Contemporary or Dolphin

[tlynk]

I've been shopping for resorts awhile now, and I'm getting ready to put a deposit down, but I wanted the opinion of you experienced Disers .

I found pretty decent (within my budget) prices on a standard room at the Contemporary or a limited view room at the Dolphin. I don't mind the location, but I would like a resort that has nice rooms and things to do for a hubby that doesn't like to spend much time in the parks. If we book the Dolphin we would have to rent a rollaway bed (per customer service) since there is 5 in my party. Has anyone stayed at both and what one do you think would be more memorable for a family of five with young teens? Thank you for your advice

 

[palmtreegirl]

We've satyed at both this past summer and based on your description of what you want I say definitely the Dolphin.

The rooms are wonderful, the heavenly beds are heavenly and the location can't be beat. Having the Boardwalk close by is a real plus, especially the ESPN club if hubby likes sports.

 

[NHAnn]

At the Dolphin you are in the Epcot resort area...much more to offer your DH and teens than the Contemporary IMHO. Besides being able to walk or boat to MGM and Epcot, you can walk to the Boardwalk (ESPN Club and other food/entertainment options), walk to Fantasia mini-golf, and over to the BC.YC for ice cream at Beaches n' Cream.
At the Swan/Dolphin resort itself you have a lot of eating options and deluxe resort amenities. Our kids loved it as teens. And even the "rollaway" has heavenly bedding

 

[mickeymost]

The Contemporary has THE best arcade on property. If your teens are into that. My 3 DSs loved the arcade and want to stay there just for that. The transportation can't be beat either. Although the Epcot resorts are my favorite. I just love the whole Epcot resort area. I was alot of help, wasn't I?

You'll have a great trip either way.

Kelly

 

[Suzanne74]

I think the CR rooms are bigger then the Dolphin. I found the Dolphin rooms very small for 3 of us and think a family of 5, esp with teens - the Dolphin may be tight. However, I do think the Dolphin has more options for you like the Boardwalk, better pools, restaurants etc...

Honestly though, have you thought about doing the dining plan with 5 in your room, esp older kids. It would save you a ton of money for sure. I would definately do CR then - plus better transportation.

 

[PamNC]

We've stayed at both and although I would like to say I would choose the Contemporary, that is not the case. It does have THE PRIME SPOT...meaning the location to the MK is fabulous. And, you've got the monorail. But, the Dolphin location isn't shabby - you can walk or take a boat to Epcot and MGM. The rooms at the Dolphin are much nicer than the CR. The Heavely beds are just that...heavenly. There is so much to do at the Epcot Resort area, which sounds like that would be good for your husband since he's not a park commando. The CR is being renovated, which is a good thing. It really needs it. I would stay there again but only after the renovations are complete and it would have to be a very good rate.

The Dolphin is a wonderful resort - great pool, restaurants, the service is just as "Disney" as the Disney-owned resorts. We stayed at the swan last year and we're going back to try the Dolphin this year.

PamNC

 

[DisneyJen0504]

I think based on what your criteria is it could go either way but maybe Dolphin would be a better choice for your hubby to venture out?

 

[tlynk]

Thank you so much! Lots of good info on both resorts!

 

[luvdmouse]

I'm having the same debate. My family consists of 3 kids, ages 6 and 9. If we stay in a garden room at the CR, we can get the Dining package as well as the Magic Express. We can also make our dining reservations in one mighty swoop. I know Dolphin is a way better location. I'm just waiting to see if Dolphin comes up with any discounts. That would make my decision much easier.