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What is better the Dolphin or the Swan?

Depending on your personal interests, one may offer more benefits than the other. Couples looking for less activity may prefer the Swan, while families will appreciate the variety of dining and pool options — including water slides and waterfalls — that come with a Dolphin stay.



Choosing between the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin in 2026 depends on your group dynamic and bed preferences. The Dolphin (Sheraton) is generally considered "better" for larger families because its rooms are slightly larger and feature two double beds plus the option for a rollaway, accommodating up to five guests. It also houses the majority of the resort's quick-service dining and the main laundry facilities. Conversely, the Swan (Westin) is widely seen as "better" for couples or business travelers seeking a quieter, more "boutique" atmosphere. The Swan rooms feature two queen beds (offering more individual sleeping space than the Dolphin's doubles) and the signature "Westin Heavenly" bedding. In 2026, both hotels share the same pool complex and boat transportation to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios. While the Dolphin often has slightly lower rates, the Swan provides a more refined, less "convention-heavy" lobby experience, making it the preferred choice for those seeking a tranquil retreat after a day in the parks.

People Also Ask

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.

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Walt Disney World Dolphin offers a bit more in savings when compared with the Swan, perhaps because of its larger size and many on-site activities. For some people, this can be a benefit, but if you're looking to relax, the more expensive Swan offers more peace and quiet.

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

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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.

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From the SWAN to the BOARDWALK is approximately . 4 miles. To the DOLPHIN Resort: There are paved, lighted walkways. From the SWAN to the DOLPHIN is approximately .

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Can you see fireworks from the Swan and Dolphin? Yes. The hotels are located about midway between EPCOT and Hollywood Studios. All three hotels offer at least a few rooms with views of fireworks.

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Guests of the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin enjoy many unique and special Disney benefits.
  • Complimentary Scheduled Transportation. ...
  • On-Site and Online Disney Tickets. ...
  • Advance Tee Times. ...
  • Complimentary parking at Disney theme parks. ...
  • Disney Planning Center. ...
  • Extra Magic Hours Benefit. ...
  • FastPass+ ...
  • Character Dining.


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Does the resort provide transportation to and from the Orlando International Airport? Yes (fees apply)! If you would like a private transfer to or from the airport, please CLICK HERE TO FILL OUT THE FORM, then email to the transportation department.

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Epcot®: Walking: When exiting behind the Swan resort, bear to your right and walk to Disney's BoardWalk Resorts. Walk on the boardwalk until it ends and bear to the right until you reach Epcot. Walking time is approximately 10-15 minutes.

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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.

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Daily $40 resort service package fee (+ tax) includes daily benefits for two guests: In-room wireless internet.

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The walk from the Resort Area to Hollywood Studios follows along the east (right on the map) side of the narrow body of water running from the Resort Area, between the Walt Disney World Swan Resort and Disney's Boardwalk Inn and Villas, under E. Buena Vista Dr. to Hollywood Studios.

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