Discovery Island’s exotic animals once filled the Disney oasis in Florida, but by April 8, 1999, the hidden park closed, its aviaries and tortoises left behind. Now, the former fan favorite sits off-limits among Disney’s busiest resorts—visibly abandoned, yet often unnoticed.

Just beyond the crowds, the old island quietly keeps its secrets while Disney’s Animal Kingdom pays tribute with a namesake hub. Even urban explorers caught sneaking in can’t resist the draw of abandoned theme parks—where empty walkways and wild vines are the only parade left.