Top 10 Educational Attractions in Disney World Parks

When we think of Disney World, we don’t necessarily think of education. But, guess what – there are several educational attractions in the Disney Parks! Plus, it’s our favorite kind of education for young and old alike, as Disney proves learning a thing or two can be fun. Countdown with us through our list of the top ten educational attractions in the Disney Parks.

10 and 9 – Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail and Maharaja Jungle Trek @ Animal Kingdom

Disney’s Animal Kingdom offers two self-guided walking tours through beautiful scenery and wildlife. The Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail (formerly called the Pangani Forest Exploration Trail) can be found near the exit of Kilimanjaro Safaris which is located in the Africa section of the park in the village of Harambe. The highlight of the Exploration Trail is the gorilla habitat which offers guests the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful creates in their natural habitat of grassy hills and waterfalls. Maharajah Jungle Trek can be found in the Asia section of the park near the exit of Kali River Rapids. This trail brings guests into the Royal Anandapur Forest where they can check out beautiful temple ruins, exotic landscaping, and beautiful Asian Tigers. Both trails offer a serene place for guests to get in touch with nature and enjoy all the beauty that it has to offer as well as an opportunity for many learning opportunities.

8 – Walt Disney Presents: One Man’s Dream @ Hollywood Studios

So maybe this attraction won’t teach you about world history or science technology – but we still feel it’s educational importance in the fact that it provides the opportunity to learn about Walt Disney and the very place you are vacationing – Walt Disney World! Walk through Walt’s childhood, browse through the start of his dreams and finish the exhibit with an understanding of how all of this Disney magic came to be.

7 – Wilderness Explorers @ Animal Kingdom

The Wilderness Explorers is a program at Disney’s Animal Kingdom to engage guests of all ages in learning about animals and the Wilderness. Russell from the Pixar movie, UP, was a Wilderness Explorer and loved earning his badges, so now guests at Animal Kingdom get to also be a part of the Wilderness Explorer crew. Search for animals, learn a little along the way, and earn badges, which are stickers that are placed within their Wilderness Explorers Guide. Add this program to your plans, and the kids will be having so much fun, they will have no idea they are learning along the way!

6 – The American Adventure @ Epcot

The American Adventure in Epcot is the perfect spot to take a rest in the air conditioning and learn a thing or two. This centerpiece pavilion, as the name implies, chronicles and celebrates the great adventure that has been the founding and evolution of the United States of America. The main attraction of the pavilion is a 30-minutes show featuring film, music, and appearances by some significant Americans. The show is not only educational, but it’s also moving and inspirational. But to take your time at this pavilion from an A to an A+, don’t miss the many displays of historical artifacts from America’s past. As you enter the building, head to the right to explore a small museum area that is tucked away and missed by many.

5 – Spaceship Earth @ Epcot

Communication is key! Enjoy a slow-moving ride through the Epcot ball, Spaceship Earth, as the history of communication is unfolded. Step by step scenes with animatronics presents each stage of communication development from the Stone Age to the invention of the computer.

4 – Sea Base @ Epcot

Go under the sea at Epcot’s Sea Base, located as you exit the clamshell attraction The Seas with Nemo and Friends. The 5.7-million-gallon Caribbean Coral Reef Aquarium is one of the largest man-made ocean environments in the world. With over 4,000 sea creatures, guests find themselves enthralled with the beauty of the creatures and water! Multiple exhibits and feeding times with divers are present at various times providing information about the variety of species and their natural habitat.

3 – Test Track @ Epcot

No, we didn’t sneak this one onto the list just because it’s one of our favorite attractions! Many may not agree that this is an educational attraction but if you have anyone in your family that wants to better understand and experience the latest technology and science that goes into designing transportation, this is the ride for them. Virtually design a car with careful planning in regards to capability (handling), responsiveness (maneuverability), efficiency (fuel-saving and environmentally friendly), and power (speed) in mind. Once your design is complete, you’ll be able to test out your ride in comparison to other guests’ designs.

2 – The Hall of Presidents @ Magic Kingdom

Who better to walk through the history of the United States with than the 46 United States Presidents? Audio-Animatronic Presidents take the stage as history unfolds. From the detailed and educational gathering space before entering the attraction, through the full film and presentation of the Presidents, guests have the opportunity to appreciate the history of the U.S. and gather a sense of patriotism.

1 – Kilimanjaro Safaris @ Animal Kingdom

Kilimanjaro Safaris takes number one of our top educational attractions at Disney! Located at Animal Kingdom, guests have the opportunity to explore the closest experience to a true African safari in Florida. This 18-minute cruise in your expedition vehicle while on the look for the 34 different species is an incredible adventure for all ages! The Cast Member Safari Guide while it provides guests with a little lesson along the way. The scenery, animals, bumpy ride, and informative guide make Kilimanjaro our hands down top educational attraction must-do!

What’s your favorite educational attraction? Let us hear from you!

DisneyLists author Caitlin Corsello also contributed to this article.