Take a Whimsical Visit to Disney's Swan and Dolphin Resorts

A Visit to Disney's Swan and Dolphin

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I’ve always admired the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin hotels from afar, especially since contemporary architect Michael Graves designed the buildings. His Alessi teapot with the whimsical bird spout caught my attention years ago. You could say the Swan and Dolphin are fanciful too, with oversized swans and dolphins adorning the roofline and sculptural fountains spewing water at all hours. Architecturally, the nighttime vision of the pyramid-shaped Dolphin is quite a sight.  The lobbies of these adjacent hotels, their restaurants and the promenade bridge leading to Disney’s BoardWalk (just a short stroll from the S&D) were bustling with happy people—from families with tots to conventioneers. Lots of Kodak moments here.

The Disney BoardWalk is a happening waterfront village with the ESPN Club and a slew of dining and dance venues. It has a little bit of everything. My first foray there was truly fun as I strolled the shops and assorted vendors, including a caricature artist and a grab-and-go kiosk with a new apropos menu item—considering the kiddies demographic— a peanut butter and jelly (no crust) sandwich. After catching a glimpse of Disney’s nightly fireworks extravaganza from the BoardWalk, a stop at The Fountain at the Dolphin was a must for ice cream. Next morning, I headed back to the BoardWalk for breakfast at Kouzzina by Cat Cora, a Food Network Iron Chef. Happily, two over-sized waffles served with whipped mascarpone cheese, drizzled with honey and toasted pecans made my stay complete. www.swandolphin.com

Tags: Cat Cora | Disney BoardWalk | Disney Resorts | orlando | Swan and Dolphin