If you are planning a Disney World vacation, you may have come across the Disney Swan and Dolphin resort. But is it really a Disney resort? The answer is not straightforward, as there are some factors to consider.
Location
Firstly, the Disney Swan and Dolphin Resort is located on Walt Disney World property, which gives it a certain level of affiliation with Disney. It is situated in the Epcot resort area and is accessible via complimentary transportation to all four theme parks, as well as Disney Springs.
Ownership
However, the ownership of the hotel is not entirely controlled by Disney. The Swan and Dolphin are owned by Marriott International’s Sheraton brand and Westin brand respectively. This means that the resorts are not officially part of the Walt Disney World Resort chain.
Disney Benefits
Despite not being an official Disney resort, guests staying at the Swan and Dolphin still receive some benefits typically associated with staying on-site at a Walt Disney World resort. These include early access to FastPass+ reservations, complimentary transportation around the property, and Extra Magic Hours at select parks.
Differences from Official Resorts
It’s worth noting that there are some differences between staying at the Swan and Dolphin versus an official Walt Disney World resort. For example, guests do not receive MagicBands upon check-in like they would at other resorts. Instead, they receive a physical room key which serves as their park ticket for entry into the theme parks.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the Disney Swan and Dolphin Resort may not be an official Walt Disney World Resort property in terms of ownership, its location on property and associated benefits make it a popular choice for many visitors to Orlando. Ultimately, whether or not you consider it a “Disney” resort comes down to personal opinion – but one thing’s for sure: it’s a great option for those looking for a luxurious stay in the heart of the magic.