Disney’s Art of Animation Resort bursts with color and beloved characters, making it a standout choice at Walt Disney World. With sections themed after The Little Mermaid, Finding Nemo, Cars, and The Lion King, it offers an immersive experience, particularly popular with families. Navigating this expansive resort is key to maximizing your stay, and many guests search for an Art Of Animation Resort Map Pdf or detailed layout guide to understand the property before they arrive. This guide provides an overview of the resort’s layout, room types, transportation, and amenities, incorporating insights from multiple stays across its uniquely themed areas.
Lobby area of Disney’s Art of Animation Resort featuring colorful animation sketches
While officially categorized as a Value Resort based on amenities, Art of Animation often commands prices closer to the Deluxe tier, largely due to its popular family suites. It remains a compelling option for those seeking thematic immersion and extra space, especially families with young children.
Squirt character statue near the Big Blue Pool at Art of Animation
Understanding the Resort Layout: Key Areas & Map Overview
Art of Animation is organized around a central building, Animation Hall, which houses the lobby, dining, shopping, and main bus stop. From there, paths lead out to the four distinct themed sections surrounding Hourglass Lake. The Finding Nemo section is the most central, followed by Cars and Lion King, with The Little Mermaid section being the furthest from Animation Hall and the Skyliner station.
Understanding the layout is crucial for minimizing walking times, especially if relying on Disney transportation or heading to the main pool. The resort map provides a clear visual of building locations, pools, the Skyliner station shared with Pop Century Resort across the lake, bus stops, and parking areas.
Detailed Art of Animation Resort Map showing building locations, pools, Skyliner station, and parking areas
The resort shares the Disney Skyliner station with Pop Century Resort, connected by a bridge over Hourglass Lake. This proximity was part of an original plan for Art of Animation to be an extension of Pop Century, but it ultimately opened in May 2012 as its own distinct resort.
Exploring the Themed Sections & Room Types
Art of Animation primarily features family suites, with standard hotel rooms available only in The Little Mermaid section. Each area brings a beloved Disney or Pixar film to life through larger-than-life icons, building designs, and detailed room interiors.
Map highlighting the different room type locations across Art of Animation Resort sections
Family Suites (Cars, Finding Nemo, Lion King)
Ideal for larger families or groups needing more space, the Family Suites accommodate up to six guests. They offer a significant upgrade from standard rooms without needing to book a Deluxe Villa.
Key features include:
- A separate queen bedroom.
- A living area with a double-size sleeper sofa.
- A convertible table/Murphy bed (double-size).
- Two full bathrooms.
- A kitchenette with a microwave, coffee maker, and mini-refrigerator.
Floor plan layout for a Family Suite at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
Cars Section: This area immerses guests in Radiator Springs, with theming comparable to Cars Land at Disney California Adventure. Stays here reveal incredible detail both outside, with road-like sidewalks, and inside the suites.
Living space within a Cars-themed Family Suite at Art of Animation
The buildings feature interior hallways, providing sheltered access to rooms.
The kitchenette area is practical for storing snacks and preparing simple meals.
Kitchenette area in a Cars Family Suite featuring themed details
Finding Nemo Section: These suites are considered the “preferred” location at Art of Animation due to their proximity to Animation Hall, the Big Blue Pool, and the transportation hubs (bus stop and Skyliner station). This convenience often comes with a slightly higher price tag compared to Cars or Lion King suites.
Interior of a Finding Nemo Family Suite showing living area and decor
The attention to detail extends to elements like unique light fixtures.
Close-up of a bubble-themed ceiling light fixture in a Finding Nemo suite
Like all rooms at the resort, the Finding Nemo suites are highly immersive and designed with the movie’s aesthetic. Pack ‘n Plays are typically available in the suites.
Pack ‘n Play crib set up inside a Finding Nemo Family Suite
Lion King Section: Situated further out than Finding Nemo but closer than Little Mermaid, the Lion King section offers another vibrant, themed suite experience.
Exterior of a Lion King themed building at Art of Animation Resort
Experiences confirm the theming is just as engaging as the other sections, with lush jungle-inspired decor.
Queen bed in the main bedroom of a Lion King Family Suite
Rooms closer to the Animation Hall end of the Lion King buildings (like room 639 mentioned in the source) offer convenience and potentially reduced noise due to fewer shared walls.
Murphy bed pulled down in the living area of a Lion King Family Suite
Little Mermaid Standard Rooms
Located in the outermost section of the resort, these are the only standard hotel rooms at Art of Animation.
Exterior view of a Little Mermaid themed building with character statues
Despite some Disney World room renovations toning down themes, the Little Mermaid rooms remain fully immersive, with every detail reflecting the movie.
Interior view of a Little Mermaid standard room showcasing the underwater theme
The decor includes vibrant colors and character motifs throughout the space.
Another view inside a Little Mermaid room, highlighting the themed furnishings
A notable feature is the inclusion of actual mini-refrigerators rather than the less effective beverage coolers found in many updated resort rooms.
Mini-refrigerator inside the dresser unit of a Little Mermaid room
The layout is typical for a standard hotel room, featuring two queen beds and a bathroom area separated by a themed curtain.
Floor plan layout for a Little Mermaid Standard Room at Art of Animation
The main drawback is the significant distance from Animation Hall, the food court, bus stops, and the Skyliner station. This can mean long walks, especially after a tiring day in the parks.
Exterior view of Little Mermaid buildings showing the distance from central areas
Having a personal vehicle can mitigate this, allowing guests to park closer to their building.
Parking lot area near one of the Art of Animation Resort buildings
While the Skyliner gondolas pass close to this section, accessing the station requires a walk back towards the center of the resort. Additionally, these rooms are less frequently included in Disney promotions or discounts.
Navigating Art of Animation: Transportation Hubs
Art of Animation offers convenient transportation options, primarily through the Disney Skyliner and dedicated bus services.
View of the shared Disney Skyliner station for Pop Century and Art of Animation Resorts
The Skyliner provides direct access to Epcot (via the International Gateway) and Hollywood Studios. It also connects guests to Caribbean Beach Resort (the Skyliner hub), Riviera Resort, and the Epcot Resort Area (Boardwalk, Yacht & Beach Club, Swan & Dolphin). This is a major perk for accessing two theme parks quickly and efficiently.
For destinations not served by the Skyliner (Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Disney Springs, water parks), Art of Animation utilizes Disney buses. Unlike the All-Star Resorts, Art of Animation buses are typically dedicated solely to this resort and do not share routes, which significantly reduces travel time. The bus stop is located just outside Animation Hall.
Covered bus stop area at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
Resort Amenities: Dining & Pools
Dining at Landscape of Flavors & The Drop Off Pool Bar
As a Value Resort, dining is centered around a large food court and a pool bar. Landscape of Flavors, located in Animation Hall, is considered one of the best food courts at Disney World. It offers a broader menu than typical Value Resort options, often including international flavors like Indian-inspired dishes, build-your-own pasta stations, and unique desserts alongside standard fare. The menu changes periodically. Utilizing Mobile Order via the My Disney Experience app is recommended to save time.
Interior view of the Landscape of Flavors food court at Art of Animation
The Drop Off Pool Bar, situated near the Big Blue Pool, serves alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, including signature frozen cocktails, perfect for relaxing poolside.
The Drop Off Pool Bar located near the main pool at Art of Animation
Making a Splash: Resort Pools
Art of Animation boasts three themed pools:
Big Blue Pool: Located in the Finding Nemo section, this is the largest resort pool in all of Walt Disney World. Its zero-entry design is ideal for younger children, and underwater speakers add a unique touch.
Expansive view of the Big Blue Pool in the Finding Nemo section of Art of Animation
Nearby, the Schoolyard Sprayground offers a fun water play area for little ones.
Children’s splash pad area near the Big Blue Pool at Art of Animation
Cozy Cone Pool: Found in the Cars section, this smaller pool features fun cone-shaped cabanas available on a first-come, first-served basis.
The Cozy Cone Pool in the Cars section with cone-shaped cabanas
Flippin’ Fins Pool: Situated in The Little Mermaid section, this pool area features large character statues, including Sebastian conducting an “Under the Sea” orchestra.
Resort Overview and Considerations
Art of Animation is a visually stunning resort offering some of the best theming at Walt Disney World, particularly appealing to families with young children who adore the featured films. The prevalence of Family Suites and access to the Skyliner are significant advantages.
Pros:
- Exceptional, immersive theming throughout the resort.
- Dedicated bus service (no sharing with other resorts).
- Majority of rooms are spacious Family Suites.
- Landscape of Flavors food court offers superior variety.
- Convenient Disney Skyliner access to Epcot and Hollywood Studios.
- Walking distance to Pop Century Resort for additional dining or transportation options.
- Dog-friendly rooms are available.
Cons:
- The resort is very spread out, potentially involving long walks, especially from the Little Mermaid section.
- Cell phone service and resort Wi-Fi can be inconsistent in certain areas.
- Significantly more expensive than other Value Resorts, often priced like Moderate or even Deluxe resorts.
- Little Mermaid rooms are the furthest from amenities and rarely included in discounts.
Helpful Tips for Your Stay
- To potentially save money, book the generic “Family Suite” category rather than selecting a specific theme (Cars, Nemo, or Lion King). Disney will assign your section at check-in, but the rate is usually lower.
- If Art of Animation buses are delayed, you can take a Pop Century bus and walk across the Generation Gap Bridge back to the resort.
- Families seeking a suite experience at a lower price point might consider the Family Suites at All-Star Music Resort, which offer similar amenities but typically cost less.
Comparison graphic showing features of Art of Animation vs All-Star Music family suites
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Art of Animation a Value Resort?
Yes, Disney classifies it as a Value Resort based on its amenity level (food court, no table service, bus/Skyliner transport). However, due to the prevalence of suites and higher demand, its pricing often aligns it with a “Value Plus” or even Moderate category.
Does Art of Animation have a gym?
No, as a Value Resort, Art of Animation does not have a fitness center. However, there is a pleasant jogging/walking path around Hourglass Lake connecting to Pop Century.
Map showing the jogging path around Hourglass Lake between Art of Animation and Pop Century
Can you visit Art of Animation Resort if not staying there?
Yes, day guests are welcome to visit Art of Animation to explore the grounds, dine at Landscape of Flavors, or shop. The easiest way is via Disney transportation, particularly the Skyliner from Epcot or Hollywood Studios.
Does Art of Animation allow dogs?
Yes, Art of Animation is one of Disney World’s dog-friendly resorts. There’s a limit of two dogs per room, and specific buildings are designated for guests with pets. Bookings must be made via phone.
In summary, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort offers a uniquely themed and family-oriented experience, distinguished by its popular suites and Skyliner access. Understanding the resort layout, often aided by consulting an Art of Animation resort map (whether a PDF found online or the digital version in the My Disney Experience app), is essential for planning and navigating this vibrant property effectively. While priced higher than other Value resorts, its unique offerings make it a worthwhile consideration for many Walt Disney World visitors.
