The Art of Animation remains one of the most beloved hotels at Disney World, enchanting families with its whimsical charm. Plus, its convenient access to Epcot and Hollywood Studios via the Skyliner makes it a fantastic choice for your Disney vacation! Art of Animation features **75% family suites**, designed to comfortably accommodate families of up to six in one room. The rack rate is howerver a hefty $778/night. For smaller groups, there are also charming Little Mermaid rooms available for families of four, starting at $367 per night. At that price tag you may be surprised to learn it is classified as a value resort. What does that  mean? Value resorts are lacking in amenities such as a water slide, dining options, larger room discounts, and premium park perks such as staying in the park up to 2 hour safter the park closes. If your family values spacious accommodations and enjoys the convenience of a Skyliner resort, Art of Animation is a wonderful choice for creating magical memories. However, if you're focused on maximizing your budget, there may be other options to consider.
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Disney Art of Animation Review

ByBeth Gorden Hours

Planning a magical Disney World vacation? You’ve got to check out the amazing Disney Art of Animation Resort! From the enchanting Lion King Suites to the whimsical Little Mermaid rooms, and let’s not forget the fun-filled Finding Nemo Suites and the speedy Cars Family Suites—I’ve experienced it all!  I’ve got some insider tips and tricks to make your stay unforgettable! Whether you’re a family of adventure seekers or just looking for some Disney magic, you won’t want to miss this! Ready to dive into the magic?

Planning a magical Disney World vacation? You've got to check out the amazing Disney Art of Animation Resort! From the enchanting Lion King Suites to the whimsical Little Mermaid rooms, and let’s not forget the fun-filled Finding Nemo Suites and the speedy Cars Family Suites—I've experienced it all!  I've got some insider tips and tricks to make your stay unforgettable! Whether you're a family of adventure seekers or just looking for some Disney magic, you won’t want to miss this! Ready to dive into the magic?

Disney Art of Animation Review

Experience the enchantment of Disney’s Art of Animation Resort! Since its grand opening on May 31, 2012, this vibrant destination has quickly become one of the highlights of the Walt Disney World Resort, offering an unforgettable experience for guests of all ages!

So, what makes Art of Animation truly special? It brilliantly brings to life the beloved worlds of Disney’s most iconic animated films, including *Finding Nemo*, *The Lion King*, *Cars*, and *The Little Mermaid*. Each themed area immerses you in a colorful, cinematic atmosphere, making you feel like you’ve stepped right into your favorite Disney story!

With fun play areas, whimsical pools, exciting drawing classes, and convenient Skyliner access to Epcot and Hollywood Studios, this resort is packed with family-friendly activities! Plus, the spacious suites are perfect for larger groups, ensuring everyone can create magical memories together!

From stunning oversized character statues and delightful murals to imaginative landscapes, every corner of the resort captures the essence of animation. Relax by the expansive blue pool, grab a delicious bite at the quick-service restaurant, or take a leisurely stroll through the enchanting grounds—there’s never a dull moment at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort!

Looking for more Disney World tips? Don’t miss our list of Disney World resorts with pros/cons, best disney quick service restaurants, and Disney world dining tips

The Art of Animation remains one of the most beloved hotels at Disney World, enchanting families with its whimsical charm. Plus, its convenient access to Epcot and Hollywood Studios via the Skyliner makes it a fantastic choice for your Disney vacation! Art of Animation features **75% family suites**, designed to comfortably accommodate families of up to six in one room. The rack rate is howerver a hefty $778/night. For smaller groups, there are also charming Little Mermaid rooms available for families of four, starting at $367 per night. At that price tag you may be surprised to learn it is classified as a value resort. What does that  mean? Value resorts are lacking in amenities such as a water slide, dining options, larger room discounts, and premium park perks such as staying in the park up to 2 hour safter the park closes. If your family values spacious accommodations and enjoys the convenience of a Skyliner resort, Art of Animation is a wonderful choice for creating magical memories. However, if you're focused on maximizing your budget, there may be other options to consider.

Disney Art of Animation Review

The Art of Animation remains one of the most beloved hotels at Disney World, enchanting families with its whimsical charm. Plus, its convenient access to Epcot and Hollywood Studios via the Skyliner makes it a fantastic choice for your Disney vacation!

Art of Animation features **75% family suites**, designed to comfortably accommodate families of up to six in one room. The rack rate is howerver a hefty $778/night. For smaller groups, there are also charming Little Mermaid rooms available for families of four, starting at $367 per night.

At that price tag you may be surprised to learn it is classified as a value resort. What does that  mean? Value resorts are lacking in amenities such as a water slide, dining options, larger room discounts, and premium park perks such as staying in the park up to 2 hour safter the park closes.

If your family values spacious accommodations and enjoys the convenience of a Skyliner resort, Art of Animation is a wonderful choice for creating magical memories. However, if you’re focused on maximizing your budget, there may be other options to consider.

art of animation resort map

the Art of Animation At-a-Glance

Nestled along the shores of picturesque Hourglass Lake, this vibrant hotel immerses guests in the whimsical worlds of Disney animation. Here’s a quick glance at what makes this resort a fantastic choice for your stay:

  • Location: Conveniently located near Disney’s Pop Century Resort, the Art of Animation offers stunning views of Hourglass Lake, providing a serene backdrop for your magical getaway.
  • Pools: Dive into fun with three sparkling pools, including the biggest pool at any Disney resort, the Big Blue Pool, themed around “Finding Nemo.” It’s the perfect place to cool off and soak up the sun! There are also Cars themed and Little Mermaid themed pools in their respective areas.
  • Play Areas: There are several dseignated play areas at the Art of Animation including a playground, nemo reef play area, lion king play area, and lots of cars adn statues to pose with and play around.
  • Arcade: The Pixel Play Arcade offers a variety of gaming experiences for all ages, perfect for rainy days or winding down after a day at the parks.
  • Accommodations: With a total of **1,120 rooms**, the resort caters to a wide range of guests, from families to groups of friends, ensuring you’ll find the perfect space to rest after a busy day of exploring!
  • Guest Capacity: The resort elegantly accommodates up to **4,000 guests**, ensuring that there’s always a lively atmosphere filled with Disney magic.
  • Gift Shops: Explore **two gift shops** on the property where you can find all your favorite Disney souvenirs and essentials, perfect for capturing memories of your stay.
  • Size: Spanning over **87 acres**, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is not only spacious but also beautifully themed, showcasing the vibrant art and characters from Disney classics..
  • Parking: If you’re driving, the resort has ample parking space available for guests, there is no addition fee any longer – partking is included with your stay.
Getting to Disney's Art of Animation is easy! You can drive and enjoy free parking at your hotel, or hop on a shuttle (keep in mind that Disney no longer offers complimentary airport pickup). For a smooth arrival, if you’ve completed online check-in, head straight to your room! The Disney app will show you your room number, and you can even use your phone to unlock the door. Your MagicBands should automatically sync, but sometimes one can be a bit stubborn. No worries, though—you may still need to stop by the front desk. Plus, if you shared your contact details during online check-in, Disney will text or email you your room number once it’s ready! This is super convenient and lets you get to the fun at the theme parks even faster!

Lobby / Customer Service

Getting to Disney’s Art of Animation is easy! You can drive and enjoy free parking at your hotel, or hop on a shuttle (keep in mind that Disney no longer offers complimentary airport pickup).

For a smooth arrival, if you’ve completed online check-in, head straight to your room! The Disney app will show you your room number, and you can even use your phone to unlock the door. Your MagicBands should automatically sync, but sometimes one can be a bit stubborn. No worries, though—you may still need to stop by the front desk.

Plus, if you shared your contact details during online check-in, Disney will text or email you your room number once it’s ready! This is super convenient and lets you get to the fun at the theme parks even faster!

Food at the Art of Animation

The food court has a variety of options.  I appreciate this resort doesn’t just have burgers and nuggets. Although the food selection can change, currently you can get mongolian beef, mojo-roasted chicken, butter chicken with Naan bread, chicken adobo nachos, chicken parmesan with pasta, and honey barbecued pork sandwiches as well as the typical pizza and burgers. There are also salads and some yummy dessert options that are unique to this hotel – mermaid tail cupcake, sketchbook cake, nemo cheesecake, as well as assorted brownies and ice cream novelties.

For breakfast you can get chocolate chip pancakes, waffles (with cars and lion king characters), breakfast sandwiches, challah french toast, traditional breakfast platter, and assorted pastries, muffins, and fruit.

I like to do mobile order so my group can look through pictures, add what they want to the cart, and we can wait at a table until all our food is ready at the same time. Saves this momma of 6 some stress! Pizza is a great value at all the value resorts, ask for current pricing to save money buying a whole pizza!

There was always plenty of seating and the tables were cleaned fairy quickly. The soda machines are now equipped to read a chip in the refillable mug to ensure guests are being honest. Very clever!

Only one part of the Art of Animation has “standard” rooms – The Little Mermaid section. The rooms are smaller the most value regular rooms, but they are cute and allow you to stay at the Art of Animation (if that is your desire). These rooms are far back and to the left. It will take you about 10 minutes of walking without pushing it to get to the bus in the morning. On the upside it is decorated beautifully and boasts a beautiful pool that is less crowded than the main “Nemo” pool. There are lots of fun things to look at in the area – just remember no climbing.

The Little Mermaid Standard Rooms

Only one part of the Art of Animation has “standard” rooms – The Little Mermaid section. The rooms are smaller the most value regular rooms, but they are cute and allow you to stay at the Art of Animation (if that is your desire). These rooms are far back and to the left. It will take you about 10 minutes of walking without pushing it to get to the bus in the morning.

On the upside it is decorated beautifully and boasts a beautiful pool that is less crowded than the main “Nemo” pool.

On the upside it is decorated beautifully and boasts a beautiful pool that is less crowded than the main “Nemo” pool.

  • There are lots of fun things to look at in the area – just remember no climbing.
  • dinglehopper fork at art of animation little mermaid court
  • treasure chest at little mermaid area of art of animation

There are lots of fun things to look at in the area – just remember no climbing.

The Nemo family suites are the most convenient to the food court and transportation. They also surround the main pool. However, they are more crowded and could get a little noisy. This is also the path to get to the skyliner in the middle of the lake. The rooms are all beautifully themed with Nemo in a pallet of blue.

Finding Nemo Family Suites

The Nemo family suites are the most convenient to the food court and transportation. They also surround the main pool. However, they are more crowded and could get a little noisy. This is also the path to get to the skyliner in the middle of the lake.

The rooms are all beautifully themed with Nemo in a pallet of blue.

While the Nemo Play area looks adorable, it may not keep your kids entertained for long! With just two slides—one tunnel and one flat—there's not much variety to explore. Plus, being right next to the splash area means that kids in swimsuits often find themselves stuck and frustrated. And with water splattered everywhere, it's not the best option for little ones in street clothes either. It’s a cute spot none-the-les.

Nemo Play Area

While the Nemo Play area looks adorable, it may not keep your kids entertained for long! With just two slides—one tunnel and one flat—there’s not much variety to explore. Plus, being right next to the splash area means that kids in swimsuits often find themselves stuck and frustrated. And with water splattered everywhere, it’s not the best option for little ones in street clothes either. It’s a cute spot none-the-less.

art of animation finding nemo splash area

Nemo Pool

Dive into fun at the Nemo pool, the largest pool at our resort, perfectly situated in the heart of it all! With games and activities happening throughout the day, there’s never a dull moment, and kids even have a chance to win some awesome prizes. Plus, enjoy the unique experience of underwater speakers – how cool is that?

Right next to the pool, be sure to check out the delightful Finding Nemo splash area, where kids can splash around and cool off. It’s absolutely adorable! The theming is truly unbeatable — just stunning!

lion king suites at art of animation resort at disney world florida

Lion King Family Suites

The Lion King Family Suites just might be perfectly situated. They are almost as close as the Nemo Suites, but without the pool noise. We loved walking under the iconic Lion King scene above each morning as we headed to the bus.

The Lion King Play Area was actually my favorite. There are a few passage ways under the hyenas and during the day there is a water mist that comes on.

Lion King Play Area

The Lion King Play Area was actually my favorite. There are a few passage ways under the hyenas and during the day there is a water mist that comes on.

All Disney resorts play Disney movies under the star. Some play it at the pool (which is nice too) but at Art of Animation they play it just under Simba. The movies vary, but typically involve Lion King, Little Mermaid, Cars, Finding Nemo, and Dumbo. Look at your Guide for current movies and show time. It is fun to sack out on a lounge chair (they will bring them) and eat your dinner or snack while watching a movie outside. Resorts all play different Disney movies. We found the selection at the Art of Animation to be one of the best for families of young children!

Lion King Movies Under the Stars

Did you know that all Disney resorts offer movie screenings under the night sky? While some host them by the pool, the Art of Animation takes it up a notch by screening films right under the watchful eyes of Simba!

The lineup usually features beloved classics like The Lion King, The Little Mermaid, Cars, Finding Nemo, and Dumbo. Be sure to check your guide for the current movie schedule and showtimes. Each resort features different selections.  For family-friendly fun, we found the selection at Art of Animation to be one of the best—perfect for kids of all ages!

There’s nothing quite like lounging on a chair (they’ll bring them to you!) while enjoying your dinner or snack and watching a magical movie outside. It is the perfect way to end your magical Disney day!

NOTE: Our room was right by this. We could see the movie screen from our window, but could not hear a sound. The rooms are very sound proof!

  • wheel well motel art of animation resort florida with sally and lightening mcqueen
  • tow mater building with tow mator statue
  • cozy cone motel pool area at cars art of animation area
  • art of animation cars area
  • luigi and guido at art of animation cars area
  • radiator springs area of art of animation resort
  • sarges surplus hut at disney world art of animation hotel
  • route 66 sign at cars family stuites art of animation hotel
  • fillmores organic gas at art of animation

Radiator Springs Family Suites

Located at the far end of the resort, the Cars Family Suites are undeniably charming, though they can get quite warm—especially since this area seems to trap the heat more than others. Just a heads up, it’s about a 10-15 minute stroll to the buses, so be prepared for a little walk!

The suite area features its own pool, but be aware that the half-wheel shape isn’t the best for swimming and ended up being our least favorite of the three pools.

While there isn’t a designated playground, the immersive Cars characters make for a fun and interactive atmosphere where kids can explore and play!

  • art of animation family suites
  • finding nemo art of animation room overview
  • art of animation cars suite overview

Art of Animation Family Suites

If you’re traveling with a big family and prefer not to book two adjoining rooms, Art of Animation’s Family Suites might just be the ideal solution. While opting for two rooms could save you some cash, these suites are incredibly charming and filled with personality!

I’ve had the pleasure of staying in all three of the fabulous suite sections: the Lion King Suites, Finding Nemo Suites, and Cars Suites. Each suite boasts the same layout but features unique decor that truly brings each theme to life! Honestly, it’s tough for me to choose a favorite — each one is so delightful in its own way. Plus, the surrounding areas offer their own special fun for the whole family!

So, why not pick the suite that aligns with your family’s favorite theme? You won’t be disappointed!

  • art of animation lion king master bedroom
  • art of animation lion king master bedroom
  • master bathroom cars family suites art of animation
  • cars suites art of animation master bedroom turne down

Master Bedroom

The  Master Bedroom offers the perfect layout for families! With the ability to keep the door open, parents can easily supervise their little ones while enjoying the spacious suite. This room is impressively large and comes equipped with a dresser, end tables, an in-room safe, and a generous adjoining bathroom.

Speaking of the bathroom, it’s just as spacious and features a clever pocket door that saves precious floor space. During our stay, we happily let Grandma and Grandpa take over the room for a bit of added privacy, and Grandma couldn’t stop raving about the walk-in shower!

Every restroom is fully stocked with shampoo, conditioner, soap, and other necessary toiletries. Plus, you’ll absolutely love the large shower heads—ideal for relaxing after a long day at the park!

  • finding nemo suites table area that converts into a bed
  • family suites at disney's art of animation resort
  • art of animation lion king rooms table taht converts to bed
  • lion king table made int obed art of animation
  • lion king table with pizza

The Dinning Area

Welcome to the Dinning Area, the first thing you’ll notice as you step into your room! It’s the perfect spot for a quick snack, letting the kids unleash their creativity while coloring, or enjoying a lively family game night.

One of our favorite finds was the Art of Animation Pizza available at the hotel. For just 2 dining credits, it came with 2 beverages and 2 desserts—what a fantastic deal! It easily fed our family of five. Plus it is super yummy too!

Another delicious meal we loved was the massive Cinnamon Rolls from Gaston’s Tavern at Magic Kingdom. We enjoyed bringing them back to the hotel to have for breakfast the next day. Trust me, they’re HUGE! Plus, with the in-room microwave, you can warm them up, and we had plates, cups, and silverware all ready to go, along with coffee in the room. See the other Top 10 Disney World Snacks!

At night, the bed folds down effortlessly for a cozy night’s sleep.  On our first stay, in the Lion King Suites, this was where my husband and I crashed after our long days at the parks. The mattress is incredibly comfortable, and there are two night tables for convenience.

  • art of animation cars suite overview
  • finding nemo family room at art of animation
  • art of animation lion king suite living room

The Living Room

Welcome to the heart of the home: the spacious living room! This inviting area features a cozy couch that comfortably seats three, along with a stylish and comfy funky chair perfect for one more guest. Need extra seating? Feel free to grab some chairs from the dining room!

art of animation finding nemo family suites kitchen area

Just steps away is the mini kitchen, fully equipped with everything you need: a fridge, microwave, coffee maker, and sink. Plus, it’s stocked with cups, plates, napkins, and silverware—and they keep everything replenished, so you never have to worry about running out!

Note: Sorry for the cluttered picture, but this was actually when our family was stuck at Disney during Hurricane Irma. We got food, and Disney meals to go and were ready for 48 hours mandatory in rooms.

  • art of animation lion king suite lamp
  • tv and dresser living room area cars art of animation family suite
  • lion king family suite art of animation themed table

Everything is beautifully themed – from the tables, to the furniture, and even the lamps! It is a really fun, clever, and well-thought-out room!

lion king sofa bed art of animation

Just a heads-up for anyone considering the couch situation: while it does pull out to accommodate guests 5 and 6, be aware that it’s not the most comfortable option. My husband and I initially planned to sleep there, but after trying it out, we decided to let the kids take it instead (I know, right?). The mattress is only a few inches thick, and there’s a noticeable crease from where it folds that makes for an uncomfortable night’s sleep. Just wanted to share this so you know what to expect!

The kids loved the Hey Disney to tell them jokes, Disney story hours, and the Mickey cartoon channels in our room. This was a great way to wake up, rest midday, or wind down from an exciting day! There were 2 TV’s – one in the living room and one in the master bedroom.

main bathroom art of animation suites

The main bathroom features a convenient pocket door, minimizing clutter and maximizing space. You step into a lovely sink area complete with a blow dryer, a spacious sink, ample shelving, and a generous countertop—perfect for all your morning routines!

But what I really love is the separate door that leads to the toilet and bathtub. This thoughtful design is perfect for families, ensuring everyone can access what they need without any hassle. And can we talk about the shower curtain? It is such a beautiful, bold way to carry on the theme! In Lion king room it was of a sunrise over the African plains and in Cars suites it was car themed! Definitely a beautiful touch to this amazing bathroom.

disney skyliner operating hours

Skyliner Resort

One of the biggest perks of staying at the Art of Animation is that this value resort is connected to Disney World by the skyliner! Follow the well-marked path through the Nemo area, over the lake to the skyliner station. The sign will let you know the operating hours, but generally it is 1 hour before parks open for Disney guests.

So if Epcot is opening at 9am to the public, it will open at 8:30 for resort guests, so the skyliner opens at 7:30.

This station is shared with Pop Century so there is a line from both sides of the lake and it seamlessly flows into the station. If you go the hour before and after park opening, expect there to be a line. It flows quickly as the skyliner is always moving, but you may wait 20-30 minutes. Not you will need to transfer skyliner at the main station at Caribbean Beach Resort, there you will go towards Epcot or Hollywood Studios.

The reason we love the skliner is EVERYONE gets a seat. You will most likely only travel with your family. Strollers do NOT have to be folded down, but can be rolled right on. You get a great view and a relaxing ride of Disney World.

art of animation mine mine mine seagulls on finding nemo building

Should I Stay at Art of Animation Hotel?

Honestly, I’m torn. There are some really cool things, and some things that really bother me. Plus, because it is a value hotel it doesn’t qualify for good promotional pricing. So here are the main points – you decide.

  • + Amazing Theming (like WOW!)
  • + On the Skyliner for easy access to Hollywood Studios and Epcot
  • + Large Suites for Families of 6 to stay together
  • – Costs up to $788/night – you could get 2 rooms at a different resort or stay in the Fort Wilderness cabins for $874 and qualify for deluxe resort discounts and perks or stay in 2 value rooms at an All Star for $260 each saving you $260/night!
  • – Not a deluxe so no evening bonus hours or extra ammenities like water slides
rafikki at lion king art of animation resort disney world florida

Planning a Disney World vacation? Don’t miss the incredible Disney Art of Animation Resort with its themed suites and my top insider tips for an unforgettable stay!

More Disney World planning tips and tricks:

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Meet Beth Gorden, the ultimate globetrotter with a passion for exploring different cultures and seeing the world's most incredible sights! As the owner of Plan the Best Vacation, Beth loves sharing her family's adventures as they travel the world with their 8-person homeschooling crew. From itineraries to tips, inspiration to planning advice, Beth's mission is to help every family make unforgettable memories while embracing new horizons.

With an impressive travel resume that includes visits to all 7 continents, all 50 states, and over 52 countries, Beth's dedication to exploring the world is truly awe-inspiring. Follow along with her journey and get inspired to plan your own unforgettable adventures!

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