Disney’s Art of Animation Resort

Disney fans are in for a treat at this thematic resort that opened in 2012. The huge complex is chock full of larger-than-life replicas of beloved Disney and Pixar characters, including a massive statue of The Little Mermaid and elaborate, recreated scenes from Cars. The check-in area of this 1,984-room resort is understandably loud and a bit hectic at times, as families come and go in droves. Once checked in, crowds tend to disperse among the expansive grounds that include three pools and lots of other things to do and see. Getting around can involve a good deal of walking, especially from The Little Mermaid wing that’s farthest from the shuttle bus station and food court -- but all of the colorful thematic decorations and Florida sunshine make the journey through this classic Disney resort a memorable one. Geared toward families with kids, the Disney decor delights little ones, but might feel kitschy to some guests.

The resort is conveniently located on the southern edge of all the world-famous attractions of Disney World. Disney’s Pop Century Resort is situated directly across Hourglass Lake (a 12-minute walk), but that’s it for outside attractions that are within walking distance. Many major attractions are a short drive away, including Epcot Center, Magic Kingdom Park, and SeaWorld Orlando, all of which are within 10 to 15 minutes away, while Disney’s Hollywood Studios is just a five-minute drive. All of the restaurants, shops, and hotels along International Drive are 13 minutes away, and the Orange County Convention Center is a 17-minute drive. It takes approximately 25 minutes to reach Orlando International Airport.

Like the hotel itself, rooms play homage to classic Disney and Pixar movies and characters. Each of the four wings is modeled after a specific movie: The Lion King, Cars, The Little Mermaid, and Finding Nemo. As such, the rooms in each wing feature different motifs, including aquatic (Finding Nemo and The Little Mermaid), automotive (Cars), and jungle (The Lion King). Whatever the motif, expect bright and bold colors such as fuchsia, aqua blue, lime green, mustard yellow, and sunburst orange. The colorful themes are reinforced in many ways, including drapes, carpet, bedding, furniture, artwork, shower curtains, and even tiling around the shower/tub combos. Spaces are obviously geared toward children and families who want to be immersed in their favorite Disney movies, but the kitschy decor that borders on sensory overload may be a bit too much for some. 

All but the rooms in the Little Mermaid wing are suites that can sleep up to six and have queen master bedrooms, double sleeper sofas, and dining tables that convert into double beds. The spacious suites also have two bathrooms, living rooms, and kitchenettes with mini-fridges, sinks, coffeemakers, and microwaves. The standard Little Mermaid rooms are a bit on the small side, especially for families. They come in Double-Double or King bed options and include small tables with two chairs. Acrylic, wall-mounted vanities sit outside the rather small bathrooms that have vinyl floors in a natural stone tile pattern. Standard amenities include coffeemakers, mini-fridges, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs with media plug-in panels. 

Features here are aimed at providing a fun and memorable experience for Disney families and include free shuttles to all of the Disney theme parks and water parks, as well as to the shops at Disney Springs. Free shuttle service is also offered to and from Orlando International Airport, and self-parking is free on-site for guests. 

The resort has three outdoor pools, including the massive Big Blue Pool that has bar service and speakers playing music underwater. The Righteous Reef playground is a large, maze-like complex built to look like a colorful ocean reef, plus there's a huge game room as well as a spectacular Animation Hall that showcases animation art. The resort offers popular “movies under the stars” nights, fun and free screenings of Disney films on the lawn.

Dining options include the Landscape of Flavors, which serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner and offers lots of options, like build-your-own-burger and pasta stations. Food plans are available, and pizza delivery is offered as well. Though there's no fitness center on-site, there's a jogging path around Hourglass Lake, plus bike rentals are available. Other on-site amenities include an expansive gift shop that sells a dazzling array of Disney gear and collectibles, and a guest laundry room as well as valet dry cleaning and laundry services. ATMs and currency exchange services are on-site, as is a business center with PCs and printers.