Disney’s Animal Kingdom opened on this day in 1998

Expedition Everest at Disney's Animal Kingdom
Expedition Everest at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

On this April 22, 1998, Disney’s Animal Kingdom opened at the Walt Disney World Resort. Not coincidentally, it was Earth Day! Today it is one of the largest animal theme parks in the world. Home to more than 2,000 animals across 300 species, the park reflects Walt Disney’s dedication to conservation and is committed to animal care, education and research. The six lands include Oasis, Discovery Island, Africa, Rafiki’s Planet Watch, Asia and DinoLand, U.S.A. areas. The photo above is the thrilling Expedition Everest attraction, where you can careen through the Himalayan mountains on a speeding train while avoiding the clutches of the mythic Abominable Snowman.