2. Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin Hotel
Also located within the Epcot Resort Area and standing together as sister resorts are the Walt Disney World Swan Hotel and the Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel. While not officially operated by Walt Disney World, their central location and popularity with vacationers has earned them an honorary standing as a Deluxe Disney accommodation. Therefore, guests staying here can even enjoy many of the same great benefits other Disney Resorts offer.
While the Swan is graced by large twin swans outside it should come as no surprise to discover that the Dolphin features twin dolphins at its exterior. Both resorts follow an intricate design and craftsmanship that fuses together Renaissance style with modern elements and a distinctly Floridian theme. The hotels are located along Crescent Lake and share with each other a vast array of resort-wide amenities. Just some of the many recreations and activities to be enjoyed here include pools, playgrounds, sport courts, arcade games, jogging trails, mini golf, and more. There’s even a state-of-the-art modern fitness center for those looking to stay in shape. And for those needing to unwind there’s Mandara Spa, which presents guests with lavish Balinese-themed therapeutic massages and other services, including specialty salon services in addition.
Then for dining there are many delectable choices to consider. Shula’s Steakhouse is one such option. This fine dining experience, themed after former coach to the Miami Dolphins Don Shula and commemorating his “perfect” 1972 season features many refined menu options of steak and other selections. There’s also Todd English’s bluezoo, another fine dining venue that celebrates famed celebrity chef Todd English in a whimsical artsy setting that pairs perfectly with the stellar menu features to be had here. Other signature dining designations include Kimonos, renowned for award-winning Japanese-Asian fusion cuisine and an extensive lineup of sushi selections, and Italy al II Mulino New York Trattoria for classic Italian cuisine inspired by the Abruzzo region. Garden Grove, an eatery that takes on a Central Park garden theme, is a great place to enjoy family-style all-you-can-eat favorites, and even offers unique character dining experiences with appearances by Goofy and Pluto, sometimes accompanied by Chip and Dale on select dates and experiences. And as always, both resorts feature many other dining options to consider in addition to the aforementioned.
