Art of Animation Resort: Your Ultimate Disney Escape
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Ready for a magical stay at Disney? Discover everything about Disney’s Art of Animation Resort—from themed rooms and dining to tips for the best experience. Plan your dream Disney vacation now!
Introduction: Enter a World Where Animation Comes Alive
Few places capture the sheer magic of Disney quite like the Art of Animation Resort. Once you set foot on the property, vibrant colors and beloved Disney characters surround you. Giant sculptures tower over pathways, bringing favorite animated films to life in ways that thrill both kids and adults. This isn’t just a hotel—it’s an immersive experience. Families, Disney fans, and animation lovers flock here to soak in an atmosphere that feels pulled straight from the silver screen.
However, beyond its stunning visuals lies a resort brimming with value, convenience, and family-friendly amenities. If you’re searching for an unforgettable Disney adventure without splurging on deluxe accommodations, the Art of Animation Resort should top your list. Let’s explore why.
History and Concept of the Art of Animation Resort
The Art of Animation Resort officially opened its doors in 2012, becoming the newest addition to Disney’s Value Resort category. Interestingly, the land it sits on was initially planned for an expansion of Pop Century Resort. When the economy shifted, Disney pivoted and created an entirely new concept focused on celebrating their animated classics.
From the start, Disney wanted this resort to stand apart from other value options. Instead of simple motel-style buildings, the Art of Animation Resort boasts giant set pieces, intricate details, and immersive theming across four beloved films. The idea was to make guests feel like they’ve stepped right into a Disney movie scene.
Themed Areas at Art of Animation Resort
The Little Mermaid Section
Fans of Ariel can dive into a world under the sea. The Little Mermaid section features towering sculptures of characters like King Triton and Ursula. Every building shimmers with ocean hues and shell patterns. This area offers standard rooms, perfect for smaller parties or couples who crave Disney magic without needing a suite.
Moreover, the paths meander through seashell-shaped fixtures and vibrant coral displays. You’ll feel like you’re truly walking through Ariel’s underwater kingdom. Despite its distance from Animation Hall, the theming alone makes the stroll worthwhile.
Finding Nemo Suites
At the resort’s heart lies the Finding Nemo section. Here, guests enjoy larger-than-life models of Nemo, Crush, and other beloved characters. It’s impossible to miss the Big Blue Pool, the largest pool in any Disney World resort, featuring underwater speakers that delight swimmers with music and character voices.
The Finding Nemo suites accommodate up to six guests, making them ideal for families. With separate bedrooms, a spacious living area, and two bathrooms, they provide both comfort and convenience. The vibrant design immerses you in an underwater world from sunrise to sunset.
Cars Suites
Lightning McQueen fans rejoice! The Cars section recreates Radiator Springs, complete with life-sized cars lining “Route 66.” Buildings resemble classic motels from the film, while roads wind through cozy car-themed landscapes.
Families love staying here because kids can “meet” characters like Mater, Sally, and Doc Hudson simply by walking outside. The suites offer ample space and fun décor inspired by the movie’s iconic scenes. Each moment spent here feels like a pit stop on a cross-country adventure.
The Lion King Suites
Step into the African savanna in the Lion King section. Towering statues of Simba, Timon, and Pumbaa greet you as you follow winding paths through lush landscaping. Unlike other areas, this section doesn’t have its own pool. However, its proximity to the main pool and Animation Hall keeps guests close to the resort’s central hub.
The Lion King suites bring the story to life through detailed murals and themed furnishings. Families who adore this Disney classic often choose this section for its immersive vibe and clever design touches.
Room Types and Amenities at Art of Animation Resort
Standard Little Mermaid Rooms
These rooms are smaller, around 260 square feet, yet filled with charm. Seashell headboards, vibrant artwork, and ocean-inspired details set the scene. Each room includes two double beds or one king, plus basic amenities like a mini-fridge and flat-screen TV.
While cozy, they’re a great choice for couples or small families who plan to spend most days exploring the parks.
Family Suites
Family suites are the Art of Animation Resort’s standout feature. Each suite offers:
- A private bedroom with a queen bed
- A living room with a convertible table bed and sleeper sofa
- Two full bathrooms
- Kitchenette with microwave, sink, and mini-fridge
- Approximately 565 square feet of space
These rooms make traveling with kids far easier. Parents can relax in their private bedroom while children enjoy the animated décor in the living space. Two bathrooms mean shorter wait times during busy mornings, a significant plus for larger families.
Dining at Art of Animation Resort
Landscape of Flavors
The resort’s main dining venue, Landscape of Flavors, serves up diverse meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Guests praise it as one of the best quick-service options among Disney Value Resorts. From customizable omelets in the morning to delicious pasta bowls at night, the menu offers plenty of variety.
Moreover, Landscape of Flavors caters to dietary needs, providing vegetarian, vegan, and allergy-friendly options. Grab-and-go items help families maximize time in the parks, while specialty desserts tempt anyone with a sweet tooth.
Pool Bars and Snacks
If you’re lounging by the pool, the Drop Off Pool Bar offers refreshing beverages and light snacks. Though limited in selection, it’s a welcome spot for parents wanting a cold drink while kids splash in the pool.
Because the resort doesn’t have table-service restaurants, many guests pair their stay with mobile orders from other Disney resorts or Disney Springs. Fortunately, Disney’s transportation system makes it easy to explore wider dining choices.
Pools and Recreation at Art of Animation Resort
The Big Blue Pool
Without question, the star of the resort is the Big Blue Pool in the Finding Nemo courtyard. Not only is it enormous, but its underwater speakers play music and character dialogue, creating an immersive aquatic experience. Kids and adults alike love hearing snippets of conversations between Nemo and friends while swimming.
Other Pools
Apart from the Big Blue Pool, guests can visit:
- The Cozy Cone Pool in the Cars section, with cone-shaped cabanas for shade
- The Flippin’ Fins Pool in The Little Mermaid area
These smaller pools are quieter, offering more relaxation than the bustling main pool. Regardless of which pool you choose, lifeguards remain on duty during operating hours, ensuring safety.
Playgrounds and Movie Nights
Families seeking entertainment without leaving the resort will find plenty to do. Kids can explore themed playgrounds, while nightly outdoor movies provide a perfect end to long Disney days. The Animation Hall arcade also offers games for all ages.
With activities scheduled daily, boredom is never an issue. Whether your family wants to play, swim, or simply relax, the Art of Animation Resort provides endless options.
Transportation Options at Art of Animation Resort
Disney Skyliner
One significant advantage of staying at the Art of Animation Resort is access to the Disney Skyliner. This gondola system whisks guests between resorts and parks like EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios in mere minutes. The Skyliner station sits right between Art of Animation and Pop Century Resort, making it exceptionally convenient.
Because the Skyliner operates continuously, guests often prefer it over crowded buses. Plus, the ride itself offers breathtaking views of Disney property, adding magic to your transportation experience.
Disney Bus Transportation
Beyond the Skyliner, guests can rely on Disney’s complimentary bus service. Buses connect the resort to Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Disney Springs, and other destinations. Buses run regularly, ensuring minimal wait times even during busy seasons.
While travel times vary depending on traffic and crowds, Disney’s transportation team works tirelessly to keep guests moving efficiently.
Value vs. Cost: Is Art of Animation Resort Worth It?
Staying at the Art of Animation Resort costs more than other value resorts like All-Star Movies or All-Star Music. However, many guests agree the extra expense is justified. The immersive theming, larger family suites, and Skyliner access elevate this resort to near-moderate-level value without the corresponding price tag.
Pros of Staying at Art of Animation Resort
- Stunning, immersive theming
- Family suites ideal for larger groups
- Access to the Skyliner
- One of the best quick-service dining venues among value resorts
- Three pools offering variety and relaxation
Cons of Staying at Art of Animation Resort
- Higher price compared to other value resorts
- Little Mermaid standard rooms can be a long walk from Animation Hall
- No table-service restaurant on-site
Ultimately, deciding whether the Art of Animation Resort is right for you comes down to your budget, group size, and how much you value Disney theming in your accommodations.
Tips for Booking the Art of Animation Resort
- Book early—rooms, especially suites, fill quickly during peak seasons.
- Consider transportation needs. The Skyliner is a major perk, especially for EPCOT or Hollywood Studios trips.
- Request a building close to Animation Hall to reduce walking distance, particularly in The Little Mermaid section.
- Watch for Disney promotions offering discounts on rooms.
- Use mobile check-in to skip front desk lines.
Planning ahead ensures a smoother, more magical stay at the Art of Animation Resort.
FAQs about Art of Animation Resort
Is Art of Animation a value or moderate resort?
It’s officially a value resort. However, family suites and amenities often place it closer to moderate-level experiences.
How big are the family suites?
Family suites measure about 565 square feet, accommodating up to six guests comfortably.
Does Art of Animation Resort have elevators?
Yes, all buildings have elevators, ensuring accessibility for all guests.
Can I walk from Art of Animation to other resorts?
You can easily walk to Disney’s Pop Century Resort via a pedestrian bridge over Hourglass Lake.
Is there a gym at Art of Animation Resort?
No, the resort doesn’t have a fitness center. Guests wanting gym access may consider moderate or deluxe resorts instead.
Conclusion: Make Your Disney Dreams Reality
The Art of Animation Resort delivers an experience that goes far beyond simply providing a place to sleep. Every mural, sculpture, and design element transports you directly into the worlds of Disney animation. Whether you’re traveling with kids, exploring as a couple, or planning a multi-generational gathering, this resort offers magic, convenience, and unforgettable memories.
Ready to dive into your Disney adventure? Book your stay at the Art of Animation Resort today and let your favorite animated stories become your reality!
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