Now fully opened, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is a new concept in Disney’s resort offerings. Comprised largely of family suites, the resort is finally catering to the trend of larger intergenerational families traveling together.
The theming and layout of the resort is similar to the Pop Century Resort, located across the lagoon from Art of Animation, which was originally intended to be an expansion of Pop Century, but was abandoned mid-construction after the tourism drop post-9/11.
Art of Animation features four distinctly designed wings celebrating the rich storytelling, spirited characters, original sketches and playfulness inspired by the classic Disney and Disney*Pixar films: Finding Nemo, Cars, The Lion King and The Little Mermaid.
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| Art of Animation’s entrance. Photo by Paul Williams. |
Giant sketchbooks filled with favorite characters seem to come to life as they pave the way to each storyline revealed throughout the lobby. Scenic settings and icons – including a brightly colored coral landscape, a 35-foor-tall model of King Triton, a towering Mufasa and more – immerse guests into the playful world of animation in each respective courtyard. At the Cars wing (arguably the best themed of the four), a freshly paved road leads to the Cozy Cone Motel complete with a Cozy Cone pool and cone-shaped cabanas.
The family suites are comfortable. A master suite includes a queen-size bed and private bath with spacious shower. The main area includes a Murphy bed and a convertible sofa. A small kitchenette includes a sink, mini-fridge and microwave. A second bathroom offers a small tub. The theming in the rooms is thorough and playful – designed to appeal to a child’s aesthetic.
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| Animations in Animation’s lobby. Photo by Paul Williams. |
The central feature of the resort is the “Big Blue” pool in the Finding Nemo area. Billed as the largest pool on Disney property at 11,859 square feet, underwater speakers play music and allow characters from Nemo to make audio appearances. The concept is simple and effective; it feels like the music is coming from inside your head.
Rates for Art of Animation start at $94 for standard rooms and $248 for family suites – pricey given the resort’s “Value” designation. For more information, visit Disney’s website.
