children can dig and play in the Boneyard designed to imitate an active dinosaur fossil dig. This is a fun activity for younger children to get some of their energy out. Plus it is something to do without a line.
Cretaceous Trail:
- Any Height – Suggested 10 and Under
- Accessibility: May Remain in Wheelchair/ECV
This path near the Dinosaur attraction has statutes of and facts about dinosaurs. There is even a replica of the famous Sue the most intact T-Rex fossil ever found at the time of her discovery.
Finding Nemo The Musical:
- Any Height
- Accessibility – May remain in wheelchair / ECV , Audio Description, Sign Language, Assistive Listening.
This 40 minute musical stage show tells the story of Finding Nemo with actors in elaborate customs or working large amazing puppets. The production is top notch and you get to sit down with air conditioning while you watch. It does take a large chunk out of your day however so make sure you are prioritizing your top interests. Make sure you arrive early to get seats and check the show times for the day in the morning.
Food
For more details about dining at Animal Kingdom check out my blog post all about it.
Everything You Need To Know Before Dining at Animal Kingdom
Restaurantosaurus:
- Lunch & Dinner
- Food Style: American
- Mobile Order Available
- Indoor Seating
- This large casual dining restaurant offers your classic counter service fare, burgers and nuggets, also chicken sandwiches and salads. This is a good stop for families to get a break from the heat with indoor seating and food that will easily please the whole family. This is also a must visit for kids who love dinosaurs. The theming is a home base for Paleontologists out on dig. For those looking for something more exciting and out of your ordinary I would skip this one.
- Burgers and Sundaes – For diner check out the special burger and sundae menu. Choose one of the hand-crafted burger options with fries or onion rings. Then top it off with a build your own sundae for dessert all for one price.
Stands
Dino-Bite Snack: Ice cream treats
Dino Diner – Hot dogs and classic theme park fare, check out the corn chip pie.
Trilo-Bites – Ice cream treats, drinks, and buffalo chicken chips.
Characters
Donald’s Dino-bash – As a bird Donald’s ancestors are dinosaurs so he loves Dinoland U.S.A. Celebrate Dinoland with Donald and his pals, a rotation of Chip, Dale, Daisy, Goofy, Pluto, and Launchpad McQuack.
Shopping
DinoLand Cart:
- Clothing & Toys
- General Animal Kingdom and Dinoland
Boneyard Cart:
- Clothing & Toys
- General Animal Kingdom and Dinoland
Dino-Rama Cart:
- Clothing & Toys
- Vouchers for Games
Theatre in the Wild Cart:
- Finding Nemo items
The Dino Institute Shop:
- At the exit of DINOSAUR
- Everything Dinoland U.S.A and and Dinosaur themed you could want.
Chester & Hester’s Dinosaur Treasures
- Even more Dinosaur themed items.
Pressed Pennies Locations
- Restaurantosaurus
- Chester & Hester’s Dinosaur Treasures
Restrooms
Restrooms – Restaurantosaurus
Restroom & Companion Restrooms – Chester & Hester’s Dinosaur Treasures
Restroom & Companion Restrooms – Theatre in the Wild (Finding Nemo )
Other Conveniences
Disney Vacation Club Cart – Near The Boneyard
Service Animal Relief Area – Near Restaurantosaurus
ATM – Near Chester & Hester’s Dinosaur Treasures
Dinoland U.S.A. is full of fun things to do and see especially for fans of dinosaurs. I highly recommend a visit during you next trip to Disney World.
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Katie - The Magic's Yours Travel 