Marriott World Center or Dolphin Hotel
 

My husband and I will be visiting WDW for the 3rd time next March for my birthday. We have stayed both on and off property (Caribbean Beach and Radisson Universal). This time I either want to stay at Dolphin or Marriott World Center. They are both in our price range of up to 250/nite. We usually don't rent a car, but we can if we have to. Which one would you choose and why? Thanks for any and all help.

Dolphin is on a lovely lagoon ringed by other "deluxe", whimsical Disney hotels (Boardwalk, Yacht & Beach). There are several excellent restaurants and the Boardwalk area is lively. Epcot is a 5-10 minute walk away. MGM is a 10-15 minute boat ride or walk. You won't need a car, as all the usual intra-WDW transportation also stops at Dolphin.

See if you can talk your way into a better rate than that at the Dolphin. Here in Orlando they're advertising rates as low as $99 because the occupancy rates are so low.

Marriott Worldcenter has several pools along with all full service amenities, and is only about a half mile from the entrance to Disney. They also provide a shuttle to Disney. If you do decide to stay there, make sure you sign up for their Honored Guest Program to earn travel points. I'm going to Hawaii with those points [and flying first class!]

Balcony room facing Epcot at the Dolphin--to watch the fireworks each night. Great location and well-maintained hotel with easy access to everything!

The Dolphin is part of Sheraton's Starwood program, so you can earn hotel program points there as well. I've stayed at both and prefer the Dolphin (not the Swan though) because of it being on site.