Hi there Julie, and welcome to planDisney!
Thanks for stopping by with your question; we appreciate your patience as we assist all who are anxious to visit Walt Disney World during its
50th-anniversary celebration.
I frequently travel with my sisters' families, and since everyone has different needs and budgets, we don't always stay in the same resort, but we try to book hotels in the same neighborhood. Last summer, my group of 12 was spread out among three different EPCOT area resorts. If some of your party will be staying at
Disney's Art of Animation Resort, the most convenient hotel for you would be another resort along the
Disney Skyliner route or somewhere close to the International Gateway entrance of
EPCOT.
Disney's Riviera Resort is breathtaking, and there is a sophisticated vibe throughout the lobby, guest rooms, and restaurants. The decor and theme are inspired by Walt Disney's travels through the French and Italian Rivieras. This resort offers
deluxe villa accommodations, and the separate sleeping spaces in the one-bedroom villas might work well for your family. Best of all, Disney's Art of Animation Resort is just a short flight away on the Disney Skyliner.
Disney's Beach Club Villas and
Disney's BoardWalk Villas, located just a short walk from the EPCOT International Gateway and adjacent Disney Skyliner station, also offer one-bedroom style accommodations, upscale decor, and proximity to your friends at Disney's Art of Animation Resort. Guests of Disney's Beach Club Villas have access to
Stromalong Bay, the largest, most elaborate pool in all of Walt Disney World. Disney's BoardWalk Villas feels slightly more sophisticated to me, but both resorts are great choices for more mature (but young at heart!) travelers.
Two final options to consider are the
Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel and
Walt Disney World Swan Hotel. These hotels are located in the EPCOT resort area and are within walking distance of the Disney Skyliner. Both hotels offer suite-style accommodations and discounts for senior citizens, educators, medical providers, firefighters, and more. Check their website to see if you qualify. My husband and I are teachers, and we've gotten some great rates here.
I hope this helps, Julie! There are so many wonderful hotels in the Disney Resorts Collection, and I know you'll find the perfect one for your family. Best wishes for a magical vacation, and we'll see ya real soon!
Betsy