Driving up to the Art of Animation Resort was quite an experience. The excitement covered my being as we made the approach and first saw the sign. After being welcomed by the guard, we proceeded to the front entrance where we were greeted by the big sign. Walking into the Lobby was quite an eye-opener. I learned that what you see on video doesn’t quite have the same impact as seeing it in person. The sketchings on the wall were breath-taking and added to the beauty of the lobby area. We were greeted by a friendly Cast Member, and given our room assignment. At the other end of the lobby is the Concierge Desk and the entrance to the Ink and Paint Shop. Just past the Ink and Paint, is Landscape of Flavors. This food court has plenty of room to sit and several drink stations around the room. Rapid Refill is in place at the drink stations, so keep an eye on how many you have left.
When you walk out of the back door of the Lobby area, you are staring at the Big Blue. This is the main pool area of the resort and is beautifully themed with Nemo and friends. This pool is the largest on the WDW property, and does not use chlorine in the water. The pool is flanked by the Finding Nemo Family Suites.
To your far left facing Big Blue is the Little Mermaid standard rooms. These rooms are about 10 minutes from the main lobby and bus stops. It’s a pleasant walk, so don’t let the distance keep you from choosing these rooms if you are looking to experience the atmosphere of AOA.
To the immediate left is The Lion King family suites. We stayed in these suites ourselves on our most recent visit. We found the rooms to be comfortable and of ample size to allow us all a little personal space. As you approach this area, you are greeted by Rafiki. Of course, Simba, the hyenas, and Zazu are all represented around the LK area. But, the most impressive is Timon, Pumba, and young Simba on the log overhead as you approach building 6.
Finally, to the immediate right is the Cars Family Suites. Again, the theming is beautiful! You feel like you have actually walked into Carburetor Canyon. The detail on all of the cars is amazing, and the pool is very nice. It’s not as big, but it is inviting and again well themed.
As you enter the suites, you open the door to the dining area. In our suite, there was a bathroom to the left of the entry. The Living space was straight ahead, and a separate bedroom was just past the dining area with a queen-sized bed and a second full bathroom with a walk-in shower. The dining table doubles as a Murphy style bed and is very easy to set up. And, there is a sofa-bed in the living area that is reported to be pretty comfortable.
Landscape of Flavors offers multiple cuisines to tempt any palate. I must admit, however, that the breakfasts leave a little to be desired, in my opinion. The food was bland tasting and the meat wasn’t cooked as well as it could have been. The dinners were quite tasty. I had the meatball sandwich and found it to be full of flavor. I’m not sure what the rest of the family had, as we ate in shifts that evening.
If you are using Disney Transport to get around to the parks, water parks, or Downtown Disney just walk out through Ink and Paint and go right. First slot is for the Magic Kingdom. All of the other slots are labeled with the destination and buses are frequent first thing in the morning. While the ‘official’ start is about an hour prior to park opening, I did notice most parks being serviced by 7:45am.
If you are looking for a unique experience with some fabulous theming, Art of Animation fits the bill! The property is spread out and is adjacent to Pop Century. The two properties are connected by a bridge near the center of the resorts. I noticed many people using this as a part of their jogging track.
I hope this look at the Art of Animation Resort is helpful to you. If this is a property you are interested in visiting, don’t hesitate to book it!
Thanks for reading! Have a Blessed and Magical day!!
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