Recent reports indicate that the Affection Section at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, a popular petting zoo where guests can meet and interact with friendly farm animals, might close this spring. This is the only petting zoo available anywhere within the Walt Disney World Resort.
As of publication, Walt Disney World has not confirmed that the attraction will permanently close.
Located within Rafiki’s Planet Watch, accessible by the Wildlife Express Train from the Harambe area, The Affection Section is a petting zoo where guests can interact with animals like goats, sheep, and pigs. Disney’s animal care team is on hand to supervise and share information about the animals’ health and well-being.
For weeks, Disney Cast Members have been informing guests that the Affection Section will be closing soon. This has led to rumors, especially since the attraction’s schedule currently only shows it operating through mid-March 2026.
Context: Planned Changes at Conservation Station
As a big Disney fan, I’m really excited about the changes coming to Rafiki’s Planet Watch! They’re updating Conservation Station, and it sounds amazing. The biggest news? They’re building a whole *Blueythemed experience! I can’t wait to bring my kids – it’s set to open in Summer 2026 and will let us meet characters from the show. It’s going to be fantastic!
Based on public records, the Bluey experience seems designed to be both fun and educational, with actors leading kids in games inspired by the show. Disney hasn’t yet shared details about how much room the experience will take up or how it might impact other attractions nearby.
There’s been talk that the new Bluey experience might take the place of the Affection Section. While Disney hasn’t officially confirmed this, it seems likely based on their preparations for the interactive attraction.
Significance to Guests
Currently, The Affection Section is the only place at Walt Disney World where guests can get up close and pet animals. Losing this attraction would mean fewer opportunities for hands-on animal experiences. It’s a popular spot for families, especially those with young children, who often use it as a fun way to learn about animals and conservation.
Some visitors are sad about the possibility of losing the petting zoo, but others point out that Animal Kingdom still has many ways to see animals and learn about them, even if you can’t touch them directly.
I was happy to hear that the Affection Section at Rafiki’s Planet Watch is still open for guests who want to visit! As of right now, Disney hasn’t announced any plans to close it, which is great news for animal lovers like me.
What’s Next?
If you’re planning to visit the Affection Section, please check the official Walt Disney World website or app for the latest hours of operation.
Until Disney makes an official announcement, rumors about the Animal Kingdom petting zoo closing shouldn’t be considered true. The Affection Section is still open, and Disney hasn’t yet made any decisions about its future.
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2026-01-17 20:56