Which one is better? Swan or Dolphin? in terms or beds/ room size and views?
Thinking of going in November for 5 nights, will the pools be open, will it be too cold for us to use pools? is that a splash pad for kids?
How do we know room to book to get fireworks views, is it worth it?
Is there a bus stop to go to the parks directly?
Which one is better will be personal preference. I'm very ok with a king and a sleeper, so with other personal preferences included, and the price, Dolphin would be my choice, especially if cheaper, which is usually the case. Generally, the standard rooms are two doubles at Dolphin vs two queens at Swan. I would never choose a room with 2 doubles, so at Dolphin, king and a sleeper is my baseline. My number one choice would be a king room closest to the pools, so for me, Dolphin is better. Your personal preferences will have to come in to play for your choice. I usually go in early November, and use the pools every day. They'll be open unless there are thunderstorms. There is a splash pad for kids, and also, the Spring Pool (round pool) is pretty shallow. One year I went, the Spring Pool was VERY warm, but last year, it was not even close to warm. I asked the staff at the pool about it not being warm, and they had no idea what I was talking about. Perhaps it is no longer kept warm.
I wouldn't pay up for a fireworks view, because I watch the fireworks at the parks. I use the room for sleeping, bathing, snacking, and changing in/out of pool clothes, but again, that's me. Both hotel desks will (should) know which rooms will have good fireworks views. One Concierge at Dolphin was just outstanding in his room knowledge, and found us the perfect room after he narrowed down what our requests were. Wish I knew his name. I looked for him after we settled in and realized how great the room was, but i never saw him again. I'd hope you get the same experience at whichever one you choose.
Yes, there is a bus stop for the parks at both. There's also the Friendship Boats and the walking path for the EP resorts, Epcot, and Hollywood.