Walt Disney World Dolphin Resort

"What are your first impressions of this resort?The exterior of the Swan and Dolphin Resort has a retro vibe, but that all washes away once you enter the airy, vaulted lobby and see the light dancing off the thousands of crystals hanging over the fountain in the center of the room. Wow. So what's the story behind this place?The Swan and Dolphin Resort contains two separate hotels operated by Marriott; the Swan is part of the Westin brand, while the much larger Dolphin is part of the Sheraton brand. The resort was built in the late 1980s under the direction of former Disney CEO Michael Eisner and designed by architect Michael Graves in his postmodern style. While the exterior retains Graves’ original design, the interiors were recently completely remodeled. Speaking of interiors—what can we expect from the accommodations?Our room at the Dolphin was spacious with plush bedding and Westin's signature Heavenly Bed. The bathroom was bright, with a backlit mirror and glass tilework. Rooms are also fitted with a smart TV that lets you log in to Netflix or cast video streaming from your phone. What's the F&B situation?There are 17 restaurants and lounges, including four signature restaurants. Start your day at Fresh, which serves waffles and fresh-pressed juice, and wind down at Todd English’s Bluezoo. Our favorite simple luxury, though, is the self-service frozen yogurt bar at Fuel, the grab-and-go market off the lobby in the Dolphin. Anything else we should know before booking a stay?The Swan and Dolphin Resort offers its guests many of the same perks as Disney’s official resort hotels, and is just as close to the theme parks. In addition to receiving advance FastPass+ booking and Extra Magic Hours in the theme parks, guests can use Disney’s complimentary park transportation, including boat service to Epcot and Hollywood Studios. But the parks are so close that you could also walk. So why would you recommend this one?Rooms here are often hundreds less per night than those at neighboring Disney resorts, with comparable theme park benefits." - Valerie Marino

"Starwood’s Swan & Dolphin resorts offer all the convenience of a Disney World resort without the over-the-top mouse branding. Designed by iconic architect Michael Graves, the tropical-themed pair is linked by a lagoon and falls within walking distance (or boat or shuttle ride) of Epcot and Hollywood Studios. While room rates here are lower than at some of the Disney-managed resorts, there’s an additional $28 daily fee that covers WiFi, phone calls, access to the gym and pool activities, plus fun extras like a s’mores kit for use around the campfire. Guest rooms are bright and contemporary, with cool colors and geometric artwork; families can book L-shaped rooms, which provide additional space and a sleeper sofa. Multiple lap pools and whirlpools are a bonus to the main grotto pool and white-sand beach, and more than a dozen restaurants are on property, including a Todd English seafood restaurant, Shula’s Steak House, and a casual Mediterranean market serving lighter fare. While restaurants here are not covered by the Disney Dining Plan, there is a loyalty dining program."

"The Swan and Dolphin Resort contains two separate hotels operated by Marriott; the Swan is part of the Westin brand, while the much larger Dolphin is part of the Sheraton brand. And though the resort isn't actually on-site, it's about as close as you can get. The resort houses 17 restaurants and lounges, including four signature restaurants. Start your day at Fresh for Mickey, which serves waffles and fresh-pressed juice, and wind down at Todd English’s Bluezoo." - Valerie Marino

"The Swan and Dolphin Resort contains two separate hotels operated by Marriott; the Swan is part of the Westin brand, while the much larger Dolphin is part of the Sheraton brand. And though the resort isn't actually onsite, it's about as close as you can get—plus, there are plenty of perks. Guests receive advance FastPass+ booking and Extra Magic Hours in the theme parks, and can use Disney’s complimentary park transportation, including boat service to Epcot and Hollywood Studios. The parks are so close that you could also walk. The resort houses 17 restaurants and lounges, including four signature restaurants. Start your day at Fresh for Mickey, which serves waffles and fresh-pressed juice, and wind down at Todd English’s Bluezoo." - Valerie Marino