Unlocking Dinosaur at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
In this episode, we head over to Dino Land USA inside Disney’s Animal Kingdom to “unlock” one of our most favorite thrilling, dark- ride attractions, Dinosaur.
We discuss the attractions history from early concept to creation, share details and cool facts about the queue (which happens to be our kids absolute favorites) and talk about some of our best moments riding the attraction.
Be sure to stick around until the end of the show as we will also share some of your best moments on the attraction that you sent through our social outlets.
Concept/ early days..
Following the Dino hype of the 1990’s, Disney wanted to bring Dinosaurs to the park to keep with the explosive trend.
With Animal Kingdom costing way more money than anticipated, the company needed to bring something to the park that was exciting yet cost effective so the ride vehicle was actually copied from the same track as Disneylands, Indiana Jones Adventure. This was done to save costs and also fit the bill for a thrill that was not necessarily a roller coaster but had the power to feel like one.
Originally introduced as Countdown to Extinction- which believe it or not it was much more intense and had a taller height requirement to ride (46 inches). Then later in the year 2000 renamed Dinosaur to tie in with Disney’s Dinosaur film.
Reasons why we love Dinosaur:
Hands down one of the best queues in Walt Disney World
Beginning with the Dino Institute, the museum is filled with interesting dinosaur exhibits and Bill Nye describing what is believed to happened to Dinosaurs brings a fun yet educational element to the queue.
Then you are lead into the “briefing room”.. where Dr. Marsh (played by actress Phylicia Rashad whom we absolutely adore) explains the “peaceful” observation you’re about to embark on. However, Paleontologist, Dr. Seeker sneaks in to expose a secret mission instead. Both Dr. Marsh and Dr. Seeker seem to be at odds but Dr. Marsh is unaware of Dr. Seekers motives.
Our Favorite moments
Riding the attraction with our mom. She was absolutely terrified yet giggling throughout the entire attraction.
Our kids begging us to hang in the queue so they can really observe all the details.
The Logistics;
- Located in Dinoland USA
- Riders 40 inches or taller.
- Fast pass available
- Each Time traveling jeep accommodates 12 guests- 4 per row
- Pictures are taken on the ride
Might not be good for young riders that are afraid of the dark
Handicapped Accessibility: Guests in wheelchairs must be able to transfer from their wheelchair to board. For guests who are hearing impaired, the pre-show is closed-captioned.
Thanks For Listening
Hope you enjoyed this episode!
We really love doing these shows. It’s so much fun for us and we hope you like them too. If you could subscribe in Itunes and give us an honest review that would be awesome.
Email us your question or suggestions for future episodes:Info@unlockingthemagic.com
Also, come talk to us on Twitter & Facebook and see the photos from our recent trips on Instagram. That’s it for now! Until next time, have a great (and of course magical) day.