Hi Jaime! It sounds like you are getting very excited about your upcoming vacation to Walt Disney World Resort!!
You are going to love
Disney's Art of Animation Resort! You are correct. Check-in is at 3:00 pm (when your Resort hotel room is typically available). However, I have some great news! You may check-in to Disney's Art of Animation Resort as early as 7:00 am to utilize the Resort amenities...and Disney's Art of Animation Resort has SO MANY amenities!
If you are hungry, drop in and visit Landscape of Flavors for breakfast, lunch or dinner. There are 5 different quick-service counters to choose from with a variety of options from salads to build-your-own burgers. They also have great breakfast, snack and yummy dessert options.
You will want to tour your Resort hotel. Yes - take a walking tour of all that your Resort hotel has to offer and be sure you have your camera with you. There are countless great photo opportunities as you make your way through the Finding Nemo, Cars, The Lion King and The Little Mermaid themed areas.
One MUST DO is to dive into some fun in the pools! There are 3 themed pools to choose from and my favorite is The Big Blue Pool. Not only is it the largest pool at Walt Disney World Resort, it has additional magic that is unbelievable. As you are swimming under water, pay attention to the sights and SOUNDS...the Disney Imagineers added underwater speakers to the pool. You will feel like you have stepped right into Nemo's world.
If you are looking for other areas outside of the theme parks to enjoy a great day, make sure you visit Disney Springs or Disney's BoardWalk. Both have great dining, shopping and fun entertainment.
Thanks so much for visiting the Disney Parks Moms Panel and please let us know if you have any further questions as you depart for your magical Disney vacation!