Walt Disney World Swan Deluxe Resort
Walt Disney World Swan, Dolphin and Swan Reserve are the few hotel resorts that actually have immediate proximity to two Disney theme parks without actually being owned by Disney. There are some definite perks to choosing to stay at one of these resorts. To see if the Disney World Swan Resort is right for you and your family, keep reading!
Overview | Rooms | Perks & Amenties |
Dining | Shopping | Transportation | Tips
Overview
The Walt Disney World Swan and its sister resort, the Walt Disney World Dolphin, are part of the Epcot area. While the Swan is located on Disney property, it is not operated by The Disney Company. The Swan is a premiere Westin resort.
Contact Information
1500 Epcot Resorts Boulevard
Lake Buena Vista FL 32830-2653
(407) 934-3000
Resort Theming
The Swan is a coral and peach colored resort with giant aqua waves adorning the exterior. The hotel itself is an impressive sight and can actually be seen from Epcot’s World Showcase. A 12-story main building and two 7-story wings hold the 758 guest rooms. When you approach the hotel, look up on the roof. The two swans that you’ll see are 46 feet high and 56,000 pounds each. The resort was originally designed by Michael Graves.
There are other deluxe resorts nestled in the Crescent Lake area. The Boardwalk Inn and Villas are a short walk away. The Yacht and Beach Clubs blend in beautifully, and the theme fits perfectly with the three resorts around the lake.
The Swan’s proximity to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios make it an outstanding choice for a stay in WDW. The BoardWalk’s entertainment complex is practically in your backyard, just in case the urge to dance or listen to dueling pianos suddenly hits you. Fantasia Gardens, a miniature golf complex, is just a short walk across the street.
In addition, the dining options are nearly endless! The Swan and Dolphin share 17 restaurants and lounges between them. There are also all of the eateries at the nearby BoardWalk and Yacht and Beach Clubs. Finally, Epcot’s fabulous restaurants are just a stroll away. All in all, there are more than 40 restaurants within walking distance.
Another advantage to consider may be the price. The Swan and Dolphin give you most of the perks of staying on Disney property, yet they often have lower rates and more specials than the neighboring Disney resorts.
Room Information
Recently, the Swan underwent a major glow-up, which was part of a $275 million renovation and expansion project that includes not only swanky new rooms but also upgrades to the meeting spaces at both the Swan and Dolphin.
The newly redesigned rooms are created with a sleek and modern design which includes new white-oak luxury tile flooring adorned with a rich-hand tufted rug for a touch of cozy sophistication.
Crisp white walls paired with a serene blue accent wall create a calm, peaceful vibe, while the bed — with its sleek wooden headboard, white upholstery, and elevated base — adds both style and extra storage.
The soft blue sleeper sofa is perfect for crashing after a long park day, and the bold orange leatherette desk chair adds a burst of energy to the space.
The new nautical-themed artwork featured throughout the room transports guests to a serene coastal escape, perfect for unwinding after a day of park-hopping or attending a conference just steps away at the Dolphin’s newly expanded 120,000-square-foot event space.
About these new renovations, Area General Manager Sean Verney stated, “Our goal is always to exceed expectations, and with these enhancements, every stay will offer an extra touch of comfort and escape.”
RESERVATION INFORMATION
Reservations at the Swan can be made in several ways. To inquire about ALL EARS® Reader Rates, call 1-888-828-8850.
Reservations can be made online at swandolphin.com, disneyworld.disney.go.com, or starwoodhotels.com.
You can call Disney Central Reservations, Westin, or the Swan directly. The Westin reservations number is (800)228-3000, and the Swan is (800)248-SWAN (7926). For suite,s you must call the Swan directly at (800)-227-1500.
ROOM TYPES
The Swan has four types of rooms and several types of suites, with a variety of views:
Traditional Room – 340 square feet, with two queen beds or one king-size bed and a sleeper sofa. Connecting rooms are available. According to the Swan website, these rooms have “no views”. Standard accessible rooms and those with accessible showers are available.
Resort View Room – also 340 square feet, with the same amenities as the Traditional Room, but with a variety of views. Starting with the least expensive, the Courtyard View overlooks the resort’s interior garden and sitting area, and/or has partial views of the resort’s landscape. The pricier Disney Resort View offers views of the wooded landscape plus partial views of the Boardwalk Resort area or the Hollywood Studios Tower of Terror. The Crescent Lake View rooms are the most expensive in this class and are said to have “breathtaking vistas” of the lake.
Grand Deluxe Room – 340 square feet, has the same amenities and view choices as the Resort View room, but includes a private balcony, with a table and two chairs.
Deluxe Family Room – 500 square feet, L-shaped and located in the corners of the building, providing a variety of views depending on location.
While all the rooms include a coffee maker, mini-fridge, sleeper sofa, desk with a chair, only the Deluxe Family room has a dining table for four.
The Swan also has four types of suites that can be booked by calling 1-800-227-1500.
The Grand Suite has a 680 square foot parlor, with a capacity of 50 to 75 people. It includes a wet bar and conference table for ten. The parlor connects to both one and two bedroom guest rooms and can be rented in a variety of configurations. Secondary guest rooms can be booked.
The Executive Suite has a 600 square foot parlor with distinct living and sleeping areas. It includes a conference table for six and a sleeper sofa. Connecting rooms are available. This suite can be rented as part of a one or two bedroom suite.
The Governor’s Suite has a 680 square foot parlor as well as an adjacent bedroom with a private sitting area. Its upscale furnishings include a conference table for six, a wet bar, two lounge chairs and floor lamps. Also included are balconies overlooking Crescent Lake.
There are four Presidential Suites, each with a 1000 square foot parlor, that has an entertainment center with a 55″ LCD TV, plenty of seating, a grand piano, an extra full bath, a full kitchen with a wet bar, and a conference table for eight. An optional secondary guest room is available. The two suites located on the uppermost floor offer balconies with dramatic views of Crescent Lake.
ROOM FEATURES
All rooms have a 49″ flat panel TV, Wi-Fi/high-speed internet access, an in-room safe, small refrigerator, single serve coffee maker (with coffee), and individual climate control. The rooms feature all-new upgraded furniture, including a glass-topped desk on wheels; this gives guests flexible table space that can be used wherever it is needed. The centerpiece of the room is the famous Heavenly Bed, with its all-white, custom-designed, pillow-top mattress, down blanket, crisp sheets and over-stuffed pillows.
The bathroom has also been renovated. It features a Heavenly Bath that includes an overhead rain experience, and a handheld Heavenly Shower. Hair dryers and make-up mirrors are provided, along with residential style vanities, and backlit mirrors.
RESORT FEES
There is a mandatory resort services package. The cost is $50 per day plus tax and includes the following:
- In-room wireless internet
- Loyalty Program guests receive enhanced speed in-room wireless internet
- Loyalty Program Silver Status and above guests receive a Daily Pass to Mandara Spa for use of changing rooms and Spa Relaxation areas
- Swan Paddleboat rentals.
- Live instructor-led fitness classes.
PARKING
Self-park: The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin resorts charge for self-parking as well as valet parking. Parking starts at $36 per day
Valet parking: Simply drive your vehicle to the front of the resort and a Cast Member will park it for you. Valet parking is $44 per car for the day (plus tax), even if you are staying at the Swan. Don’t forget to tip the valet (both the one who takes your car and the one who brings it back to you – $1 to $2 is recommended). When you need to retrieve your vehicle, simply give the valet the slip of paper you were given when the car was parked, and your car will be delivered to the front of the hotel. To speed the process, when you are ready to get your car, call the valet stand from your room and ask for your car to be brought around.
Expect delays and congestion at the Swan Valet area off and on throughout the day and evening, especially when a convention is at the hotel.
Note: If you are not staying at the Swan and Dolphin, the rates are the same PER EACH EXIT as opposed to per day.
DINERS: If you are dining at the Walt Disney World Swan or Dolphin signature restaurants, ask the hostess to validate your parking ticket so that it is free. This would include Il Mulino, Kimonos (at the Swan), Shula’s Steak House, and bluezoo (at the Dolphin). Be sure to let the valet know when you drop off your car.
DISCOUNTS
The resort itself will sometimes offer room specials and packages.
The following programs sometimes offer special rates: Members of the Starwood Preferred Guest program, AAA, Senior and AARP. Read carefully as some of the lowest rates do not offer any refund for canceling.
For other discounts on food and beverages visit http://allears.net/pl/discounts.htm.
Perks & Amenities
CHILD CARE
Camp Dolphin is available to children ages 5-12 from 4PM to 11PM. It includes nightly themed activities, video and arcade games, arts and crafts, and Disney movies. Reservations are required, and cancellation less than 2 hours prior will result in a full charge. The programs are staffed by counselors. Camp Dolphin is located in the Dolphin hotel on the first floor next to the Health Studio.
NOTE: If you dine in a signature restaurant (excluding Kimonos), or purchase a 75-minute or longer spa treatment at Mandara Spa, you can receive two complimentary hours in Camp Dolphin for your child. Ask for details when making your reservation.
Visit our Childcare FAQ for more info, as well as info on private baby-sitting services.
REFILLABLE MUGS
The Swan and Dolphin share a refillable mug program similar to the Disney Rapid Fill Mugs. The mugs are sold at Picabu on the lower level of the Dolphin. You are then entitled to free refills of soft drinks, iced tea and lemonade during your stay. Refills are available at Picabu, Cabana, The Fountain, Garden Grove and Fresh Mediterranean Market.
DISNEY DELUXE RESORT PERKS
Guests at the Swan enjoy many of the same amenities as Disney-operated resort guests. A stay at the Swan includes access to Lightning Lanes 60 days in advance, WDW transportation to all Disney attractions, free parking at the theme parks, guaranteed park admission, package delivery to your hotel from the parks, same day dining reservations, preferred tee times, access to theme park Early Theme Park Entry, on-site character dining, and access to guest services. Disney theme park tickets can also be purchased at the Swan by Swan guests.
ACTIVITIES/RECREATION
The Swan and Dolphin have plenty of swimming available, including two lap pools, a spring pool, a site for “quiet conversation”, a kiddie pool and four whirlpools. One lap pool is located near the Dolphin, and the other is located near the Swan. Both have hot tubs, away from the liveliness of the tropical “Grotto”. The Grotto is a 3-acre water playground complete with waterfalls, slides, water volleyball, and hot tubs. Tropical foliage surrounds the Grotto area, and the white sand beach nearby makes it a perfect place to relax or have fun. The kiddy pool is near the Grotto for the little ones. Pool toys are available for rent. The pools are open daily 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.; the water slide is open daily 10 a.m. – 7 p.m., but all of these times may vary seasonally. Towels are provided poolside or are available at the health clubs.
There is a beautiful white sand beach with Swan watercraft rentals.
There are 4 tennis courts and a basketball court that are kept lighted throughout the night, for those that still have energy left over after a day at the parks. Volleyball is available either on the sand, or in the water at the Grotto.
There is a large play area for children, located near the Grotto, which has a spraying Seal fountain.
A jogging and walking path winds around the Swan and Dolphin. Add to that, the walkway around Crescent Lake (near the Yacht & Beach Clubs and BoardWalk), and/or the path to the Disney’s Hollywood Studios and you’ll have quite an extensive walk or jog. The path around the Swan is pretty with all of the vegetation and small wildlife. You can get a jogging map online, or at either of the health clubs.
NOTE: There’s now a runSwanDolphin program at the hotels. If you call the “runConcierge,” they will arrange an appointment for you to tour the running trails. In addition, if you forget your gear, you can take advantage of the hotel’s gear-lending program for $5 to keep up with your routine.
There are two health clubs servicing the complex – one at the Dolphin and one at the Swan. Both are open 24 hours a day, and are staffed from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. Complete locker room facilities are also provided.
The Mandara Spa is a 10,500-square-foot Balinese-inspired retreat. There are 13 treatment rooms, two couples suites, a steam room, Tea Garden and Meditation Garden. Guests who purchase a spa service are eligible for two hours of complimentary child care at Camp Dolphin (see above).
There is a game room at the Dolphin, where adults and kids can enjoy a selection of video games, air hockey, pinball and more.
Fantasia Gardens is a 5-minute walk away. This miniature golf adventure opened spring of 1996 and includes two 18 hole courses. There is something for everyone–fun and Disney magic on the Fantasia Gardens course, and a more challenging game on Fantasia Fairways.
Also, don’t forget to explore activities offered at the nearby BoardWalk and Yacht & Beach Clubs.
Shopping
Disney Cabanas – An entertaining Disney store with merchandise from the Walt Disney World Resort, as well as sundries. Located at the Swan.
Disney Gift Shop – An entertaining Disney store with merchandise from the Walt Disney World Resort, as well as sundries. Located at the Dolphin.
Resort Essentials – A contemporary boutique offering resort wear, swimwear, accessories, souvenirs and unique gifts from brands such as OluKai, Bugatchi, Vera Bradley, and many more. Located in the lobby of the Walt Disney World Dolphin.
Cabana Beach Hut – A convenient poolside kiosk, providing all of the essentials for a day of sun-drenched fun. Located in between the Dolphin lap pool and the Grotto Pool.
Mandara Spa – Take a little piece of heaven home with professional spa products from European skin and hair care brands: Elemis, La Therapie, Ionithermie and Steiner. Located at the Dolphin.
Picabu – The convenience store is stocked with food items and sundries. Located at the Dolphin.
Dining
Dining options at the Swan/Dolphin are endless. Epcot and all of its restaurants are just a stroll away, as are all of the eateries at the Boardwalk and the Yacht and Beach Clubs. There is something for everyone at the Swan and Dolphin restaurants. If you have special dietary needs; please check with the restaurant staff upon arrival so that your stay can be made more comfortable. All hotel restaurants have children’s menus except Shula’s Steak House.
SIGNATURE DINING
Shula’s Steak House – an elegant steakhouse decorated in heavy dark woods. Shula’s Lounge has a cozy atmosphere with leather chairs and plenty of sports channels. Located on the lobby level, call 407-934-1362 for reservations. Shula’s serves dinner only. Complimentary valet parking is included, as are two hours of complimentary child care at Camp Dolphin (see above). (Dolphin)
Todd English’s bluezoo features fresh seafood with coastal cuisines from around the world. Open for dinner. For reservations call 407-934-1111. The lounge is open at 3:30 p.m., and the restaurant opens at 5 pm. Complimentary valet parking is included, as are two hours of complimentary child care at Camp Dolphin (see above). (Dolphin)
Il Mulino New York Trattoria, features Italian cuisine in a chic contemporary setting. The lounge is open at 3:30 p.m., and the restaurant opens at 5 p.m. For reservations call 407-934-1199. Live entertainment is featured on Friday and Saturday evening. Complimentary valet parking is included, as are two hours of complimentary child care at Camp Dolphin (see above). (Swan)
Kimonos offers Asian specialties and sushi. You can watch the sushi chefs prepare the food, relax and have a drink while you wait for your meal. Kimonos is only open during the dinner hours. Karaoke is also available nightly at Kimonos’ lounge, after 9:30 p.m. For reservations call 407-934-1609. Complimentary valet parking is included. (Swan)
Rosa Mexicano offers a fresh take on authentic Mexican cuisine, serving both beloved classics and sophisticated dishes in a stylish and festive atmosphere. With every dish, we honor Mexican heritage, as well as the culinary techniques, global explorations, and inspirations of our founding chef, Josefina Howard. The menu features award-winning margaritas, including the Rosa Mexicano signature frozen pomegranate – named the Best in New York City.
Amare features an extensive Mediterranean-based wine list featuring several specialized wine flights with selections from across the region. The restaurant is open for three meals a day.
As noted above, complimentary valet parking is offered if you dine at one of the above restaurants. Also offered is the Dining Passport mentioned above under discounts.
CASUAL DINING
The Fountain – ice cream, shakes, salads, sandwiches, and burgers make up the menu. The Fountain is open for lunch and dinner and is located on the lower level. (Dolphin)
The Cabana Bar & Beach Club is located near the Dolphin lap pool and is a casual eatery. Burgers, flat breads, cocktails, and salads are the standard fare here. The Cabana is open seasonally for lunch and dinner (Dolphin)
Garden Grove Cafe serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily in a garden gazebo setting. There is Disney Character dining nightly 5-9:30 p.m. and at breakfast 6:30-11:30 a.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. The Garden Grove Cafe serves an a la carte menu during the day, and a buffet at dinner. There is a special Seafood Buffet on Friday and Saturday nights. (Swan)
Splash Terrace is an outdoor restaurant located near the Swan pool. Splash Terrace serves sandwiches, pizza, and ice cream, and offers a full service bar. It is open for lunch, dinner and snacks. Note that orders can be placed online at SplashToGo.com.(Swan)
Tangerine offers signature drinks poolside along with casual fare including flatbreads, salads, burgers and sandwiches! (Swan Reserve))
Quick Service Dining:
Fuel is a quick service cafe and market offering coffee, sandwiches and snacks, open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. (Dolphin)
Java Bar serves a variety of coffee drinks, including espresso and cappuccino, along with fresh pastries. Open 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Monday to Saturday, and 6:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Sunday. (Swan)
Phins is a contemporary lounge where guests can enjoy sipping on custom-crafted cocktails, wine, or Phins and Feathers beer, all under the sophisticated ambiance of a spectacular custom-made crystal chandelier. Phins also serves light bites. (Dolphin)
Chill a casual lounge with a refreshing selection of beer, wine, and unique frozen libations. Some of the offerings include a Cold Fashioned, Mango Margarita and a Paloma, which contains a blend of Herradura Silver Tequila and fresh grapefruit juice. Family-friendly options are available, as well as sodas, snacks, chips, and cookies. (Swan)
Room Service is available 24 hours a day. Breakfast, all-day dining, and light night menus are available.
Transportation
BUSSES
Swan guests enjoy full use of all of the WDW transportation services. Buses run directly from the front of the hotel to Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Disney Springs, Typhoon Lagoon, and Blizzard Beach. Some of the buses service only the Swan and Dolphin resorts; others service the Boardwalk and Yacht and Beach Clubs as well.
BOATS
The boat launch is found in the courtyard between the Swan and Dolphin. Both Hollywood Studios and Epcot can be reached by catching a Friendship Launch (boat) from the courtyard between the Swan and Dolphin. The Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios launches are shared with the Yacht & Beach Clubs and the BoardWalk. If you miss the launch to Epcot, you can easily walk over and catch it at the BoardWalk or the Yacht Club. Boats leaving Epcot bound for Hollywood Studios make their stops in this order: Epcot, BoardWalk, Yacht & Beach Club, Swan & Dolphin, Studios.
WALKWAYS
Disney’s Hollywood Studios can be reached one of two ways; via the Studios Friendship launch or by walking. The walking path begins directly behind the BoardWalk’s Atlantic Dance Hall and continues to Disney’s Hollywood Studios Parking lot. It takes 10-15 minutes.
EPCOT can be reached by taking a short stroll across the bridge to the BoardWalk and to Epcot’s International Gateway and World Showcase. The walk is a pleasant one and takes about 10 minutes.
Tips & Other Information
The Swan/Dolphin has an app available for download, which allows you to learn all about both hotels on your mobile device, (available on iOS for iPhone and iPad, and also for Android).
The website has a welcome link, (http://swandolphin.com/welcome/ ) which the hotel lists as a Welcome App. It is designed to help you with your check-in and stay, and includes park hours, activities, hotel maps and more.
The Swan hosts many conventions and also tends to be popular with foreign tour groups. When you make reservations you might check with the reservations agent to see if this is the case, if this might affect your stay.
