Over the past few months we’ve seen the return of some of your favorite character experiences around Walt Disney World Resort. From character hugs and autographs to the return of character dining experiences, it’s been nice to see this special type of magic back in the parks. One park that has been seeing major character experiences recently is Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Today we’re sharing five ways to experience characters at Disney’s Animal Kingdom!

Tusker House
One of Walt Disney World’s top character dining experiences is Tusker House in the Harambe area of the park. This restaurant offers African-inspired fare for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and has most recently seen the return of its buffet menu as of November 1, 2022! In addition to delicious dishes, guests of all ages can look forward to getting some face time with some of their favorite characters dressed in their Safari-best. Meet Mickey, Goofy, Donald, Daisy and more, all while grabbing autographs, pictures, and delicious food of course.

Finding Nemo: The Big Blue…and Beyond!
Have you heard the news? A new and improved version of the musical Finding Nemo stage show is back at Disney’s Animal Kingdom! Finding Nemo: The Big Blue…and Beyond! brings the Disney and Pixar film to life through fan favorite songs, choreography, and larger-than-life puppets. Find this new show near Dinoland U.S.A. in the Theater in the Wild.

Donald’s Dino-Bash!
Have you missed meeting Donald, Daisy, and Chip ‘n’ Dale at Dinoland U.S.A. the past few years? Great news! Donald’s Dino-Bash has officially returned to the Dinoland U.S.A. area, which means you can grab photos, autographs, and even bust a move with some of your favorite Dinoland U.S.A. friends. The crew is even rocking their awesome dino-themed outfits from before! Make sure to add this to your must-do list next time you’re in Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

Disney Friends Cruises
Since Disney’s Animal Kingdom reopened in July 2020, guests have been able to spot some of their favorite characters on flotillas on the Discovery River throughout the day. Even with the return of so many character interactions around the parks, guests will be happy to know that these fun Disney Friends Cruises aren’t going anywhere for now. You can also keep an eye out for a brand-new flotilla featuring Launchpad McQuack and Scrooge McDuck or Russell and Dug from Disney and Pixar’s UP.

Festival of the Lion King
This fan-favorite Disney’s Animal Kingdom is back in full swing – acrobatic monkeys and all! We’re so excited to enjoy this larger-than-life stage show once again. Festival of the Lion King is also a great place to spot some of your favorite characters from The Lion King like Timon, Simba, and Pumba. Find Festival of the Lion King in the Africa area of Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

With so many memories to be made at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, why not add a few must-do character interactions to the mix? We hope you’re able to experience each and every one on your next Walt Disney World vacation!