Pixie Dust Dreams: A Magical Morning at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

My family and I have made plenty of priceless memories at Walt Disney World.

But, there’s one magical experience that will forever hold a special place in my heart—our pre-dawn visit and breakfast at Animal Kingdom.

The exclusive early sunrise event was held during the Disney Social Media Moms Celebration this past February and it was the stuff of pixie dust dreams.

Entering the park before daybreak was beyond anything I could’ve imagined. The tranquility created an unforgettable, enchanting atmosphere. Hearing the chirping birds, seeing the dewy greenery and breathing in the warm, misty air was like a fantasy—perfectly fitting for a Disney Park. The magic was palpable.

To walk through the park without anyone but the #DisneySMMC crew (the park wasn’t open to the public yet), was an opportunity of a lifetime. Upon reaching Pandora—The World of Avatar, we were met with two options: indulge in a delicious breakfast fit for kings and queens or explore the park’s two new popular attractions: The Flight of Passage and Na’vi River Journey. We chose the latter and decided to eat after experiencing the rides.

As the sun began to rise, we made our way to Flight of Passage where we were completely blown away by Pandora’s spellbinding beauty. Colorful flora and cascading waterfalls abound. We had been transported to another world: The World of Avatar.

An unforgettable flight – Flight of Passage
Our excitement grew with every step along the winding pathway to Avatar Flight of Passage. Once inside the cavern-like space, which was outfitted as a science lab—we saw a blue male creature floating in a giant test tube. It was Jake Sully from Avatar! I thought my 4-year-old son would be frightened by the blue being, but to my surprise he was in awe and fascinated by it.

Once we entered the launch pods, we were prepped for what would be an incredible journey through the land of Pandora. From start to finish, we were immersed in a fanciful alternative universe where we rode flying banshees and soared through the sky. The virtual reality ride felt so real—we could feel water splashing on our faces, the wind whipping through our hair and every dip and drop—engaging all our senses.

To say the 3D ride was exhilarating would be an understatement. Simply put, it was the best ride I’ve ever experienced. My daughter would agree because she rode it THREE times!

A Na’vi River Journey  
For me, nothing is as relaxing and soothing as a boat ride. That’s why I absolutely loved hopping on the Na’vi River Journey for a smooth ride through Pandora’s everglades. Our eyes and ears were treated at every turn. Glowing violets, electric blues and emerald green plants and floating jellyfish surrounded us—creating a mystical wonderland.

Near the end of the rainforest journey, we were entranced by the Na’vi Shaman of Song’s mesmerizing music.  The catchy chants had us humming the tunes long after the ride was over.

Like the classic Magic Kingdom ride, It’s a Small World, Na’vi River Journey is one that will stay with you for a lifetime.   

Magical Breakfast
After exploring Pandora, we made our way to breakfast where we found a bountiful spread to get us energized for what would be a full day at Animal Kingdom. The rest of our time at the park was one of my most cherished memories. We visited DinoLand U.S.A where we rode Dinosaur and explored the Boneyard. Then we took a safari through Africa where my kids saw giraffes, hippopotamuses and flamingos for the first time! It was an incredible experience that none of us will soon forget.

I love all the Disney Parks & Resorts, but if I were forced to choose a favorite, it just might be Animal Kingdom!

Have you ever visited Animal Kingdom? If so, what’s your favorite attraction?