New Disney World Expansion Breaks Ground: 120,000-Square-Foot Experience Revealed

The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort has unveiled an exciting new expansion that underscores its status as a premier hospitality and event destination.

Credit: Disney

Overview of the New Expansion Project at Disney World

With a $260 million investment, this ambitious project will add 120,000 square feet of event and meeting space to the resort complex. The groundbreaking event brought together major stakeholders, including representatives from Tishman Realty, MetLife, Marriott International, and Disney, highlighting the collaborative effort behind the venture.

Slated for completion in summer 2026, this expansion aims to address the growing demand for versatile event spaces while continuing Disney’s legacy of innovation in guest experiences. It further strengthens the resort’s appeal to both leisure and business travelers, reinforcing its position as a key player in Orlando’s competitive tourism and convention market.

Credit: Disney

Architectural and Design Highlights

The expansion’s centerpiece is a stunning two-story annex at the Dolphin Resort. Designed to harmonize with Michael Graves’ iconic architecture, the new addition introduces a modern yet complementary aesthetic, creating an inviting atmosphere for guests.

Key design elements include:

• Expansive windows: Flooding interiors with natural light and providing a vibrant, welcoming environment.
• Water-themed accents: Reflecting tranquility and sophistication, inspired by the resort’s existing nautical motifs.
• Wood finishes: Adding warmth and a sense of natural luxury.

The annex will feature:

• A 41,000-square-foot multi-purpose space capable of hosting a variety of events, from intimate gatherings to large conventions.
• Flexible ballrooms and pre-function areas designed for seamless transitions, facilitating networking and interaction among guests.

Credit: Disney

Event Capacity and Technological Advancements for Disney World

Once completed, the expanded Swan, Dolphin, and Swan Reserve complex will offer a combined 469,000 square feet of meeting and event spaces. This vast increase in capacity enables the resort to accommodate 15,000–20,000 attendees daily, positioning it as one of the largest event facilities on the East Coast.

Technological enhancements will ensure the new spaces meet modern event requirements, featuring:

• High-speed internet to support streaming and interactive elements.
• State-of-the-art audiovisual equipment, ideal for conferences, presentations, and entertainment.

This innovation positions the resort to compete with major metropolitan convention centers, making Orlando an even more attractive option for large-scale events.

Credit: Disney

Guest Experience Enhancements

In addition to the new expansion, the resort is undertaking significant upgrades to its existing guest accommodations. Renovations at the Swan Resort are scheduled for completion by 2024 and will introduce:

• Modern amenities designed for comfort and convenience.
• Updates that blend style and functionality, catering to the needs of both business travelers and families.

By enhancing the guest experience through both infrastructure and service, the resort ensures a seamless balance between luxury, practicality, and the magic that Disney is known for.

Credit: Disney

Commitment to Excellence in Hospitality for Disney World Guests

The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort’s new expansion reflects a forward-thinking approach to hospitality. From innovative architectural design to state-of-the-art event capabilities, the project ensures that the resort remains a leader in Orlando’s tourism and convention sectors.

Key takeaways from the project:

• A significant boost in event-hosting capacity, allowing the resort to cater to a broader audience.
• Cutting-edge technology integrated into the design, ensuring events are both efficient and memorable.
• Ongoing dedication to guest satisfaction through renovations and operational excellence during construction.

The Swan and Dolphin Resort’s $260 million expansion is more than just an upgrade—it’s a transformative step toward redefining hospitality and event hosting in Orlando. With a focus on innovation, comfort, and versatility, the project sets a new benchmark for resort experiences, ensuring the complex remains a top choice for travelers and event organizers alike.