With the Disney parks recently launching its search for 2017 Disney Moms Panelists, I’ve still got Disney on my mind, even though it’s been weeks our last visit! Today, I wanted to share information about Walt Disney World’s Art of Animation Resort. If you’re looking for an affordable and fun hotel, this is a great choice for you.

Walt Disney World’s Art Of Animation Resort

When you’re planning a Walt Disney World vacation, the costs can add up rapidly. Before you even factor in the hotel, you need to budget for many different unexpected purchases. From the special character dining experiences to the high quality Memory Maker photo downloads, you’ll find plenty of items to splurge on to make your Disney experience memorable. For many families, the Art of Animation Resort is a good choice because it’s less expensive.

Discovering The Artistically-Decorated Lobby

After driving 12+ hours from the East Coast (which you can read about here), arriving at the Art of Animation was a pleasant experience. We were able to park very close to the front. Since our drive was so long, we were very relieved to have such easy access to the hotel. 

After entering the hotel, we were greeted by the incredibly friendly staff at the front desk. I was very impressed with how the woman helping us check in went above and beyond to make us comfortable. She informed us about the best tips and secrets of the hotel, including the magnificent pool that has singing water. 

As we checked in, I marveled over the fun decor in the lobby. Since my older daughter dreams of becoming an artist when she grows up, the drawings were the perfect inspiration for her. She loved finding an easel to draw at while she waiting for us.

Even though the Art of Animation is a budget-friendly hotel, it has a very festive and comfortable atmosphere for kids and adults. 

During the check in process, there were various photo opportunities for kids in the lobby. There was even a line to meet some characters.

Strolling Around The Resort

After checking in, we quickly realized how great this resort is! First, since there are multiple pools, none of the pools are overcrowded. When you swim at the Finding Nemo-inspired pool, you can hear music underwater. My kids loved joining in trivia games and watching movies as the sun set.

You can find plenty to do at the resort to keep yourself busy for half a day. If you arrive right at your check in time, you can make the most of your day there, and head to the parks the next day.

Something that made the resort very festive was that it had gigantic landscapes in all the courtyards. We loved visiting the Elephant Graveyard near The Lion King rooms. Near our Little Mermaid room, we had a fantastic view of Ursula.

During your strolls around the resort, you can discover many Pokemons, including some that are very rare! 

Visiting The Landscape Of Flavors

Although there are a ton of incredible dining experiences at Walt Disney World, the Landscape of Flavors offered convenience that you need for early mornings before heading to the parks. You can find numerous types of food, including kids meals, and various drink options. 

During our visit, I was about to get my younger daughter in her stroller and head back to the room when a staff member offered my kids coloring pages and crayons. I was so happy to have a few moments of not being a worrying mom! The staff member was incredible at engaging the kids and keeping them interested in the activities.

Another nice thing about the Landscape of Flavors is that the cafeteria style seating is very spacious. I had a very easy time getting my large BOB stroller in and out of the aisles. Convenience matters a lot when you’ve been toting a stroller on busses and around the parks. 

Our Stay At The Art Of Animation Resort

All in all, our stay was a really great experience! Afterwards, we almost checked into a budget-friendly hotel at Universal (the Cabana Bay Resort). Wow, what a difference! At Universal for a similar price, we found no parking, the staff weren’t nearly as nice, and we were completely confused about how to even find the front desk.

The Art of Animation Resort offers a nice feeling of seclusion from Orlando. We had an awesome time being a part of the Disney community and embracing the magic of Disney during our stay.

Even though the Art of Animation Resort requires you to commute to the parks on a bus, you don’t have that long of a drive. I do recommend getting to the busses as soon as possible, especially if you’re traveling with small kids, in order to get seats.

While the Art of Animation Resort doesn’t offer some of the perks that the more expensive Disney hotels offer, the resort is comfortable, clean, and fun. We had an incredible time there. From enjoying the food to taking a dip in the pool, there were plenty of activities to keep the whole family happy.

Have you stayed at a Disney resort? Which was your favorite, and why? Comment below!

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