Hello Shannon!
Thanks for swimming by with another great question. It's so exciting that you're planning a big family trip for 2026, and
Disney's Art of Animation Resort is a fantastic choice for your visit!
This resort will always hold a special place in my heart as we stayed there during my children's first Walt Disney World Resort vacation. We opted for a Little Mermaid Standard Room on that trip (to my daughter's great delight) but the whole family was charmed by the room decor and the larger-than-life character and dinglehopper sculptures that adorned the walking paths in that section of the resort. If you and your husband aren't planning to stay in a Family Suite like your sister, you’ll find yourselves in one of these rooms, surrounded by treasures untold that will surely make you feel part of Ariel’s world.
When
viewing the resort map, You'll notice that these rooms are located to the far left of Animation Hall, the main lobby building that houses the
Landscape of Flavors food court and The Ink & Paint Shop, a retail location where you can pick up essentials and souvenirs. You'll be able to stretch your sea legs (no voice surrender to Ursula required) as you make your way to the main resort area from your room each day.
I'm not sure if your sister's family has plans to cruise like Lightning McQueen, sing "Hakuna Matata" with friends from
The Lion King, or shout "mine, mine, mine!" about a
Finding Nemo-themed Family Suite, but they really can't go wrong with any of these adorably themed spaces. I had the chance to say "Ka-Chow!" while staying in a Cars Family Suite a few years ago and absolutely adored all the details. The Cars Family Suites will be the furthest away from The Little Mermaid Standard Rooms, but a speedy walk or a quick flip of your fins should close the distance quicker than you can wave a checkered flag. If proximity is key, I'd encourage your sister to reserve The Lion King Family Suites as these will be the closest buildings to The Little Mermaid Rooms.
Regardless of where you stay, you'll share the same resort bus stops and
Disney Skyliner station, as well as access to
The Big Blue Pool- the largest on Disney property. You'll be able to "just keep swimming" at another pool in The Little Mermaid section as well.
Shannon, I hope this helps you make plans for your upcoming visit. If we can offer any additional guidance or recommendations, please come right back and let us know.
Magic and memories,
Amy