Hi Heather, and welcome to planDisney!
Art of Animation is such a fun place to stay. I just love seeing our favorite movies, like Finding Nemo and The Little Mermaid, come to life throughout the grounds!
I’m happy to share that friends and family are absolutely welcome to visit you at your Disney Resort Hotel, and there’s
no charge for standard self-parking. In my experience, they’ll just need to give your name and room number when they get to the security booth before the parking lot. They may also be asked to show photo identification, so give them the heads up to have that handy!
During your stay at Art of Animation, I’d definitely recommend carving out time to explore the different themed areas. The Cars section in particular has so many fun photo spots. You really feel like you’re right in the middle of Route 66 with Lightning McQueen and his friends!
Also,
Landscape of Flavors is one of my favorite Disney Resort Hotel quick-service eateries. I usually use
mobile food ordering whenever possible (it’s a great time saver, especially in the parks!), but don’t miss the dine-in only rotating dishes you need to order inside Landscape of Flavors. I’ve had some really unique meals here, like the Mongolian Beef, so it can be worth it to skip mobile ordering here.
There’s also a new perk this year that’s a practically perfect way to cool off in August! In 2025,
Disney Resort Hotel guests can enjoy
complimentary water park admission on check-in day, 100% on the Mouse!
Typhoon Lagoon is reopening in May, and I can’t wait to relax in the
Castaway Creek lazy river after a hectic travel morning! I’m also hoping they bring back the Green Matcha Tea Soft-serve at
Snack Shack. It’s one of the only places you can find this flavor at Disney World.
I hope you have a magical stay at Art of Animation this summer! And if you have any other questions before then, we’d love to have you back at planDisney.
JoAnna