The short answer is yes.
Let’s dive into the long answer, shall we? DinoLand U.S.A. in Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World is not only campy but also has a very developed story. The land may lack luster in the ride department, but there’s so much to see and learn.
Kid Friendly Experiences
DinoLand U.S.A. has several fun experiences for kids, like the Boneyard, TriceraTop Spin, and carnival games. As a kid, the Boneyard was my favorite. This is an educational playground that is a replica of a dig site with rope ladders, tunnels, and slides, on varying levels. I would explore the entire area as my dad watched from a distance. When my siblings were finally old enough to enjoy the whole area, I would bring them on my adventures.
The vast playground also has a soft cushiony floor making for a safe play area. The best part of the experience is the sandbox area. The sandbox isn’t filled with natural sand. They use a no-stick variety known as “Texas grit.” I loved pretending that I was an archaeologist, and anytime I uncovered something, I would be shocked.
A few steps away, guests will find the Dumbo attraction of Animal Kingdom, TriceraTop Spin. This is a fun attraction for kids that may not be ready to venture into the dark and scary attraction, DINOSAUR. I don’t love these types of attractions, but my siblings had a blast riding it. Now that they are older, they prefer the other ride in the land. I think it’s a great way to get the younger kids involved in the DinoLand U.S.A experience.
There are several carnival-style games in the land. Unfortunately, they are not free, but if you enjoy these types of games, then it’s worth it. Right now, they have some of the cutest dinosaur-themed prizes. I always loved watching my younger family members play these games because their reaction when they win is unforgettable. My wife also enjoys playing these games and winning the different plushies. We always end up giving prizes to our nieces and nephew.
Unique Character Meet and Greets
DinoLand has unique character meet and greets. They came to the land when Donald’s Dino-Bash took over the area. Here’s a list of who you can meet, and remember, they all have unique outfits that can’t be seen anywhere else.
- Daisy Duck in her Design Studio at the start of the Cretaceous Trail
- Chip’ n’ Dale in their Dinosaur Outfits in the Upper Cretaceous Trail
- Donald Duck dressed in his very best at the DinoLand U.S.A. Welcome Center
Home to a Thrill Ride
Animal Kingdom isn’t a ride-heavy park for various reasons, but there are a few thrill rides here. One of those is DINOSAUR in DinoLand U.S.A. This isn’t my favorite ride, and if I’m being honest, this attraction still scares me. I can keep my eyes open for the first half of the attraction, but the second half goes downhill for me. I am well aware that I’m a baby regarding these types of rides. Many of my friends have this attraction on their must-do lists and always rave about how amazing it is.
You should definitely try to ride this attraction when visiting this area of the park. Especially if you love dinosaurs and enjoy darker rides with scary elements. Just know that it’s a very loud ride.
Fun Snacks for the Whole Family
There are two snack windows in the land that have fun treats that the entire family can enjoy. The two locations are Trilo-Bites and Dino-Bite Snacks.
Trilo-Bites
This snack spot is by the entrance of the land. Here they have something for guests that enjoy spicy food and items for all the sweet tooths out there. Let’s dig into the menu.
Buffalo Chicken Chip: House-made chips with buffalo chicken and blue cheese dressing topped with tomato and celery relish. – $9.59
Float: with your choice of fountain beverage – $5.99
Soft-serve Ice Cream in a Waffle Cone – $5.29
Trilo-Bites Twist: made with DOLE Whip Orange and vanilla soft-serve ice cream – $5.29
Churro: served with chocolate sauce – $6.39
Dino-Bite Snacks
This is where you come on the hottest days to grab a cold treat. You’ll also be able to purchase a Mickey Mouse pretzel here.
Dig Ice Cream Sandwich – $7.29
Haagen-Dazs Hand-scooped Ice Cream – $7.29
Ice Cream Cookie Sandwich – $7.29
Old-fashioned Hot Fudge Sundae – $7.79
Float: with choice of beverage – $5.99
Freshly Baked Chocolate-chip Cookie – $3.29
Mickey Pretzel: with cheese dip – $7.49
Overall Thoughts
All in all, I believe it’s worth stopping in DinoLand U.S.A. when you are at Animal Kingdom. Even if all you do is pick up a snack, play a carnival game, or meet a character. I know this land has a huge fan base which I genuinely appreciate, but I also think this area could be turned into something better one day. What I would love to see is this area stay in the past and become an Ice Age type of area. It would be so different from anything we’ve seen. I also love the thought of this section becoming South America or Australia-themed.
Are you a fan of DinoLand U.S.A, or would you like to see this area change? If you want it changed, what would you like to see? Let us know in the comments.
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