PHOTO REPORT: Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Disney Springs 2/20/2025 (Dino-Rama Games Disappeared, Animal Antics, and Throwback Merchandise)

Bryce B.

On the left, people walk near a large tree with animal carvings reminiscent of Disney's Animal Kingdom. On the right, a store entrance is topped with a Stitch figure, evoking the whimsical charm of Dino-Rama Games.

PHOTO REPORT: Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Disney Springs 2/20/2025 (Dino-Rama Games Disappeared, Animal Antics, and Throwback Merchandise)

Howdy! I spent my cold, gloomy morning in Disney’s Animal Kingdom where I saw the Dino-Rama carnival games have been completely removed, spotted animals having a fun morning, and found some merchandise in Disney Springs that brought me back to the early 2000s.

Good Morning from Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Visitors stroll toward the large artificial tree at Disney's Animal Kingdom, embraced by lush greenery and whimsical structures on a cloudy day.

Good morning from Disney’s Animal Kingdom where the crowd is not too crazy, at least not yet. There were a few school groups and tour groups as the morning went on that created a certain level of chaos, but overall it was an okay day in Animal Kingdom, just busy.

Chester and Hester’s Dino-Rama Games Gone

A theme park construction area at Disney's Animal Kingdom features green fences and dinosaur statues in two images, while a partially visible pathway flanked by trees adds a touch of mystery to the scene.

When I popped into Dinoland U.S.A. I was surprised to see all the carnival games were removed. When I took a peek from the Bone Yard all I could see were demolished and twisted peices of metal and no rooftops.

I’m short so take it for what you will but im 99.9% sure the next to go is the iconic last dinosaur in the area.

Bakso Queue Changes

Sign for Maharajah Jungle Trek and two tigers lounging at Disney's Animal Kingdom; crowd walking along a path in a lush, wooded area.

The baby tiger Bakso is still drawing in huge crowds in the morning. Yesterday, Disney changed how they were handling the influx of guests coming to see the baby tiger. It was pretty well handled and overall guests were respectful of eachother. Unlike Bakso’s mom, Siri, who proceeded to kick him in the head after I snapped the shot above.

Cast Members did tell me that Bakso has been staying out later so they encourage guests to circle through as much as they like to sneak a peek of baby Bakso.

Birds of the Royal Forest

Collage of birds in a forest habitat with an informational poster featuring various bird species, reminiscent of Disney's Animal Kingdom. Individual bird photos on rocks and near water evoke a sense of nostalgia akin to throwback merchandise at Disney Springs.

I walked through the Birds of the Royal Forest space, which is perhaps one of the coolest experiences in Animal Kingdom. You are entirely surrounded by birds of all types. It’s certainly a more efficient way of bird watching. I enjoy short visits just remember to keep your mouth closed and wear an extra layer just in case.

Pandora Walkway

A pathway leads through lush vegetation and floating rock formations, reminiscent of Disney's Animal Kingdom's enchanting allure.

The Pandora walkways are completely reopened to guests after a very brief repainting of the concrete. I do wonder if the recent rain has halted progress in other areas of the land. As always, stay tuned to our website for more updates.

Cotton-Top Tamarin’s Training

A collage of images captures cotton-top tamarins at Disney's Animal Kingdom, complete with informational signage. A zookeeper wearing gloves interacts with two of the tamarins through the enclosure, adding a touch of magic to this unique experience.

The Cotton-Top Tamarin’s were training this morning. Other than the one wild child jumping on the netting of the enclosure, the rest of the family seemed really well trained. You never know what you will see in Animal Kingdom with the animals. Disney is always trying innovative ways to keep the animals engaged.

Fun Find

A pickup truck's rear window flaunts stickers of a baseball-playing character and a cartoon tiger, reminiscent of a playful afternoon at Disney Springs. Above, the cloudy sky looms, adding a touch of adventure to this Disney-inspired tableau.

I am a New York Yankees fan, so when I saw this leaving Animal Kingdom this morning I had to grab a quick pic. Also what a random pair, Mickey Mouse and Tigger? The whole thing is perfect.

Disney Springs – Disney Style

At the entrance of the clothing store, four shirts with cartoon characters catch your eye. Featuring vibrant prints on purple, pink, yellow, and denim fabrics, these playful designs seem like something straight out of Disney Springs' whimsical Dino-Rama Games.

When I got to Disney Springs I started my adventure at Disney Style. I found so many new cute Pooh items. The purple and pink t-shirts are avialble for $34.99 each. The yellow collared sweater is availble for $59.99. The jean jacket is really cute, and the back features the same image as the yellow sweater. The jean jacket is available for $79.99.

Paddy’s Bar on Raglan Road Construction Continues

Collage of an Irish pub exterior and a close-up of a partially renovated area with tilework, lights, and construction materials reminiscent of the vibrant charm found in Disney Springs.

On my way to World of Disney I realized my path was blocked and I was rerouted. Raglan Road has beeing working on this outdoor bar for a few months now. This is the first time I have seen the walls down and replaced with shrub boxes.

From the bridge just next door I could see there had been lots of tile and tin work in green, wood framing, and light fixtures installed.

Rainforest Cafe Damage

The Rainforest Cafe entrance, with its rock-like exterior and vivid red signage, recalls the charm of Disney's Animal Kingdom. Visitors stand nearby under cloudy skies, a perfect backdrop for those seeking throwback merchandise at this iconic location.

The Rainforest Cafe sign on the volcano is damaged. Currently the sign is missing the red filling for the R and F in Rainforest. Stay tuned to our website for when and if these are ever fixed. I will be honest – don’t hold your breath and when it is fixed it’s a fun surprise.

World of Disney

People stroll past a "World of Disney" store entrance at Disney Springs, featuring a large Stitch figure on the roof under a cloudy sky.

I have noticed that when I talk about World of Disney just in normal conversations I take this long deep breath before I start speaking and typing it seems now too. There is nothing wrong with the World of Disney it’s just a bit chaotic for my taste. It’s why I pick up my groceries 85% of the time. Same chaos with a Disney twist.

Princess Music Box – $29.99

A charming princess-themed jewelry box, perfect for any fairytale lover. The exterior showcases enchanting princesses and heart motifs, much like the whimsical vibes of Disney Springs. Inside, a pink setting holds a mirror and spinning heart adorned with more beloved princesses.

I found lots of new items in World of Disney so be sure to visit our website for the most up to date merchandise in the parks. One of my favorite finds was this throwback Princess Music Box that features a small framed mirror, purple fabric interior, and a spinning heart featuring Rapunzel, Tiana, Belle, Mulan, Aurora, and Ariel. The song is “A Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes”.

I defintely would have had to have this 25 years ago.

Penny Proud Sweater – $59.99

Discover our throwback merchandise with pink sweatshirts showcasing "The Proud Family" logo. Featuring "Penny" text and a drink graphic, each design includes a cheerful illustration of a girl in sneakers. Perfect for your next trip to Disney Springs or Disney's Animal Kingdom!.

My most exciting find today and maybe even this week is the Penny Proud sweater. I loved ‘The Proud Family’ growing up so seeing such a throwback get love in the form of embroidered merchandise is awesome. Did you watch ‘The Proud Family’? Let me know in the comments below.

I hope you enjoyed our day in Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Disney Springs. I love Animal Kingdom, so I enjoyed the overcast conditions and watching the animals live their best lives. Let me know if you have a favorite moment or find in the comments below.

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