Disney World is so much more than just its theme parks!

Magic Kingdom

There is so much to see, do, and experience around the hotels you’d need to plan an entire trip just to get through it all. But, exploring some Disney World hotels isn’t quite as easy — or cheap — as it is to visit others. Three Disney World hotels operate a bit differently than the rest — and that’s true when it comes to parking, too.

The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resorts, and the new Swan Reserve Hotel, are owned by Marriott and because of that — staying there is a bit different than at an official Disney World hotel. Luckily, though, you get lots of the same perks as Disney’s Deluxe Resorts at Moderate Resort pricing, which is just one of the reasons why we love this hotel so much!

Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin

But, unlike Disney World owned-and-operated hotels, where parking is free, you’ll have to pay to park at the Swan and Dolphin hotels — even if you’re not staying overnight and are just there to visit for the day. Now if you are visiting to dine at one of the resort’s signature restaurants, you will still be able to park for free, because the restaurant will validate your parking.

The Swan Reserve

Here’s a look at the pricing for parking at the Swan and Dolphin hotels:

• Non-registered guests: $36 self-parking per exit / $44 valet per exit
• Registered guests: $36 self-parking plus tax per day / $44 valet plus tax per day

A non-registered guest is someone who is visiting the hotels to use the facilities — like go to dinner — while a registered guest is someone staying at the hotel overnight. But keep in mind that your parking will still be free if you dine at one of the signature restaurants at the Swan and Dolphin — the restaurants there will validate your parking ticket so that you aren’t charged when you exit.

Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin

Keep in mind that you can walk to the Swan and Dolphin from EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and other EPCOT resort area hotels like the BoardWalk Inn, and Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club hotels if you want to check out all this resort has to offer without having to worry about parking fees. Or, you can always opt to use a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft.

The Swan and Dolphin also have a free shuttle that takes hotel guests to and from Disney World parks, plus water taxis to EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and the BoardWalk. This is a benefit provided for hotel guests staying at the Swan and Dolphin!

Swan and Dolphin Hotel walkway to parks

A BIG update was recently announced for the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin, and the Swan Reserve. The 3-hotel complex will be getting new convention center space, technological updates, and newly renovated rooms! The room renovations are scheduled to be completed by the end of 2024, so you might get lucky with a brand-new room if you’re planning a stay for 2025 or the future.

©Marriott

We love the vibes of the Disney World Swan, Dolphin, and Swan Reserve hotels and can’t wait to officially check out the brand new renovations once they’re finally open! In the meantime, make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest updates on Disney World hotels and more.

SEE INSIDE the Newly Renovated Rooms at This Popular Disney World Hotel

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Have you stayed at the Swan and Dolphin? Tell us in the comments.