Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center in Nashville, Tennessee, is one of the most unique lodging destinations in the United States. Spanning over nine acres of indoor gardens and climate-controlled atriums, the resort offers much more than a standard hotel room. Whether you are visiting for a business convention, a family vacation, or a seasonal celebration, navigating this massive complex requires a bit of planning to ensure a smooth experience.
Booking Your Room at Gaylord Opryland
When planning your trip, the first step is securing your reservation. As a Marriott Bonvoy property, the resort can be booked directly through the Marriott website or various travel booking platforms. Because of its popularity, rooms often fill up months in advance, especially during peak seasons like the winter holidays or major Nashville events.
Choosing the Right Room Type
One of the most important decisions you will make when booking is the type of room view you prefer. Gaylord Opryland offers two primary categories of rooms: traditional guest rooms and atrium-view rooms. Traditional rooms typically face the exterior of the building, providing standard views of the surrounding Nashville area.
Atrium-view rooms feature private balconies that look inward over the resort’s lush gardens and waterways. Many visitors find that the extra cost for an atrium view is worth it for the unique atmosphere and the ability to people-watch or enjoy the indoor scenery from their own room. If you prefer a quieter environment, a traditional exterior room may be a better choice as the atriums can be lively throughout the day and evening.
Exploring the Nine-Acre Indoor Gardens
The hallmark of the Gaylord Opryland experience is its massive indoor atriums. These spaces are kept at a comfortable temperature year-round, making them a perfect escape regardless of the weather outside. The resort is divided into several distinct sections, each with its own theme and landscape.
- The Garden Conservatory: This area is filled with thousands of tropical plants, towering trees, and winding pathways. It is one of the most peaceful sections of the resort and is ideal for a morning walk.
- The Cascades: Known for its dramatic waterfalls and rock formations, the Cascades atrium also houses several restaurants and a large lounge area where you can relax near the sound of rushing water.
- The Delta: This is the largest section of the resort. It features a quarter-mile long indoor river where guests can take a guided boat tour. The Delta is also home to a variety of shops and quick-service dining options.
Dining and Shopping On-Site
You do not need to leave the resort to find high-quality meals or unique souvenirs. Gaylord Opryland hosts more than a dozen different restaurants and lounges ranging from casual grab-and-go spots to fine dining establishments.
Casual and Family Dining
For a quick breakfast or a casual lunch, you will find several cafes and sandwich shops located within the Delta and Cascades atriums. There are also family-friendly options like Paisano’s Pizzaria and Bistro or the Stax burger bar. These spots are convenient for guests who want a quick meal before heading out to explore Nashville.
Fine Dining and Specialty Restaurants
If you are looking for a more formal experience, the Old Hickory Steakhouse is the resort’s signature restaurant, located in a replica of an antebellum mansion. Ravello offers upscale Italian cuisine, while Solario Cantina provides authentic Mexican flavors. It is highly recommended to make dinner reservations well in advance, especially on weekends.
Entertainment and Amenities
The resort is designed to be a self-contained vacation destination. Beyond the gardens and restaurants, there are several major attractions located right on the property. These amenities cater to both children and adults, ensuring there is something for everyone to do.
SoundWaves Upscale Water Experience
SoundWaves is a premier 4-acre indoor and outdoor water park exclusive to the resort. It features multiple levels of slides, a lazy river, a flow-rider wave simulator, and dedicated areas for adults only. Access to SoundWaves typically requires a specific overnight package, so be sure to check your booking details if you plan on visiting the water park.
Rel””ache Spa and Fitness Center
For those looking to relax, the Rel””ache Spa offers a full menu of treatments, including massages, facials, and salon services. Guests also have access to a modern fitness center and multiple swimming pools located throughout the property.
Seasonal Events and Holiday Celebrations
Gaylord Opryland is famous for its seasonal programming, particularly during the winter months. “A Country Christmas” is a massive event that draws visitors from across the country. During this time, the resort is decorated with millions of lights and hosts special attractions such as ICE!, a massive walk-through exhibit of ice sculptures.
Other seasonal events occur during the spring and summer, often featuring scavenger hunts for children, live music, and themed decorations. Checking the resort’s event calendar before you arrive can help you make the most of these limited-time offerings.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
Because the resort is so large, it can be helpful to keep a few practical tips in mind to navigate your stay effectively.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: You will likely do a significant amount of walking. The distance from the parking lot to your room, or from one end of the resort to the other, can be quite long.
- Use the Resort Map: Digital and physical maps are available. Pay attention to the color-coded signage throughout the hallways to find your way between the different atriums.
- Parking Considerations: Both valet and self-parking are available for a daily fee. Self-parking is located in a large lot adjacent to the resort, while valet provides more direct access to the main lobby.
- Transportation: The resort offers shuttle services to nearby attractions like the Grand Ole Opry and the Opry Mills mall. If you plan to head into downtown Nashville, rideshare services are readily available.
Conclusion
Visiting Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center is a memorable experience that offers a blend of natural beauty and Southern hospitality. By choosing the right room, planning your dining ahead of time, and taking the time to explore each unique atrium, you can ensure a successful trip. Whether you are there for the spectacular holiday lights or the year-round indoor gardens, the resort provides a one-of-a-kind setting for any Nashville getaway. For more travel tips and guides on making the most of your next vacation, explore our other articles on destination planning and travel essentials.