Hi Christine!
Welcome to planDisney!
The
Walt Disney World Swan Hotel is currently a good neighbor hotel with quite a few Disney World perks, but there are some key differences when compared to
staying at a moderate Disney World resort like Coronado Springs and Port Orleans. Let’s chat about them! But before we get started, it’s good to note that these perks are always subject to change.
Ok, here we go.
Extra Park Hours:
Guests at the Swan can enjoy Early Entry and Extended Evening Hours (on select nights) at the theme parks – just like those staying at
deluxe Disney World resorts. If you’ll be staying at a moderate Disney World resort like Coronado Springs or Port Orleans, you’ll have access to Early Entry but not Extended Evening Hours.
Transportation:
The Swan has access to
Disney’s boat transportation to Epcot and Hollywood Studios. And it’s also within walking distance of those two parks, which is a huge perk! However, when it comes to bus transportation, it’s a bit different.
The Swan provides its own bus transportation to Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom. When going to Magic Kingdom, you will be dropped off and picked up at the Transportation and Ticket Center instead of right by the gates like you would if you stayed at a Disney World resort like Coronado Springs or Port Orleans.
In that case, you’ll want to give yourself extra travel time since you’ll have to jump on the Monorail or Ferry to complete the trip to Magic Kingdom after being dropped off.
Parking:
If you’ll have a car, the Swan has a
daily resort parking fee at the hotel; whereas, Disney World resorts include parking. It’s good to note that Swan guests do get to enjoy free theme park parking just like Disney World resort guests, though!
MagicBands:
The Swan does not utilize
MagicBands for room entry, and you won’t have charging capabilities on your MagicBand when staying at the Swan. Disney World resort guests also get a special discount on MagicBands prior to their trip that is not available for those staying at the Swan.
Water Park Tickets:
In 2025, Disney World is offering free water park tickets on check-in day if you’re staying at any Disney World resort. This offer does not extend to good neighbor hotels like the Swan or off property hotels.
Dining Plans:
A
Dining Plan can only be added to your vacation if you’re a guest at a Disney World resort. If you stay at Coronado Springs or Port Orleans, you can add this on to your stay. But you will not be able to if staying at the Swan.
Lightning Lanes and Dining Reservations:
The booking windows for Lightning Lanes and dining reservations open at the same time whether you’re staying at a Disney World resort or the Swan.
Alright! I think those are all the main points, but feel free to come back with any other questions you have or anything specific if I missed it. We’re always happy to help!
Jenn J.