Has anyone stayed at either the Swan or Dolphin?

[Motherofcats8]

Having stayed on Disney Property in Disney owned resorts exclusively for the past 12 years of Disney vacations, we are thinking of trying either the Swan or the Dolphin on our next trip. I noticed that at times, with certain specials, the prices are no more expensive then the moderates, but with more amenities, not to mention those "Heavenly Beds" and Down comforters. I would love to get some opinions from those who have stayed there and how it compares to a Disney owned resort. Our last stay was at POFQ and it wasn't up to some of our other stays... ie: air condition wasn't working.. we were told it was on a energy conserving program, but as it turned out, after having had maintainence come twice... once in the middle of the night, it had frozen up due to a clogged air filter. Also, the pillows were extremely hard, the sheets rough and the lack of a comforter, when the air was fixed (we like it cold), didn't really set us up for a relaxing time. We are somewhat priced out of the Deluxe resorts... so looking for somewhere where we are close to the parks, can take advantage of Extra Magic Hours, resort package delivery and bus transportation. We also like that we are in walking distance to Epcot, the Studios, Jellyrolls and our favorite place to eat dinner.... Cape May Cafe. The pool looks nice, as do the restaurants..... please weigh in with your opinions.

 

[Spanky]

About 10 years ago we stayed at the Swan. I choose it over the dolphin because at that time the dolphin had double beds in the room and the Swan had queen size beds . The location is great. I think it is an upgrade from the moderates. You do have to pay for parking. Do you qualify for any of their discounts?

 

[Motherofcats8]

Florida resident or some of their seasonal discounts. Unfortunately, I no longer teach or practice nursing, so I can't get those.
My brother would qualify for the Military discount if his family comes down to stay.

 

[Spanky]

If your brother is coming I would recommend him getting rooms for everyone at Shades of Green. It will cost less & be about the same size room.

 

[Motherofcats8]

Thanks, I had thought of that, as well. I know the waiting list for that resort can be miles long, and he doesn't always have time to actually plan things in advance. I will remind him, though!

 

[100AcreWood]

I have stayed at both. I didn't prefer one over the other. I thought they were both great. Loved the easy access to EPCOT!

 

[Motherofcats8]

I have stayed at both. I didn't prefer one over the other. I thought they were both great. Loved the easy access to EPCOT!

 

[jfeasel]

We stayed at the Dolphin last July and liked the access by boat to Hollywood Studios and EPCOT (you could also walk). Pool area was great. Room was just like a regular hotel room but we weren't in it that long. Location is great, hotel clean, food pricey.

 

[GrnMtnMan]

I've stayed in both. I voted for The Swan, because I like that its a little smaller. Not as many people around and not as many 'wings' as the Dolphin. Plus, its a little shorter walk to the Boardwalk food and fun.

Being smaller has its downside, such as the causal dining options being over at the Dolphin.

And somebody correct me if I'm wrong, but I believe at SOG you use SOG transport to the TTC, but the Swan/Dolphin are part of the Disney bus system.