Welcome to our military-focused look at the boutique sister hotel to the Swan & Dolphin—steps from EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Walt Disney World Swan Reserve
Why the Swan Reserve?
Opened in 2021, the Walt Disney World Swan Reserve is the boutique member of the Swan & Dolphin trio. It’s operated by Marriott International under the Autograph Collection and participates in Marriott Bonvoy. For military families, the Reserve blends big-location perks (walkable to two parks!) with a calmer, upscale vibe—often at a price that undercuts Disney-owned Deluxe resorts.
Location
The Swan Reserve sits just across the street from the main Swan & Dolphin complex in the EPCOT Resort Area. You’re a pleasant walk (or boat ride from the main Swan and Dolphin dock) to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and steps from Disney’s BoardWalk, Yacht Club, and Beach Club. It’s one of the most convenient spots on property for park hopping and dining.
Atmosphere & Design
With a smaller footprint than its siblings, the Reserve delivers a quiet, boutique feel. Expect airy interiors, clean lines, and floor-to-ceiling windows throughout. Many rooms and event spaces capture sweeping views—some with sightlines to nighttime spectaculars at EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Rooms
- Standard Rooms: Two queens or a king with a sofa bed, modern bathrooms, mini-fridge, and plentiful charging points.
- Suites: Generous layouts (separate living/sleeping areas) ideal for families or multi-generational trips; select two-bedroom options exist.
- Views: Higher floors can offer park or fireworks views—request when booking (not guaranteed).
Dining
- Amare (on-site): Mediterranean-inspired table service—fresh flavors, relaxed upscale setting.
- Grounds: A cafe-style option. Quick bites and beverages for rope-drop mornings.
- Stir: Another cafe or quick-service option.
- Rosa Mexicano: Authentic Mexican cuisine.
- Rosa Mexicano Lounge: A space to enjoy drinks and appetizers.
- Bourbon Steak: A Michael Mina restaurant.
- Bourbon Steak Lounge: A lounge area associated with the restaurant.
- Lagoon Games, Lanes & Eats: A unique spot offering both dining and entertainment.
- Access to Swan & Dolphin dining: Walk over to Shula’s Steak House, Il Mulino New York Trattoria, Kimonos, casual pool bars, and more—~18 restaurants and lounges across the complex.
Amenities
- Pool & Sundeck: Intimate pool with elevated deck and fire pit; plus access to the larger Swan & Dolphin pool complex.
- Fitness: Modern fitness center on-site; Mandara Spa available at the Dolphin (fee).
- Rooftop “Vue”: Stunning event venue popular for weddings and private functions.
- Business/Meetings: Flexible meeting spaces with natural light and strong A/V.
- Fees & Policies: Expect a nightly resort fee and paid self/valet parking (rates change; verify your dates). These fees are not Disney-managed.
Transportation
Disney Friendship On Crescent Lake
- Walkways: Direct walking paths to EPCOT’s International Gateway and to Disney’s Hollywood Studios (longer walk).
- FriendShip Boats: From the main Swan & Dolphin docks to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios.
- Disney Buses: Service to all four parks and Disney Springs.
- Rideshare/Driving: Easy pickups; parking fees apply at the resort and at theme parks if you drive in.
Disney Guest Benefits
- Early Theme Park Entry: Enter any park 30 minutes before regular opening.
- Extended Evening Hours: On select nights at select parks (typically EPCOT or Magic Kingdom) with up to two extra hours.
- On-Site Convenience: Proximity to two parks makes midday breaks and evening returns easy.
Note: Benefits and schedules can change—always check current details for your travel dates.
Military Discounts
View of the Dolphin, EPCOT, and Swan from the Swan Reserve
The Swan Reserve often offers government/military rates through Marriott. Availability and discount levels vary by date and occupancy.
- Who qualifies? Generally, Active Duty, Retired, Guard/Reserve, and U.S. Government employees (including DoD). Valid ID is typically required at check-in.
- How to book: Search the Government/Military rate on Marriott.com or call and ask for military rates at the Swan Reserve.
- Compare your options: Price it against Shades of Green, Disney-owned resort promos, and any Bonvoy point redemptions to see the best value for your dates.
Wrap-Up
If you love EPCOT festivals, late-night park time, and a calmer hotel vibe, the Swan Reserve is a fantastic pick. You’ll keep Deluxe-level Disney perks, enjoy Marriott Bonvoy participation, and stay in one of the most convenient pockets of Walt Disney World—often at a savings versus Disney-owned Deluxe resorts.
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This article was written by Steve Bell, founder of Military Disney Tips.
Steve is a retired U.S. military member who has been visiting the Disney Parks since 1971 and writing about Disney military discounts and vacations for the military community for over 18 years.
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