Disney's Newest: Art Of Animation Resort

Opening in phases, each of the four wings celebrates Disney characters showcasing Finding Nemo, Cars and The Lion King, with elaborate storytelling both inside and out. Standard guest rooms make up The Little Mermaid wing, the final phase to open.

The three-story resort will immediately put guests into the worlds of animation beginning at check-in as pixilated patterns and wavy ribbons of color decorate the resort's exterior. Pencil drawings of Ariel, Lightning McQueen, Nemo and Simba adorn the entryway, and a cleverly created chandelier composed of animation storyboards enhance the lively and modern lobby.

Giant sketchbooks filled with favorite characters seem to come to life as they pave the way to each storyline. Scenic settings, icons—including a brightly-colored coral landscape, a 35-foot-tall model of King Triton, a towering Mufasa and more—immerse guests into the playful world of animation.

At the Cars wing, a freshly paved road leads to the Cozy Cone Motel complete with a Cozy Cone pool and cone-shaped cabanas. Journey through an African landscape in The Lion King complete with an elephant graveyard play area that invites youngsters to seek hakuna matatatime. Treasures from the human world fill Ariel's grotto in an under the sea kingdom in Little Mermaid courtyard.

Even linens and carpeting tie to the storyline. In Finding Nemo, there's coral-shaped chairs and bubble ceiling lights; Zazu takes center stage on the headboards in The Lion King, while Pumbaa and Timon decorate the shower curtain.

The Big Blue pool is the largest resort swimming pool at Walt Disney World Resort measuring 11,859 square feet. Guests enter scenes from the animated world and can explore the colorful reef with a giant-sized Mr. Ray whose wings span 27 feet, pose for a picture with Crush or frolic with Squirt in the Righteous Reef, a children's play area.

Dining options include a poolside snack bar and pizza delivery. The Landscape of Flavors food court -- open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner -- will feature items such as fresh smoothies, hand-scooped gelato and Mongolian barbecue.

The whimsical property, situated adjacent to Disney's Pop Century Resort, will open in phases beginning in late May 2012 with rates from $248 per night. The 1,120 family suites include two bathrooms, a kitchenette and three separate sleeping areas that can sleep up to six.

Some 864 standard rooms sleep up to four. Add another $94 for a package including transportation, Extra Magic Hours and other benefits available to a Disney Resort guest.

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