Welcome to planDisney, Christina! Thanks for stopping by with your question today!
Disney's Art of Animation Resort is one of the Disney Resort hotels that's still on my bucket list to experience, but I love the theming of classic Disney animated films like
The Lion King and
Finding Nemo; this resort's larger-than-life icons from these movies really brings them to life for Guests!
Christina, the
Disney Skyliner is one of the complimentary transportation options available to EPCOT and Disney's Hollywood Studios from select resort hotels, including Art of Animation. Because of the Skyliner access, buses are not always available or guaranteed to these parks as a transportation option for Guests at these resorts. On my last stay at Disney's Pop Century Resort, my younger daughter did not enjoy using the Disney Skyliner, but it was the only option for those two theme parks, so we ended up using a rideshare service instead. You can utilize any rideshare service from your resort, including the
Minnie Van Service powered by Lyft for direct transportation within the Walt Disney World Resort area. In the event that the Disney Skyliner closes for inclement weather or any other expected or unexpected reason, Disney will provide bus service in place of the Skyliner, and buses will always be provided for transportation to Magic Kingdom Park and Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park, as well as Disney Springs.
That being said, the Skyliner is an efficient method of transportation and super convenient and quick for Guests who have the option to utilize it. My parents who visit the parks using ECVs love how easy it is to board their gondola on their scooters and how quickly they arrive at their destination theme parks! With my daughter's fear of heights, I also understand it's not the preferred method for everyone. We have gotten creative with how we use other transportation options to keep her from feeling nervous on the Skyliner, including using the
FriendShip Boats to park hop between EPCOT and Disney's Hollywood Studios.
Christina, no matter how you get around, you're sure to have a magical visit! Be sure to keep an eye on the Disney Parks Blog as your trip gets closer to keep up with the holiday offerings that will be in full swing during your vacation! I'm looking forward to
Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party and the
EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays this holiday season! In the meantime, if you have any other planning questions, come back and let us know! At
planDisney, we're always happy to help you find the magic!
See you real soon,
Alison