Welcome to planDisney, Malinda!
Isn't it amazing how much magic can be found beyond Walt Disney World's theme parks? Whether it involves activities at a Disney Resort hotel,
miniature golf, Disney Springs, or a water park, I'm a firm believer that it's entirely possible to have an incredible vacation in The Most Magical Place of Earth without ever setting foot in a theme park. Of course, I would miss my favorite attractions (looking at you,
Slinky Dog Dash) too much to ever do that, so my magical getaways always involve some combination of all of the above. I'm especially fond of hopping between resorts to enjoy the theming and dining, so I'm happy to walk you through your transportation options, Malinda!
You are correct that Walt Disney World's
complimentary bus transportation does not connect separate Disney Resort hotels. If you'll be at your own (or another) Disney hotel before heading over to Disney's Coronado Springs Resort to take part in
Spanish Mosaic Art, you'll need to either take a bus and connect through a theme park or utilize a rideshare service.
- To use Disney's complimentary bus service when traveling between Disney hotels, I'll typically hop on the first theme park bus to arrive at my hotel bus stop and then catch a bus to my desired hotel destination once I arrive at the theme park. There are usually helpful Cast Members or a clearly marked board that will direct you to the bus stop for Coronado Springs at each theme park. You'll simply complete the process in reverse to return to Disney's Art of Animation Resort.
- For a more direct route, you could either utilize a third party rideshare service or the Disney Minnie Van service accessible through the Lyft app. While both options will be able to pick you up at the front of your Disney Resort hotel and take you directly to Coronado Springs, Minnie Van service is operated by Cast Members, so you'll experience the same level of Customer Service (think handy phone chargers during your ride) that you've come to expect throughout the rest of your vacation.
No matter how you choose to travel, Malinda, don't forget to make advance reservations for the Mosaic Art experience, and while you're in the
Dahlia Lounge, be sure to take a moment to enjoy the incredible views! I once spotted Slinky Dog in action and even caught a glimpse of Expedition Everest shining in the distance.
I hope this was helpful and that you'll
come see us again here at planDisney!
Thinking Happy Thoughts,
Lizzie