Discovery Island | Disney World

Discovery Island was a zoological park that operated from 1974 to 1999. It was originally called Treasure Island, but the name was changed to Discovery Island in 1978. The attraction was a wildlife sanctuary featuring a wide variety of exotic animals, birds, and plant life.

Visitors to Discovery Island could explore winding pathways and lush landscapes while observing animals from around the world in naturalistic habitats. The island also had aviaries and opportunities for guests to interact with some of the park’s inhabitants.

In 1999, Disney made the decision to close Discovery Island to focus on the development and expansion of other parks and attractions in the Walt Disney World Resort. The animals that were housed on Discovery Island were relocated to Disney’s Animal Kingdom and other facilities.

Since its closure, Discovery Island has remained abandoned and off-limits to the public. The island is visible from certain areas around Bay Lake, but it is not accessible to guests and is considered a restricted area.

Due to safety concerns and the protection of the wildlife that has naturally returned to the area, Disney has taken measures to discourage any attempts to visit or explore the abandoned island.

Discovery Island | Disney World News:

• Disney Has a Pair of Abandoned Properties, March 29, 2016
• The Final Day of Disney’s Discovery Island, April 9, 1999