AVATAR Land: Personal Observations and Comments

After yesterday's big reveal of the very first artworks and photos depicting the sights and some of the attractions that will be included in AVATAR Land (opening in 2017 at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park), we thought it would be interesting to share some of our comments and opinions about this project. Before starting, though, it is essential that our Readers understand that the following include personal observations on the concept art released and the land in general, and it will not include comments on the AVATAR movie.

1. First of all, let's discuss about the OPENING DATE. We all know that the Walt Disney Company really likes to take plenty of time to build new rides and themed lands (we are especially referring to the New Fantasyland), so it not surprising to hear that AVATAR Land is scheduled to open in the first few months of 2017. That is more than three (3) whole years if we start counting from today. That being said, if the land is going to look exactly like what can be seen from the artworks, we will be more than happy to wait.

2. Let's now focus on the LOCATION. Disney has officially confirmed that the new AVATAR-themed land will be located between Africa and the Oasis, and will encompass and expand beyond the area currently known as Camp Minnie-Mickey. We think we can all agree on the fact that Camp Minnie-Mickey is the perfect location for AVATAR Land. That plot of land was actually slated to be home to one of the most amazing Disney themed areas: Beastly Kingdomme, but since that project died many years ago, we are very happy to hear that the temporary-looking Camp Minnie-Mickey will soon be replaced by a real land (by the way, don't worry about the loss of meet-and-greets, as Disney stated that "after Camp Minnie-Mickey closes next year, Guests will be able to find many of their favorite Disney characters in new, immersive environments being created throughout Disney's Animal Kingdom").

The only other plot of land that could have been suitable for AVATAR Land is the area between Africa and Asia (seen below). The problem is that the pathways that would lead to the new area are way too small, and there area already a few attractions all around that plot of land, so this would only make that area even more crowded, while the current Camp Minnie-Mickey would be even more desolate than today.

3. We will now take the time to talk about the THEME chosen for this new land. The Walt Disney Company officially stated that "AVATAR is a uniquely powerful franchise that has global appeal with audiences of all ages. Its spectacular settings, intriguing characters, imaginative creatures, and strong themes of family and loyalty make it a perfect fit for Disney."

As you can see, Disney will focus on the living creatures and plants that populate the planet seen in the movie, and will not focus on the plot of the movie itself. This continues to respect Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park's dedication message, which says: "Welcome to a kingdom of animals... real, ancient and imagined: a kingdom ruled by lions, dinosaurs and dragons; a kingdom of balance, harmony and survival; a kingdom we enter to share in the wonder, gaze at the beauty, thrill at the drama, and learn." Pandora's animal are obviously imaginary creatures, so they will fit in the park. No worries.

4. Let's now talk about something that will interest most of our Readers: the RIDES and/or ATTRACTIONS that area confirmed or rumored to be included in this new themed area.Once again, this is what Disney stated regarding the attractions' lineup: "We are excited about making AVATAR real for our guests and everything about the land – from the floating mountains to the bioluminescent plants to experiencing what it feels like to ride a Banshee — will fully immerse them in the story. We want to save some of the magic for later but I can assure you there will be something for every member of the family as part of this expansion."

From the official announcement and from what was posted yesterday on the official Disney Parks Blog, we know that the following rides and attractions are CONFIRMED to be coming to AVATAR Land:

• A Soarin'-style attraction (which should be much more complex than Epcot's attraction);
• A very immersive boat ride (it is said to be a D-Ticket);
• A walk-through attraction (the entire land will actually be a walk-through attraction);
• Multiple themed restaurants and stores.

In addition to that, some reported that a major roller coaster was also slated to open with the land, but some recent rumors said that the coaster was axed due to the budget being too big (sadly...). Also, other rumors say that there will be new meet-and-greets throughout the land.

We personally think that the current ride lineup is average, in the sense that we expected to see maybe two or three additional minor rides (not necessarily spinners; just regular thoroughly-themed flat rides). Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park has always suffered due to its lack of mechanical attractions, so we think they should add a few more experiences to at least give Guests more choices in terms of rides.

5. What about the OPERATING HOURS? Of course, the new AVATAR Land will share the same operating hours of the rest of the park, but Disney has officially confirmed the Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park will soon start to remain open longer than in the past. We will finally be able to say goodbye to the awkward 5 p.m. closures, as the park will remain open until 9 p.m. or 10 p.m. every night (also thanks to the new nighttime offerings and the brand-new nighttime spectacular coming soon to the park). This will allow Guests to really enjoy AVATAR Land and the rest of the park during the evening hours. Why, the entire park itself actually looks much better during the evening hours!

Now, a few people may be concerned about the safety and health of the real animals. The longer hours, the noises of the new attractions, and the new nighttime shows will NOT impact the animals at all. Most of the animals that could actually be impacted by these things are brought in a separate area EACH night to rest. This means that they will not suffer in any way. In fact, the animals and their safety has been (sadly) used by Disney in the past as an EXCUSE for closing the park too early and to avoid creating a nighttime show, at least until today. Unfortunately for them, Busch Gardens Tampa has proven them wrong for years, as the park has even had nightly fireworks show for about two months!

Finally, to confirm the fact that Disney does really care about the animals, here's one of their statement on this subject: "We will continue with the experts on the Disney’s Animal Programs team to ensure the safety and proper care of all the animals who call Disney’s Animal Kingdom home."

Now, it is YOUR turn. Let us know what you think about the AVATAR Land project, and share with us any comments, opinions, or concerns you might have on this subject (always remembering to be courteous and kind with the other Readers who may join in the conversation). We look forward to read your opinions!