A Peek at Swan and Dolphin Hotels' New Makeover

Dec 03, 2017

Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort hotels have completed the largest renovation in the resort’s history. The $140 million, three-year project included a redesign of guestrooms and a transformation of the Dolphin hotel lobby, including adding a chandelier with 10,000 individual crystals.

All of the resort’s 2,267 guestrooms received a new look inspired by both the original designer — the late Michael Graves — and the properties water-themed architecture. Plus, tech upgrades added more outlets and USB ports for charging devices.

For the first time since opening, the Dolphin hotel has a completely new dining venue, Fuel, which offers quick service, grab-and-go and desserts from pastry chef Laurent Branlard. A new bar in the Dolphin hotel’s lobby, Phins, serves creative cocktails, as well as the resort’s own craft brew, Phins & Feathers.

“Several features of the transformation will really appeal to families,” said Fred Sawyers, general manager for Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort. “Our new restaurant is the perfect stop for energizing with the kids before and after hitting the theme parks.”

Sawyers also says families will love the hotels’ new upgraded televisions that will enable kids to play their favorite shows from their own video-streaming accounts.

The resort returns to operating at full capacity in time for two major openings at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, which is within walking distance of the hotel: Toy Story Land in 2018, and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in 2019.

“With the transformation now complete, our guests can enjoy a stylish new look, new amenities, the latest in technology and a prime location at Walt Disney World Resort, all in one spot,” Sawyers said.