Walt Disney World offers a “non Disney resort” option on property-known as the Swan and Dolphin Resorts. These sister resorts are located in the EPCOT area of Walt Disney World. Since these resorts are on Disney property, many of the WDW guest perks are available to those staying at the Swan and Dolphin. However, there are some differences in these resorts vs. others on property.
- Disney buses and boats are available to guests at these resorts.
- The location of these resorts is stellar-you are a minimal bus ride, boat ride, or walk to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios; and Disney’s Boardwalk is a very short walk.
- You cannot charge purchases in the parks or at restaurants to your KTTW as you can at other resorts.
- There is a daily parking fee, as well as a $14/ day resort fee. This does include several amenities such as two bottles of water in your room each day, high speed internet access, and access to the resort fitness club.
Swan Highlights:
Swan rooms sleep up to four guests with two queen size beds. There is a Personal Pantry service available, and well as a spa, mail services, and laundry services. The Swan Resort has 5 pools, and arcade, and a playground for the children. Guests can participate in beach volleyball games, take an electric boat ride, or enjoy a game of tennis as well.
Dining at the Swan:
II Mulino New York Trattoria and Kimonos are the Signature Dining experiences at the Swan. These are part of a few DDPs, and will likely require reservations and possibly more than one meal credit. The Swan is home to the famous Garden Grove restaurant, where you’ll find yourself in the middle of Central Park, and two favorite characters drop by to visit at breakfast and dinners on the weekends. Another counter service option here is Splash Terrace. If you’re too busy exploring the parks or hanging out at the pool, the Swan Resort offers lounges as well as grab and go options at Java Bar and Splash Grill.
Dolphin Resort rooms can accommodate up to five guests, with two double beds and some have king beds and a sleeper sofa. The Swan and Dolphin share pools, so between the two of them there are five pools. The Dolphin also has a playground, jogging trails, and an arcade amongst other recreation options.
Dining at the Dolphin:
Shula’s Steakhouse and Todd English’s bluezoo are both Signature Dining experiences. If they are accepted on a DDP, they will be two dining credits. These dining locations offer steaks and seafood including scallops, clam, and lobster. There are a few casual dining options as well-these would probably require a reservation. The Cabana Bar & Grill, The Fountain, and Fresh Mediterranean Market are your options for table service here. These have a wide range of items including fresh seafood, sandwiches, and salads. You’ll also find counter service options with several lounges and Picabu-the counter service restaurant.
If you’re looking for Disney magic, but in a different atmosphere then look no further than the Swan and Dolphin resorts. With their fantastic location and various dining and recreation options, these resorts can be great for couples or families who are on a budget, yet still want a deluxe feel.
Overall, we give these resorts an “A”.
A stay at the Dolphin is next on our list of resorts to try!