Welcome to Theme Park Thursday, where we go beyond the gates of Walt Disney World to explore what it’s actually like to live near the magic…without getting caught up in the chaos.
Today, we’re shifting our focus to the wild side of the Disney Bubble:
✨ Disney’s Animal Kingdom
And more specifically, what it’s like to live near this lush, low-key, and often overlooked part of the resort that offers something surprisingly rare for locals:
Tranquility.
🦒 What Makes Animal Kingdom Unique?
Animal Kingdom is often referred to as Disney’s most peaceful park.
Why? Because it was intentionally designed with space, shade, and silence in mind.
Imagine:
- Lush green landscapes
- Water features and quiet walking paths
- Animal habitats, bamboo groves, and gentle music
- A sunset that glows golden over Expedition Everest
It’s the least crowded and least overstimulating park…and for those who live nearby, that peaceful energy doesn’t stop at the entrance.
📍 Where Do Locals Live Near Animal Kingdom?
Some of the most sought-after neighborhoods near Animal Kingdom are just minutes away, including:
🛶 Formosa Gardens – Large custom homes, vacation and residential blend
🌴 Rolling Hills Estates – Quiet and tucked away, but super close to 192
🌳 Indian Creek – Affordable and family-friendly with mature landscaping
🏠 Encore at Reunion West – Resort-style community just 10–15 minutes out
🌅 Emerald Island – Gated community with conservation views and amenities
🏡 Windsor Palms / Windsor Hills – Ideal for investment or second-home buyers
Most of these neighborhoods are zoned for short-term rentals but also have a thriving year-round resident community. They offer:
- Proximity to AK’s main entrance (~10–15 mins)
- Easy access to Western Way and Sherberth Rd
- Less traffic than the Magic Kingdom corridor
- Value per square foot that’s still better than Horizon West
🌿 Why Living Near Animal Kingdom Feels Different
Locals who choose this area often say it’s more grounded than other parts of the Disney Bubble.
You’re close to the magic, but you’re also close to:
- 🍃 Nature preserves and hiking trails
- 🚴 Quiet bike routes and less commercial sprawl
- 🦩 Wildlife…yes, sometimes even from your backyard
- 🌤️ A gentler pace, especially if you’re coming from urban congestion
In other words, it’s a great option for those who want Disney nearby…but want their home to feel like a retreat.
💬 What Locals Are Saying
“We can hear the Animal Kingdom Lodge drums from our porch on some nights. It feels like magic… but private.” – Eli J.
“I love how quiet it is. And I can still be inside the park in under 15 minutes.” – Rachel V.
“It’s the best of both worlds: peaceful living with spontaneous Disney visits.” – The Dawson Family
Animal Kingdom isn’t just a peaceful escape inside Disney.
It’s a symbol of what life could look like when you prioritize space, serenity, and soul.
You don’t have to live in the middle of the noise to be close to the magic.
Sometimes, the best magic is found in the quiet margins…just like this.
I’m Timothy Carter, your dedicated Disney World Orlando area relocation expert with The Funk Collection brokered by eXp Realty.
I specialize in helping Disney lovers & theme park enthusiasts find their perfect home or vacation investment property. I’m here to help turn your dreams into reality!
You’ll find everything you need to know about living in the greater Orlando area – from neighborhood guides, real estate tips & the lifestyle of living near the theme parks, to insider advice on relocating to this magical place.
My family moved to Orlando to LIVE the ultimate Disney lifestyle!
You can too! I can help! Click here —-> Meet With Timothy Carter
