A Fond Farewell to Restaurantosaurus: Uncovering the Hidden Stories
Saying goodbye to a beloved Disney gem! Restaurantosaurus, nestled in the heart of Disney's Animal Kingdom, is more than just a dining spot; it's a time capsule of history and imagination. But here's where it gets intriguing: this place has a story that's as captivating as the attractions around it.
The building that now houses Restaurantosaurus has a rich past. Originally, it was a fishing lodge in Diggs County, but when paleontologists arrived in 1947, it transformed into the first headquarters of the Dino Institute. It served this purpose until 1978, when the institute moved to its new space (now the DINOSAUR attraction). Even today, you can spot remnants of its institute days.
This guide will take you on a journey through the various areas of Restaurantosaurus, uncovering the unique details that make it so special.
Exploring the Restaurantosaurus Experience:
Dorm Life at the Dino Institute: Imagine the lives of the institute's students. Their dorms are a blend of study and relaxation, with shelves showcasing outdoor gear, bones, and old photos. The second area feels like a cozy dorm, complete with bunks and personal touches like books and instruments.
The Hip Joint: Step into a 50s diner-themed rec room with an old trailer attached. It's a fun, retro space that adds to the overall charm.
Motor Pool Magic: Picture the garage where students have painted dinosaurs using engine grease! It's a unique, artistic take on the typical garage.
A Tour of Restaurantosaurus:
Exterior Charm: Restaurantosaurus is a collection of connected buildings near DINOSAUR, offering ample indoor and outdoor seating. The main entrance is on a large patio, topped with a roof adorned with props like lawn chairs and discarded cans. It's a unique, whimsical touch.
Ordering & Pick-Up: Here, you can place your order and pick up your delicious meals. It's a convenient spot with a fun, themed design.
Old Museum Dining Room: This expansive room has two distinct areas, each with its own character and charm.
The Motor Pool: Step into the garage and imagine the students' creative dinosaur art.
Lounge Area: A cozy spot to relax and enjoy your meal.
Patio Seating: The "Pterodactyl Pterrace" offers outdoor seating with a unique, fossil-themed design.
And this is the part most people miss... the little details that make Restaurantosaurus so special. From the suction cup arrows and bows to the weather vane with a Spinosaurus, each element tells a story.
The interns have left their mark, too, with personal touches like books and instruments on their bunks. They even use a Triceratops head as a hat rack! It's these unique, personal details that make Restaurantosaurus so beloved.
So, are you ready to say goodbye to Restaurantosaurus? Share your thoughts and memories on social media! And remember, for all the latest Disney Parks news, follow WDW News Today on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
Thought-Provoking Question: Should Disney preserve the history and charm of places like Restaurantosaurus, or is it better to make way for new attractions? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
