There are four tiers of hotel resort at Walt Disney World – Value, Moderate, Deluxe, and Deluxe Villa. Disney themselves assigns them categories and the amenities vary in each resort depending on the category they are on.
Value resorts are the lowest end in terms of price from other categories of hotels in Walt Disney World.
There are currently five resorts in this category:
- Art of Animation
- Pop Century
- All Star Sports
- All Star Music
- All Star Movies
Each have their own quirks and styling, and to be honest, you cannot go wrong with ANY on property hotel at Disney World; the benefits are so strong that staying on-site should be high on your priority list for your trip.
Our Winner – Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
When it comes to value resorts at Walt Disney World, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort continues to be a standout favourite. Opened in 2012, this resort offers guests an immersive experience into the worlds of beloved Disney and Pixar films while maintaining the budget-friendly pricing that value resorts are known for. Over the years, Art of Animation has solidified its place as one of the best value options on property.
Here’s why Art of Animation is our favourite value resort, updated with the latest offerings and improvements:
1. Immersive Theming for the Whole Family
What sets Art of Animation apart from the other value resorts is its highly detailed and immersive theming. Each section of the resort brings to life a different Disney or Pixar film, with large, larger-than-life characters and settings that make you feel like you’re walking through the actual movies.
- Themed Sections: The resort is divided into four distinct areas: Finding Nemo, Cars, The Lion King, and The Little Mermaid. Each area is meticulously designed with massive sculptures and themed decor that kids and Disney fans alike will love.
- Finding Nemo features enormous sea creatures like Crush and Nemo, with vibrant coral-themed decor.
- Cars fans will enjoy life-size versions of Lightning McQueen and Mater in the Radiator Springs area.
- The Lion King section feels like a walk through the African savanna, with Simba, Timon, and Pumbaa making regular appearances as oversized statues.
- The Little Mermaid section brings Atlantica to life, with Ariel, Sebastian, and Ursula towering over the courtyards.
Key Tip: The Finding Nemo section is centrally located and closest to the main pool and Skyliner station, making it the best option for easy access to all resort amenities.
2. Family Suites Make It a Top Choice
Another big selling point for Art of Animation is the availability of family suites, which can accommodate up to six people. These suites, located in the Finding Nemo, Cars, and Lion King sections, offer more space and additional amenities than the standard rooms found in other value resorts.
- What’s Inside? The family suites feature a separate bedroom, a living area with a pull-out sofa and Murphy bed, two bathrooms, and a kitchenette. This makes Art of Animation particularly appealing for larger families or groups that want more space to spread out.
Key Tip: If you’re a family of four or more, the family suites offer excellent value, especially when compared to the cost of booking multiple rooms at other resorts.
3. Disney Skyliner: A Game-Changer for Transportation
Since its opening in 2019, the Disney Skyliner has been a game-changer for transportation at Walt Disney World. Art of Animation is lucky enough to have a Skyliner station shared with Disney’s Pop Century Resort, making travel to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios faster and more scenic than taking a bus.
- Benefits: The Skyliner connects Art of Animation to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios, eliminating the hassle of road traffic. Plus, the Skyliner ride itself offers beautiful views of the parks and resorts, making it an enjoyable part of your travel experience.
Key Tip: The Skyliner can close during inclement weather (lightning, high winds), so it’s good to have a backup plan for transportation during storms. Buses to the parks are still available in these instances.
4. The Big Blue Pool – The Largest Pool on Disney Property
The Big Blue Pool in the Finding Nemo section remains one of the best reasons to stay at Art of Animation. It’s the largest pool on Disney property and has a fun underwater sound system that plays music and sounds from Finding Nemo when you’re swimming.
- For the Kids: There’s also a splash area for younger children, and The Schoolyard wet play area nearby is perfect for little ones who want to cool off in a more interactive way.
- Quiet Pools: If you’re looking for a quieter pool experience, the Cozy Cone Pool in the Cars section and the Flippin’ Fins Pool in the Little Mermaid section offer a more laid-back atmosphere.
Key Tip: The Big Blue Pool can get busy during peak times in the afternoons, so if you prefer a quieter swim, head to one of the smaller pools in the early morning or late evening.
5. Dining at Landscape of Flavors
Landscape of Flavors, the resort’s main quick-service restaurant, has been praised for its wide variety of food options, making it one of the better dining spots at a value resort. The food court offers a mix of international and American cuisine, including pizzas, burgers, pasta, and more creative dishes like Indian-inspired fare.
- Variety: With five different food stations, Landscape of Flavors ensures that even picky eaters will find something they like. Options include create-your-own pasta bowls, omelettes, and even fresh smoothies.
Key Tip: While Landscape of Flavors is convenient, it can get busy during peak meal times (especially breakfast). Try to eat during off-peak hours or mobile order ahead of time through the My Disney Experience app to skip the lines.
6. Pet-Friendly Accommodations
A newer addition to the resort’s offerings is the pet-friendly policy. If you’re travelling with a furry friend, Art of Animation allows pets in certain sections of the resort, making it one of the few Disney properties where pets are welcome.
- Dedicated Areas: The Cars and Little Mermaid sections have rooms designated for guests travelling with pets, ensuring that both your family and your pet have a comfortable stay.
Key Tip: Be sure to request a pet-friendly room during booking and check out Disney’s pet guidelines before arrival.
Final Thoughts: Why Art of Animation Remains Our Favourite Value Resort
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort combines the magic of Disney storytelling with the affordability and convenience of a value resort, making it a fantastic option for families and groups. The themed family suites, Skyliner access, and immersive decor are standout features that make this resort feel like much more than a budget option. Add in the Big Blue Pool, varied dining options, and the proximity to Disney Springs via Skyliner, and you have a resort that is both family-friendly and packed with value.
Art of Animation continues to offer one of the best value-for-money experiences at Walt Disney World, blending fun, comfort, and convenience for the perfect Disney holiday. Whether you’re travelling with young kids who adore Disney films or simply looking for a more cost-effective way to stay in the heart of the magic, Art of Animation should be at the top of your list.
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