Within the Disney Parks, guests can find many examples of breathtaking beauty. Sometimes these sights are Imagineered while others are the result of nature. In celebration of Earth Day today, we thought we’d highlight some of the top locations to experience natural beauty (or “natural,” in some cases) at the Disney Parks and Resorts.
Hong Kong Disneyland’s Real Mountain View
Picked by: Kyle Burbank
The Disney Parks are known for their mountain range, that includes such attractions as Space Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, and Splash Mountain. While Hong Kong Disneyland only has one of those three (plus the Hong Kong exclusive ride Big Grizzly Mountain Runaway Mine Cars), it does offer a view of something other parks don’t: real mountains. Even before its park’s castle undergoes a major makeover, photos of the icon could easily be decerned from its Anaheim counterpart due to the lush green peaks seen in the background. This sight gives Hong Kong Disneyland a unique feel and setting that only adds to the tiny park’s massive charm.
African Savanna in Kilimanjaro Safaris
Picked by: Michael Mack
Disney’s Animal Kingdom is one of the most beautiful parks in the world. Yes, most of the beauty is man-made but at least it’s a recreation of natural beauty. The African savanna in the Kilimanjaro Safaris attraction is breathtaking and it transports you to a completely different part of the world. The only negative about it is you can’t just relax while you’re taking in the views. You’ll most likely be getting bounced around a bit on your safari vehicle. Still, it’s always nice to take a ride through the savanna and enjoy all of the wildlife and stunning scenery.
Indiana Jones Adventure Exit Disneyland
Picked by: Jeremiah Good
As you exit the attraction you have a perfect view of the Jungle Cruise with overgrown plants and flowing river, on a slow day I could get lost watching the boats go by for hours.
Animal Kingdom Lodge
Picked by: Doobie Moseley
Like many hotels at Walt Disney World, Animal Kingdom Lodge is unique. However, unlike other resort hotels, what makes it so special is the nature and wildlife that guests are treated to during their stay. The photo above was taken at Kidani Village on a stroll before dining at Sanaa — Disney World never ceases to amaze.
Flame Tree Barbecue
Picked by: FanBoy
In the lower level of the seating area of Flame Tree Barbecue, guests may sit along the banks of the Discovery River and look across the way to Asia. While recent expansion efforts have changed the coastline, it remains serene. This hidden oasis from the hustle and bustle of the theme park allows you to gaze through the trees and enjoy the animal sounds while eating animals.
The Waterfall in Epcot’s Japan Pavilion
Picked by: Alex Reif
Once again, “natural” might not be the exact word to describe this part of the park, but it is at least inspired by nature. Tucked away in the Japan Pavilion is a zenful waterfall and pond that help bring a sense of calm even in a crowded park. In fact, it’s such a gorgeous area that my spouse and I chose it as our Walt Disney World wedding venue.
Rivers of America Berm
Picked by: Mike Celestino
There isn’t much at Disneyland Resort that I’d call genuinely natural, so I’m going to go with Disney’s most breathtaking approximation of nature in Southern California: the new berm around the backside of the Rivers of America, constructed just a couple years ago after shortening the river to make way for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. The gorgeous rockwork, waterfalls, and (actually real) plant life all add natural wonder to the trip around Tom Sawyer Island while you’re on the Mark Twain Riverboat or Sailing Ship Columbia, or to your Grand Circle Tour of Disneyland aboard the Disneyland Railroad, or even just checking out the landscape from a viewpoint in Critter Country. The dividing line between Frontierland and A Galaxy Far, Far Away couldn’t have turned out prettier.
Discovery Island Ruins
Picked by: Cole Geryak
While you can’t necessarily call it natural or particularly see it, there is no denying that Discovery Island is now nature’s wonderland. The former conservation park is overrun by vines and wildlife, making it a true natural beauty in its own unique way. I’ve always been fascinated by abandoned areas and witnessing how the environment takes over, and though I’ll never be able to walk through there myself, Discovery Island will always hold a special place in my mind.
no obligation quote from MouseFanTravel.com