Swan and Dolphin Resort: A Timeless Oasis in the Heart of Walt Disney World

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Parks, Disney Resorts

Within the enchanting confines of Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida, the Swan and Dolphin Resort stands as a testament to elegance, comfort, and convenience. This unique resort, known for its distinctive twin properties, offers an unparalleled blend of luxury, recreation, and proximity to Disney’s magical attractions. In this article, we’ll explore the timeless appeal of the Swan and Dolphin Resort and why it remains a beloved destination for visitors of all ages.

The Swan and Dolphin Resort’s iconic design is instantly recognizable. Designed by renowned architect Michael Graves, the twin structures boast distinct, whimsical designs that are inspired by nature. The Swan’s elegant curves evoke the graceful shape of its namesake, while the Dolphin’s regal arches represent its majestic counterpart. Together, they create a picturesque skyline that stands out amid the lush surroundings of Walt Disney World.

The Swan and Dolphin Resort offers a range of luxurious accommodations, from spacious guest rooms to lavish suites. Each room is tastefully appointed with modern amenities and comfortable furnishings. Many rooms provide stunning views of the nearby Crescent Lake, Epcot, or the surrounding lush landscapes, providing a serene backdrop for your stay.

One of the standout features of the Swan and Dolphin Resort is its impressive array of dining options. With over 17 restaurants and lounges, guests can embark on a culinary journey around the world without leaving the resort. Signature dining experiences like Todd English’s bluezoo and Shula’s Steak House are complemented by casual options like Garden Grove and Il Mulino New York Trattoria, ensuring that there’s something to satisfy every palate.

The resort’s recreational amenities are equally impressive. Guests can enjoy five swimming pools, including a grotto pool complete with waterfalls and a white-sand beach, creating a tropical oasis within the resort. Other facilities include a fitness center, tennis courts, and the Mandara Spa for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.

The Swan and Dolphin Resort is a popular choice for corporate events and conventions. With over 331,000 square feet of versatile meeting space, state-of-the-art technology, and a dedicated convention services team, it’s an ideal location for conferences, seminars, and business gatherings. The resort’s central location within Walt Disney World also offers a unique opportunity to combine work and play.

Perhaps one of the most compelling reasons to stay at the Swan and Dolphin Resort is its unrivaled proximity to the Disney theme parks. Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios are within walking distance, while Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Magic Kingdom are just a short drive or complimentary shuttle ride away. This convenience allows guests to maximize their time at the parks and easily return to the comfort of the resort when needed.

The Swan and Dolphin Resort at Walt Disney World is a timeless oasis that offers a harmonious blend of luxury, recreation, and convenience. With its distinctive design, luxurious accommodations, world-class dining, recreational amenities, and proximity to Disney’s attractions, it’s no wonder that this resort remains a beloved destination for travelers seeking a memorable and magical stay. Whether you’re on a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a business trip, the Swan and Dolphin Resort promises an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Disney’s dedication to creating enchanting memories for guests of all ages.

Beloved Disney Princess Meet-and-Greet Coming to Disney World’s EPCOT

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Parks, Epcot

The Walt Disney Company just announced some exciting Disney Princess news during the Destination D23 event: a new princess meet-and-greet is coming to EPCOT for the first time ever!

When you think of meeting a beloved Disney Princess, you probably think of the classic Magic Kingdom character interactions.

After all, Magic Kingdom has everything from Cinderella’s Royal Table (a character dining experience where guests can meet various princesses) to Princess Fairytale Hall.

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Guests can also meet Ariel from The Little Mermaid (1989) at her Grotto in Fantasyland and Jasmine from Aladdin (1992) in Adventureland.

But, technically, EPCOT may be the Disney Park with the most opportunities for meeting princesses.

Guests visiting Walt Disney World’s EPCOT can meet Jasmine in the Morocco pavilion, Mulan in the China pavilion, Aurora from Sleeping Beauty (1959) and Belle from Beauty and the Beast (1991) in the France pavilion, and Snow White in the Germany pavilion.

Now, a new princess is being added to the lineup as EPCOT prepares to add a Moana meet-and-greet opportunity to its impressive arsenal.

Currently, Moana can be met in Animal Kingdom. But beginning on October 16, guests can also meet the adventurous voyager in EPCOT’s World Nature area.

This coincides with the opening of Journey of Water – Inspired by Moana, which opens on the same day. Be sure to experience both of these offerings the next time you visit Walt Disney World’s EPCOT theme park!

Date Announced for Addition of Hatbox Ghost at Walt Disney World

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Parks, Magic Kingdom

He’s on his way! Hatbox Ghost will be making his way to Walt Disney World this November, and we couldn’t be any more excited than we are right now. Guests to Walt Disney World have waited eagerly for the 1000th happy haunt to make their way to Walt Disney World, and after a year of anticipation and rumors, we finally know that the newest fashion resident will find his way to Disney World in November of this year.

He’s on his way! Hatbox Ghost will be making his way to Walt Disney World this November, and we couldn’t be any more excited than we are right now. Guests to Walt Disney World have waited eagerly for the 1000th happy haunt to make their way to Walt Disney World, and after a year of anticipation and rumors, we finally know that the newest fashion resident will find his way to Disney World in November of this year.

Guests to Disney World who’ve been awaited the arrival of Hatbox Ghost no longer have to guess at when the happy haunt will materalize at the ultra-popular dark ride in Orlando, Florida. D23 just gave us a finite timeframe of November to expect when the awesome animatronic made popular at Disneyland will make his debut at Disney World. Personally, I’m extremely excited for this addition as the Hatbox Ghost, originally created by famed Disney Imagineer Yale Gracey is one of my favorite parts of Haunted Mansion lore. Not only is he getting ready to move permanantly to Florida, Hatbox Ghost has also made a name for himself after being played by Jared Leto in the latest Haunted Mansion reboot that released eariler this summer.

Fans are sure to flock to the mansion once Hatbox Ghost materializes within its walls, so if he’s an immediate must-see for you and your family, you’ll want to hurry and make sure you have a trip booked. The ride is expected to be closed for a couple of days as Imagineers install and test Hatbox Ghost, but we’re certain it won’t be long before he’s ready to scare the pants off of riders at Disney World. We’ll be there and let you know once Hatbox Ghost makes his official debut in November, so stay tuned friends.

Disney Announces Free Dining Promo Card for Holiday Season & Beyond

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Dining, Disney Parks

Disney has announced an enticing offer for guests to stay at a Walt Disney World resort this holiday season and early 2024. Guests can receive up to a $1000 Disney Dining Promo Card when you purchase a non-discounted 5-night, 4-day vacation package.

Get up to a $1,000 Disney Dining Promo Card when you purchase a non-discounted 5-night, 4-day vacation packagethat includes:

  • A room at a select Disney Deluxe Resort or Disney Deluxe Villa Resort
  • Theme park ticket(s)

Or, choose from other great accommodations that are eligible for this offer (Disney Dining Promo Card values vary by Disney Resort hotel).This offer is valid for arrivals on:

  • Most nights October 27 to November 1, 2023
  • Most nights November 25 to November 29, 2023
  • Most nights December 9 to December 25, 2023
  • Most Sunday to Tuesday nights January 9 to March 5, 2024

View the details below to explore eligible Disney Resort hotels, Disney Dining Promo Card values and arrival dates.

Disney Dining Promo Card ValueEligible Disney Resort Hotels
Up to $200 Per Room, Per NightReceive $200 per room, per night applied to a digital Disney Dining Promo Card—for packages with the following arrival dates:·       Most nights October 27 to November 1, 2023·       Most nights November 25 to November 29, 2023·       Most nights December 9 to December 25, 2023·       Most Sunday to Tuesday nights January 9, 2024 to March 5, 2024  This offer is valid at the following Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts:·       Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort·       Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House·       Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village·       Disney’s Beach Club Villas·       Disney’s BoardWalk Villas·       Disney’s Old Key West Resort·       Disney’s Riviera Resort·       Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
Up to $200 Per Room, Per NightReceive $200 per room, per night applied to a digital Disney Dining Promo Card—for packages with the following arrival dates:·       Most nights October 27 to November 1, 2023·       Most nights November 25 to November 29, 2023·       Most nights December 9 to December 25, 2023·       Most Sunday to Tuesday nights January 9, 2024 to March 5, 2024 This offer is valid at the following Disney Deluxe Resort hotels:·       Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge·       Disney’s Beach Club Resort·       Disney’s BoardWalk Inn·       Disney’s Contemporary Resort·       Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa·       Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort·       Disney’s Wilderness Lodge·       Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
Up to $120 Per Room, Per NightReceive $120 per room, per night applied to a digital Disney Dining Promo Card—for packages with the following arrival dates:·       Most nights October 27 to November 1, 2023·       Most nights November 25 to November 29, 2023·       Most nights December 9 to December 25, 2023·       Most Sunday to Tuesday nights January 9, 2024 to March 5, 2024This offer is valid at the following Disney Resort hotels:·       The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort·       Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort·       Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort·       Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter·       Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
Up to $60 Per Room, Per NightReceive $60 per room, per night applied to a digital Disney Dining Promo Card—for packages with the following arrival dates:·       Most nights October 27 to November 1, 2023·       Most nights November 25 to November 29, 2023·       Most nights December 9 to December 25, 2023·       Most Sunday to Tuesday nights January 9, 2024 to March 5, 2024This offer is valid at the following Disney Resort hotels:·       Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort·       Disney’s All-Star Music Resort·       Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort·       Disney’s Art of Animation Resort·       Disney’s Pop Century Resort

The number of packages available for this offer is limited. Everyone in the same room must be on the same package. Advance reservations are required.

Important Details:

Valid for Arrivals

  • Most nights October 27 to November 1, 2023
  • Most nights November 25 to November 29, 2023
  • Most nights December 9 to December 25, 2023
  • Most Sunday to Tuesday nights January 9 to March 5, 2024

Package Includes

  • A room at a select Disney Resort hotel
  • Theme park ticket(s)
  • A digital Disney Dining Promo Card

Important Details About this Offer

  • The number of packages available for this offer is limited.
  • Everyone in the same room must be on the same package.
  • Advance reservations are required.
  • Minimum 4-day theme park ticket required.
  • Minimum 4-night length of stay required.
  • Tickets are valid beginning on date of check-in and must be used within a limited number of days, depending on length of ticket. Visit disneyworld.com/usage for details.
  • $1,000 Disney Dining Promo Card for stays at select Disney Deluxe and Deluxe Villa Resorts. The value of the Disney Dining Promo Card is determined by Disney Resort hotel and length of stay.
  • One Disney Dining Promo Card per room—valid for room-and-ticket packages that include up to $1,000 on a Disney Dining Promo Card. If a package includes more than $1,000 on a Disney Dining Promo Card, the value will be distributed across more than one Disney Dining Promo Card.
  • Cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion.
  • Offer excludes the following room types: campsites, 3-bedroom villas, and Club Level Rooms & Suites at Disney Deluxe Resort hotels.
  • Gratuities are not included.
  • Theme park reservations are required. Through January 8, 2024, to enter a theme park, both a theme park reservation and valid admission for the same park on the same date are required for Guests ages 3 and up. View the theme park reservation availability calendar.

Important Details About the Disney Dining Promo Card

  • The digital Disney Dining Promo Card is redeemable at select participating food and beverage locations at the Walt Disney World Resort. Locations that are unable to accept the Disney Dining Promo Card include, but are not limited to:
    • Merchandise locations and candy kitchens
    • Dining locations at Walt Disney World Swan Hotel, Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel and Walt Disney World Swan Reserve Hotel
    • Dining locations at Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort
    • Dining locations at Disney Springs Resort Area Hotels
    • Dining locations at Walt Disney World Official Hotels at Bonnet Creek
    • Dining locations at Walt Disney World Gateway Hotels

  • The digital Disney Dining Promo Card will be sent to you via email after you check in at your Disney Resort hotel.
  • The digital Disney Dining Promo Card is not valid after March 21, 2024.
  • Issued by, and represents a legal obligation solely of, Disney Gift Card Services Inc.
  • Lost, damaged or stolen cards may be replaced only if original proof-of-purchase receipt and complete card number are provided.
  • For card balance inquiries, call (877) 650-4327.
  • View terms and conditions.

Block and Hans: A Craft Beer Haven at Epcot

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Dining, Disney Parks, Epcot

When it comes to culinary experiences, Epcot at Walt Disney World Resort offers an array of delectable options from around the world. Among the park’s diverse eateries and drink stops, Block and Hans stands out as a hidden gem for craft beer enthusiasts. Situated in the American Adventure pavilion, this cozy nook is a haven for those looking to savor a cold, refreshing brew while exploring the World Showcase. In this article, we’ll explore the charm of Block and Hans and why it’s a must-visit for beer aficionados and park visitors alike.

Block and Hans may be small in size, but it packs a punch when it comes to its beer offerings. This quaint refreshment stop boasts an impressive selection of craft beers from around the United States, showcasing a variety of styles, flavors, and breweries. Whether you’re a fan of hoppy IPAs, rich stouts, or crisp lagers, you’re bound to find a brew that suits your taste buds.

One of the unique aspects of Block and Hans is its commitment to featuring local and seasonal beers. Depending on the time of year and current trends in the craft beer world, you might discover limited-edition releases, small-batch brews, or special selections from nearby breweries. This ever-changing rotation ensures that each visit to Block and Hans offers something new and exciting for beer enthusiasts.

Block and Hans offers an inviting and relaxed atmosphere, complete with outdoor seating. The charming wooden tables and cozy ambiance create the perfect setting to enjoy your craft beer while people-watching or taking in the beauty of the World Showcase. It’s an excellent place to take a break, unwind, and soak in the unique blend of cultures and cuisines that Epcot has to offer.

Whether you’re exploring the World Showcase or simply in need of a quick refreshment, Block and Hans is a convenient stop. Its location in the American Adventure pavilion is central, making it easy to incorporate into your park itinerary. You can also grab a beer to enjoy while waiting for the next show or performance at the nearby American Gardens Theatre.

The staff at Block and Hans are not only knowledgeable about the craft beer selection but also passionate about providing exceptional service. They are happy to offer recommendations, answer questions about the beer offerings, and ensure that your visit is a memorable one.

Block and Hans is a hidden gem within Epcot’s American Adventure pavilion, offering a craft beer haven for park visitors. With its diverse beer selection, emphasis on local and seasonal brews, outdoor seating, and central location, it’s a perfect stop for those seeking a refreshing and enjoyable break while exploring the World Showcase. Whether you’re a beer connoisseur or simply looking for a unique and satisfying drink experience at Epcot, don’t miss the opportunity to savor the flavors of Block and Hans. It’s a delightful spot that captures the essence of craft beer culture and adds an extra layer of enjoyment to your visit to the park.