Here's Why You Should Stay at Disney's Art of Animation Resort

As a Walt Disney World pro, let me break down what sets this Value Resort apart - and why it might be the perfect fit for your next trip. Planning a Disney World vacation comes with endless choices, from which parks to visit first to where to stay. While Deluxe Resorts often get the spotlight, there's one Value Resort that Disney fans and travel pros alike (myself included!) keep coming back to: Disney's Art of Animation Resort. With its larger-than-life theming, spacious suites, and unbeatable access to the parks, this resort proves that "value" doesn't have to mean sacrificing comfort or magic.

As someone who knows Walt Disney World's resorts inside and out, I can confidently say Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is worth putting at the top of your list. It blends affordability with an immersive experience in a way few other properties can. Whether you're traveling with kids, a big family, or just want a fun and colorful home base for your trip, here's why staying at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is a decision you won't regret.

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort Features Uniquely Disney Theming

One of Disney's biggest strengths has always been its ability to transport you into another world - and Disney World's Resorts are no exception. The best Disney World hotels don't just give you a place to sleep. They extend the magic beyond the parks, surrounding you with storytelling at every turn.

That's exactly why I love staying at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. Unlike many other resorts where the theming is subtle, this resort goes all-in on celebrating Disney and Pixar animation. Featuring the characters, stories, and key moments you know and love from classics like The Little Mermaid, The Lion King, Finding Nemo, and Cars, each section immerses you in a larger-than-life version of the films, with colorful buildings, themed suites, and towering character icons that kids (and adults) can't resist.

While other Value Resorts do feature oversized décor, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort isn't as similar to Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort as it might seem. Disney’s Art of Animation Resort takes its theming several steps further by weaving them into the entire experience. As a result, it's a resort that feels playful, vibrant, and distinctly Disney, making it as fun to explore on a non-park day as it is to stay in during your vacation.

It's Conveniently Located (and a Disney Skyliner Hub)

Location can make or break a Walt Disney World vacation, and I've learned firsthand that staying somewhere with easy-to-use, conveniently quick transportation can save hours (and allow you to avoid some waiting in line). That's why one of my favorite perks of Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is its access to the Disney Skyliner.

Riding the Skyliner isn't just convenient; it's actually fun. This gondola system connects you to hotels and theme parks in a way that feels like you're on another thrilling attraction. Disney’s Art of Animation Resort shares a station with the nearby Disney's Pop Century Resort, which sits just a short walk across the bridge.

That single Skyliner station gives you quick access to Hollywood Studios and EPCOT. Plus, you can easily hop over to Disney's Caribbean Beach or Riviera Resorts if you have dining reservations, which is a huge time-saver compared with waiting for crowded buses.

Being so close to Disney’s Pop Century Resort also means you've got extra dining options (well, at least one more quick-service location) within reach, whether you're grabbing breakfast before the parks or a late-night snack. In my experience, that combination of convenience and efficient transportation makes Disney’s Art of Animation Resort’s location one of its biggest advantages.

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort Has One of Disney World's Best Pools

Walt Disney World has no shortage of resort pools, but if you want to soak in the biggest pool on property, Art of Animation is the place to be. The iconic Big Blue Pool is absolutely massive and holds more than 300,000 gallons of water. It also features a zero-entry design, making it perfect for kids (and adults who just want to lounge).

The pool's Finding Nemo theme brings the area to life with colorful décor and playful sculptures of beloved characters, creating a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere. And with two additional pools on the property, there's plenty of aquatic fun for everyone — whether you're swimming, splashing, or just relaxing in the sun.

Family Suites Offer Room for Everyone

One common challenge at Walt Disney World Resorts? Standard hotel rooms can feel cramped, especially for larger families. Unless you're booking a Deluxe Villa, you often have to squeeze everyone into a single room — or reserve multiple rooms, which can get expensive and logistically tricky.

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort solves this problem with its Family Suites, which are a game-changer for bigger groups. These spacious suites can comfortably sleep up to six guests and include a separate bedroom, living area, kitchenette, and two bathrooms. That layout gives everyone room to spread out, making mornings, naps, and bedtime routines much easier to manage.

Beyond just the extra space, the suites are fully themed to Disney and Pixar films, so you'll be surrounded by the magic even when you're back at the hotel. The playful décor keeps the fun going long after the park day ends. In my experience, these suites strike the perfect balance between comfort, convenience, and immersive Disney storytelling - making them a top choice for anyone who wants one hotel room that truly works for everyone.

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort Is Filled With Plenty of Value

Lastly, one of the best reasons to stay at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is that, despite its incredible amenities, immersive theming, and spacious family suites, it's still classified as a Value Resort - the most affordable hotel category at Walt Disney World. While it's not quite as inexpensive as the Disney’s All-Star Resorts or the campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort offers a lot more in terms of space, theming, and fun, making it an excellent budget-friendly alternative to Moderate or Deluxe Resorts.

Plus, with nearly 2,000 rooms spread across its themed sections, there's plenty of space for families of all sizes, plus the convenience and perks of staying on property. In my experience, it's a rare combination of affordability and Disney-level magic that truly sets it apart, giving families more bang for their buck without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

Are you’re ready to experience this fantastic resort yourself and you don’t want to go through all of the stress of booking your Disney World trip alone? Reach out to us at All About the Magic Travel! We monitor your reservation for possible future savings, compare discounts and figure out which one works best for your travel party, dates, and resort. Plus, we share expert tips and first-hand advice with you about your magical vacation. Let’s get your next Walt Disney World Resort vacation on the books! Contact us today to start planning!

Melisa Barron, All About the Magic Travel