Art of Animation Resort at Walt Disney World – Immerse Yourself in the Art of Making Magic
There are so many Disney resorts at Walt Disney World that it’s next to impossible to choose the right one to stay at. But the Art of Animation Resort offers a unique, larger-than-life spin on the magic you’ve come to expect from Disney. From themed family suites to gorgeous artistry throughout, here’s why it deserves a spot on your list of potential accommodations!
The Art of Making Magic Brought to Life
The Art of Animation Resort is more than just a Disney hotel. The resort offers an immersive experience celebrating the magic and artistry of everything Disney and Pixar. It’s an artistic experience from end to end – especially perfect if someone in your party is an artist at heart and would love to see how their favorite movies were made.
The experience starts in the lobby, where you’ll find an art gallery-esque display of animation sketches of all your favorite characters. It’s a fascinating peek into the process of creating your favorite characters who you know and love, like Simba, Arielle, Timone, and Nemo.
Throughout the Art of Animation property, you’ll also find storybook-like landscapes inspired by movies like Finding Nemo, Cars, The Lion King, and The Little Mermaid. From murals to larger-than-life character recreations, it’s almost like walking through a combination museum and sculpture garden – all dedicated to your favorite stories. Make sure you say hi to the gigantic Ursula statue! Just hope she’s in a good mood and doesn’t take your voice.
Magical Accommodations
The immersive themed experience doesn’t stop at the Art of Animation Resorts’s lobby, of course. Every room is carefully themed to a different classic animated Disney or Pixar movie. They’re the perfect choice if you’re looking for something a little off the beaten path yet overflowing with Disney magic.
Each family suite is spacious enough to fit up to 6 people comfortably. And these aren’t tight squeezes; everyone in your family will have plenty of room to spread out and relax and recharge after a long day of fun. And, of course, each suite is themed to one of your favorite movies. Choose from The Lion King, Cars, or Finding Nemo suite.
If you don’t need a suite but still want an immersive experience, you can opt for The Little Mermaid standard room. Every part of the room will make you feel like you’re staying with Arielle under the sea.
Make a Splash
It wouldn’t be a Disney resort without your choice of fun in the sun! Choose from three different pools on Art of Animation’s property, each dotted with animation-style sculptures and artwork.
Stay and play at the Cars-inspired Cozy Cone Pool, complete with traffic cone alcoves that will make you feel like you’re relaxing alongside Lightning McQueen. Or head to the Flippin’ Fins Pool to say hi to larger-than-life recreations of Sebastian and King Triton.
Maybe the best of all is the Finding Nemo-inspired Big Blue Pool. With giant jellyfish sculptures and a sprawling sea turtle mural, you’ll feel just like your favorite aquatic friends from the movie while you paddle along. Say hi to the giant sea creatures while you run around on the Big Blue Pool Splash Pad. Then, emulate your favorite characters as you create your own underwater adventure!
The Perfect Photo Op
As you walk through each of the Art of Animation Resort’s detailed themed courtyards admiring the artistry, you’re sure to find yourself being inspired to make your own artistic creation – in the form of a selfie. But, hey, photography is art too! Right?
Snap a pic outside the Cars Family Suites, designed to replicate the Wheel Well Motel, featuring life-size Lightning McQueen, Sally Carrera, and Flo. Then, make a pit stop to see Luigi and Guido (and commemorate it with a photo). The courtyard outside the Cars Family Suites faithfully replicates the Cozy Cone Motel from the movie, so get cozy (and creative with your selfies)!
Outside The Lion King Family Suite, you’ll find a display of Timone, Pumba, and Simba walking over a log overhead, recreating the classic “Hakuna Matata” scene from the movie. Likewise, you’ll feel like one of the wildlife on the African savanna when you see the statues of Rafiki and Simba standing atop Pride Rock, overlooking Simba’s domain.
Activities to Get You Feeling Animated
The Art of Animation Resort is so much more than just your standard (gorgeous, eye-catching) hotel and pool. Here’s just a handful of the other things you’ll be able to see and do while you’re there!
Break a Sweat (or Take it Slow) on the Jogging Trail
In the mood for a workout or a scenic walk? Head to the jogging trail. Its 1.38 miles will be plenty to get your fill of the gorgeous Florida outdoors.
Catch a Flick with Movies Under the Stars
This Disney resort regularly puts on outdoor movie nights in the evenings. Watch some of your favorite Disney movies out in the fresh evening air smack-dab between The Lion King and Finding Nemo buildings. When you’re surrounded by iconic characters and recreations of scenes from the movies as you watch them unfold on-screen, you’ll feel even more immersed in the magic of it all!
And let’s be honest. After a day at Disney World, you’re already bound to head back to your hotel room and marathon your favorite Disney movies. So why not do it outdoors on a big screen, surrounded by other people who share your Disney passion?
Have an Adventure at the Righteous Reef Playground
in Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. (Photo: Jared via Flickr)
In the heart of the Finding Nemo courtyard, you’ll find an exciting ocean-themed playground. It’s the perfect place to let the kids get out all their energy alongside their sea turtle friends from Finding Nemo. Who knows what wild adventures their imaginations will cook up with inspiration like that so close by?
Pixel Play Arcade
When you’re staying at an animation-themed Disney resort, it’s only fitting to pop by an arcade at the Art of Animation Resort. Whether you’re a video game fanatic or just want some nostalgic fun, you’ll find both classic and brand-new video games to get your heart racing and spur some friendly competition between you and the rest of your family. After all, you were the “Space Invaders” king back in ’83, don’t ya know. You got this Grandpa!
You’ll love the bright, retro vibes that will bring back memories of hanging out at the arcade as a tween. In the true spirit of the animation theme, take a beat to appreciate the artistry behind the characters flashing to life on your screen.
Grab a Bite
Whether you’re swinging by one of the 5 quick-service counters to fuel your Disney adventure, on your way to the park, or are looking for a more leisurely eating experience, you’ll find exactly what you want at one of the Art of Animation’s dining options.
Landscape of Flavors
Choose from one of 4 Disney-themed dining areas (or come back multiple times to experience each one) at Landscape of Flavors. This spot can be whatever you need it to be with quick-service stations and a sit-down dining area.
Savor delicious American fare while you plan your next big day at Disney World, stop by the bakery and espresso bar for a java and croissant (or a sweet treat), or grab a quick breakfast to fuel the next day’s adventure.
If anyone in your family has dietary restrictions, you’ll find yourself very comfortable here. They have plant-based menu options as well as allergy-friendly menus, so everyone’s welcome to enjoy.
The Drop Off Pool Bar
Nothing says “vacation luxury” like sipping drinks poolside. While you’re lounging by the water, head to The Drop Off Pool Bar at the Art of Animation Resort for snacks like pretzels with cheese sauce and cheese curls. Grab a hand-crafted cocktail or, even better, a frozen drink to keep you cool and smiling.
Souvenirs at the Ink and Paint Shop
Of course, it’s not a Disney experience without a gift shop. So stop by for pool toys, apparel, and all the options you need to find the perfect souvenir – or any last-minute supplies you need to make the most of your trip!
Have you stayed at the Art of Animation Resort? What was your favorite part about it? Do you have a go-to place to stay when you visit Disney World? Tell us about it!
Cover Image
Photo: MouseEars TV Creative Team
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