Driving Between POR and Dolphin - How easy?

[RedsRock]

I am bringing the family down for the kids 1st WDW trip (ages 4 and 4mo) during a conference in October at the Doplhin.

We have a reservation at Port Orleans-Riverside, which I think may be the best resort for the kids at their ages (easy access to kiddie pools and playground for my wife while I am at conference).

I would like to make my way back to the POR from the conference during lunch (I get two hours - hoping to eat in the food court and take DS swimming). How long does it take to get from POR to Dolphin. Also, what is the parking situation? Do I get to park at the Dolphin for free as a resort guest? Are spaces easy to come by?

I could stay at the Dolphin for about $30 more per night. Should we just stay there (not sure about the kid-friendliness).

Lots of questions, I know, thanks in advance!!

 

[DVC~OKW~96]

The Dolphin has a wonderful pool (grotto pool) and many attractions within walking distance (EPCOT, MGM Studios, the boardwalk, miniature golf...). It seems like it would be much easier on all of you to have your family at the Dolphin! Many families stay at this resort.

The distance between the two resorts is not far. Roughly a ten minute or so drive, depending on traffic, of course.

POR-R is a lovely resort as well. It really depends upon how much running about you want to do.

 

[Blondie]

Personally, I'd keep everyone in one locale and stay at the Dolphin.

There is enough there for your family to do while you are attending your conference, plus they can also walk around the Boardwalk while you are busy.

This way, there's no running from one resort to the other, you can easily meet up somewhere, or in the room!

The Grotto Pool was voted the most "lush and exotic" by Disney Magazine. It's a huge area w/a baby pool, spring pool, several lap pools and a water slide.

There's also a playground and a nice white sandy beach area along Crescent Lake.

 

[DancingBear]

Just in case you don't/can't relocate, it is just a 5-10 minute drive between Dolphin and POR, not difficult at all. Parking at Dolphin is sometimes tight due to the conventions but there are almost always spaces available at either the Swan or Dolphin. You should be able to park at the Dolphin for free since you are attending a conference there.

 

[luvdisney14]

We stayed at Dolphin when my 3 boys were very young because
my husband attended a convention there. The staff was very
friendly to my young children. They also loved the pool area. We just returned from POR, it was very nice but the dolphin was much
nicer. POR does have the food court which is convenient for a family, that's what I miss when staying at a deluxe hotel. Driving would not be a problem because they are close, the only thing parking lot distance to resorts it quite a walk. Good Luck with your decision.

 

[RedsRock]

Thanks to all for the great info. We have decided to stay at the Dolphin!