The grand opening of Disney’s Animal Kingdom in 1998 proved that it is possible to use the word “grand” as an understatement. After all, it’s Disney’s largest park, with more than 500 acres of lush landscape and 250 species of animals. When Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge opened nearby on this day in 2001, it became the perfect accommodation for Guests wishing to continue their stay in this animal kingdom. Here, amidst a 33-acre wildlife preserve, Guests staying at this deluxe hotel may not see Simba or Pumbaa from their rooms, but they can gaze on any of more than 30 species of wildlife on display from the comfort of their balconies, including exotic animals such as zebra, giraffe, gazelle, wildebeest, vultures, and more. Designed by renowned architect Peter Dominick, who has sadly passed away, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, scholars say, is a somewhat whimsical salute to Yellowstone Lodge.
