Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is a Value Resort at Walt Disney World, known for its immersive theming based on beloved Disney and Pixar films. As the newest of Disney’s Value Resorts, it offers a more upscale experience compared to the other Value options, thanks to its family suites, detailed decor, and vibrant theming. Art of Animation is divided into four sections, each themed around a different movie: The Little Mermaid, The Lion King, Finding Nemo, and Cars. It’s an ideal choice for families, especially those looking for spacious accommodations and an affordable yet immersive Disney experience.
Key Highlights of Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
1. Immersive Disney and Pixar Theming
One of the biggest draws of Art of Animation is its larger-than-life theming, designed to fully immerse guests in the worlds of some of Disney and Pixar’s most beloved films. Each section of the resort is dedicated to a specific movie, with oversized characters, vibrant landscapes, and detailed decor that bring the animated worlds to life.
- Finding Nemo: The central and most popular section, Finding Nemo features larger-than-life characters like Crush, Dory, and Nemo. The theming extends to the pool area, which is filled with sea creatures and underwater details.
- The Lion King: This section showcases the African savanna, complete with towering figures of Simba, Timon, Pumbaa, and Mufasa. The theming is especially fun for The Lion King fans and provides great photo opportunities.
- Cars: A fan-favourite section that recreates Radiator Springs from Pixar’s Cars. You’ll find life-sized characters like Lightning McQueen, Mater, and Sally, making it feel like you’ve stepped right into the movie.
- The Little Mermaid: The Little Mermaid section offers standard rooms and features characters like Ariel, Sebastian, and Ursula with undersea decor that brings the world of Atlantica to life.
Key Tip: For families with children who love these movies, the themed areas provide countless photo opportunities and a truly magical atmosphere.
2. Family Suites for Larger Groups
One of the main benefits of staying at Art of Animation is the availability of family suites, which can accommodate up to six guests. These suites are ideal for larger families or groups who want more space than the standard rooms typically offer at Value Resorts.
- Family Suites: The suites include a separate bedroom, a living area with a pull-out sofa and a Murphy bed, a kitchenette, and two bathrooms. This extra space and the convenience of two bathrooms make it a fantastic option for families.
- Movie-Themed Suites: The family suites are located in the Finding Nemo, Cars, and Lion King sections, so you can choose the movie that best matches your family’s favourites.
Key Tip: If you’re a family of four or more, the family suites are an excellent choice, offering comfort and convenience at a reasonable price.
3. The Big Blue Pool
Art of Animation is home to The Big Blue Pool, the largest pool at any Disney resort. Located in the Finding Nemo section, the pool is inspired by the movie and features underwater sounds and music that can only be heard while swimming, making it a fun and unique experience.
- Underwater Speakers: One of the coolest features of The Big Blue Pool is the underwater speakers, which play music and sounds from the movie, fully immersing swimmers in the world of Finding Nemo.
- Splash Area: There’s also a splash play area for younger children, complete with interactive water features and smaller water slides.
- Quiet Pools: For guests seeking a quieter swim, the resort also offers two quiet pools: one in the Cars section and one in the Little Mermaid section.
Key Tip: The Big Blue Pool can get busy, so if you’re looking for a more relaxing experience, head to one of the quieter pools in the Cars or Little Mermaid sections.
4. Skyliner Access
A major advantage of staying at Art of Animation is its access to the Disney Skyliner, a gondola system that connects guests to EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and several other resorts. The Skyliner station is shared with the nearby Pop Century Resort, making it a convenient and scenic way to travel to and from the parks.
- Efficient Transportation: The Skyliner is faster and more enjoyable than bus transportation, offering guests a more relaxed and scenic journey to the parks. It’s particularly useful for avoiding traffic and long waits at bus stops.
Key Tip: Be mindful that the Skyliner is weather-dependent, so it may close during storms or high winds. Buses are still available for transportation to all parks.
5. Landscape of Flavors – Dining
The resort’s main dining option is Landscape of Flavors, a quick-service food court that offers a variety of dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The menu includes everything from pizza and burgers to international dishes like Indian curries and pasta.
- Variety of Options: Landscape of Flavors is known for offering more unique and diverse food options than typical quick-service locations, making it a standout in the Value Resort category.
- Good for Families: With so many different cuisines to choose from, the food court caters well to families with picky eaters and those who want to try something different.
Key Tip: Landscape of Flavors can get busy during peak meal times, especially breakfast, so try to dine early or later in the evening to avoid long lines.
6. Complimentary Disney Transportation
In addition to the Skyliner, Art of Animation offers complimentary bus transportation to Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, and Disney Springs. The bus stops are located outside the main building, Animation Hall, and buses run frequently throughout the day.
- Bus Convenience: While the Skyliner is the star, the buses are reliable and offer easy access to the other parks that aren’t connected by gondola.
Key Tip: If you want to avoid long waits, try to catch buses during non-peak times, such as mid-morning or late afternoon, when crowds are lighter.
Downsides of Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
1. More Expensive for a Value Resort
While Art of Animation is technically a Value Resort, it is generally more expensive than the other Value Resorts due to the popularity of its family suites and more immersive theming. Family suites can cost upwards of £300 to £400 per night, depending on the season, which is closer to Moderate Resort pricing.
Key Tip: If you’re a smaller group or looking for more budget-friendly options, the standard rooms in the Little Mermaid section are more affordable, though they are located farther from the main building and Skyliner.
2. Size and Layout
Art of Animation is a large resort, and the different themed areas are spread out across the property. This means that if you’re staying in the Little Mermaid section, for example, you’ll have a longer walk to the Skyliner station and the main building, Animation Hall.
Key Tip: If you want to minimise walking distances, request a room in the Finding Nemo section, which is centrally located near the Skyliner, the food court, and The Big Blue Pool.
3. No Table-Service Dining
While Landscape of Flavors offers a great selection of food, the resort does not have a table-service restaurant. Guests looking for a sit-down meal will need to travel to other resorts or visit the parks.
Key Tip: For a table-service meal, take the Skyliner to Disney’s Riviera Resort or head to EPCOT for a wide range of dining options.
Final Thoughts: Is Disney’s Art of Animation Resort Worth It?
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is an excellent choice for families and groups who want to be fully immersed in the magic of Disney and Pixar films while staying on a budget. The themed family suites, Skyliner access, and the impressive Big Blue Pool make it a standout Value Resort, especially for those looking for spacious accommodations and easy access to the parks.
Though it’s more expensive than other Value Resorts and lacks a table-service restaurant, Art of Animation delivers an immersive and fun experience that will be a hit with children and Disney fans alike. For larger families or those looking for the best combination of theming, value, and convenience, Art of Animation is one of the best resorts to consider at Walt Disney World.
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