Deb's Digest

The Art of Animation opened to guests on May 31, 2012. The resort is opening in phases with Phase 1 (Nemo Suites and Big Blue Pool) and Phase 2 (Cars Suite and Cozy Cone Pool) already open.

The next phase to open is the Lion King on August 10th. Disney Parks Blog released this photo recently of the Mufasa Sculpture as a sneak peek.

The Lion King section will feature the Elephant Graveyard Playground (no pool in this section). An elephant skull will be 16 feet tall and expect to see hyenas coming over the rocks. While it won't be identical to the film, you will certainly notice similaries. The same for the "Hakuna Matata" scene where Timon, Pumbaa, and Young Simba walk across the bridge.

It was previously announced that inside the Lion King Suites you can expect to see ZaZu on the headboards and Pumbaa and TImon on the Shower Curtain!

AllEars has some additional photos to share with you that we've taken from the guest side of the fence to further whet your appetite.

AllEars will have full photo and video coverage when the Lion King Suites open in August!

We have videos and stills galore of the already opened sections:

Fact Sheet and Resort Videos http://allears.net/acc/faq_artan.htm

Our Resort Overview: http://allears.net/acc/issue663.htm

Recreation Activities: http://land.allears.net/blogs/kristin-ford/2012/06/disneys_art_of_animation_offer_1.html

Extensive photo blog: http://land.allears.net/blogs/jackspence/2012/06/art_of_animation_resort.html

The Grand Opening Report: http://land.allears.net/blogs/debwills/2012/05/the_art_of_animation_resort_of.html

Phase 1 of Disney's Art of Animation Resort opened on May 31, 2012 with the Nemo family suites and the Big Blue Pool water area.

Next up, in just a few weeks, is Phase 2, Cars!

Here are photos of what can be seen as of today. Things have certainly progressed from just a month ago. Also, most of the neon lights are now on in the evenings, so if you are nearby, head over for a stroll.

After the stills is a video interview with Disney's Pixar "Cars" Filmaker Jay Ward and automotive designer (and designer of Ramone) Chip Foose telling you what's in store when Cars open!

Meg Crofton officially opened the Art of Animation Resort at Walt Disney World this morning.

In true Disney fashion, the ceremony opened with music, singers, dancers,and Cast members followed by a stage full of Disney Characters.

“Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is part of our continued investment in Central Florida and helps keep our region squarely on the map as the world’s premiere family vacation destination,” said Meg Crofton, president of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Operations, US and France. “As more and more families travel and make memories together, they also want to stay together, which has created demand for family suites.”