You could be spending hundreds more on a Disney World hotel… and getting less than what you’d get at this resort on property.
The Dolphin
If you’ve never seriously considered the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin, it’s time to change that. These sister resorts sit right in the heart of Walt Disney World, located in the EPCOT resort area between EPCOT and Hollywood Studios. While they aren’t owned by Disney, they are operated by Marriott and are officially classified as Walt Disney World Deluxe Resorts, which means they come with many of the same perks as Disney’s top-tier hotels.
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That combination is what makes them so interesting. You’re getting a Marriott-operated hotel experience, complete with the ability to earn and redeem Marriott Bonvoy points, while still enjoying Disney deluxe-level benefits. For guests who travel often or already stay within the Marriott family, this is a huge advantage. Your Disney vacation doesn’t just cost money, but it can help earn you free nights in the future.
Swan Hotel
Beyond the rewards factor, the Swan and Dolphin deliver in ways that matter most on a Disney vacation — location and convenience. These resorts are within walking distance of EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. That means you can stroll to EPCOT for a festival day, head back to your room for a midday break, or leave Hollywood Studios after park closing without standing in a long bus line. The ability to walk to two major parks dramatically changes the pace of your trip and adds flexibility that many other deluxe resorts simply can’t match.
Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin
Transportation options only add to that convenience. Guests can take a complimentary water taxi to EPCOT or Hollywood Studios, with boats departing approximately every 15 to 20 minutes. It’s a relaxing and scenic way to start or end the day. Complimentary bus transportation is also provided to all four theme parks and Disney Springs, running roughly every 20 to 30 minutes. You’re fully connected to the rest of Walt Disney World without sacrificing ease of access.
Swan and Dolphin
Because the Swan and Dolphin are considered deluxe resorts, guests are eligible for Extended Evening Hours, which is one of the most valuable perks available on property. On select nights, you’ll have access to extra park time with significantly lower crowds and shorter wait times. That benefit alone can make a noticeable difference in how much you accomplish during your trip. Guests also receive Early Theme Park Entry, allowing them into the parks 30 minutes before official opening each day.
Disney World’s Dolphin Resort
Another standout feature is dining. The Swan and Dolphin complex offers one of the largest collections of restaurants at any Disney-area hotel. From signature dining experiences to casual table-service restaurants, lounges, quick-service options, and coffee spots, there is an impressive variety without ever leaving the resort area. Unlike many Disney-owned hotels, the Swan and Dolphin also offer room service, which I cannot stress what a true deluxe amenity that can be a game-changer after a long park day.
Kimonos
Now let’s talk about cost because this is where the real surprise comes in. For a six-night stay in June, the Swan Resort totaled $2,143.81. For the same dates, a stay at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa came to $2,318.43. That’s about $175 more to stay at Saratoga Springs, a Disney-owned deluxe resort that does not offer walkable access to two parks, has fewer dining options on site, and does not provide room service.
Walt Disney World Swan
So what’s the takeaway? If you’re automatically booking a Disney-owned deluxe resort without comparing it to the Swan and Dolphin, you could be paying more for fewer conveniences. These resorts deliver deluxe perks, unbeatable EPCOT-area location, extensive dining, and the added bonus of Marriott rewards — often at a lower price point.
Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin
Before you book your next Disney World vacation, be sure to look into Disney World’s Swan and Dolphin Resort because you might be missing out on saving big! For more Disney news and tips, be sure to follow us at DFB!
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We have stayed there before, and they are quite nice. Been looking to stay there again.