Disney’s Discovery Island Map and Brochure (1985)
Location: Bay Lake, Florida
Years Active: 1974-1999
Disney’s Discovery Island, nestled in Bay Lake, Florida, USA, has been captivating visitors since its opening on April 8, 1974. This enchanting theme park draws inspiration from the natural world, offering lush landscapes, exotic wildlife, and immersive storytelling, making it a perfect family destination.
Key attractions include the iconic Tree of Life and the thrilling It’s Tough to Be a Bug! 4D show. The park’s trails and animal exhibits allow guests to interact with diverse species. Festivals like Earth Day celebrations and the Rivers of Light nighttime spectacular add to its allure.
With over 10 million annual visitors, Disney’s Discovery Island is a beloved destination. Future plans promise exciting expansion, bringing new attractions and immersive lands to continue delivering magical experiences for families to cherish. This park invites adventurers to explore, imagine, and wonder like no other.
Why was Disney’s Discovery Island closed?
Disney’s Discovery Island was closed primarily due to declining attendance and the high cost of maintaining the attraction. The island, which was located at Walt Disney World Resort in Bay Lake, Florida, had been operating as a zoological park since 1974. However, by the late 1990s, attendance had dwindled, and the park was facing competition from other attractions within Walt Disney World. Additionally, there were concerns about the island’s aging infrastructure and the challenge of meeting modern animal care standards. As a result, Disney made the decision to close Discovery Island to the public on April 8, 1999.
Where is Disney’s abandoned Discovery Island?
Disney’s abandoned Discovery Island is located in Bay Lake, Florida, within Walt Disney World Resort. The island covers approximately 11 acres and is situated in the middle of Bay Lake. After its closure to the public in 1999, the island has remained largely untouched and off-limits to visitors. It is still owned by The Walt Disney Company and is not accessible to the general public. The island’s closure has given rise to various urban legends and myths about its current state.
What animals were on Discovery Island?
Disney’s Discovery Island was home to a diverse collection of exotic animals. Over the years, it housed a wide range of species, including birds, mammals, reptiles, and various forms of wildlife. Some notable animals that were part of the island’s attractions included lemurs, flamingos, tortoises, swans, and various species of waterfowl. The island aimed to provide a natural and educational environment for visitors to learn about and observe these animals in a controlled habitat. When the island closed in 1999, many of the animals were relocated to other facilities within Walt Disney World or to accredited zoos and sanctuaries.
