Hi, Ashley!
Welcome to the Disney Parks Moms Panel. Yes, a valid room key (your
Key to the World card you receive upon check-in) is required to enter the gated
Big Blue Pool at Disney's Art of Animation Resort. This expansive pool is just amazing - it's actually the largest of all the Walt Disney World resort pools and features underwater speakers, giant jellyfish that drip water, larger-than-life sculpted characters from DisneyPixar's
Finding Nemo movie, and a zero-entry walk-in on one side.
To enter the gated pool area as a family group, you will need to have at least one Key to the World (KTTW) card with you. Personally, I would bring each family member's KTTW card to the pool, just to be on the safe side. In case you didn't already know, you can also enjoy Art of Animation's three pools (The Big Blue, Flippin' Fins and Cozy Cone Pools) after you have checked out of your resort room on the day of your departure.
Wishing your family a
magical vacation, Ashley! Please write back with any other questions as you plan your trip - I'd be happy to help!
Kimberly