As someone who LOVES to stay at a Disney World Deluxe Resort, I’ll let you in on a secret — I will choose this one hotel over those!

If you’ve never seriously considered the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort, it’s time to change that. 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. Let’s dive into why you need to add this resort to your list.

The Location

These sister resorts sit right in the heart of Disney World, located in the EPCOT resort area between EPCOT and 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.

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.

The Food

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.

These hotels also carry Dr. Pepper — which is a small thing in comparison, but it’s one of the only places you can find this soda at Disney World! There are also coffee places located in the hotels that also have mobile ordering. So you can grab your coffee on the way to the parks? Sign me up!

Room Service

Unlike almost all of the 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. The menu comes from several of the restaurants in the hotels, so the food is fantastic! This has to be one of the most underrated perks of staying at the Swan and Dolphin.

The Price

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.

The Secret to Save $500+ On a Deluxe Disney World Hotel Room with a Fireworks View

Marriott Points

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.

Here’s How You Can Earn Hotel Points By Dining At Disney’s Swan & Dolphin Resorts!

The Perks

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.

The Swan and Dolphin Resort is one of our (not-so-kept) best kept secrets! For more Disney World information and news, follow us at DFB!

A Word of Warning for the First Day at Your Disney World Hotel

What is your favorite resort to stay at when visiting Disney World? Tell us in the comments below!