This area of Disney's Animal Kingdom is somewhat kid-oriented; however, it's here that you'll find the most exciting thrill ride in the park, which is far more suitable for teens and adults than it is for young kids. In this area, you'll also see life-size replicas of dinosaur skeletons and discover how fossils are found and prepared for display.

Anyone who is fascinated by dinosaurs will want to explore DinoLand U.S.A., which is sponsored by McDonald's. In this case, you'll see some innovative, educational, and highly entertaining attractions, shows, exhibits, and rides. The best time to check out this area is in the morning when the park opens.

DINOSAUR!

This is a highly turbulent and extremely loud ride that takes you back in time to see a group of life-size, very realistic, Audio-Animatronic dinos. After watching a preshow movie, you'll climb aboard a twelve-person vehicle that'll transport you back to prehistoric times. Much of the ride itself takes place in dark surroundings as the vehicles follow an extremely bumpy track and travel at high speeds. Thus, young children may find it scary and senior citizens may find it too jerky. As for everyone else, this is an awesome ride with spectacular special effects.

For the most thrilling ride, as you climb aboard your vehicle, try to grab a seat that's in the back row and on the left side of the vehicle. Be sure to safely stow loose items like hats, purses, and cameras in the seat pockets in front of you before the ride begins.

The Boneyard

Designed for young people, the Boneyard offers a preview of what it's like to be an archeologist or paleontologist. Best described as a huge sandbox, in this attraction, young guests get to dig for dino bones.

Cretaceous Trail

Guests of all ages can take a walking tour (at their own pace) and explore an outdoor exhibit of plants and animals that have survived on this planet since the days of the dinosaurs.

TriceraTop Spin

Up to four guests ride in triceratops-shaped vehicles that rise and tilt as they spin around a giant top while cartoon comets whiz past and playful dinosaurs pop up. This ride is very much like Dumbo the Flying Elephant (a popular kids' ride found within the Magic Kingdom's Fantasyland); however, instead of being shaped like an elephant, the vehicles resemble dinosaurs.

Primeval Whirl

This kid-oriented ride has side-by-side roller coasters that are mirrors of each other and feature free-spinning cars that travel along a twisting track of tight loops and short drops. It's designed to offer a mild thrill-ride experience for children, but adults love this ride too. Riders must be at least 48 inches tall. To save time, take advantage of FASTPASS to experience this popular ride.

ô This is a must-see attraction.

Fossil Fun Games

The Fossil Fun Games area contains TriceraTop Spin and Primeval Whirl! in addition to a handful of classic carnival games (all of which have a dinosaur twist). Young players can win prizes for playing the carnival games, but there is an additional charge to participate.