Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel and Walt Disney World Swan Hotel are not actually Disney World Resorts. However, they are both located on Disney World property overlooking Crescent Lake. They share more similarities, learn what they are and what sets them apart as well.
Location
Walt Disney World Dolphin & Swan Hotel are located across from each other in Disney’s BoardWalk area. For guests who love Epcot, guests are within walking distance or by boat to the park from either Hotel. Also nearby is Hollywood Studios, quickly reach the park by boat, or take a nice stroll to the park. Plus, enjoy a short walk to Disney’s BoardWalk from either.
Appearance & Statues
The most notable difference, and easiest way to tell apart, are the different statues adorning each. Otherwise, both share a similar modern theming with Renaissance influence. At Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel, guests will find large twin Dolphin statues on the rooftop. At Walt Disney World Swan Hotel, guests will find large twin Swans on top of the Hotel.
Pool & Waterslide
Both the Hotels share a large pool known as the Grotto pool, spanning 3 acres. The Grotto pool features a waterfall, waterslide, hot tubs and more, serving as the main family pool. Listen to the DJ and visit the nearby Cabana Bar and Beach Club. In addition, both Walt Disney World Dolphin & Swan Hotel features a closer un-themed lap pool with bar nearby.
Dining
Walt Disney World’s Dolphin Hotel wins for dining, with 2 notable options. First is Garden Grove, a Disney character dining experience. Guests can find a duo of their favorite Disney characters at Dinner daily or the Good Morning Character Breakfast on Saturday or Sunday. Secondly for steak fans, Shula’s Steak House is a fine dining experience. This award winning restaurant also offers fresh seafood. However, since the Hotels are just a walk away, guests could easily interchange dining options.
Fantasia Gardens and Fairways Miniature Golf
Fantasia Gardens & Fairways Miniature Golf is located at Walt Disney World Swan Hotel, however any guest may play at the cost of $14 (adult) and $12 (child). Choose between one of 2 courses, one themed after Disney’s Fantasia, a classic animated Disney film. The second course is a miniature scale of a traditional golf course with sand traps, bunkers and more.
Rooms & Beds
Walt Disney World’s Dolphin Hotel has rooms that can sleep up to 5, where as Walt Disney World’s Swan Hotel can only sleep up to 4 guests. Furthermore the Dolphin Hotel is owned by Sheraton while Swan is under Westin (Starwood brand). Walt Disney World’s Swan Hotel features queen beds as opposed to double beds at the Dolphin Hotel (with select rooms at both featuring King beds). In addition, Walt Disney World’s Dolphin has nearly twice as many guests rooms, making it a larger and busier hotel.
Disney Perks
Neither is actually a Disney Resort, however both are found on Disney World property and share some of the advantages of staying on-site. Such as complimentary Disney transportations to parks (do note, Magical Express is not included). Guests can also take part in Extra Magic Hours, Merchandise delivery & pickup and 60 days advanced Fastpass booking (however, MagicBands not provided).
However at the 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.
Ryan says
So the dining plan is not offered for Swan and Dolphin?