If you’re dreaming of a Disney resort that brings beloved movies to life, offers extra space for families, and keeps the magic going even after you leave the parks, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort checks every box. This bold and colorful Value Resort is one of the most popular places for families to stay at Walt Disney World… and for good reason.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Disney’s Art of Animation Resort: its immersive theming, spacious suites and standard rooms, fantastic pools, dining options, transportation, and my best insider tips for planning a stay your family will never forget.
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is one of the most popular Disney Value Resorts at Walt Disney World, especially for families looking for themed suites, large pools, and easy transportation to the parks. Located near Disney’s Hollywood Studios and EPCOT with access to the Disney Skyliner, this colorful resort brings beloved movies like Finding Nemo, Cars, The Lion King, and The Little Mermaid to life.
Overview of Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is all about celebrating the animation magic behind some of Disney and Pixar’s most iconic films. As you explore the resort, you’ll step into larger-than-life worlds inspired by The Little Mermaid, The Lion King, Finding Nemo, and Cars. Think giant character statues, themed courtyards, colorful buildings, and whimsical details around every corner.
It’s officially a Disney Value Resort, but it stands out because it offers both standard hotel rooms and spacious family suites making it perfect for families who want more room to spread out while staying immersed in the magic.
Room Types and Theming
From standard rooms that capture the undersea magic of The Little Mermaid to family suites inspired by Cars, The Lion King, and Finding Nemo, Art of Animation offers options to fit your family’s size and vacation style.
Family Suites
The resort’s Family Suites are one of the biggest reasons families love Art of Animation. These suites are themed after Cars, The Lion King, and Finding Nemo, and they’re designed to feel like you’re stepping straight into the movie.
Each suite sleeps up to six guests and includes:
- Three sleeping areas: a master bedroom with a queen bed, a double-size sleeper sofa, and a convertible table bed in the living area.
- Two bathrooms: a huge perk for families getting ready for rope drop.
- A kitchenette: equipped with a microwave, mini-fridge, sink, and coffee maker, perfect for quick breakfasts or late-night snacks.
If you’re traveling with grandparents, bigger kids, or just want extra space to unwind after a long park day, these suites make your Disney stay so much more comfortable.
Standard Rooms – The Little Mermaid
For smaller families or couples who want to stay within budget, the Standard Rooms are themed after The Little Mermaid. You’ll find bright undersea colors, shell-shaped headboards, and fun touches that bring Ariel’s world to life.
These rooms sleep up to four guests with two double beds and are about 260 square feet, the same size as other Disney Value Resort standard rooms. One thing to note: The Little Mermaid rooms are located farthest from the main lobby and Skyliner station, so be prepared for a bit more walking if you choose these rooms.
What’s Inside the Rooms
All rooms at Art of Animation include family-friendly features to make your stay easy and comfortable:
- Disney-themed décor that keeps the magic alive
- Mini-fridge in all rooms
- Microwave in the Family Suites
- Coffee maker
- Hairdryer, safe, and plenty of storage
Dining at Art of Animation
When your family is hungry and ready for a quick meal or snack, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort makes it easy with convenient dining options right on property.
Landscape of Flavors
Landscape of Flavors is the resort’s main food court, open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This bright and colorful dining spot offers something for everyone, with multiple stations serving fresh, made-to-order options.
You’ll find family-friendly classics like burgers, pizza, pasta, and sandwiches along with hearty salads and a few international dishes. Don’t miss the themed desserts either; kids love the character cupcakes and colorful sweets that match the resort’s playful vibe.
Mobile Ordering is available here too, so you can skip the line and grab your food to-go before heading to the pool or parks.
The Drop Off Pool Bar
For adults and older kids who want to relax by the pool, The Drop Off Pool Bar serves refreshing drinks, frozen cocktails, and light snacks. It’s located right next to The Big Blue Pool, so you don’t have to stray far from the fun.
Pools and Recreation
One thing families always rave about at Art of Animation is the incredible pools and recreation options that make downtime just as magical as park time.
The Big Blue Pool
The resort’s main pool, The Big Blue Pool, is themed after Finding Nemo and is the largest pool in all of Walt Disney World Resort! Kids love the underwater speakers that play Disney songs while they swim. A fun detail you won’t find anywhere else.
There’s also a splash pad area called Schoolyard Sprayground, perfect for little ones who want to cool off and play.
Cozy Cone Pool & Flippin’ Fins Pool
If you’re looking for a quieter spot, you’ll find two additional pools:
- Cozy Cone Pool: This Cars-themed pool is located in the Cars section and features Cozy Cone-shaped cabanas which are great for shade and relaxation.
- Flippin’ Fins Pool: Near the Little Mermaid section, this pool is smaller but surrounded by colorful statues of Ariel and friends. Another fun place to swim or unwind.
Other Recreation Options
Beyond the pools, families can enjoy:
- Animation-themed walking trails with plenty of giant character statues for unforgettable photo ops
- Playgrounds in themed courtyards
- An arcade packed with games for all ages
- Movies Under the Stars – Disney movies shown outdoors each night
Transportation and Location
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort makes getting to the parks easy and fun, thanks to its great location and unique transportation options.
Disney Skyliner
One of the biggest perks of staying here is direct access to the Disney Skyliner. Art of Animation shares a station with Pop Century Resort, giving you quick, scenic rides to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Kids love the colorful gondolas themed with Disney characters, and it’s one of the most relaxing ways to get around the resort.
Bus Transportation
Complimentary bus service is available to Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and Disney Springs. Buses run frequently, and wait times are easy to track using the My Disney Experience app.
Why Families Love Art of Animation
Families return to Disney’s Art of Animation Resort year after year for good reason. Here are a few reasons why it’s so popular:
- Photo ops everywhere: Giant statues and colorful courtyards make for memorable family photos.
- Spacious suites: More room for everyone to spread out, relax, and recharge.
- Incredible theming: Kids feel like they’re inside their favorite Disney and Pixar movies.
- The largest pool on property: The Big Blue Pool is a kid favorite.
- Access to the Skyliner: Getting to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios is easy and fun.
Who Should Stay at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort?
This resort is a great choice for:
- Families who need extra space with Family Suites
- Disney fans who love immersive movie theming
- Guests planning lots of time at Hollywood Studios or EPCOT
- Families traveling with 3–6 people
- First-time Disney visitors who want an exciting, kid-friendly resort
FAQ: Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
Is Disney’s Art of Animation a Value Resort?
Yes, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is classified as a Value Resort at Walt Disney World. However, the Family Suites offer more space and amenities than most standard Value Resort rooms.
How many people can stay in an Art of Animation Family Suite?
Family Suites sleep up to six guests and include a separate bedroom, living area with two additional sleeping options, two bathrooms, and a kitchenette.
Does Art of Animation have Skyliner access?
Yes. The resort shares a Disney Skyliner station with Pop Century Resort, offering quick transportation to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
What is the best section to stay in at Art of Animation?
The Finding Nemo section is considered the most convenient because it is closest to the main lobby, dining, and Skyliner station.
How far are the Little Mermaid rooms from the lobby?
The Little Mermaid rooms are the furthest buildings from the main lobby and Skyliner station. Guests staying here should expect a longer walk compared to the Family Suite sections.
Is Disney’s Art of Animation a Value Resort?
Yes. Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is classified as a Value Resort at Walt Disney World. However, its Family Suites provide more space and amenities than most standard Value Resort rooms.
How many people can stay in an Art of Animation Family Suite?
Family Suites at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort sleep up to six guests and include a separate bedroom, two bathrooms, and a small kitchenette.
Is Disney’s Art of Animation Resort worth it?
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is one of the best Value Resorts for families at Walt Disney World thanks to its immersive movie theming, spacious Family Suites, and convenient Skyliner access to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios.
Travel Agent Insight: Is This Resort Right for Your Family?
As a travel agent specializing in family vacations, I often recommend Art of Animation for families who want that extra bit of space and non-stop Disney magic without breaking the budget.
This resort is perfect for:
- Families with young kids who want a suite where everyone sleeps comfortably.
- Guests who plan to spend lots of time at EPCOT and Hollywood Studios.
- Parents who want a colorful, kid-friendly atmosphere with plenty to do at the resort itself.
- Disney and Pixar fans who love themed experiences.
If you prefer more upscale amenities or a quieter vibe, you might consider a Moderate or Deluxe Resort instead. But if you’re looking for an immersive, family-focused stay with unbeatable theming, Art of Animation is a standout choice.
Booking Tips and Insider Advice
A few things to keep in mind when planning your Art of Animation adventure:
- Book early: The Family Suites are among Disney’s most popular Value Resort options and fill up fast, especially during school breaks.
- Request your preferred section: If you want to minimize walking distances, request a suite in a building closer to the Skyliner and main lobby.
- Split your stay: For a fun twist, some families spend a few nights in a Family Suite and then switch to a Deluxe Resort for a change of pace.
- Use the My Disney Experience app: It’s your best friend for tracking bus times, ordering food, and managing park plans.
Our Family Experience
We’ve had the opportunity to stay at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort twice, and both visits were fantastic.
The first time we stayed in the Cars Family Suite, and my son absolutely loved it. The theming made it feel like we were stepping right into Radiator Springs, and the pools were so much fun for the entire family. The extra space in the suite made a big difference too. My mom even joined us on the trip and everyone was still comfortable.
The second time we stayed in the Lion King Family Suite, and we loved it just as much. The theming was beautiful, and I really enjoyed being closer to the main dining area and pool. There is so much to do at this resort that it’s perfect for enjoying a park-free day. We also loved having easy access to the Skyliner and hopping around to other Disney locations.
Final Thoughts on Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is one of the most fun and immersive places families can stay at Walt Disney World. From the larger-than-life character theming to the spacious Family Suites and the largest pool on Disney property, it’s easy to see why so many families return to this resort again and again.
Whether you’re traveling with little ones who love the colorful movie themes or you simply want extra space for your family to relax after long park days, Art of Animation offers a unique Disney experience at a Value Resort price point. Plus, with convenient Disney Skyliner access to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios, getting around Walt Disney World is both easy and fun.
If you’re looking for a resort that keeps the magic going even when you’re not in the parks, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is definitely worth considering for your next Disney vacation.
Ready to Plan Your Disney Vacation?
If Disney’s Art of Animation Resort sounds like the perfect fit for your family, I’d love to help you plan every detail of your Walt Disney World vacation.
As a travel advisor specializing in Disney family vacations, I help families choose the best resorts, plan park days, secure dining reservations, and create a stress-free Disney experience from start to finish.
Request your complimentary Disney vacation quote here:
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