Swan or Dolphin? & room size compared to Disney resorts

[hartford]

We booked the Swan but many posts seem to prefer the Dolphin

1)Should we switch?

2)We don't want to spend too much on food, have three daughters who like to Swim so we want to be close to the main pool We will be there three nights but only going into the parks one day on a park hopper Will have a lot of time to explore the boardwalk, use the pool etc. Will one location be better? And any suggestions on how to spend are free time? , where to eat? arriving about 1:00 on first day, going into parks 2nd day, third day free to use pool, explore etc (long drive home the next day)

3) We have been to Disney many times but never stayed in this area (have stayed at All stars, Carribean Beach, Dixie Landings, Coronado Springs, Polynesian) How do the room sizes compare? Are rooms same size at both Swan and Dolphin? We chose Swan for queen size beds but is there more room to walk around in one hotel over the other? Will have 5 people in the room. If anyone knows actual SQ Ft that would help too

 

[tortoni]

We have stayed at the Swan, Dolphin, DIxie and Poly. You will find that the Swan/Dolphin rooms are about the same size, with the beds about the same size in each. As compared to Dixie, Poly, Swan and Dolphin rooms are larger, but not quite as large as the Poly. We fit 5 just fine. I would recommend the Dolphin over the Swan. It is closer to the main pool, has more going on in the lobby and has the Tubby Buffeteria for quick snacks in the lower level. We also had a great view of the Epcot fireworks from our room. In terms of things to do around the Boardwalk, we always have fun strolling by the Boardwalk in the evening-there are usually some entertainers. Our kids like the surrey bikes by the Boardwalk. Don't miss Beaches and Cream in the Beach Club for informal burgers and ice cream in a wonderful setting. We always stay in this area for convenience, nice hotels and fun. Enjoy!

 

[Blondie]

It's my understanding that between the S/D, only the Dolphin will allow 5 in a room. Can someone clarify?

 

[Blondie]

Oops, forgot to add something!

When it's me, my DH and our two teen boys, I prefer the Dolphin. It has more of the conveniences we're looking for when all 4 of us go.

When it's just DH and myself, the Swan! It's smaller and more refined.