Disney’s Art of Animation Resort

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort transformed the unfinished “Legendary Years” section of Pop Century into a celebration of Disney and Pixar animation when it opened in 2012. This immersive value resort brings four beloved animated films to life through detailed theming and engaging environments that delight guests of all ages. Art of Animation is one of the most popular Disney resort hotels at the Walt Disney World Resort

Art of Animation Summary

• Premium value resort featuring detailed theming from four animated films: Finding Nemo, Cars, The Lion King, and The Little Mermaid
• Family suites sleep 6 adults with kitchenettes and 2 bathrooms; Little Mermaid standard rooms are also available
• Disney Skyliner access provides quick transportation to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios theme parks
• Features Walt Disney World’s largest resort pool plus two themed quiet pools
• Resort rates ($380-650 for suites, $180-300 for standard rooms) higher than other value resorts but offer more space and amenities
• Landscape of Flavors food court provides diverse dining options beyond typical value resort offerings
• Ideal for families needing extra space, animation fans, and guests focusing on EPCOT/Hollywood Studios visits

Location and Transportation

Art of Animation enjoys a prime location in Disney’s Wide World of Sports Resort Area, sharing the Disney Skyliner station with neighboring Pop Century Resort. Guests access the Skyliner via the Generation Gap Bridge spanning Hourglass Lake, providing a picturesque walk to this premium transportation option. The Skyliner whisks guests to EPCOT in approximately 15-18 minutes and Disney’s Hollywood Studios in 10-12 minutes, including a transfer at Caribbean Beach Resort’s hub station.

Complimentary bus transportation serves other Disney destinations, with dedicated service to Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Disney Springs, and water parks. The resort’s central location ensures reasonable travel times across property, while frequent bus service during peak hours minimizes waiting times. Transportation options significantly enhance the resort’s value proposition compared to other value-category properties. The bus stop area at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is located directly in front of Animation Hall (the main building). There are eight covered bus stops arranged in a row, each clearly marked with digital displays showing arrival times and destinations. The bus stops are labeled from 1-8, with dedicated spots for different Disney World theme parks and destinations.

Resort Layout and Theming

Animation Hall welcomes guests with a vibrant celebration of animation artistry. The expansive space features soaring ceilings adorned with oversized sketches showing the progression of animated characters from simple pencil drawings to full-color completion. Light streams through large windows onto white walls that serve as a canvas for bold splashes of primary colors. Giant storyboard-style panels line the walls, while character sketches and artistic tools are woven into the architectural details. The check-in area is designed to resemble an artist’s workstation, complete with drawing table-inspired desks. Overhead, a unique chandelier suggests a splash of animated motion frozen in time. The floor features a subtle design that mimics an animator’s light table, tying together the artistic theme that runs throughout the space. Inside Animation Hall, you can find the main lobby, front desk where you check in, as well as the concierge desk, Ink & Paint gift shop, Landscape of Flavors and the Animation Gallery.

The resort unfolds across four distinctly themed areas, each celebrating a different animated masterpiece. The Finding Nemo section, positioned closest to Animation Hall, features the resort’s signature Big Blue Pool surrounded by larger-than-life characters from the film. Massive sculptures of Nemo, Dory, and other beloved characters create perfect photo opportunities while setting the underwater mood.

The Cars section meticulously recreates Radiator Springs with life-sized character cars and authentic desert landscapes. Guests can pose with Lightning McQueen, Mater, and other favorites while surrounded by the distinctive architecture of Route 66. The attention to detail extends to themed light fixtures, guardrails, and even the parking lot striping.

The Lion King area transports visitors to the African savanna through towering Pride Rock formations and immersive landscapes. Larger-than-life versions of Timon, Pumbaa, and other characters populate this section, while careful landscaping reinforces the African setting. Even the building exteriors feature colors and patterns reflecting the film’s artistic style.

The Little Mermaid section completes the resort with an undersea theme featuring scaled sculptures of Ariel, Sebastian, and their friends. Building exteriors incorporate ocean-inspired colors and architectural elements suggesting an underwater kingdom. Careful lighting creates magical evening atmospheres across all themed areas.

Room Accommodations

Family suites in the Finding Nemo, Cars, and Lion King sections provide spacious 565-square-foot accommodations sleeping up to six adults. Each suite features a master bedroom with queen bed, living room with double murphy bed, and dining room with double convertible sofa. Two full bathrooms facilitate family logistics, while the kitchenette includes a microwave, sink, and mini-refrigerator. Three flat-panel TVs ensure entertainment options for all family members.

The Little Mermaid section offers standard guest rooms sleeping four guests through two queen beds, and measure about 277 square feet. These hotel rooms maintain the detailed theming of the suites while providing more economical accommodations. Every room includes a mini-refrigerator, coffee maker, and themed artwork celebrating the animated classic.

Dining Experiences

Landscape of Flavors elevates the typical resort food court experience through diverse offerings and unique preparation stations. Operating from early morning until late evening, the venue combines traditional favorites with unexpected options. Five distinct serving areas ensure variety while maintaining efficient service. Mobile ordering through My Disney Experience helps guests avoid peak period lines.

The Drop Off Pool Bar near the Big Blue Pool provides convenient access to beverages and light snacks throughout the day. The bar’s location makes it perfect for parents supervising swimming children or guests seeking afternoon refreshment.

Recreation and Activities

The Big Blue Pool stands as Walt Disney World’s largest resort pool, creating an immersive underwater environment complete with submerged speakers playing Disney music. Zero-depth entry makes the pool accessible for all ages, while an adjacent splash area provides safe water play for younger guests. Themed elements from Finding Nemo surround the area, creating an engaging atmosphere for swimmers and sunbathers alike.

In the Cars section, the Cozy Cone Pool offers a more relaxed swimming experience. Cone-shaped cabanas provide shade and character-appropriate theming, while the quieter atmosphere appeals to guests seeking a peaceful afternoon. The Little Mermaid section’s Flippin’ Fins Pool rounds out the aquatic offerings with Sebastian and other undersea friends overlooking the swimming area.

Animation Hall hosts regular drawing classes where guests learn to sketch Disney characters under expert guidance. The Pixel Play Arcade provides indoor entertainment options, while the Righteous Reef Playground near the Big Blue Pool offers active play opportunities for younger guests. A jogging trail circling Hourglass Lake connects with Pop Century’s path system for extended walking or running routes.

The Ink & Paint Shop, located in Animation Hall, offers resort-specific merchandise celebrating Disney and Pixar animation alongside traditional Disney souvenirs. The shop features unique Art of Animation items themed to the resort’s four featured films (Finding Nemo, Cars, The Lion King, and The Little Mermaid), plus everyday essentials, snacks, and drinks.

Resort Benefits and Amenities

Art of Animation guests enjoy significant Disney resort advantages beginning with Early Theme Park Entry, providing a 30-minute head start at any park each morning. Extended Evening Hours offer select night access to certain parks, while early Lightning Lane booking windows help secure popular attractions. The Disney Dining Plan eligibility and resort package delivery services enhance convenience throughout your stay.

Complimentary parking serves guests with vehicles, though many find the Skyliner and bus transportation sufficient for their needs. The resort’s proximity to major Disney World arteries ensures quick access to all destinations, while the central location facilitates easy returns for afternoon breaks.

Room Selection Strategy

Building selection significantly impacts guest experience at Art of Animation. The Finding Nemo suites provide closest access to Animation Hall, dining, and Skyliner transportation, making them ideal for families prioritizing convenience. However, the central location can mean increased foot traffic and ambient noise from the pool area.

Cars section suites offer an excellent balance of accessibility and atmosphere. The moderate walking distance to amenities proves manageable for most guests, while the themed environment creates an engaging setting. Lion King suites typically provide quieter surroundings but require longer walks to resort facilities.

The Little Mermaid rooms, while more economical, demand the longest walks to Animation Hall and transportation. Guests choosing these rooms should consider mobility needs and daily walking distances when making their selection.

Value and Pricing Considerations

Art of Animation commands higher rates than traditional value resorts, reflecting its newer construction, extensive theming, and suite accommodations. Family suites typically range from $380 to $650 per night, while standard Little Mermaid rooms run between $180 and $300 nightly. These rates fluctuate based on season and demand.

The price difference between Art of Animation and other value resorts deserves careful consideration. The additional space in family suites, enhanced theming, and premium transportation access justify the cost for many guests. However, budget-conscious travelers might find traditional value resorts or moderate resort options more appropriate for their needs.

Why Disney’s Art of Animation?

Art of Animation successfully elevates the value resort experience through immersive theming, family-friendly accommodations, and premium transportation options. The resort particularly excels at creating engaging environments that maintain their appeal throughout extended stays, while practical amenities ensure comfortable vacations.

The combination of family suites, extensive recreation options, and convenient access to parks makes Art of Animation an excellent choice for larger families or those seeking more space than traditional value rooms provide. Though rates exceed other value resorts, the detailed theming and suite configurations justify the premium for many guests.

Successful stays at Art of Animation depend on understanding its layout, utilizing transportation effectively, and taking advantage of various amenities. Whether occupying a family suite or standard room, proper planning helps maximize the resort’s value and ensures a memorable Disney World experience.

The resort’s commitment to storytelling through architecture, decor, and activities creates an environment that celebrates Disney animation while providing practical accommodations. This balance of whimsy and functionality makes Art of Animation a standout option in Walt Disney World’s value resort category.

Find out more about all Walt Disney World Value Resorts.