Disney’s Art of Animation Resort

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is a fan-favorite among Disney enthusiasts—and for good reason. It combines immersive storytelling, larger-than-life theming, and family-friendly accommodations at a price that makes it one of the best picks for travelers on a budget. Plus, it’s one of only two value resorts with access to the Disney Skyliner, giving you a seriously convenient (and scenic!) ride to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios. Whether you’re traveling with toddlers or tweens, this resort brings the magic of Disney movies to life with colorful decor, interactive spaces, and practical perks that make your stay both fun and functional.

Where is the Art of Animation Located?

Art of Animation is located in the Wide World of Sports Resort Area at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida. It’s just across Hourglass Lake from Disney’s Pop Century Resort and is connected to both EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios via the Disney Skyliner—a huge convenience for park-hopping guests.

Who Would Enjoy Staying at the Art of Animation?

Families, especially those with young kids, absolutely love the playful theming of this resort. Each section of the resort celebrates a different Disney or Pixar film: The Little Mermaid, The Lion King, Finding Nemo, and Cars. It’s also a great pick for multi-generational groups, thanks to the family suites that offer room to spread out. Even adults traveling without kids will enjoy the nostalgic charm and ease of transportation.

What Is the Difference Between Value, Moderate, and Deluxe Resorts?

Walt Disney World offers three tiers of resort hotels—Value, Moderate, and Deluxe. Each tier differs in price, amenities, room size, and proximity to the parks. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Value Resorts (like Art of Animation): Budget-friendly with bold, fun theming. Rooms tend to be smaller and feature motel-style layouts with exterior-facing doors. These resorts often have large pools, food courts, and bus or Skyliner access to parks.
• Moderate Resorts: A step up in room size and amenities. These resorts usually have more dining options, water slides at the pools, and beautifully landscaped grounds. Rooms still often have exterior doors but in a more tranquil setting.
• Deluxe Resorts: Premium accommodations with interior room access, upscale dining, spas, and the closest proximity to the parks. Many offer direct monorail, boat, or walking access to the parks and feature luxurious amenities.

Art of Animation stands out in the Value category thanks to its family suites,and Skyliner access—offering a taste of convenience typically found in higher-tier resorts.

Room Types at the Art of Animation

• The Little Mermaid Standard Rooms: These are the only traditional hotel-style rooms at the resort, sleeping up to four guests.

• Family Suites: Located in the Finding Nemo, Cars, and Lion King sections, these suites sleep up to six and include a bedroom with a queen bed, a double-size convertible TableBed, a double-size sleeper sofa, two bathrooms, and a kitchenette.

Are There Rooms to Avoid at the Art of Animation?

The Little Mermaid rooms are the furthest from the main lobby, dining, and Skyliner station. If walking long distances is a concern, this may not be the best section for your stay. Rooms facing parking lots may also lack that extra bit of magic in the view.

Restaurants at the Art of Animation

While Art of Animation doesn’t have table-service dining, it boasts a high-quality food court and snack spots that deliver delicious options for all ages:

Landscape of Flavors: The main quick-service restaurant. Offers a wide variety of dishes including:

• Build-your-own pasta and burgers
• International flavors like tandoori chicken and naan
• Fresh salads, bakery items, and grab-and-go meals
• Kid-friendly fare like mac & cheese, pizza, and chicken nuggets

The Drop Off Pool Bar: Located by the Big Blue Pool, this casual bar offers cocktails, beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages, along with some light snacks.

Pools and Recreation at the Art of Animation

• The Big Blue Pool: Inspired by Finding Nemo, it’s the largest pool at Walt Disney World Resorts!
• Cozy Cone Pool: Located in the Cars section, this quieter pool has cone-shaped cabanas for shade.
• Flippin’ Fins Pool: Located in the Little Mermaid section, it’s themed after the film’s musical numbers.

Other recreation includes:

• Movies Under the Stars
• A well-themed playground
• Jogging trails around Hourglass Lake
• Daily poolside activities

Shopping at the Art of Animation

• Ink & Paint Shop: This is the resort’s main gift shop, located in Animation Hall. It offers Disney merchandise, resort-specific items, travel essentials, snacks, and themed souvenirs related to the films featured throughout the resort.

FAQs About Art of Animation

What makes the Art of Animation a good value resort pick? You get immersive Disney theming, family-sized suites, excellent transportation (hello, Skyliner!), and large pools—all at a lower cost than moderate or deluxe resorts.

Is the Art of Animation a value resort? Yes. Art of Animation is classified as a value resort, although the Family Suites are priced closer to moderate-tier rates.

How much does it cost to stay at the Art of Animation? Pricing fluctuates by season:

• Little Mermaid rooms: Typically $200–$350/night
• Family Suites: Typically $400–$700/night (Prices are subject to change and may vary based on availability and special offers.)

Can I visit the Art of Animation if I’m not staying there? Yes! Anyone can visit the resort to explore, dine, or shop. It’s a popular stop for Skyliner explorers.

Does the Art of Animation have a good pool? Yes—especially The Big Blue Pool, which is the largest on Disney property and features unique underwater music.

Can I go to the pool if I’m not staying at Art of Animation? No. Pools are reserved for guests staying at the resort to ensure a safe and relaxing experience.

Where does the Skyliner take you? From Art of Animation, the Skyliner connects you to:

• Disney’s Hollywood Studios
• EPCOT (via transfer at Caribbean Beach Resort)
• Several other resorts, including Pop Century and Riviera Resort

Can you see fireworks from the Art of Animation? You may be able to catch glimpses of fireworks from certain higher-level or lake-facing rooms, but it’s not a designated fireworks viewing location so I would not count on it.

What park is the Art of Animation closest to? Disney’s Hollywood Studios is the closest theme park, especially convenient via the Skyliner.

Is the Art of Animation pet-friendly? Yes, some rooms at Art of Animation are pet-friendly. Always check availability in advance and note that additional fees apply.

Does Art of Animation have elevators? Yes, all buildings at the resort include elevators, making it accessible for guests with mobility needs.

Can I request a microwave or crib? Yes! Microwaves are included in the family suites. Cribs (Pack ‘n Plays) are available upon request.

Is there a gym at Art of Animation? No, there is no fitness center, but there are walking and jogging paths around Hourglass Lake.

Planning your Walt Disney World vacation? At Where To Go Travel Co, my goal is to make your dream vacation as seamless and stress-free as possible, from start to finish. Contact me today for personalized help booking your resort stay, park tickets, dining, and more!