BookResorts™ is an independent travel network offering over 100,000 hotels worldwide.is an independent travel network.

Walt Disney World Swan Lake Buena Vista, Florida
Book Now Or call, 24/7+1 (888) 605-1350
Rooms & Suites Dine & Drink Activities Spa Gallery FAQs
Ready to book?Lowest online rate, free perks and upgrades.Book nowCall 24/7 · 888-605-1350
Hotel comparison guide

Walt Disney World Swan vs Universal's Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel

Walt Disney World Swan is a large Epcot Resort Area hotel with family-focused pools, Mandara Spa, and walking access to Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Universal's Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel is a Universal Orlando–branded 4-star hotel positioned for Epic Universe guests and suited to travelers focused on Universal parks.

Updated

Colorful exterior of the Walt Disney World Swan resort building seen across the water with swan sculptures on the roof

Walt Disney World Swan

Epcot Resort Area · Family-friendly · Mandara Spa

Best for families and Disney-heavy itineraries who want walking/boat access to Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

See rooms & suites
Universal's Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel, Orlando, Florida

Universal's Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel

Universal Epic Universe · Early park entry · Rooftop terrace

Best for travelers prioritizing immediate access to Universal’s Epic Universe and Universal-branded benefits like early park entry and a complimentary theme-park shuttle.

Quick Verdict: Walt Disney World Swan vs Universal's Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel

When Walt Disney World Swan wins: choose the Swan if you want direct access to Epcot/Disney’s Hollywood Studios, more on-site pools and family‑oriented recreation, or an on-site full-service spa (Mandara Spa).

When Universal's Helios Grand Hotel wins: pick Helios Grand if your main goal is being steps from Epic Universe, using Universal’s early-entry perks, or staying at a newly positioned Universal-branded property with rooftop and club-level options.

Bottom line: both are large, full-service theme-park resort hotels. If your trip centers on Disney parks, the Swan is the practical choice; if Epic Universe/Universal is the priority, Helios Grand puts you closer to the action.

Call +1 (888) 605-1350Book Walt Disney World Swan

Walt Disney World Swan vs Universal's Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel – At a Glance

Side-by-side facts for Walt Disney World Swan and Universal's Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel
CategoryWalt Disney World SwanUniversal's Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel
Overall vibeLarge Disney-area resort catering to families and meetings, resort-style pools and spa.Universal-branded 4-star resort positioned for Epic Universe guests; contemporary, park-focused services.
Location (park access)Walks/boat to Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios; on Disney’s Crescent Lake/BoardWalk area.Located immediately adjacent to Universal’s Epic Universe, with dedicated/priority guest entrances on some room types.
Size (guest rooms)Approximately 758 rooms at the Walt Disney World Swan property.500 rooms listed for Universal's Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel.
AgesAll ages welcome; family-friendly facilities and children’s pools.
Pools & outdoorFive outdoor pools including access to the larger shared Swan/Dolphin Grotto Pool complex and a white-sand Crescent Lake beach area (lake beach).One outdoor pool, pool cabanas available (surcharge), rooftop terrace and poolside bar options.
Restaurants & barsMultiple signature restaurants and lounges (Il Mulino, Kimonos, Garden Grove, pool bars, coffee outlets).Two restaurants including Flora Taverna, 2 bars/lounges, poolside bar and a coffee shop/cafe; 24-hour room service available.
Spa & wellnessMandara Spa on-site with a full menu of treatments and 24-hour WestinWORKOUT Fitness Studio.Not published
Early park/transport perksWalt Disney World early theme park entry, complimentary Friendship boat and bus service to Disney parks.Early theme park entry for Universal parks and a complimentary theme park shuttle to Universal parks.
Meetings & eventsExtensive event space across the Swan/Dolphin complex (ballrooms and outdoor ceremony sites).Conference space totaling 3,425 sq ft listed; meeting facilities and rooftop event options.
Accessibility & family featuresMultiple accessible rooms and accessible pool features; children’s programs and pool rules noted.

A Look Inside Walt Disney World Swan

Walt Disney World Swan: rooms & suitesRooms & suitesWalt Disney World Swan: pools & beachPools & beachWalt Disney World Swan: diningDiningWalt Disney World Swan: spa & wellnessSpa & wellness
See all photos →

Location: Epcot Resort Area vs. Epic Universe access

Walt Disney World Swan – Location

Walt Disney World Swan sits in the Epcot Resort Area with easy walking and boat access to Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

  • About a 15–20 minute walk (or Friendship boat) to Epcot’s International Gateway.
  • Direct pedestrian links to Disney’s BoardWalk, Yacht/Beach Club neighbors, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios (about a half-mile).
  • Complimentary Disney transport to other parks and early theme park entry benefits listed for Swan guests.

Choose the Swan if proximity to Epcot/Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney transport links are top priorities.

Universal's Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel – Location

Universal's Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel is immediately associated with Universal’s Epic Universe and lists dedicated/priority entrances for some room types.

  • Hotel is described as a 1-minute drive (0.5 mi / 0.8 km) from Universal Epic Universe and lists room types with 'Dedicated Entrance to Epic Universe**'.
  • Complimentary Universal theme-park shuttle and early park entry are featured guest benefits.
  • Close to Universal CityWalk and other Universal parks; 2.7–3.4 mi distances to major nearby venues are listed.

Helios Grand is the pick for travelers who want the shortest possible transfer time to Epic Universe.

Rooms: Traditional Swan types vs. Helios Grand room range

Walt Disney World Swan – Rooms

Swan rooms are arranged for families and couples, with multiple traditional and accessible room types and some balcony options.

  • Room types include Traditional Room; Room, Resort View; Deluxe Room, Resort View (Balcony); and multiple accessible configurations.
  • Triplex access allows use of pools and outlets across the Swan/Dolphin complex.
  • Rooms are designed to serve families (sofa-bed options) and business travelers (meeting/ballroom proximity).

Swan’s rooms emphasize family-friendly layouts and access to the wider Swan/Dolphin complex.

Universal's Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel – Rooms

Helios Grand lists many room types and views, including Park View and Club Level options and suites and family-themed kids’ suites.

  • Room types listed include Standard 2 Queen Beds, Pool View 2 Queen Beds, Park View 1 King Bed, Club Level and Celestial Suite, plus themed 'How To Train Your Dragon Kids' Suites.
  • Several room variants explicitly note ‘Includes Early Park Admission*’ or ‘Dedicated Entrance to Epic Universe**’.
  • Club-level and skyline-view room tiers are offered for upgraded service/amenities.

Helios Grand gives a wide range of room choices tuned to park access and some club-level perks.

Dining & drinks: Signature restaurants vs. Universal-focused menus

Walt Disney World Swan – Dining & drinks

Walt Disney World Swan offers multiple signature dining spots and family-friendly outlets across cuisines.

  • Il Mulino New York Trattoria (Italian) and Kimonos (Japanese/sushi with nightly karaoke) are the headline signature restaurants.
  • Garden Grove provides breakfast/lunch and occasional character dining; poolside and quick-service outlets (Splash Pool Bar and Grill, Java, Chill) cover casual needs.
  • Swan restaurants do not accept the Disney Dining Plan; reservations suggested for signature venues.

Swan is best if you want established signature restaurants and varied dining options within the Disney area.

Universal's Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel – Dining & drinks

Helios Grand lists two restaurants, a coffee shop, and full room service, positioned for quick park access and casual meals.

  • Flora Taverna is one of the listed restaurants; two restaurants and one coffee shop/cafe are noted on the supplier listing.
  • 24-hour room service and poolside bar service are available; cooked-to-order breakfast is offered for a fee.
  • Snack and grab‑and‑go options are available through on-site outlets.

Helios Grand focuses on straightforward dining options geared to park-day schedules and in-room convenience.

Pools & signature amenity: Grotto complex vs. rooftop/pool cabanas

Walt Disney World Swan – Pools & signature amenity

The Swan shares a multi‑pool recreation complex with the Dolphin and Swan Reserve, including family features and a lake beach area.

  • Five outdoor pools including the large Grotto Pool complex with waterfalls, water slide, kiddie pool and whirlpools.
  • White-sand Crescent Lake beach area (lake/beach volleyball) and cabana/towel service rules for registered guests.
  • Lifeguards and towel service available during posted hours; life vests and swim-diaper rules for small children.

If pools and extensive family water features are a key part of your stay, the Swan’s shared Grotto complex is the stronger option.

Universal's Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel – Pools & signature amenity

Helios Grand lists one outdoor pool plus rooftop terrace space and pool cabana options for surcharge.

  • One outdoor pool onsite with lifeguard on site and pool sun loungers.
  • Pool cabanas are available for a surcharge; rooftop terrace is featured among amenities.
  • Pool hours and towel/cabana specifics are handled per property policy; some rooms note park-view or pool-view options.

Helios Grand provides the standard resort pool experience with premium cabana and rooftop options rather than a multi‑pool family complex.

Wellness & nightlife: Spa and fitness vs. bars, arcade and rooftop

Walt Disney World Swan – Wellness & nightlife

Walt Disney World Swan has a full-service Mandara Spa plus a 24-hour WestinWORKOUT Fitness Studio and family-friendly evening options.

  • Mandara Spa offers massages, facials, body treatments, salon services and couples options with separate lounges.
  • WestinWORKOUT Fitness Studio open 24 hours; health-club access included with resort key (resort fee may apply).
  • Nightlife on the BoardWalk is a short walk away; hotel lounges offer late-evening karaoke at Kimonos.

Swan is a balanced choice for spa-goers and for those who want nearby BoardWalk nightlife within walking distance.

Universal's Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel – Wellness & nightlife

Helios Grand highlights bars/lounges, an arcade/game room, fitness facilities and multilingual concierge services.

  • Two bars/lounges and a poolside bar; rooftop terrace provides event/relaxation space.
  • Fitness facilities and an arcade/game room are available for families and kids.
  • Concierge, 24-hour front desk and multilingual staff support park planning and ticket assistance.

Helios Grand suits guests who want convenient on-site nightlife options, family arcade activities and park-focused concierge services.

Who Wins? Best Pick by Travel Style

Best for Disney park access
Small seating nook with four round chairs and a window at the Walt Disney World Swan lobby

Walt Disney World Swan

Walt Disney World Swan — walk/boat access to Epcot and Hollywood Studios and Disney transport links.

Best for Epic Universe proximity
Universal's Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel, Orlando, Florida

Universal's Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel

Universal's Helios Grand Hotel — rooms and some room types offer dedicated entrances and are a short drive/walk from Epic Universe.

Best pools & family water features
Hotel lobby with decorative hanging lights and front desk visible at the Walt Disney World Swan

Walt Disney World Swan

Walt Disney World Swan — access to the larger shared Grotto Pool complex, multiple pools and a lake 'beach' area.

Best for park-focused convenience
Universal's Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel, Orlando, Florida

Universal's Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel

Universal's Helios Grand Hotel — early park entry, complimentary Universal shuttle, and room options tied to park access.

Frequently asked questions

Walt Disney World Swan vs Universal's Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel: FAQs

See all FAQs →
Which hotel is closer to Epcot?

Walt Disney World Swan is in the Epcot Resort Area with walking and boat access to Epcot; Helios Grand is positioned for Universal’s Epic Universe, not Epcot.

Does Helios Grand offer early park entry?

Yes — the supplier listing includes 'Early theme park entry' among featured amenities for Helios Grand guests.

Which hotel is better for families with young children?

Walt Disney World Swan is explicitly family-friendly with multiple pools, kid-friendly pool rules and on-site family dining; Helios Grand also welcomes families but centers on Universal park access.

Do both hotels have accessible rooms and facilities?

Yes — both properties list accessible rooms and accessible public facilities; specific room availability should be confirmed at booking.

More Walt Disney World Swan Comparison Guides

Explore how Walt Disney World Swan stacks up against other hotels nearby:

Main pool with waterfall feature and loungers along the deck at Walt Disney World Swan
Book your stay

Disney Park Perks & Free Shuttle

  • Lowest rate guarantee
  • Complimentary perks & upgrades
  • 24/7 concierge
Check availability Call 888-605-1350
Offer terms

Price comparison & offer terms

These terms apply to the price comparison, Lowest Price Guarantee, free perks and concierge service shown on this site.

How we compare rates

The nightly rate shown is the lowest nightly rate we found for Walt Disney World Swan after searching every available night up to 12 months in advance, based on single occupancy (one guest). We compared that rate with publicly available rates on other online travel agencies (OTAs), such as Expedia, Hotels.com and similar sites, and show the price difference we found. We don't name the specific site each comparison came from.

Rates and availability change constantly. The rate for your dates, room type and number of guests may be different. The full price, including taxes and fees, is shown before you confirm.

Lowest Price Guarantee

Free perks & upgrades

24/7 concierge

General

BookResorts may change or end these offers at any time. These terms are in addition to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy. BookResorts is an independent travel agency and is not affiliated with Walt Disney World Swan.
Legal

Terms & Conditions

Last updated: January 1, 2026

Please read these Terms carefully. They contain important information about limitations of our liability and the resolution of disputes through binding arbitration and a class action waiver (Section 16), and our right to change these Terms (Section 18).

1. Acceptance of these terms

These Terms & Conditions (the “Terms”) govern your access to and use of BookResorts and any booking you make through us. By using the site or making a reservation, you agree to these Terms. If you do not agree, please do not use the site.

2. Definitions

“We,” “us,” and “our” refer to BookResorts, operated by SVH Tours & Travel Services, Inc. “You” refers to the person using the site or making a reservation. A “Supplier” or “Travel Provider” is the hotel, resort, or other provider that supplies the travel services. “Travel Services” means the room stays and related services made available through us. “Content” means text, descriptions, images, reviews, and other material on the site.

3. Who we are

BookResorts is an independent online travel agency that acts as an intermediary between you and Suppliers. We are not a hotel, and we are not owned by, affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by any hotel or brand featured on the site. When you book, your reservation is made with the Supplier through us as agent.

4. Eligibility & use of the site

You must be at least 18 years old (or the age of majority where you live) and able to enter a binding contract. You agree to use the site only to make legitimate reservations for yourself or for someone you are authorized to act for, to provide accurate and complete information, and to inform any other traveler of the terms that apply to their reservation.

5. Bookings & confirmation

All reservations are subject to availability and to the rate rules, restrictions, and policies shown at the time of booking. A reservation is confirmed only when you receive a confirmation from us. You are responsible for reviewing the rate rules (including cancellation terms) before you book.

6. Prices, fees, taxes & currency

Prices are shown in the currency indicated and include applicable taxes and fees unless stated otherwise; the total is displayed before you confirm. Our price may include a service fee and may differ from the rate offered directly by the Supplier. Currency conversions, where shown, are estimates. Certain taxes or resort fees may be collected by the Supplier at the property.

7. Cancellations, changes & refunds

Each rate carries its own cancellation policy, shown before you book (for example, non-refundable, or refundable up to a stated deadline). Refund eligibility and timing follow the policy attached to the rate you select. Service fees may be non-refundable. Failure to check in (“no-show”) may result in forfeiture of the amount paid, per the rate rules.

8. Your responsibilities

You are responsible for having valid identification and any required travel documents (such as a passport or visa), and for complying with the Supplier’s policies, including minimum check-in age, occupancy limits, deposits, and identification requirements. You are responsible for the accuracy of all guest information you provide.

9. Suppliers & third-party services

Suppliers are independent third parties. We are not liable for the acts, errors, omissions, representations, warranties, or negligence of any Supplier, or for the quality, condition, or safety of the travel services they provide. Any dispute regarding your stay or the services delivered is between you and the Supplier. Supplier terms and policies apply in addition to these Terms.

10. Third-party links

The site may contain links to third-party websites provided for your convenience. We do not control and are not responsible for those sites, and a link does not imply endorsement. Your use of any linked site is at your own risk and subject to that site’s terms.

11. Intellectual property

The site and its Content (excluding third-party trademarks) are owned by BookResorts or its licensors and are protected by law. Hotel names, logos, and trademarks are the property of their respective owners and are used only to identify the property being booked. You may not copy, scrape, or reuse any Content without permission.

12. Prohibited conduct

You agree not to use the site for any unlawful or fraudulent purpose; not to make speculative, false, or fraudulent reservations; not to use automated tools to access or scrape the site; and not to interfere with the site’s operation or security.

13. Reviews & user content

If you submit reviews or other content, you grant us a non-exclusive, royalty-free license to use, display, and distribute it in connection with our services. You are responsible for what you submit, and we may remove content at our discretion.

14. Disclaimers

The site, its Content, and the travel services are provided on an “as is” and “as available” basis, without warranties of any kind, whether express or implied, including as to accuracy, availability, or fitness for a particular purpose. We do not warrant that listings, prices, or descriptions are error-free.

15. Limitation of liability

To the fullest extent permitted by law, BookResorts will not be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, punitive, or consequential damages arising out of or connected with your use of the site or any booking. If we are found liable, our total liability will not exceed the greater of (a) the fees you paid to BookResorts for the booking at issue, or (b) US$100. This limitation reflects the allocation of risk between us.

16. Dispute resolution

We want to resolve any concern quickly and fairly. Before pursuing a formal claim, you agree to first contact our support team at 888-605-1350 or support@bookresorts.com and give us 60 days to resolve the matter informally. If we are unable to resolve it, any dispute will be handled by the state or federal courts located in California, as set out in Section 17 (either party may still bring qualifying claims in small claims court).

17. Governing law & venue

These Terms are governed by the laws of the State of California, USA, without regard to conflict-of-laws rules. Any permitted court action will be brought exclusively in the state or federal courts located in Los Angeles County, California, and you consent to their jurisdiction.

18. Changes to these terms

We may update these Terms from time to time. The version in effect at the time of your booking applies to that booking. Your continued use of the site after changes take effect means you accept the updated Terms.

19. Force majeure

We are not responsible for any failure or delay caused by events beyond our reasonable control, including severe weather, natural disasters, pandemics, strikes, government actions, or Supplier closures.

20. Miscellaneous

If any provision is found unenforceable, the remaining provisions stay in effect. Our failure to enforce a provision is not a waiver. These Terms are the entire agreement between you and us regarding the site.

21. Contact

Questions about these Terms or a reservation? Call our support team, available 24/7, at 888-605-1350.
Legal

Privacy Policy

Last updated: January 1, 2026

This Privacy Policy explains how BookResorts collects, uses, shares, and protects your personal information when you use our site or make a booking. For the purposes of applicable data protection law, the data controller is SVH Tours & Travel Services, Inc. (operating as BookResorts).

1. Information you provide

When you search, book, or contact us, we collect information such as your name, email, phone number, billing and payment details, the names and details of other guests, your travel dates and preferences, and the content of your communications with us.

2. Information we collect automatically

When you use the site, we automatically collect technical and usage data such as your device and browser type, IP address, approximate location, pages viewed, referring URLs, and interactions with the site, using cookies and similar technologies.

3. Information from other sources

We may receive information about you from Suppliers, business partners, fraud-prevention services, and (if you choose to connect one) social media platforms.

4. How we use your information

We use your information to process and manage bookings; communicate with you about reservations; provide customer support; personalize your experience; send marketing where permitted (with the ability to opt out); analyze and improve the site; prevent fraud and secure our services; and comply with legal obligations.

5. How we share your information

To complete a booking, we share necessary details with the relevant hotel and room Suppliers and with payment processors. We may also share information with service providers who support our operations, with advertising and analytics partners, with our corporate affiliates, in connection with a business transfer, with authorities where required by law, and with your consent.

6. Cookies & tracking

We use essential, performance, functional, and advertising cookies and similar technologies. You can manage non-essential cookies through your browser and through our cookie settings. For more detail, see our Cookie Policy.

7. Your privacy rights

Depending on where you live, you may have the right to access, correct, delete, or restrict the use of your personal information, to data portability, and to opt out of marketing.

EEA/UK (GDPR): You may access, rectify, erase, restrict, or object to processing of your data, withdraw consent, and lodge a complaint with your local supervisory authority. We process data based on your consent, the performance of a contract, our legitimate interests, and legal obligations.

California (CCPA/CPRA): You may request to know, delete, or correct your personal information, and limit the use of sensitive personal information, without discrimination. We do not sell or share your personal information as those terms are defined under California law, so no opt-out is necessary. To exercise any of your rights, contact us at support@bookresorts.com; we verify requests before responding.

8. Data retention

We keep personal information for as long as needed to provide our services and to meet legal, tax, accounting, and dispute-resolution obligations.

9. Security

We use reasonable technical and organizational measures to protect your information. However, no method of transmission or storage is completely secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security.

10. International transfers

Your information may be processed in countries other than where you live. Where required, we put appropriate safeguards in place (such as standard contractual clauses) for those transfers.

11. Children’s privacy

The site is intended for adults and is not directed to children. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 18 without appropriate consent.

12. Third-party links & social features

The site may contain links to, or features from, third-party services. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of those third parties; please review their policies.

13. Changes to this policy

We may update this policy from time to time. The “last updated” date above reflects the current version, and we will provide notice of material changes where required.

14. Contact us

Questions or privacy requests? Reach our support team, available 24/7, at 888-605-1350 or by email at support@bookresorts.com.
About BookResorts · Independent since 1993

A better way to book your hotel

BookResorts is a full-service, independent travel agency connecting travelers to unforgettable stays since 1993. Detailed hotel information, competitive all-in rates and 24/7 concierge support, all in one place.

Est. 199330+ years
100K+Hotels & resorts
200+Countries
24/7Concierge
This is not the official website of Walt Disney World Swan. BookResorts is an independent travel agency and is not owned by, affiliated with, endorsed by or sponsored by Walt Disney World Swan or its parent brand.

Why travelers choose BookResorts

Best available rates

We compare rates from top suppliers. Taxes and fees included, no hidden charges.

100,000+ hotels & resorts

200+ countries and 2,000+ cities, from all-inclusives to boutique stays.

24/7 concierge

Real travel specialists to build, change or help with your reservation anytime.

Full transparency

Honest details on every property: rooms, amenities and policies.

Trusted since 1993

Three decades as a full-service, independent travel agency.

Secure & protected

Every booking is handled securely and your information is protected.

How booking with us works

Questions about a reservation? Our team is here 24/7 at 888-605-1350.
Full details in our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.

Lowest Price + Free Perks

UsOthers
Nightly rate
Price guarantee✓
No hidden fees✓
Perks & upgrades✓
24/7 concierge✓
Check availability

vs. sites like Expedia, Hotels.com and other OTAs ·

Book by phone888-605-1350
Book nowLowest rates Call usAvailable 24/7
Photo viewer