Is the Dolphin a Disney Resort?

By Robert Palmer

Are you planning a vacation to Disney World and wondering if the Dolphin is a Disney resort? The answer is yes, the Dolphin is indeed a Disney resort, but it’s not owned by Disney.

What is the Dolphin?

The Dolphin is a hotel located within the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida. It’s part of the Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide chain and managed by Marriott International. The hotel opened in 1989 and has since become a popular destination for travelers looking for a luxurious stay close to all the attractions of Disney World.

What Makes the Dolphin a Disney Resort?

While the Dolphin is not owned by Disney, it’s still considered a Disney resort due to its location and association with Walt Disney World. The hotel sits on property owned by Disney, and guests have access to many of the same perks as guests staying at other official Disney resorts.

Location

The Dolphin is situated right in between two of Disney World’s theme parks – Epcot and Hollywood Studios. This prime location makes it easy for guests to visit these parks without having to travel far.

Disney Transportation

Guests staying at the Dolphin have access to complimentary transportation throughout Walt Disney World. This includes buses, boats, and even the famous monorail system that connects Magic Kingdom to several other resorts.

Disney Benefits

Guests staying at the Dolphin also enjoy many of the same benefits as those staying at official Disney resorts. These include:

  • Extra Magic Hours – access to select theme parks before or after regular hours
  • FastPass+ – reserve ride times for popular attractions up to 60 days in advance
  • Dining Plan – option to purchase a dining plan with meals included
  • MagicBands – wristbands that act as room keys, park tickets, and more

Conclusion

In summary, the Dolphin is a Disney resort located within the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida. While it’s not owned by Disney, guests still enjoy many of the same perks and benefits as those staying at official Disney resorts. So if you’re looking for a luxurious stay close to all the magic of Disney World, the Dolphin is definitely worth considering.