Welcome to planDisney, Robert!
You have chosen a great
Disney Resorts Collection hotel to enjoy your upcoming Walt Disney World vacation. Since the Walt Disney World Swan Hotel, Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel, and the Walt Disney World Swan Reserve are considered “Other Select Deluxe Hotels,” you will receive the benefits of other Disney properties like complimentary theme park parking,
Early Theme Park Entry,
Extended Evening Theme Park Hours, and
complimentary transportation.
Early Theme Park Entry for Disney Resort Hotel Guests can take advantage of a 30-minute head start at the Theme Parks every day. I try to get to the parks 30 minutes before the 30-minute Early Entry to be one of the first in line to ride my favorite ride with little to no wait. Extended Evening Theme Park Hours are typically two extra hours, take place on select nights at select Theme Parks, and are reserved for Guests of Disney Deluxe Resorts only.
The must-do and can’t miss things at the Swan, Dolphin, and Swan Reserve revolve around the fantastic food options. Since the hotels are all so conveniently located close to each other, you can and should try the food and drink options at all resorts. My personal favorites are
Fuel (for the Mickey waffles and coffee),
Splash Pool Bar and Grill (for the refreshing poolside cocktails), and either
Rosa Mexicano (delicious margaritas) or
II Mulino New York Trattoria (who doesn’t love a good Italian meal?). You should take advantage of non-food and drink-related things, too: the pools, arcade, Swan boats in the lake, and walking to Disney’s BoardWalk.
Disney’s BoardWalk is steps away and features plenty of dining and shopping locations, boardwalk games, and, most importantly,
Jellyrolls! If you like to raise a glass and sing along to dualling pianos, this place has to be a top priority! While you are there, do what we call “Resort Hopping.” Visit Disney’s BoardWalk Inn, Disney’s Beach Club Resort, and Disney’s Yacht Club Resort. Take in the ambiance, the sights, and the smells, and give some of their food options a chance, too! I am sure you won’t be disappointed.
This should get you started on your upcoming vacation, Robert. Let me know if you want assistance planning your days at Disney’s Hollywood Studios or EPCOT. These Theme Parks are within walking distance from your hotel (or a quick boat ride), and I would be happy to provide suggestions on the must-do attractions at each park if you
submit another question!
Brent