Is Dolphin a Disney property?

While the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotels are considered Walt Disney World Resorts, they are not owned and operated by Disney. These hotels are owned by Tishman Realty & Construction Corporation and MetLife and are managed by Marriott International, Inc.



The Walt Disney World Dolphin (and its sister hotel, the Swan) is not owned or operated by The Walt Disney Company, making it one of the few high-fidelity resorts located directly on Disney property that is managed by a third party. The hotel is currently operated by Marriott International under its Sheraton brand. The land itself is leased from Disney, but the building and operations are a joint venture between various developers and investment firms (historically Tishman and MetLife). Despite not being a "Disney-owned" resort, guests at the Dolphin enjoy many of the same premium perks as those staying at Disney's official hotels, such as Early Theme Park Entry and extended evening hours. Its unique architecture—designed by Michael Graves—stands in contrast to the more traditional Disney themes, but its location in the BoardWalk area provides elite walking and boat access to both EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. For travelers in 2026, the Dolphin remains a popular choice for those wanting to use Marriott Bonvoy points while staying in the heart of the "Disney Bubble."

People Also Ask

The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin are Deluxe Disney Resorts managed by Marriott. Our guests enjoy Onsite Disney Resort benefits; in addition, Bonvoy Rewards members can take advantage of an array of program benefits, including earning Marriott Bonvoy points with each stay.

MORE DETAILS

Resort Ownership/Management Overview: Tishman Realty & Construction Corporation and MetLife own the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin. Marriott International, Inc. manages the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin.

MORE DETAILS

Residence Inn by Marriott at Western Entrance Plus, the on-site Disney Planning Center at Flamingo Crossings can help make your Disney vacation as carefree and fun-filled as possible!

MORE DETAILS

Walt Disney World Dolphin The two 56-foot-tall dolphin statues atop the building give away the name of this hotel, which is part of Marriott Bonvoy as a Sheraton brand. A popular benefit of staying here is the option to enjoy early access to the parks as well as advance golf tee times.

MORE DETAILS

Check here before you book your next trip to Orlando! The Swan & Dolphin Resort is located on Disney property, but the Swan is owned and operated by Westin, while the Dolphin is owned by Sheraton. While these aren't Disney resorts, they are comparable to Disney Deluxe resorts due to very similar amenities.

MORE DETAILS

Yes the pool is shared between the dolphin and swan resorts.

MORE DETAILS

# 1 -The Grotto Pool Both the Swan and Dolphin have their own quiet pools and hot tubs, but the main pool is one they share and it has some really cool features. The Grotto Pool is by the Dolphin and has actual seating in its very large grotto area, along with a slide and two separate areas of the pool to enjoy.

MORE DETAILS

If you make the reservation through the Swan & Dolphin website, you'll need to link it yourself using your confirmation number. However, Disney has made that process very easy: your Swan, Dolphin, or Swan Reserve reservation confirmation number can be entered directly into MDE to link your reservation.

MORE DETAILS

Walt Disney World Resort has re-branded Extra Magic Hours. They are now known as Early Theme Park Entry and Extended Evening Theme Park Hours. Guests of Walt Disney World Dolphin, Swan, and Swan Reserve hotels are invited to participate in Early Theme Park Entry and Extended Evening Theme Park Hours.

MORE DETAILS

Does the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin provide transportation to Disney attractions? Yes, Walt Disney World provides complimentary, scheduled transportation from the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin and Walt Disney World Swan Reserve throughout the Walt Disney World® Resort.

MORE DETAILS

Enjoy a wonderful breakfast on the weekends and dine with some of your favorite Disney Characters. Disney Character dining is featured only at breakfast on Saturdays and Sundays.

MORE DETAILS