Walt Disney World Swan

The Walt Disney World Swan has the perks of being both a Disney and Marriott property, though visitors won't find any of the typical Disney theming within the hotel (a pro for some). The Swan is also essentially one half of a larger resort, sharing most of its resort features with its adjacent sister resort The Walt Disney World Dolphin Resort. This makes for an interesting setup, as there are separate check-ins and a big chunk of the resort features are over on the Dolphin side. This means guests here will have to venture over for most facilities, but the result is a calmer, quieter, and, some say, more adult-friendly vibe. Renovations in 2016-17 brought things like refreshed beds and tubs in guest rooms, and a coffee cafe, but hotel decor and things like popcorn ceilings and worn carpets still need attention. This is a popular pick for business traveler looking to avoid the heavily-themed Disney properties, as well as couples and families on a budget who still want a prime location and free transportation tot he parks. 

The Walt Disney World Swan Resort is located just behind the Disney Boardwalk between Epcot and Hollywood Studios, and its location is a major draw for most guests. Visitors are within a 10- to 15-minute walk of both Epcot and Hollywood studios, and within a 15-minute free shuttle ride or drive to the Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom. The quarter-mile Disney Boardwalk area is also super convenient and loaded with nightlife, restaurants, and shops. The Orlando International Airport is a 30-minute drive from the hotel, and, unfortunately, guests are unable to take the Magic Express. 

The Swan's 756 rooms and suites receive mixed reviews, with negative points usually being the lackluster decor, dated popcorn ceilings, and worn carpets. Nevertheless, renovations in 2016-17 brought contemporary beds, attractive artwork, and fun throw pillows. Rooms are spacious, the Westin's signature Heavenly Beds are comfortable, and upgrades to certain rooms can reward guests with stunning views of the Epcot ball or balconies. Other views consist of Crescent Lake or other areas of the resort. Standard amenities include desks, flat-screen TVs with cable channels, mini-fridges, and coffee- and tea-making facilities. Deluxe rooms have noticeably more space and sofa beds. Contemporary bathrooms sport shower/tub combos with rain showerheads in all, hairdryers, and a basic range of toiletries. 

Combined with the restaurants at the nearby Dolphin Resort, guests have access to over 12 restaurants and eateries across the complex. Five of these restaurants are within the Swan property. Garden Grove is the main dining spot, serving up casual American fare for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This is also the place where guests can get their Disney fix thanks to character dinners and weekend breakfasts. Other dining options include a sushi spot, coffee cafe open for breakfast, poolside grille, and a slightly more upscale Italian restaurant. Restaurants at the Dolphin sister property include spots such as a New York City Italian steakhouse, seafood from Todd English, well-reviewed sushi spot, and Mediterranean cuisine. 

Five heated pools and a collection of whirlpools are definitely the stars of the Swan and Dolphin resort complex, though only one is on Swan property. This rectangular lap pool isn't much to write home about, but guests can grab food and drink at the nearby Splash Grille. The main wet attraction is the Grotto Pool, which is located just over the border on the Dolphin side of the resort. A wide rock waterfall and slide make it a hit with kids. Another lap pool, four whirlpools, a kiddy pool, and smaller pool round out the options. Finding sun loungers isn't usually a problem. 

For even further dives into relaxation, the Mandara Spa has a full menu with everything from massages and facials to Ionithermie cellulite reduction and teen treatments. There is a distinct Balinese look and feel thanks to Eastern-themed treatments, lots of polished teak wood, a tea garden, and meditation area with its own small temple. The Swan has a large 24-hour gym stocked with all the workout essentials from Life Fitness machines, yoga mats, and exercise balls to even rarer finds like Peloton bikes. It's open 24/7 and free fitness classes are sometimes offered.

Daily activities are organized and run by resort staff, and guests can also challenge each other on two sand volleyball courts, go on ferryboat rides, or chill "beachside" at the Dolphin hotel's small sandy area. Crescent Lake has ferryboat transportation to Epcot and Hollywood studios, while free buses shuttle guests to Disney resorts. Other resort features include free Wi-Fi, an small on-site shop, and access to Disney benefits like Extra Magic Hours and FastPasses. It's worth noting that using the computers, printing, and other business center features will cost you extra. Parking also costs extra and there is a high daily resort fee.