Swan or Dolphin?

[Jostuandme]

I'm not sure of any big differences between the two. We are going to FWF in September and I’m trying to decide where to stay.

 

[Deb & Bill]

Unless it has changed in the last few years, Swan had queen beds, Dolphin had double beds. Swan is a bit smaller.

 

[Babsy]

The Swan has the first pick up and drop off for buses. The Swan has 2 queen beds and a nicer bathroom area, IMO. The Swan has a smaller footprint so that rooms are never very far away from the elevator, lobby, restaurants, etc. The Swan is closer to the Boardwalk (just walk across the bridge and you are there).

The Dolphin has a much larger lobby with more amenities than the Swan. There are restaurants at both hotels, but we prefer the ones at the Dolphin. The Dolphin has rooms that are a bookable category to watch the Epcot fireworks. The Dolphin has a great guest laundry downstairs. The Dolphin has Picabou (cafeteria style quick service and some grab and go items).

Overall, while there are different advantages to both, I just book whichever has availability or a lower price.

Both are great resorts!

 

[maxiesmom]

I prefer the Swan. It is much easier to get around in. I found myself getting confused at the Dolphin-- there are many different elevators and some go here some go there. The Swan is easier to navigate. Plus the Swan has larger bathrooms.

 

[snappy]

Stayed at both but I prefer the Dolphin. Have enjoyed better views and better service at the Dolphin. But I like both a lot. Both have renovated rooms and an excellent location. I have used the AAA discounts at restaurants and loved renting a car with Alamo at the Dolphin in October. Staying with SPG points with gold stays on points or points and cash has been wonderful. Not sure about what will happen in the future.

 

[Jostuandme]

Thank you for the replies! Very helpful

 

[a1tinkfans]

Thx for asking and getting all this great feedback. Food for thought. Enjoy wherever you choose OP.

 

[SteveH]

@Jostuandme I'd invite you to join the Walt Disney World SWAN & DOLPHIN RESORTS Information & Questions thread, a lot of great people that can help out as well as some good info. If you start off with the first couple pages you'll have a good base of information, then jump to the end and work your way towards the front would be my suggestion.
https://www.disboards.com/threads/w...olphin-resorts-information-questions.3264274/

Our family has stayed at both Swan and Dolphin, and I'd say we prefer the Swan due to the bed size and room layout. Last January we had a corner room so lots of windows and light, had a view of the water way between Swan and the backside of Boardwalk and really enjoyed it. If you get a good rate it's hard to beat the Deluxe atmosphere at the Moderate price. Do be aware that the S/D is a conference hotel, the positive of this is that you don't have as many people on the buses, but at night the lounge can be packed.

We really enjoy the boat service to DHS & Epcot, or you can easily walk to either as well and we've never had an issue with bus service to MK or AK.

 

[patty57]

The Swan has the first pick up and drop off for buses. The Swan has 2 queen beds and a nicer bathroom area, IMO. The Swan has a smaller footprint so that rooms are never very far away from the elevator, lobby, restaurants, etc. The Swan is closer to the Boardwalk (just walk across the bridge and you are there).

The Dolphin has a much larger lobby with more amenities than the Swan. There are restaurants at both hotels, but we prefer the ones at the Dolphin. The Dolphin has rooms that are a bookable category to watch the Epcot fireworks. The Dolphin has a great guest laundry downstairs. The Dolphin has Picabou (cafeteria style quick service and some grab and go items).

Overall, while there are different advantages to both, I just book whichever has availability or a lower price.

Both are great resorts!

I do the same. I prefer the Swan, but happy to stay at either, and definitely prefer whichever has the better price at the time I want to travel.