799: Resort Wars: Pop Century vs. Art of Animation
We’re kicking off a brand-new series: Resort Wars — where Walt Disney World resorts go head-to-head, and only one can walk away with the crown! First up, it’s a Value Resort throwdown between Disney’s Pop Century and Disney’s Art of Animation. Pop Century opened in 2003 and celebrates the nostalgia of the 1950s through the 1990s with larger-than-life icons and over 2,800 rooms. Meanwhile, Art of Animation debuted in 2012 with immersive theming from beloved Disney and Pixar films, offering standard Little Mermaid rooms and spacious family suites themed to Cars, The Lion King, and Finding Nemo. We pit these two fan favorites against each other across seven battle rounds — including theming & atmosphere, rooms & comfort, dining, transportation, recreation, overall value, and listener feedback. Who takes the win for pool bars and food courts? Which resort is more budget-friendly? And where will your family find the perfect blend of magic and convenience? Plus, we share results from our listener poll and highlight firsthand experiences and opinions from our amazing community to help settle the debate. Whether you’re planning your next Disney vacation or just love a good Disney debate, this episode is packed with insight, tips, and a few laughs along the way. So grab your tie-dye cheesecake or swing by the Big Blue Pool — it’s time to battle it out in Resort Wars: Pop Century vs. Art of Animation!
Main Street Magic - A Walt Disney World Podcast
Audio is streamed directly from the publisher (cdn.simplecast.com) as published in their RSS feed. Play Podcasts does not host this file. Rights-holders can request removal through the copyright & takedown page.
Show Notes
We’re kicking off a brand-new series: Resort Wars — where Walt Disney World resorts go head-to-head, and only one can walk away with the crown! First up, it’s a Value Resort throwdown between Disney’s Pop Century and Disney’s Art of Animation.
Pop Century opened in 2003 and celebrates the nostalgia of the 1950s through the 1990s with larger-than-life icons and over 2,800 rooms. Meanwhile, Art of Animation debuted in 2012 with immersive theming from beloved Disney and Pixar films, offering standard Little Mermaid rooms and spacious family suites themed to Cars, The Lion King, and Finding Nemo.
We pit these two fan favorites against each other across seven battle rounds — including theming & atmosphere, rooms & comfort, dining, transportation, recreation, overall value, and listener feedback. Who takes the win for pool bars and food courts? Which resort is more budget-friendly? And where will your family find the perfect blend of magic and convenience?
Plus, we share results from our listener poll and highlight firsthand experiences and opinions from our amazing community to help settle the debate.
Whether you’re planning your next Disney vacation or just love a good Disney debate, this episode is packed with insight, tips, and a few laughs along the way. So grab your tie-dye cheesecake or swing by the Big Blue Pool — it’s time to battle it out in Resort Wars: Pop Century vs. Art of Animation!
🎉Plan Your Next Adventure with MEI-Travel
Let the magic start before your trip even begins! Our trusted partner, MEI-Travel, takes the stress out of planning with nearly 20 years of expert service and completely free vacation planning. Whether it’s Walt Disney World, Disneyland, a cruise, or beyond—they’ve got you covered. Get your fee-free, no-obligation quote at MainStMagic.com/Travel and let the memories begin!
📱Stay Connected with Main Street Magic
Join the conversation and follow along for park tips, laughs, and magic:
- Facebook Group – Main Street Magic Community
- Facebook: @MainStMagic
- Instagram: @MainStMagic
- TikTok: @MSMPodcast
- X (formerly Twitter): @MainStMagic
🌐Visit Us Online
- Podcast & Blog: www.MainStMagic.com
- Disney-Inspired Apparel: www.MainStreetShirts.com
🍽️Snag That Hard-to-Get Disney Dining Reservation
Never miss your dream meal again! Set up free alerts at MouseDining.com and get text or email notifications when reservations open up. Be the first to the table—literally!
🤝Support & Discover Our Friends
Explore more of our favorite resources, creators, and small businesses at www.mainstmagic.com/msm-friends/
🎵Theme Music Provided by TFresh Productions
Because every great show deserves a great beat.