Hi Michelle,
Each Disney Resort Hotel has a unique flair and is worth checking out. My family loves hanging out at the resorts for dining reservations and to explore the shopping! You can make dining reservations at any of the resorts even if you are not staying there but the rest of the amenities are primarily for guests staying at that resort. Therefore, you must have a dining reservation to arrive via Uber or with a car to park.
Even though you can't drive there without a dining reservation, you can take
theme park transportation to any resort hotel and explore as much as you want. Luckily, each of the resorts you mentioned visiting has quick access to theme park transportation.
Rideshare vehicles can drop you off directly at the Transportation and Ticket Center regardless of whether you have a theme park or dining reservation. You can walk directly to
Disney's Polynesian Village Resort from here. Instead of heading towards the monorail after you get dropped off, veer to the left and follow the signs for the walkway to the Polynesian Village Resort. It is a super short walk! I recommend checking out
Pineapple Lanai for an iconic Dole Whip and
Trader Sam's Tiki Terrace in the evening for fabulous drinks with a view.
The Transportation and Ticket Center will also provide you with quick access to
Disney's Contemporary Resort using my favorite form of
Disney transportation, the monorail! Once you arrive at the Contemporary Resort, check out the excellent shops at this resort. They have a fabulous toy store for the little ones and a huge souvenir store that offers beautiful artwork and jewelry for the adults in your crew. I also love heading up to
Disney's California Grill Lounge for some quick bites and drinks with a killer view of the Magic Kingdom.
Disney's Art of Animation Resort is located on the Disney Skyliner line so the easiest way in is by taking a rideshare to Hollywood Studios and jumping on the Disney Skyliner for a ride over to the resort. I love all of the picture-perfect locations to explore at this resort! Have your camera ready for some fun selfies or family photos.
Happy Planning,
Jenna