Our first time staying at a Disney property started with a night at the art of Animation resort. Art of Animation is in the category of value resorts at Disney but is at the higher end of these resorts. It is the newest resort in the value category.
Our room was located in the Little Mermaid section of the resort; building 7, which is called Ursula. Yes, there was a huge three story Ursala at the middle of the building where the elevators are located. Check in is located at Animation Hall, so is the food court. Basically most things you would desire or find in a hotel lobby are located in the Animation Hall. From our building it was a bit of a walk - about 5 minutes. I was glad we had a rental car. The transportation to the parks also left from the Animation Hall. If you want to be close to things, attempt to get a room in the Finding Nemo section.
Our room was a standard room and had two double beds. For a new resort the choice of double beds seems dated. There are family suites available but they are more than double the cost. The decor is over the top Disney. Our room was clean. We had two double beds, a phone, an alarm clock, a TV, a mini fridge, shower and toilet in separate room, sink and mirror and open hanging rack (closet) together.
Fun Disney touch found on our bed.
The curtain separating this section from the rest of the room was a nice touch. *Take note the toilet flush is extremely loud and will wake up anyone, even with the door shut.
The tile in the shower was amazing. Although dark in color, the room isn't dark due to good lighting and the other elements are white.
The soap was oval shaped but had Mickey stamped into it. Notice the top of the shampoo bottle! I would have loved to keep that one but it broke - they don't twist open but flip open and we broke it trying to get it open. The deluxe resorts don't get these cute Mickey bottles.
Being used to vacationing at timeshare condos, I am not sure I could have lasted an entire week in this room. It was small and not close to any amenities. I was glad we experienced it. Our best memory was talking to one of the cast members in the Hall of Animation. He was so knowledgeable about the drawings on display and spent uninterrupted time with us telling all about the different animator's work on display.
After one night we transferred to The Beach Club. A nice perk at Disney is that they will transfer your luggage for you. Just call and request it. Your luggage will show up at your next resort by 3 pm.