The Disney World parks can change fast, so we’re always looking out for what’s new and different when we’re there.
Sometimes we’ll find new merchandise, progress on construction projects, or unusual crowds along the way. Today, we’re heading to Disney’s Animal Kingdom to see what we can find so that you’re most prepared for your visit.
We’ll start out with some new merchandise that we found inside the park recently.
Animal Kingdom Merchandise Update
Over in the Discovery Trading gift shop, we found a new Apple Watch band for sale, featuring the one and only: Donald Duck.
The band has the many different facial expressions of Donal Duck all over it, and it’s available for $34.99.
Also in Discovery Trading, we saw that the new Ahsoka Mickey ears were fully stocked.
We first spotted these ears a few days ago, and they’ve been very popular since then. Did you know that they were designed by Ashley Eckstein, who voiced Ahsoka in Star Wars: The Clone Wars?
You can buy the ears here (or in Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Tatooine Traders) for $39.99.
That was all in terms of new merchandise in the Animal Kingdom!
Click Here to Learn More About the New Ahsoka Ears
Animal Kingdom Construction Update
We stopped by Primeval Whirl in DinoLand U.S.A. today as well. This ride is permanently closed, and construction crews are currently dissembling it.
Over on Discovery Island, we spotted some signs that Christmas is coming to the Animal Kingdom soon! (Don’t @ us, we know Halloween hasn’t happened yet — but you’ve got to be prepared for the holiday season that’s following right on its heels.) There were new Christmas decorations up, like these artistic bird sculptures…
…and new speakers and light fixtures up as well.
We’ll definitely start to see more decor and preparations as the holiday season begins in full force after Halloween.
Click Here to See ALL the Holiday Treats Coming to Disney World
Animal Kingdom Crowds Update
Finally, we took a look at the crowds around Animal Kingdom while we were there this week.
The park wasn’t super busy, and when we passed by late in the morning, the Avatar Flight of Passage ride only had a 40-minute wait.
Over in the Asia section of the park, Expedition Everest had a 10-minute wait…
…and DINOSAUR in DinoLand U.S.A. was just at 5 minutes.
That’s it for our Animal Kingdom updates this week! Keep following DFB for more advice and updates as you plan your Disney World vacation.
Click Here to Find Out What’s New in EPCOT This Week
Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe!
WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.
Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.
Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!
What’s your favorite area in Animal Kingdom? Let us know in the comments!













Our handy (and portable!) ebook guides make sure you get the best deals and can plan a vacation of a lifetime.

TRENDING NOW
Disney Visa Cardholders have a new perk!
Disney World will likely announce two big closures in 2026.
We're always down for trying new "essentials" in the Disney World parks and hotels, because...
These Disney deals are worth adding to your cart before they disappear faster than a...
Disney World and Disneyland have just announced ticket deals for current and past military members...
The Grand Floridian's new lobby bar is open!
Universal's newest park is gearing up for the Holiday season.
A new store just opened at Disney Springs!
Who's ready for a birthday surprised delivered straight to their Disney World hotel?
'Ohana is one of our all-time favorite restaurants in Disney World (and it has been...
Check out the latest discounts and deals for Disney World, Disneyland, and more.
Check out all the exclusive merchandise available on the Disney Destiny!
The Disney Cruise Line's latest dining experience is ready to roar.
We finally have the opening time line for Muppets Coaster in Hollywood Studios!
Here’s a closer look at six map updates that reveal just how much Frontierland and...
This Sorcerer Mickey collection is the best one we've seen so far!
We just got to experience a NEW intimate, unique, SECRET experience aboard the Disney Destiny!
If you're budgeting and only have $10 to spend on your first meal of the...
Remy's Ratatouille Adventure is now CLOSED in EPCOT to make way for a big change.
We'll ALWAYS love a good throwback to our "golden era." That's why the fact that...