Did you know there are 2 Resorts found on Disney World property that are NOT actually owned by Disney? These exceptions are Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel and Swan Hotel. These sister Resorts are easily identifiable by looking to the top of the Resort. The Dolphin Hotel features 2 large Dolphins and the Swan Hotel features, you guessed it, 2 large Swans. Both are managed by Marriott International Inc.
Here are 8 reasons to love Walt Disney World Dolphin & Swan Hotel.
1. Even though neither hotel is owned by Disney, staying at either still comes with some sweet Disney perks! Guests of the Dolphin or Swan Hotel can enjoy many of the same benefits as staying on-site. Check them out below!
- Theme Park Early Entry
- Extended evening theme park hours
- Complimentary Transporation to Disney parks
- Advance tee times for 4 nearby Disney golf courses
- Disney Planning Center
- Free parking at Disney theme parks
- Free delivery service of merchandise purchased from shops to resort
2. If you love EPOCT or Hollywood Studios, these parks are within walking distance to the Swan & Dolphin Hotels. These hotels are in a great central location allowing guests to take a nice walk to both EPCOT or Hollywood Studios. Enter EPCOT through the International Gateway entrance and enjoy a 10-15 minute walk there. Hollywood Studios is approximately a 15 minute stroll away as well. Or, if you prefer, take a relaxing water taxi to these 2 parks instead.
3. If you enjoy swimming during your Disney vacation you will love the 3-acre tropical paradise named the Grotto Pool, shared by the Swan & Dolphin Hotels. Guests will enjoy beautiful cascading waterfalls, rock caves, 4 whirlpools and a water slide! There is something for everyone in the family with 2 lap pools, a spring pool and a kiddie pool. Plus, enjoy poolside games with music by a DJ.
4. Bring your appetite when staying at either Hotel as they feature more than 15 on-site dining options. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, late-night dining and bars on site means everything is within your reach. If you love Steak head to Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel for Shula’s Steak House, become part of the Shula’s 48 oz Club with the 48 oz porterhouse steak. At Walt Disney World Swan Hotel is an on-site character meal! Garden Grove offers character meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
5. Walt Disney World Dolphin & Swan Hotel are located across from each other in Disney’s BoardWalk area. This means both are within walking distance to Disney’s Boardwalk, which offers shopping, dining and entertainment. Guests can rent surrey bikes here, or go for a stroll with beautiful water views.
6. Al though most of the children activity centers have closed, Camp Dolphin remains open. Enjoy a night out with your significant other, while your children have a safe and fun evening at Camp Dolphin. Children will find activities such as Arts and crafts, Disney movies, Toys & Board games, and more! For children aged 4-12, Camp Dolphin charges by the hour, with a minimum of 2 hours.
7. Enjoy a game of mini golf at Fantasia Gardens & Fairways Miniature Golf, located at Walt Disney World Swan Hotel. It offers two 18-hole adventures to choose from. One course is themed after Disney’s Fantasia featuring 5 scenes from this classic animated film such as the marching broomsticks. The second course is far from a traditional mini golf course, it is a miniature scale of a traditional golf course with sand traps and bunkers! Did you know you can actually enjoy views of The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror from Fantasia Gardens & Fairways Miniature Golf? Fun!
8. Since neither are Disney Resorts, there are some sneaky ways to save even more. Swan Hotel guests can check for Starwood Rewards. Furthermore, check for AAA discounts on food & merchandise at the Dolphin Hotel. Both Hotels are now included in Marriott’s Rewards program as well!
Learn more about the Walt Disney World Resorts and contact Destinations in Florida to help you book your perfect resort.