From Radiator Springs to Under the Sea: Everything Art of Animation

Whether you are an aspiring animator or just a fan of the classics, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort offers an immersive experience that puts you right inside the sketchbook. As of 2026, it remains one of the most popular stays at Walt Disney World, blending the affordability of a Value resort with the "wow factor" of a Deluxe theme.

This resort is a vibrant tribute to the artistry of Disney and Pixar. The atmosphere transitions from the sketch-heavy, black-and-white origins of animation in the lobby to full-color, larger-than-life "story landscapes" in the courtyard. It is specifically designed for larger families needing extra space and parents looking for high-energy, kid-centric immersion. Situated in the Wide World of Sports Resort area, it sits directly across Hourglass Lake from Disney’s Pop Century Resort with Skyliner access. The vibe is playful and undeniably "Disney." It feels like walking through a movie set, with character icons that tower over the buildings.

The resort is divided into four distinct wings: Finding Nemo, Cars, The Lion King, and The Little Mermaid. You can choose between Standard Rooms (located exclusively in The Little Mermaid section) or Family Suites (Nemo, Cars, and Lion King). Views range from courtyard and pool views to more secluded wooded or parking area views. Standard rooms sleep up to 4 adults, while Family Suites sleep up to 6 and include two bathrooms, a master bedroom, and a kitchenette. In early 2026, Disney filed permits for general "mechanical" upkeep and soft-goods refreshes across all sections to ensure the rooms stay crisp and modern.

The resort’s "crown jewel" is the Disney Skyliner, which whisks guests away to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Complimentary bus service is also available for Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and Disney Springs, running every 20min. Because the resort shares a Skyliner station with Pop Century, guests can easily walk across the Generation Gap Bridge to explore the neighboring resort.

As far as fabulous dining options; Landscape of Flavors is a great quick service, operating as the primary food court, featuring five mini-restaurants under one roof. There are no sit-down table service restaurants on-property, which is standard for Value resorts, but the Riviera and Caribbean Beach resorts are just a skyliner ride away! Adults can relax at The Drop Off Pool Bar, located right by the Big Blue Pool. For more variety, a quick walk across the bridge leads you to Everything POP Shopping & Dining at Disney’s Pop Century Resort. Don't miss the Mermaid Tail Cupcake or the customizable Pasta Station, which remains a fan favorite for a hearty, made-to-order dinner.

The Big Blue Pool in the Finding Nemo section is the largest resort pool at Walt Disney World. Little ones can enjoy the Schoolyard Sprayground, featuring pop-up jets and Nemo-themed fun. For a more relaxed dip, head to the Cozy Cone Pool (where you can relax in cone-shaped cabanas) or the Flippin’ Fins Pool.

Guests can utilize a 1.38-mile jogging path around Hourglass Lake or let kids burn off energy at the Righteous Reef playground. Ink & Paint Shop in Animation Hall offers a massive selection of resort-specific merchandise and Disney essentials. The resort hosts nightly Movies Under the Stars and evening Campfire Activities for marshmallow roasting. Use the Play Disney Parks app in the lobby to see the "Enchanted Gallery" come to life—your own digital sketches can actually move and interact with the walls!