The renowned Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin is embarking on an expansive $275 million renovation and expansion project. This investment will significantly increase the event space by 120,000 square feet, bringing the total to an impressive 469,000 square feet across the entire property. With this development, the resort will bolster its position as one of the leading East Coast destinations for large-scale conventions and events.

At the heart of the expansion is constructing a new two-story annex connected to the Walt Disney World Dolphin's existing convention space, a move not seen since 2003. The annex will incorporate 41,000 square feet of multi-purpose space and 24,000 square feet of pre-function space. According to LaughingPlace, the second floor is set to feature a sizable ballroom, divisible event space, accompanied by 14,000 square feet of pre-function foyer space. Additionally, updates to the Swan meeting spaces and guest rooms are underway and expected to be finished by summer 2025.

The vision for these enhancements is in part a response to the increasing demands of large gatherings. "Many of our groups are growing, and they need more space to continue to thrive here," Jim Curtis, Director of Sales and Marketing at Swan & Dolphin, stated, as per FOX 35 Orlando.

Beyond just additional space, the new construction promises cutting-edge technology for events and modernizations to guest accommodations. The new guest rooms at the Swan are poised for a complete overhaul, featuring contemporary aesthetics and luxury tile flooring. The transformation aligns with the Swan & Dolphin's longstanding appeal to conventioneers, as theme park expert Jeremiah Good noted that these hotels were originally built to attract conventioneers, not just families. According to a FOX 35 Orlando report, the project's groundbreaking is scheduled for November, with anticipated completion by late summer 2026.