Disney has announced the return of Extended Evening Hours to Disney's Animal Kingdom starting May 4, 2026, offering guests at select hotels extra park time. This perk, previously set for EPCOT, will run from 6 to 8 p.m. to prioritize animal safety. Available attractions include popular rides like Avatar Flight of Passage and Expedition Everest.
Guests staying at Disney's Deluxe Resorts, Disney Villas, or select Good Neighbor Hotels will gain access to Extended Evening Hours at Disney's Animal Kingdom beginning May 4, 2026. This benefit allows eligible visitors to enjoy the park for two additional hours after regular closing, a feature not commonly offered at this location due to considerations for the animals' well-being.
The hours are scheduled from 6 to 8 p.m., earlier than at other parks to ensure the safety of the park's residents. Confirmed attractions open during this time include Avatar Flight of Passage, Expedition Everest, Na’vi River Journey, and Zootopia: Better Zoogether! Disney's calendar currently extends only through early May, so additional dates beyond May 4 remain unannounced.
Previously, Extended Evening Hours were planned for EPCOT on that date, marking a shift in scheduling. For context, the perk rotates among Disney World parks; as of February 24, 2026, it is set for Magic Kingdom on dates like February 25, March 4, and others through April 29, and for EPCOT on March 9, 16, and similar dates up to April 27.
This return enhances the value for deluxe hotel guests, who already benefit from daily Early Entry. Unlike Early Entry, available to all on-site hotel visitors, Extended Evening Hours are exclusive and vary by park and date. Disney emphasizes balancing guest experiences with animal care, a core aspect of the Animal Kingdom's operations.
