Disney Swan, Dolphin or Reserve?

Question

Hello all,

I have enough points accumulated for a couple of rooms to bring my family.

It would be grandparents, parents and two young children.

Which of these three hotels would you suggest?

Thank you

Answer

Choosing between the Disney Swan, Dolphin, or Reserve can depend on what type of experience you're looking for, as each property has its unique qualities. Here's a breakdown to help guide your decision:

Disney Swan Resort – This is a beautiful, family-friendly resort that tends to offer a more relaxed atmosphere with easy access to Disney's theme parks. The Swan has a more elegant, upscale feel, with recently renovated rooms and a great location close to EPCOT and Disney's Hollywood Studios. It’s also quieter compared to the other two, which might be ideal if you’re looking for a more peaceful stay while still being close to the action. The Swan is ideal for families who want to be close to the parks, but prefer a more sophisticated, calm environment.
Disney Dolphin Resort – The Dolphin is similar to the Swan but with a more vibrant, energetic atmosphere. It offers larger rooms and more amenities, including a wider selection of dining options. This hotel tends to be a little more bustling, which might be a good fit for families looking for more energy. It’s also located near EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and offers great pools and activities for kids. If your family enjoys a livelier atmosphere, the Dolphin might be a better choice.
Disney Reserve (part of the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort) – This newer addition is a bit more upscale and caters to families seeking a more premium experience. It's a little more removed from the standard hustle and bustle of the Disney theme parks, making it an excellent option for those who want both proximity to the parks and a quieter, more relaxed stay. The Reserve offers deluxe accommodations, exceptional service, and exclusive access to some of Disney's best perks, including extended park hours. The Reserve is great for families who want the best of both worlds—convenience and luxury.

Here are a few things to consider when choosing between them:

If you prefer a quieter, more elegant atmosphere, the Swan Resort would be a good fit.
If you're looking for a livelier atmosphere with lots of dining options and bigger rooms, the Dolphin Resort is the way to go.
If you want a more luxurious, upscale experience with premium amenities, Disney Reserve could be a great choice, especially if you don’t mind paying a bit more for the added perks.

Since you have young children, all three of these resorts are great family-friendly options, but the Swan and Dolphin resorts have extensive kid-friendly amenities and proximity to the parks, so either would be ideal for your family. The Reserve offers more space and exclusivity but might be a bit pricier.

Ultimately, it comes down to the type of vibe you want for your family’s stay. If you want to balance comfort and luxury with easy access to Disney, the Reserve is the best, but if you're more budget-conscious and prefer proximity to the parks without sacrificing comfort, the Dolphin or Swan could be excellent options.

Disney Swan, Dolphin or Reserve?

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