The resort opened on June 4, 1990, partially in response to a lack of convention center space inside Walt Disney World.

Both the Swan and Dolphin were designed by Michael Graves and are connected by a covered walkway crossing a lagoon.

The Dolphin is composed of a 257-foot (78 m) tall triangular tower bisecting a 12-story rectangular mass with four 9-story wings on the Swan-side of the structure.

Tishman, worried that Disney may sign a deal with another developer to build a convention hotel at Walt Disney World during its exclusivity period, filed a lawsuit in 1986 seeking US$1.3 billion in damages and canceled the Sheraton and Holiday Inn.

[4] As part of the deal, no damages would be paid, Disney would receive more say over the design of the complex and a share of revenues, while Tishman would be given a 99-year lease on a much more desirable location within walking distance of Epcot and the yet-to-be-built Hollywood Studios and also connected by a waterway with ferry boats.

[8] The voluntary program encourages operators to adopt “green” practices that reduce waste and conserve natural resources.

Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin guests can also use Extended Evening Hours, and can make dining reservations 60 days prior to their arrival at the resort.