disneydreamfan14's review of Art of Animation!
So I just returned from our stay at AoA from November 9th to 12th. First things first, this resort is AMAZING. The layout, themes, statues, gift shop, everything is superb. Now more in-depth.
Resort Grounds: A+
The resort is so neat and clean! No grass clippings on sidewalks, no hanging branches, everything very tidy. I was very happy with the resort grounds and how well they are kept.
Check in/Bag Check: B-
Although in such a beautiful lobby, the check in took a long time for us. The CM checking us in kept walking back and forth into closets, asking other CMs, etc. it took longer than it should have. We checked our bags with the resort since our flight was late at night and we were going to the parks after we checked out. Everything ran smoothly here!
Lobby/Gift Shop: A+
the lobby is so beautiful with all the lights and original sketches! The gift shop blew me away, however. It was beautiful, always kept fully stocked, with all CMs ready and willing to help.
Arcade: A-
We never went into the arcade, but from what I saw outside it looked fun. All your basic arcade games it seemed.
Bus Transportation to the Parks: A
Bus transportation was great as usual. Never waited more than 20 minutes (this was because we didn't make it on the first bus to come). Hollywood Studios always seemed to have long bus lines, but the others were not too long.
Bus Transportation to the Airport: B
We were scheduled to get on DME at 4:45 PM, however the bus didn't come until 5, which made for some unhappy campers who had to stand for a while (we had a party if 17, we got to the bus at 4:35). The bus to the airport was freezing, it must have been 58 degrees and everyone was uncomfortable. However our service from the ilairport to AoA upon arrival was fine.
Rooms: A
We stayed in Lion King building 10. It was great! A 1.5 minute walk to Landscapes of Flavor, 3 minute walk to the bus. Great location with a room view of the courtyard with the characters. The rooms were themes very well, with fun light fixtures and wall decorations. Perfect amount of space for a family of 5 or 6. Very happyoverall, I
Landscapes of Flavor: B+
The cafeteria was great overall. Everything kept clean and stocked. The lines to get your actual food and to check out could get long, but not too bad. Food was great too!
Overall, I give this resort a well-deserved A rating. Fantastic and my new favorite on property. We are definitely staying here next time.
A couple notes:
1) There was a free dining info/offer in our room. However, this may change, just look around and it might be there.
2) Although we weren't supposed to, we went into some of the Quick Service restaurants and filled up our Refillable Mugs. No one stopped or questioned us, so if your craving a drink, done be afraid to walk into a restaurant with a drink refill counter and grab something.