The friendliest fossils

Digging around any where in Dinoland U.S.A. is sure to unearth lifelike dinosaur sculptures, fossilized femurs, and plenty of excavation equipment. Relics not likely to be coveted, however, are those belonging to the history of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and yet, they do exist.

Walking from Dinosaur or Restaurantosaurus to Dinoland U.S.A.’s main entrance and Discovery Island, guests pass by a small shack equipped with maps, fossil hunting gear, and a well educated Cast Member. This hut is the home of the Kids’ Discovery Club outpost in Dinoland U.S.A. If one were a pilfering paleontologist, the bone on top of the crate next to the shed would be perfect for a collection, but it is the crate itself that Walt Disney World excavators would find intriguing.The container is labeled: SHIP TO DISNEY’S OLD KEY WEST RESORT RUSH. This address spawns the question, why would a crate tied to the Disney Vacation Club turn up near a Kids’ Discovery Club? The answers is simpler than you might think. Once upon the time, the square shack, which follows the typical DVC sales hut construction, was the home to the Disney Vacation Club’s home in Dinoland U.S.A. In those days, this well trodden path was the main thoroughfare through the excavation area. As time passed, and the area grew flush with other activities, less and less foot traffic ventured down this road. The DVC information center was relocated, and the kids received a new edutainment facility.

History, both real and fictitious, can be found throughout Walt Disney World. The trick of the trade is not knowing where to look, but to look everywhere. You never know what type of wonderful find is waiting for you just out of plain sight.