The Ultimate Lion King Day at Walt Disney World

Hakuna Matata! Prepare for a roaring good time as you embark on the ultimate day celebrating The Lion King at Walt Disney World!

Disney’s- Art of Animation Resort

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From thrilling attractions and Broadway-style shows to up-close animal encounters that bring the Pride Lands to life, this itinerary is packed with everything a true Lion King fan could want. Whether you’re belting out “Circle of Life” at Festival of the Lion King, spotting real lions on safari, or dining like royalty with African-inspired flavors, this day will have you feeling the love for Simba and his kingdom. So grab your best jungle gear, channel your inner lion, and let’s explore all the Lion King magic Disney has to offer!

Stay at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort (Lion King Suites)

Sleep among giant Simba, Pumbaa, and Timon icons in a family suite themed to The Lion King, surrounded by the atmosphere of the Pride Lands.

At Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, the theme is straight out of some of Disney’s most famous animated movies: The Lion King, Cars, Finding Nemo, and The Little Mermaid. Each movie has its section with big icons from the movies and buildings painted to match.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Since The Lion King is all about the wonders of the African savanna, it’s no surprise that most of your adventure will take place at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, the perfect setting to immerse yourself in Simba’s world. From breathtaking live entertainment to real wildlife encounters that echo the Pride Lands, this park is the ultimate destination for Lion King fans looking to walk (or roar) in Simba’s paw prints!

Festival of the Lion King

Experience a live musical celebration of Simba’s story with acrobatics, fire dancing, and beloved songs.

At the Festival of the Lion King you’ll immerse yourself in the magic of this Broadway-style show that celebrates the classic film “The Lion King” through music, dance, puppetry, and visual effects. It’s a moving tribute to the circle of life that resonates with guests of all ages.

Kilimanjaro Safaris

Journey through the African savanna to see real lions, elephants, giraffes, and other animals that inspired The Lion King.

Kilimanjaro Safaris – Venture into the African savanna on an open-air vehicle for a chance to see some of the world’s most iconic animals up close. From majestic lions and elephants to graceful giraffes and speedy cheetahs, Kilimanjaro Safaris provides a glimpse into the diverse wildlife that calls Africa home.

Visit Rafiki at Rafiki’s Planet Watch

Rafiki’s Planet Watch is accessible by the Wildlife Express Train, this off the beaten path experience offers a unique opportunity to learn about animal conservation, meet some of the animals up close, and understand the efforts Disney’s Animal Kingdom undertakes to preserve wildlife. Here you can:

Meet Rafiki and Timon

Say “Asante sana” to Rafiki at Rafiki’s Planet Watch or give a high-five to Timon when he appears for greetings.

Animation Experience at Conservation Station

Learn to draw Simba, Zazu, or other Lion King characters in a fun artist-led class.

Tusker House Restaurant

Enjoy an African-inspired buffet, with Safari Mickey & friends visiting tables for flavors that evoke the Pride Lands.

At the Tusker House Restaurant you can join Donald Duck and friends for a safari-themed dining experience at this buffet-style restaurant. Tusker House offers a variety of African-inspired dishes alongside American favorites, making it a feast for the senses.

It’s a Wrap

By the end of your Lion King adventure, you’ll have sung, explored, and maybe even roared your way through a day fit for the king of the Pride Lands!

Did we miss any of your favorite Lion King experiences at Disney? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to hear how you celebrate Simba’s story at Walt Disney World!

Movies to Watch in Preparation

Before your trip, watch these Disney movies to get ready for your themed day:

The Lion King (1994)
The Lion King II: Simba’s Pride (1998)
The Lion King 1½ (2004) (a fun twist on the original from Timon & Pumbaa’s perspective)
The Lion King (2019, live-action)
The Lion Guard (TV series, 2016–2019)

Note: This post contains affiliate links for the movies on Amazon!

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This article was written by Steve Bell, founder of Military Disney Tips.

Steve is a retired U.S. military member who has been visiting the Disney Parks since 1971 and writing about Disney military discounts and vacations for the military community for over 18 years.

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