Art Of Animation Is Walt Disney World’s Newest Value Resort which opened to the public in 2012. It’s themed after Disney animated classics – The Lion King, The Little Mermaid, Cars, and Finding Nemo, and each movie has its own “section” where the rooms, walkways, courtyards, and pools are all styled after the movie – like this amazing Nemo themed pool!
Something unique about this Resort is that it is comprised mostly of Family Suites, which is something new for Disney – there are some family suites over at the All Star Music Resort too, but this is the first Resort to be marketed mainly towards families who might want to utilize the larger suites – which leads us to the question – Are the Art of Animation Family Suites right for YOUR family? Let’s take a closer look….
The suites can sleep up to six people and feature 2 separate bathrooms, a master bedroom with a queen size bed, and a main living space that has a pull out couch that converts to a double size bed, and a table that converts to a bed that can sleep 1 or 2.
A kitchenette which includes a microwave, coffee maker, sink, and small refrigerator is located in each suite, which can be a big money saver – especially if you have a rental car – you can travel to one of the nearby grocery stores and stock up on snack and breakfast items to have on hand (items that would end up costing a LOT more in the Parks). No car? Don’t worry – groceries are still readily available to you through the Garden Grocer delivery service – order online, and have the items delivered right to your Suite! Other suite amenities include free wi-fi, an in room safe, hairdryer, iron and ironing board, and cribs are available upon request as well. Laundry facilities are available at the Resort too – just in case!
The Art Of Animation Resort is themed after the 4 animated moves, and of course since this is Disney – everything is themed, so much so that you will feel immersed in your favorite animated movies, which is great for kids and adults too! The theming continues on through the Landscape Of Flavors food court area – where you will see schools of fish and some amazing artwork and detailing throughout the sprawling dining area. There are some pretty unique meal options available here, at breakfast you can sample smoothies, create your own parfaits and fruit bowls, and challah French toast. Lunch and dinner feature new items like Tandori shrimp/chicken, Mongolian beef/fish, and create your own salads. But don’t worry – the standards like burgers, sandwiches, and pizzas are still available here too, as well as a kid’s menu with mac and cheese and other familiar items
The Bottom line is that you should above all consider what your party really needs – if you could do with the extra sleeping space, spare bathroom, and kitchenette – then I suggest you strongly consider staying in one of these family suites
Oh, and regular rooms are available at AofA too – so if you have a smaller party or would rather stay in a standard room, or if you just LOVE The Little Mermaid, you can stay in one of the standard rooms in the Little Mermaid section of the Resort – which come with 2 double or 1 King bed
Many of the “comforts of home” are available with these suites at A Of A and I think it’s a great option for families who don’t want to crowd into a standard Resort rom – but I want to know what YOU think – have you stayed in these Family Suites? Would you?
