5 Things I love About Animal Kingdom Lodge by Courtney

I recently had the absolute pleasure of staying at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, and it was truly something special. I was taking my mom on her very first trip to Walt Disney World, and since we’re both huge animal lovers—and couldn’t wait to explore Animal Kingdom Park—a stay at this resort felt like the perfect fit.

We booked a Savanna View room, and let me tell you, waking up to giraffes and zebras grazing just outside your window? Pure magic. If you’re considering this resort, that room upgrade is 100% worth it.

There are so many things to think about when choosing the right Disney resort for your family—from location to dining to theming—but if your crew includes any animal lovers, Animal Kingdom Lodge should be at the top of your list.

Here are five things I absolutely loved about our stay!

1. Immersive Theming: From the moment you step into the grand lobby with its towering thatched ceilings and African art, you feel transported. The resort is inspired by the heart of Africa, and every detail is thoughtfully curated—from the carved woodwork and cultural exhibits to the soothing music and lantern-lit walkways. It’s more than a hotel—it’s an experience.

2. The Animals: There’s nothing quite like sipping your morning coffee while watching a giraffe stroll by. We loved waking up each day to see the animals roaming the savanna just outside our balcony. You can spot over 30 species of African wildlife throughout the resort, and there are even guides on hand to help you learn more about them. It was one of our favorite parts of the stay and something truly unforgettable.

3. The Food: The dining at Animal Kingdom Lodge is next level. We especially loved Boma – Flavors of Africa and cannot stop talking about their brunch. It offered an incredible variety of dishes—both adventurous and familiar—and everything was delicious. The resort also features Jiko – The Cooking Place, for an elevated dining experience, and The Mara, a quick-service spot that’s perfect for grab-and-go meals or a casual bite.

               

4. Proximity to Animal Kingdom Park: It’s no surprise that Animal Kingdom Lodge is the closest resort to Animal Kingdom Park, and that made getting there a breeze. But what surprised us was how smooth transportation was to all the other parks, too. Buses came regularly, and we never felt far from the magic. It was easy, stress-free, and gave us more time to enjoy the parks and less time worrying about logistics.

5. The Atmosphere: While we were very much still in the “Disney bubble,” returning to the resort after a long park day felt like a deep exhale. It’s peaceful, serene, and full of cozy corners where you can unwind. The fire pits glowing outside at night, the occasional sound of African drums echoing through the lobby, the gentle rustle of animals just beyond the walkways—it’s all part of the vibe. The resort strikes a beautiful balance between magic and calm, and it was the perfect place to reset after the excitement of the parks.

Whether it’s your first trip or your fifteenth, Animal Kingdom Lodge offers a completely unique and unforgettable Disney experience. It’s luxurious, immersive, and full of little moments that make your stay feel extra special. If you’re an animal lover—or just love the idea of a peaceful Disney retreat—this resort might be exactly what you’re looking for.

Ready to start planning your next adventure?