Hi all,
Before I discuss the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin hotels, I need to let you know of a change in the way you will be posting comments. Because we have been getting a lot of junk email, we have had to implement a new procedure. After sharing your thoughts, there is one more box that needs to be completed before you press “Post.” At the moment, you need to write the word “blog” (without quotes) in this field (this word could change periodically). This will let the computer know that a real person is writing us and not some automated program that generates spam. If you don’t complete this field correctly, your comment will end up in a “junk” folder.
Thanks for your help and understanding.
Jack
For the last two days, I’ve been telling you all about the Swan and Dolphin Resort and the amenities that are offered. Today I’m going to discuss why these non-Disney hotels exist in the middle of the action and are not relegated to some remote corner of the World.
In the early 1980’s, the Disney Company was subjected to several hostile takeover attempts. In order to fend off these attacks, the company needed an infusion of money — quickly. One of the parties Disney turned to was Tishman, the construction company that built much of Epcot. In return for the loan, Tishman would be allowed to build two convention hotels somewhere on property. In the end, Disney prevailed and the takeover attempts were thwarted, but many of the company’s executives were ousted. It was at this time that Michael Eisner and Frank Wells entered the picture with a directive to further develop the Florida property.
In 1984, the only on-property hotels were the Contemporary, Polynesian, and Golf Resort (later the Disney Inn, currently Shades of Green). Eisner wanted to build more, architecturally pleasing resorts to lure off-property guests to spend their entire vacation on Disney property. But there was this pesky contract with Tishman that needed to be honored first. After reviewing Tishman’s plans, it was discovered that they intended to build uninspired “boxy” buildings. This did not please Eisner, so in typical fashion, he demanded that the contract with Tishman be broken. Of course Tishman did not take kindly to this and filed a countersuit against Disney. In the end, Disney had to back down but a new contract was crafted. It gave Tishman a prime location next to Epcot but it gave Disney the right to determine the design. So Eisner hired famed architect Michael Graves, who had never designed a hotel before, to create the whimsical Swan and Dolphin Resort. The Swan opened January 13, 1990 and the Dolphin opened June 1, of the same year.
In all my research, I have never found a good explanation as to why Eisner okayed a design that would intrude so much on Epcot. If you stand anywhere on the east side of World Showcase (from Mexico to Italy) you can see these massive buildings standing behind France, the United Kingdom, and Canada. When Walt built Disneyland, he insisted that a berm be built around his park. He wanted to keep the outside world from intruding on his realms of fantasy. It’s beyond me why Walt’s philosophy was not followed in this case.
This next picture was taken from between the Mexico and Norway Pavilions. Notice how the towering Dolphin dwarfs the Eiffel Tower in France.
But if you can get past the Swan and Dolphin’s controversial location, they represent inspired architecture. They’re fun. They’re silly. They’re whimsical. They are not “boxy” anywhere U.S.A. hotels. These are one-of-a-kind buildings that are full of magic. It’s just a shame they are located where they are.
There are two persistent rumors that will not die in regards to the Swan and Dolphin. First, that the “black boxes” in the middle of each building can be removed so a future monorail can pass through the buildings (in much the same way the monorail travels through the Contemporary).
Another rumor insists that the giant swans and dolphins were placed atop the wrong buildings. The swans sit on a building painted with ocean waves while the dolphins are on top of a building with palm trees. Many think this is incorrect and ask “Shouldn’t the dolphins be on the building with waves and the swans associated with the foliage?”
Both of these rumors can be dispelled with one explanation.
Even though these are not Disney hotels designed by Imagineers, architect Michael Graves crafted a “story” to help him with his design. Unfortunately, this story never found its way into any formal documentation and has more or less been lost with time.
Graves wanted to represent the essence of Florida with his design and color selections, and he felt the theme of “water” could best accomplish his goal. As the story goes, there was a massive upheaval beneath the ocean that spewed forth and created an island. As the land mass grew, it lifted dolphins out of the water. It’s these dolphins we see sitting on top of the hotel (or island). And the island is lush with tropical growth which is why we see banana leaves on the side of the building (island) and palm trees encircling the structure. The black box represents the heart of the island that burst open when the upheaval occurred. (It’s symbolism, folks.)
As the island continued to grow, water began to cascade down the side of the mountain. As more water began to flow, it started to splash a nearby island (the Swan). If you take a look at the walkway that connects the two buildings, the railing is wave-like, representing the water flowing toward the Swan. And the waves on the side of the Swan represent the water lapping up against its shores.
When it comes to the swans themselves, I have read two accounts. The first suggests that the swans were so transfixed by this phenomenon that they decided to take a closer look and were turned to stone as they sat watching the events unfold. The second story says that the eruption captured the attention of two passing birds and they were so awed by the spectacle that they alighted on the top of the waves to get a better look and were magically transformed into swans.
The original interior of both resorts helped tell this story, but during the redesign, much of the tale’s elements were lost. It’s also said that Graves selected the swan and dolphin because they weren’t already in Disney’s arsenal of characters.
I think this story illustrates that the swans and dolphins were placed onto the correct buildings. And as for the black boxes being removed for a monorail, this just doesn’t make sense. I know the “heart of the island” story is a bit over the top and symbolic, but if you look at things practically, these spaces are tremendously huge. Why would you take out all of those cash-generating rooms when all you need is a small space for the monorail to pass through? I grant you, it would be impressive to see this happen, but it just isn’t so, folks.
So there you have it, the controversial Swan and Dolphin Resort – a resort that has its admirer’s and its foes.
Jack, Thanks for the “Origin Myth” — I had not heard that before! And I’m glad you had a chance to reference your very informative previous blog on mythical dolphins. The dolphin figurine does look very strange at first. (The Unofficial Guide calls it a “catfish from outer space”.)
I’ve read that Michael Eisner said it was a “mistake” to permit the construction of the Swan and Dolphin, but your explanation suggests he may not have had much of a choice.
I just wanted to say that I do not agree with Jack on the Swan and Dolphin not being in a good location. I have been to Disney 36 times, and I am only 29 years old. I love Disney. I have stayed at almost all of the resorts on property. This is my FAVORITE resort. I am a teacher as well, and they offer a significant discount. The location of this resort is great! You can walk to both Epcot and Hollywood Studios, or take the boat. Walking is great for when the park is letting out at night. You don’t have to worry about being crammed into some sort of transportation to get home, or wait for two or three buses. Going to the Magic Kingdom, on a bus, is not that far. The only place that is out of the way is Animal Kingdom, which I have found, is out of the way for most resorts. This past summer, I stayed at the Polynesian. I could take the monorail to the MK, and Epcot. But when it came to going to the Studios, Animal Kingdom, and Downtown Disney, the buses took FOREVER. And that was at a luxury resort. At least the Swan and Dolphin buses are pretty continual and and are not so far away that there is only one bus coming every half hour. The resort itself is spacious and accommodating. When I was at the Poly, I could not even find a chair for the pool, and it was a very small pool. The Swan and Dolphins’ only setback is not being able to using the dining plan. That’s about it. I have stayed at the Swan and Dolphin ALOT and will continue to do so!
Jack’s Comment:
You misunderstood what I was trying to say. I think the Swan and Dolphin (and the Yacht, Beach, and Boardwalk) are in excellent locations for the reasons you mentioned. They are extremely convenient. I like the Swan and Dolphin!
My complaint is that the Swan and Dolphin are so tall that they intrude into World Showcase and ruin the skyline. Michael Graves should have come up with shorter designs (like the Yacht, Beach, and Boardwalk) so they can’t be seen when standing in Mexico and Norway.
I just came from my fourth stay at the Dolphin. It is my resort of choice at WDW. For the price, location, quality and restaurants, oh yeah and bed and pools!
I will continue to stay at the Dolphin in future visits. I will try the Polynesian and maybe the Contemporary also but they are so expensive.
I also would like to remark that the Dolphin can not be seen that close up from World Showcase. The pic looked photoshoped. It can definately be seen but not so large.
Jack’s Comment:
I can assure you, the Dolphin CAN be seen that prominently from World Showcase. I took that picture two weeks ago and I in no way doctored it. The picture is completely accurate.
Hi Jack,
Thanks for the blog on the Dolphin and Swan. We have stayed at these resorts several times with the most recent in May at the Swan.
The shared pool is awesome and although it is shared by both resorts it never seemed overcrowded at any time of the day. There was always a deck chair to be had and the kids enjoyed renting blow up dophins to use in pool.
We stayed at the Dolphin in the early 90s and at that time there was a tram that drove from the Dolphin/Swan transporting guests along the wooden Boardwalk to Epcot’s World Showcase. I’m sure I have a video of it somewhere in the back of my closet. Of course at this time there was no Boardwalk Resort although plans were already underway.
My children love Picaboo at the Dolphin. There are so many offerings to please even picky eaters, however, you felt like you weren’t eating junk food like at many counter service restaurants. Plus eating on real plates with silverware was nice as well. There was always friendly staff keeping the place clean and ready for more people to come through although you were never rushed. Also it’s located right next to the game room and laundry.
The laundry facility at the Dolphin is large and very nice. There is a TV for those who want to hang out and wait for their clothes. However, I prefer popping in a load of laundry and then walking next door to Picaboo for a bite.
Shula’s does not have a children’s menu. Children are welcome but they have to order off the main menu. Although we had a wonderful family meal here, personally I feel it would be better to have the kids join the kids club while the adults dine. Imagine my surprise when my 3 year old said very politely to the waiter “Excuse me” to which the waiter came over to him and then my son shared “I farted.” Something I’m sure the waiter didn’t need to know. We’ve since discussed what things he should share and what to keep to himself.
Thanks again for the wonderful blog. Makes me want to stay there again. Thanks!
I am just amazed at some of the information you are able to come upon. I understand you have said before that you have spent a good part of your life Disney, but some of this must come from interviews of some top notch personnel! And I love that you share it.
I am one that does not mind that these hotels “tower” over structures from different angles in Epcot. Yes I am fully aware of Walt’s philosophy when it came down to the parks but I think that comes from a small group of Disney lovers that maybe “go overboards” so to say.
Thanks for some great info, as a 1 or 2 time a year family, we really wish Disney would allow you to participate in the Dining Plans while a guest here…..
We just got back Saturday from a visit to the World and we stayed 7 nights at the Dolphin. All of us, my mom and two kids, absolutely had a great time. You can’t beat the location and the staff was wonderful and friendly.
I have not stayed at the Swan, but find that the Dolphin was great for families because of the quick service restaurant, Picabo. We could get a good quick and less expensive breakfast for the kids. My son doesn’t operate well unless he has his bacon in the morning!
Thanks for the blog to remember my vacation! Still wishing I was there!
Hi Jack,
Thank you for the very interesting history of these two fine resorts. We have never stayed at either resort eventhough they do have a discount for teachers and even retired teachers can get the discount. Maybe someday we will
have to try one of these resorts.
I still don’t like these as I said in an earlier post. I’m so glad I have photos of France before these were built. That was one of the reasons we don’t like them–they intrude into EPCOT so much. Doesn’t seem quite Disney either!
Jack,
Very interesting stuff on the Swan & Dolphin hotels. Thank you for all of your research and interesting writing. You mentioned that the windows in the upper section are fake and no rooms exist in this section of the Dolphin. Just curious, how large is this section where no rooms exist? Top 2 floors? Top 5 or 6 floors?
Jack’s Answer:
Actually, it’s the top 7 or 8 floors that are fakes. A lot more than you would imagine. Next time you’re in town, take a look. It’s obvious once you know what you’re looking for.
Really enjoyed this third installment of your Swan & Dolphin series.
Is it just me or do the dolphins look more like fish than dolphins?
On a recent visit to Disneyland Paris I was told the Hotel New York in DLRP was designed by the same architect as Swan&Dolphin, there certainly seems to be a similarity in the exterior colour scheme. Do you know if this true?
Great Blog
Jack’s Answer:
For more information about the dolphins, check out a blog I wrote some time ago:
http://land.allears.net/blogs/jackspence/2008/09/dolphins_at_walt_disney_world.html
You are correct. The Hotel New York at the Disneyland Paris Resort was also designed by Michael Graves.
Jack,
I had heard a rumor a long time ago that water was actually supposed to flow down the sides of the triangular portion of the dolphin. Was this a feature that got nixed in the final design, or just rumor?
Jack’s Answer:
I have also heard this rumor. And if you study the triangle portion of the Dolphin carefully the rumor takes on credibility. When I heard the story, I was told that when the water was turned on, the roof leaked beyond repair and that’s why it was never used. Of course, this makes no sense when you take into account all the rain we get in Florida.
I did not print any of this because I could not substantiate the story in any respect.
Hello Jack,
Interesting and informative blogs, as we have come to expect from you (ah, the burdens of greatness).
I just returned from a trip to the “World” (has it really been 2 weeks already?) with emphasis on Epcot this time. In all honesty, I do not remember seeing the Swan or Dolphin in the background. I even double checked my numerous photos; nope, no resort hotels intruding in any of them. Like Steve Jobs of Apple, Disney has a Reality Distortion Field, in a good way (but we knew that)!
p.s.: I thought you did an especially good job of scoring the video at the end of part two of this set. The Copeland was subtle, but spot on.
What a great and interesting blog Jack!! I always looked at the swan and dolphin like “outsiders” I dont like see their silouette at the World Showcase!
but I like the history you told us, as always!
I have to say, these blogs about the Swan & Dolphin have brought back wonderful memories of my mini vacation of December 2009.
Thank you.
Thanks Jack I have stayed at the Swan on our first visit many years ago and enjoyed the hotel and especially Shula’s steaks. The beds are exceptional and disney should take that cue. But it doesnt have the same Disney magic that we get from the true Disney resorts. And the buses while nice take forever to get around. Boardwalk is my favorite alternative. I do remember heaing a story while on the boat transportation to epcot from the castmember/captain saying the hotels were mixed up and they had to change the room number plates as they were put on wrong hotel and the reason they didnt fix the statues was the cost of getting cranes back out to move the massive statues. Also the strange fact that the Swan is the more prestigous of the two yet the fine restaurants are in the Dolphin which is more family friendly than the Swan.
Greetings from the UK Jack
Thank you for these blogs on the Swan and Dolphin. Having stayed at the Dolphin a couple of times I found the information very interesting.
Best regards
Simon.