Discovery Island

Discovery Island is the centerpiece and hub of Animal Kingdom.  After entering Animal Kingdom and proceeding through the Oasis, everyone crosses the bridge onto Discovery Island.  It is a real island, surrounded on all sides by the Discovery River.  From Discovery Island, guests may take bridges to Africa (which leads to Rafiki’s Planet Watch), to Asia, to Camp Minnie-Mickey, to DinoLand U.S.A., and back to the Oasis.  Camp Minnie-Mickey and the Oasis are isolated, meaning that the only way in and out (inside the park) is from Discovery Island.  There is a promenade around the Discovery River that connects the rest of the lands. 

On Discovery Island, you will see the most recognizable symbol of Animal Kingdom, the Tree of Life.  It sits in the middle of the island and is surrounded by trails and exhibits.  Making somewhat of a wide “u” shape is the main promenade, which you reach at an intersection from the bridge from the Oasis, right in front of the Tree of Life.  To the left of this intersection you can find trails, pizza, and shopping.  To the right you can find trails, the entrance to the exciting “It’s Tough To Be A Bug” inside the Tree of Life, the Village Beatniks, barbeque, and more shopping.  Discovery Island is also home to the afternoon parade at Animal Kingdom, which begins and ends in Africa and loops across Discovery Island and part of Asia.  Some of the best parade viewing areas are along the main promenade on Discovery Island.

Discovery Island is a beautiful place to begin and end your Animal Kingdom journey.  Enjoy the culture, exhibits, food, and shopping, along with the beauty of the Tree of Life and the 3D thrills of “It’s Tough To Be A Bug.”