Hi Kathleen,
Welcome to the Disney Parks Moms Panel, and thank you for your question. Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is bursting with Disney magic, and I know your family is going to love staying there! Be sure to walk all around the resort and take in the amazing Disney details that are everywhere.
Kathleen, my family recently did the exact thing you are asking about. We used
Online Check-In, so when we arrived before the 3:00 p.m. check-in time, our first stop was the Big Blue Pool! We had our bathing suits, sunscreen, hats, and MagicBands in our backpacks, so we were able to change in the pool’s restroom area and dive right in. For extra refreshment, don’t miss the delicious drinks offered at the
Drop Off Pool Bar!
You’ll be able to drop your luggage at Bell Services when you arrive; once you are checked in to your room, use your room phone to call Bell Services to request they bring your bags to you. Be prepared that it might be a few minutes for them to get the bags to you, and be ready to tip a few dollars per bag for their friendly service.
If you use online check-in, you’ll have the option to receive a text message when your room is ready, so you’ll just need to head to your room when you receive the text (it includes your room number). If you prefer to check-in at the front desk, you can still absolutely do that – just be sure to check-in before you head to the pool so all your privileges are activated, and then stop by once you’re done in the pool to see if your room is ready.
Enjoy Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, and be sure to dip your head under the water at the Big Blue Pool for some extra Disney magic.
Wishing you a magical vacation,
Robyn