Live-action remakes don’t always meet expectations, but when Lion King was released in 2019, it blew past them. The $1.65 billion revenue was just ac fraction of the Lion King franchises’ reach, which continues today with some of the best merchandise collections Disney has ever made.
Whether you started with the original animated Lion King like me or are an avid fan of the newest additions, this guide is here to help. I’ll show you the very best merchandise you can buy. I’ll tell you where to buy Lion King merch and give you my top products by category and by main characters.
Bottom Line Up Front Summary: If I had to recommend just one merch item for Lion King fans, it would be this Disney Simba Plush. This plush is from the Official Disney Store and is a good size, with high reviews. It has charming embroidered details and soft, durable construction for playing, cuddling, or collecting.
My Top Picks
- “Family Pride” Short Sleeve Blended T-Shirt: Best T-Shirt For Adults
- Simba Emoji T-Shirt: Best T-Shirts For Kids
- Lion King Cotton Dress: Best Kid’s Dress
- Simba Future King Half-Zip Pullover: Best Kid’s Jacket/ Hoodie
- Simba Fleece Jogger Pullover Hoodie & Pants Set: Best Toddler Apparel
- Lion King Little Golden Book: Best Classic Book For Young Fans
- The Art and Making of the Lion King: Best Book For Art and Film Lovers
- Lion King: The Novelization: Best Book For Grades 3-7
- Simba Costume Bodysuit: Best Costume For Kids
- Deluxe Baby Lion Costume Set: Best Costume For Toddlers
- Lion King Wrapped Canvas: Best Premium Wall Art
- Lion King Wild About You Bedding Set: Best For Nurseries
- Lion King Chair Desk with Storage Bin: Best Kid’s Furniture
- Lion Guard Figure Set: Best Affordable Figurine Set
- Lion King Mini Figures Set: Best Classic Figurine Set
- Enesco Disney Stacked Characters: Best Collectible Figurine
Where to Buy Lion King Merch
The better question is where can’t you buy Lion King merch. As one of the most popular Disney creations of all time, the demand for Lion King merch remains high. If you’re taking a visit to Disney World, you’ll find Lion King merch at Animal Kingdom. You can find great deals for Lion King merch on eBay, but you have to be careful.
Traditional stores with online (and in-person) shopping include H&M, Hot Topic, JC Penney, Walmart, and Pac Sun. However, most of these—aside from Hot Topic and Walmart—have pretty limited collections. Other places you can buy Lion King merch include Amazon, Target, and the Official Disney Store. Etsy has handmade merch made by Lion King fans.
Amazon Lion King Merchandise Collection
The collection includes Lion King apparel, blankets, accessories, collectibles, figurines, home decor, plush toys, and more. Some of these items are offered directly from Disney, while others are sold through other manufacturers. It takes a bit more investigative work to find the best Lion King merchandise, but it’s the best for the widest variety. Shop All Lion King Merch on Amazon Here.
Disney Store Lion King Merchandise Collection
These Lion King merch items include plush toys, costumes, wall art, figurines, jewelry, and t-shirts. It’s a fairly small collection but everything is designed with crisp, notable quality. I like how there are options for younger kids and adults alike. Shop Lion King Merch from the Disney Store Here.
Target Lion King Merchandise Collection
With hundreds of items to choose from, there are some for the family, toddlers, kids, and adults. Graphic Lion King tees include unique designs and vintage-inspired prints. Aside from apparel, other merch items include Lion King plush toys, games, books, action figures and toys, bed sets, and home decor. Shop Lion King Merch from Target Here.
Lion King Merchandise: My Picks
With so many options for Lion King merch, I had room to be selective. All of my selections are from secure shopping websites with great variety and quality. I selected Lion King products for the entire family, from clothing for adults, kids, and babies to collectibles and more.
But all of these merch items offer an excellent value and represent Lion King to its fullest potential. My selections range in price point, so, no matter what your budget is, there’s a gift idea waiting for you to find. Everything is arranged by product category.
Lion King Apparel
Customizable Lion King t-shirts, dresses for girls, and hoodies for kids and toddlers are my top recommendations. For more graphic t’s for all ages, see my final buying recommendations.
Lion King “Family Pride” Short Sleeve Blended T-Shirt
This adult t-shirt is customizable, comfortable, and striking. Also available in other styles, including long-sleeve and even as a hoodie, this shirt displays the main characters from the original animated picture. The screen art is printed on a polyester and cotton shirt. Two-needle hemming improves durability. There are five colors to choose from. This would be great for someone with a family. Buy Here.
Pros
- Customization Options
- Soft Polyester and Cotton
- Two-Needle Hemming
Cons
- Some Styles Get Expensive
- Only Unisex Sizes
Simba Emoji T-Shirt
Looking for a customizable t-shirt for young Lion King fans? This unique emoji shirt features Simba as you’ve never seen him before. The shirt is available in many colors and styles. You can even personalize the design template for an additional fee. The shirt is pre-shrunk and made of 100 percent Comfortsoft cotton. You’ll also get double-stitching in the arms for even the heaviest wear. Buy Here.
Pros
- Pre-Shrunk Soft Cotton
- Customizable Colors and Template
- Adorable Emoji Design
Cons
- Must Wash on Cold Cycle
- Only Youth Sizes Small to Large
Lion King Knit Dress for Girls
This dress easily makes my list as one of the best Lion-King-themed apparel items. The soft cotton dress for girls boasts rave reviews and is an Amazon Choice listing. Polka dots add a fun touch to the short flutter sleeves and pleated skirt. Simba, Timon, Zazu, and Pumbaa parade under glitter-adorned letters. It’s available in sizes 2 through 8. Buy Here.
Pros
- Soft Cotton Material
- Glitter Lettering and Main Characters
- Official Disney Merch
Cons
- Only Available Up to Size 8
- May Need to Size Up
Simba Future King Half-Zip Pullover
Keep young Lion King fans warm on a cool day. This zip pullover offers the protection of a hoodie and the convenience of a zip-up jacket. The contrasting hoodie and liner make a striking design. I love that it’s made with light and breathable fabric that’s resistant to sweat. The relaxed fit with stretch makes for comfortable wear and more flexible sizing for growing kids. Buy Here.
Pros
- Moisture Wicking, Breathable Fabric
- Zipper and Hoodie
- Contrast Design
Cons
- Limited Sizes
- Only One Color Combination
Toddler Fleece Jogger Pullover Hoodie & Pants Set
This toddler set comes with a cozy hoodie and joggers. The officially licensed Lion King set impresses with a vivid yellow hoodie and a matching drawstring on the joggers. Simba is featured with his playful look. The hood is lined and the polyester means they won’t get too sweaty. It’s also machine-washable. Buy Here.
Pros
- Lined Hoodie
- Adjustable Joggers
- Striking and Playful Design
Cons
- Only Toddler Sizes
- No Other Color Combinations
Lion King Books
Immerse yourself in the Lion King story beyond the screen. These books include kid’s stories, behind-the-scenes details, and a novel.
Lion King Little Golden Book
Little Golden Books are great for collecting. They’re also ideal for younger children who are learning how to read. This classic Little Golden Book retells the original Lion King faithfully in a way that’s understandable and engaging for children. All 24 pages are illustrated. Buy Here.
Pros
- Classic Story
- Collectible
- Illustrations and Simple For Little Kids
Cons
- Doesn’t Add to Story
- Simple for Older Fans
The Art and Making of The Lion King
This immersive book explores how the Lion King came to life. In over 220 pages, this book showcases concept art, photography, and the film-making process. You’ll also read interviews with the cast and filmmakers that shed light on the ins and outs of how Lion King became the masterpiece we know and love today. It’s an enlightening book for avid Lion King fans and would make a great birthday or Christmas gift. Buy Here.
Pros
- Cast Interviews
- Photography and Concept Art
- Over 220 Pages
Cons
- I recommend ordering from Target over Amazon (my link) as Amazon Doesn’t Provide Protective Wrapping
- Heavy/ Bulky
Lion King: The Novelization
This is my top recommendation for middle-grade and upper elementary fans (ages 8 to 12). This novel takes inspiration from the 2019 live-action film but also expands upon it. A bit more character depth and unexpected additions make it worth a read. The novel is nearly 300 pages long. Buy Here.
Pros
- Great for Grades 3 Through 7
- Adds Unexpected Details
- Inspired by Live-Action Film
Cons
- Too Advanced For Younger Fans
- Only Available as Paperback and E-Book
Lion King Costumes
Whether you’re looking for a Halloween costume, cosplaying, or just feel like dressing up, Lion King costumes are instant classics.
Simba Costume Bodysuit Pajamas for Kids
This costume is comfortable enough to be used as pajamas during Winter. The Lion King bodysuit for Kings is sold through the Official Disney Store and features a lined Simba hood with 3D hair and ears. The bodysuit is constructed with cozy fleece and includes ribbed cuffs and a tail. The zipper makes this costume easy to get in and out of. It’s charming and well-designed, as reflected by high customer reviews. Buy Here.
Pros
- Cozy Fleece and Lined Hood
- Zipper Construction
- Includes Ears and Tail
Cons
- May Be Too Warm For Warmer Climates
- Can Get Sweaty
Spooktacular Creations Deluxe Baby Lion Costume Set
You don’t need me to tell you how adorable this Lion-King-inspired costume set is. The bodysuit comes with a lion headpiece and booties. The suite features a generous mane and tail. It’s made with soft polyester and is designed for easy diaper changes. It even comes with a bonus zebra plush. All materials meet safety USA safety standards. Buy Here.
Pros
- Includes 5 Pieces
- Easy Diaper Changing
- Soft and Breathable
Cons
- Not Official Disney Merch
- Only Sizes for 18-24 Months and 3-4 Years Old
Lion King Home Decor
Hang up wall art, decorate a nursery, or pull up a creative seat with these Lion King merch items for the home.
Lion King Gallery Wrapped Canvas
This gorgeous canvas will instantly brighten any room. Inspired by the original animated Lion King, the canvas features Simba, Rafiki, Mufasa, Sarabi, Zazu, Pumbaa, Scar, Timon, Shenzi, and others. It comes with a certificate of authenticity and a hardwood bar for hanging. The colors are rich and truly bring the classic to life. It’s also made in the USA. Buy Here.
Pros
- Certificate of Authenticity
- Rich Colors
- Features Classic Characters
Cons
- Expensive
- Only Available in 14” by 14”
Disney Lion King Wild About You Bedding Set
This 3 piece nursery set comes with a comforter, fitted sheet, and crib skirt. Leaf motifs in light gray are accompanied by Simba. The Wild About You lettering adds a sweet message and a bit of color. The muted colors are calming and versatile. The polyester microfiber is meant to be soft enough for a baby. All sheets can be thrown into a washing machine, making them fuss-free to maintain. Buy Here.
Pros
- 3 Piece Set
- Soft Fabric
- Versatile and Meaningful Design
Cons
- Only For Cribs
- Slightly Expensive
Lion King Chair Desk with Storage Bin
This isn’t any desk. This desk will delight child Lion King fans who already have typical merch. Keep them busy with a desk that’s perfect for creating, drawing, and writing. The desk includes a storage bin, coupled with a holder for art supplies. It’s low to the ground for easy access and made with a scratch-resistant finish. The bright design showcases Simba, Timon, and Pumbaa. The desk can accommodate up to 50 pounds. Buy Here.
Pros
- Plenty of Storage Space
- Bright Graphic Design
- Scratch-Resistant Finish
Cons
- Only Up to 50 Pounds
- Fasteners Are More Fragile
Lion King Toy Sets and Collectible Figures
Whether it’s for play or display, figurine sets add a touch of fun and are great for Lion King fans looking for collectibles.
Lion Guard Figure Set
This figure set is an Amazon exclusive. It’s an affordable, 5 piece set with Kion, Fuli, Bunga, Bethe, and Oto. The 5-piece set is approved for fans ages 3 and up. Every figure is highly detailed and could be used for collecting and displaying. I also love the bright colors, the expressive facial features, and the packaging it ships with. Buy Here.
Pros
- Affordable
- Highly Detailed
- Great For Collecting and Playing
Cons
- No Characters From Original Films
- Plastic
9 Pcs Lion King Movie Figures Mini Animals
If you’re looking for a set featuring characters from the classic Lion King film, this may be for you. The 9-piece set, which can be used as figurines or cake toppers, comes with expressive figurines. In many ways, these tell the story on their own, with Mufasa, Scar, Simba, Nala, Timon, and more. It’s an Amazon Choice product and a reasonable price. Buy Here.
Pros
- 9 Classic Characters
- Can Be Used as Cake Toppers
- Expressive Details
Cons
- Small Figurines
- Colors Aren’t As Bold
Enesco Disney Traditions by Jim Shore Lion King Stacked Characters
If you’re looking for classic, collectible Lion King figures ( or anything Disney) I recommend considering Enesco Disney Traditions collections by Jim Shore. They’re always designed with great detail, well-rated, and truly expressive. It was hard to select just one, but I feel this stacked figurine captures the whimsy and heart of the original Lion King. This figurine includes unexpected touches, like folk art and quilt motifs, with some of your favorite characters. It stands 8 inches high and is made with multicolor stone resin. Buy Here.
Pros
- Collectible
- Classic Characters
- Unique Folk Art Motifs
Cons
- Expensive
- Fairly Small
Lion King Plush Toys by Character
Plush toys are great as collectibles and just gifts for all ages. I’m offering suggestions for plush toys based on some of the main characters in Lion King.
Simba
This darling Simba plush features Simba in his younger years. The plush measures 17 inches long and is made with soft polyester. The faux hair mane and embroidered features display great attention to detail. Buy Here.
Pros
- Soft Polyester and Faux Hair Mane
- Embroidered and Sculpted Features
Cons
- Smaller for Older Kids
Nala
If you love the Simba plush I recommended, you’ll want to add Nala to your collection, too. This Lion King plush from the Disney Store features Nala with embroidered features and cozy, soft faux fur. Buy Here.
Pros
- Soft and Cuddly
- Detailed Facial Features
Cons
- Slightly Floppy
Scar
What Lion King merch collection is complete without the original villain? Scar is as commanding as ever with a generous faux fur mane and the same quality construction and size as my previous two picks. Buy Here.
Pros
- Striking Full Mane
- Highly-Rated
Cons
- Rare and Expensive
Mufasa
It’s the character that helped Simba become the hero he one day would be. Mufasa is rendered with impressive detail. Embroidered features and a fiery full faux fur main are featured on a 14-inch plush. Buy Here.
Pros
- Excellent Attention to Detail
- Collector’s Item
Cons
- Expensive
Zazu
Zazu is one of the most colorful characters in Lion King, as these plush shoes. The small, 9-inch plush toy comes with an official Disney Store tag and is soft from beak to back. Buy Here.
Pros
- Colorful and Well-Constructed
- Good Choice For Younger Kids
Cons
- Rather Small
Timon
Timon is oddly the rarest of Lion King plush toys. Target and JC Penney have listings, but they’re out of stock. There are listings on Amazon, but most are single items and single sellers. I recommend Timon Plush on Etsy, which are individually listed and often are genuine vintage plush toys. Shop Here For Current Offers.
Pros
- Vintage Options
- Great Collector’s Items
Cons
- Offerings Constantly Change
Rafiki
This Rafiki plush is more affordable than some Lion King plush toys, but still officially licensed by Disney. The Rafiki plush toy is striking with its details and includes his staff. Buy Here.
Pros
- Good Price
- Comes with Accessory
Cons
- Accessory Isn’t Removable
Pumbaa
As much as sidekick Timba was rare, Pumbaa is about the opposite. There are Pumbaa plush toys in countless varieties, especially on Amazon. But I selected a very budget-friendly plush that supports a good cause. 100 percent of the revenue from this charming plush goes towards needy families through the Kohl’s Cares organization. Buy Here.
Pros
- 100 Percent Proceeds to Non-Profit
- Budget-Friendly
Cons
- Not as Highly Detailed as Pumbaa Amazon Listings
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: Does Build A Bear Have Lion King Merch?
Answer: To this day, a Build a Bear I received for my 15th birthday is one of my favorite gifts I’ve received. There’s no specific age to gift a Build A Bear, and the company offers something for Lion King fans. You can snatch past designs from eBay. There are different characters by store. The current online exclusive is Mufasa. Customize– the full package includes the collectible plush and the Circle of Life Chant. Call ahead to your local store to see what Lion King merch they carry.
Question: Does Lion King Merchandise Ship Internationally?
Answer: Whether you’re living in the UK, New Zealand, and even Australia, you can have official Lion King merch shipped from the Disney Store. These shipments are subject to both delays and additional fees and duties. Target does not ship internationally.
Question: Where Can you Buy Broadway Lion King Merch?
Answer: Lion King: The Musical is another way to story lives on. Official merch, including songbooks, posters, and plush dolls can be bought through the Play Bill Store Online. You can also buy handmade merch inspired by the Musical through Etsy’s Lion King Broadway Collection. This collection includes masks, pins, ticket stubs, t-shirts, keychains, and decor.
Question: Where can I Find Vintage or Vintage-Inspired Lion King Merch?
Answer: If you want truly vintage (dated to when the original Lion King or Lion King 2 came out) products, you must be careful. Etsy does sometimes offer vintage products. It’s possible to find them online or at a thrift store. The problem is always verifying both the year and condition. Check the description, seller history, and photos supplied. Graphic t-shirts with a vintage-inspired design or wash can be found at department stores and online stores or places like Tee Public.
Final Thoughts
From the original 1994 animated film to the live-action and musical shows, Lion King is a powerful story with a powerful message. Courage, family, loyalty, and taking charge of your life are just a few messages. Lion King merchandise is a powerful way to bring the spirit of the story into your home, and there are countless products to choose from. Just exercise caution when buying from a third-party seller.
Final Buying Recommendations: Lion King Graphic Tees & Hoodies From Hot Topic, JC Penney
Hot Topic and JC Penney are two collections I’d recommend for comfy graphic tees that aren’t available at the Official Disney Store. JC Penney’s Collection is small and offers spirited Lion King tees for kids. Bright colors, fun designs, and fair prices are all featured. Meanwhile, Hot Topic’s Collection features versatile dark and neutral tees and hoodies for teens and adults, all officially licensed through Disney.
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