So I have to preface this with an apology. Jenna, I am so sorry!
Last night, a friend messaged me and commented that she loved my blog because it wasn't all about "go here, do this". This is your disclaimer - this post is totally "go here, do this".
When we went to Walt Disney World in March of 2014, we were really grasping at straws in terms of what to do and where to stay. We booked our vacation using my hubby's MasterCard points, and because we have yet to figure out how to grow money on trees, we were planning on a bit of a budget. After a lot of online research, we decided to choose the Art of Animation resort in Walt Disney World as our home base. Having now stayed there once, I can't imagine wanting anything more from a hotel.
So, I know there will be people who are diehard Grand Floridian vacationers or exclusive to the Polynesian villas & bungalows, but as mentioned earlier, we vacation on a bit of a budget. I can't imagine that I will ever be able to afford to stay in a deluxe villa. (Don't get me wrong, if I could, I would absolutely stay in one tomorrow). That being said, we were more than satisfied with Art of Animation. Please, even if you are blessed enough to enjoy the deluxe resorts, stick with me.
Art of Animation is considered a Value Disney Resort. At first, this turned me off. I thought maybe we were getting ourselves into a dive. Let me assure you, DISNEY DOES NOT OFFER DIVES! This "value resort" was still the most incredible hotel I have ever stayed in! I will sing its praises forever!
If you have young children, this hotel is definitely for you. It is completely character-oriented. The lobby, outdoor spaces, pools, and rooms are all designed with a specific character or Disney movie in mind. I am positive that other hotels are more spacious and elegant, but you cannot beat the kid-friendly appeal at Art of Animation.
Art of Animation info:
- towers are themed around either Cars, Finding Nemo, Lion King, or Little Mermaid
- Little Mermaid tower offers standard rooms
- Cars, Finding Nemo, and Lion King towers offer family suites
- focus on animation process (as suggested from the name). There are pencil sketches and scenes from the films used as design elements
- does not offer a full-service restaurant, but the hotel does home the Landscape of Flavors "food court". I promise, this food court has plenty of amazing choices.
- soup-salad-sandwich shop
- world flavors shop
- pizza shop
- burger shop
- market (smoothies, specialty coffees, desserts)arcade, poolside activities, and outdoor movie nights for kids and families
- 3 pools (including the Big Blue pool - the largest Disney resort pool), a splash area for smaller children, and a small play structure
- Disney Bus transportation/Magical Express shuttle
- jogging trail -- or if you're me, walking trail
- Disney gift store
 |
Sophie with some of the animation in the lobby     
Some shots of our Finding Nemo Family Suite
Loved that the table could fold down into another bed!
   
The Big Blue Pool and play area
Exploring The Little Mermaid area of the resort
     
Checking out The Lion King zone
    
A couple quick shots from the Cars area
  
|
If you are looking for luxury and fine dining, the Art of Animation resort probably isn't for you. If you want the best bang for your buck, a comfortable room, awesome pools, and exciting theming - you have to stay here! The standard rooms are small but doable. Personally, I would recommend the family suite for a family with 1 -3 young children. The hubby and I enjoyed having our own space at the end of a long day, and I felt comfortable getting ready in the early mornings with our own separate bathroom. The food was simple but delicious, and the service was exquisite (which we have come to expect with Disney).
What is your favorite place to stay on Disney property? I'd love to learn more!
xo Lisa
No comments:
Post a Comment