Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

Image: frankfranc, Flickr (license)

The Polynesian has seen quite a few different eras since its construction in 1971. It has seen a massive volcano fountain grace its interior, and it has seen that fountain removed. It has seen multiple different versions of its kids club come into and out of existence, and several restaurants and bars.

But the Polynesian that exists today is the best version of the hotel that we have ever seen. 

From its simple yet spacious lobby interior to its stunning beachside views, the classic charm of the Polynesian is still on display. But it’s the new additions that have really turned it into the most uniquely Disney experience you can have outside of the parks.

The Pineapple Lanai — a purveyor of Dole Whips — serves as a hidden treat. The Bora Bora Bungalows reach out over the water and add a stunning bit of architecture to an already gorgeous lake view. 

And then, of course, there’s Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto — the Polynesian’s showpiece. Yes, Ohana gets the rave reviews and, yes, the Luau is something to behold. But, Trader Sam’s is the bar every Disney fan always wanted to see at Walt Disney World.

Yes, some people were sad to see the Polynesian’s 1970s charm played down, in part, with the most recent renovations. But the result was a modern luxury resort that still stays true to its roots. That’s impossible to pull off, but Disney managed it.  

Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin

Image: christiantlambert, Flickr (license)

Technically, the Swan opened six months before the Dolphin, but these resorts are inextricably linked in Disney history. When they opened, they must have felt a bit lonely out in the Disney wilderness. Sandwiched between Epcot and the then-Disney-MGM Studios, there wasn’t much going on in the area at the time. The two resorts had their share of restaurants and lounges on property, but that was about it.

Now, while elements of the resort have grown and improved over time, including introducing amazing restaurants like Todd English’s bluezoo and Il Mulino, the greatest reason for the Swan and Dolphin getting better over time is the same thing that might have seemed like a liability back when they opened — their location.

Just a few months after the Swan and Dolphin opened, Disney finished construction on the Yacht and Beach Club resorts — adding more restaurants and shops near the area and constructing the international gateway to Epcot.

Then, just a couple of years later, Disney built the Boardwalk Resort and Inn — a combination entertainment district and hotel that added shops, restaurants, games, dance clubs, and more to the Crescent Lake region. Boat service took guests from the Swan and Dolphin to either nearby theme park, or to the other resorts. Within walking distance were all kinds of activities — where once, there was just forest.

Now, the Swan and Dolphin still enjoy those amenities — so even as the Yacht and Beach Club improve with things like the Ale and Compass Restaurant, the Swan and Dolphin prosper too.