Welcome to planDisney, Sara!
Oh my goodness! A Cars-loving crew? Ka-chow! You are absolutely looking in the right place because
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is basically Radiator Springs come to life. The Cars-themed courtyard there is larger-than-life, colorful, and seriously one of the coolest photo spots on property!
Here’s the great news: yes, you can absolutely visit the resort even if you’re staying off property! Guests are welcome to explore
Disney Resort hotels, including strolling through the themed courtyards, snapping photos with Lightning McQueen and Mater, and soaking in all that Pixar magic.
That said, there are a couple of helpful “know before you go” tips to keep things smooth and stress-free. While you can visit, certain amenities, like the pools, are reserved just for registered resort guests. And if you’re driving, parking can be a little tricky since Disney typically limits it to guests with a resort reservation or confirmed dining plans, especially during busy times. But not all is lost!
Sara, here are a few options you can sprinkle into your plans:
Use the complimentary resort transportation to get there. If you are planning a visit to
Disney Springs, couple it with an evening at Art of Animation! Once you’re done shopping and exploring, hop on the Art of Animation bus that will take you directly to the resort.
Another option is to hop on the
Disney Skyliner. Access points are located at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, right outside of the International Gateway at Epcot, or at the Skyliner resorts: Disney’s Riviera Resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach, Disney’s Pop Century, and, of course, at Disney’s Art of Animation. If you take the Disney Skyliner over to Art of Animation, you’ll make an entrance your boys will never forget, flying in over Walt Disney World like VIPs headed straight to Radiator Springs.
So yes, go get those photos, wander through the Cars area, and let your boys live their Lightning McQueen dreams for a bit. It’s such a fun little extra magic stop, even without staying there.
Wishing you a trip full of high-speed adventures and core memory moments, because at Disney, even a quick visit can feel like a victory lap!
Emille