Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center in Kissimmee, Florida, offers a unique vacation experience just minutes from the gates of Walt Disney World. This resort is famous for its massive, climate-controlled glass atriums that recreate Florida’s diverse landscapes. Whether you are visiting for a family vacation, a business conference, or a seasonal event like the world-renowned ICE! exhibit, knowing how to navigate the booking process and resort amenities is essential for a smooth trip.
How to Book Your Room at Gaylord Palms
Booking a stay at Gaylord Palms is straightforward, but timing and platform choice can impact your overall experience. As a Marriott Bonvoy property, the resort follows standard Marriott booking procedures.
Using the Official Website
The most reliable way to book is through the official Marriott website or the Gaylord Palms specific portal. This ensures you receive the lowest available rate and allows you to use or earn loyalty points. You can filter rooms by view, size, and proximity to the convention center or the water park.
Choosing the Right Room Type
Gaylord Palms offers several room categories that significantly change the atmosphere of your stay. Standard rooms look out over the surrounding Orlando area, while Atrium View rooms feature balconies overlooking the indoor gardens. If you enjoy people-watching and the indoor scenery, an Atrium View room is highly recommended.
Seasonal Booking Considerations
During peak seasons, such as the winter holidays or major spring break weeks, the resort fills up months in advance. If you plan to visit for the Christmas at Gaylord Palms celebration, aim to book your room at least three to four months early to ensure availability and better pricing.
Exploring the Three Signature Atriums
One of the main reasons travelers choose this resort is the four-acre indoor atrium. It is divided into three distinct zones, each representing a different part of Florida’s history and ecology.
- St. Augustine Atrium: This area reflects the oldest city in the United States, featuring Spanish colonial architecture, a replica of the Castillo de San Marcos, and a peaceful wedding pavilion.
- Key West Atrium: Modeled after the Florida Keys, this section features a large sailboat in a lagoon, vibrant colors, and a relaxed, maritime atmosphere.
- Everglades Atrium: This section recreates the wild wetlands of Florida. You can see live alligators and turtles, dense foliage, and a misting system that mimics the humid swamp environment.
Walking through these atriums provides a scenic experience without the Florida heat or unpredictable rain. It is a great way to spend an afternoon exploring hidden paths and water features.
Water Park and Recreation
For families and those looking to cool off, the Cypress Springs Water Park is a major highlight located on the resort grounds. Access is usually included in the daily resort fee for registered guests.
Cypress Springs Water Park Features
The water park includes a zero-entry swimming pool, multiple water slides, and a multi-level treehouse playground for children. For those seeking more excitement, the Crystal River Rapids offers a fast-paced inner tube experience through waterfalls and caves.
The FlowRider Experience
Surfing enthusiasts can try the FlowRider, a surf simulator that allows you to practice bodyboarding or stand-up surfing. Note that the FlowRider often requires an additional fee and a signed waiver, so check with the pool concierge upon arrival.
Dining Options at the Resort
You do not need to leave the property to find high-quality food. The resort hosts several award-winning restaurants ranging from casual bites to fine dining.
Old Hickory Steakhouse
Located within the Everglades Atrium, this upscale steakhouse is known for its high-quality cuts of beef and extensive wine list. It is a popular choice for business dinners and special occasions.
Villa de Flora
This Mediterranean-inspired restaurant offers a buffet-style experience in the heart of the St. Augustine Atrium. It is a great spot for a large breakfast or a diverse dinner with plenty of fresh options.
Wreckers Sports Bar
If you want to catch a game, Wreckers features a massive two-story sports screen and classic American pub food. It is located near the Key West Atrium and offers a more relaxed, loud, and fun environment.
Attending Events and Conventions
Gaylord Palms is one of the largest convention centers in the Southeast. If you are visiting for a professional event, the layout is designed to keep meeting spaces separate from the primary guest leisure areas.
Navigating the Convention Center
The convention center is located on the south side of the property. It features over 400,000 square feet of meeting space. It is helpful to download a digital map of the resort, as the walk from certain guest wings to the meeting rooms can take 10 to 15 minutes.
Seasonal Events: ICE! and Christmas
Every year, the resort hosts “Christmas at Gaylord Palms,” featuring the ICE! exhibit. This attraction involves millions of pounds of hand-carved ice sculptures kept at a chilly nine degrees Fahrenheit. Guests are provided with parkas, but it is recommended to bring your own hats and gloves.
Practical Information for Your Visit
To make the most of your stay, keep these practical tips in mind regarding transportation, fees, and check-in procedures.
Resort Fees and Parking
Like most major Orlando resorts, Gaylord Palms charges a daily resort fee. This fee typically covers high-speed internet, water park access, and shuttle services to Disney parks. Additionally, both self-parking and valet parking incur a daily charge that will be added to your final bill.
Transportation to Theme Parks
The resort provides scheduled shuttle service to the Walt Disney World theme parks and Disney Springs. It is important to check the shuttle schedule at the front desk or on the resort app, as times can change based on the season and park hours.
Check-In and Check-Out
Standard check-in is at 4:00 PM and check-out is at 11:00 AM. If you arrive early, the bell desk can hold your luggage so you can begin enjoying the water park or the atriums immediately. Mobile check-in via the Marriott app is often the fastest way to get your room key.
Conclusion
Gaylord Palms Orlando is more than just a hotel; it is a destination with its own unique ecosystem and entertainment. By choosing the right room type, planning for seasonal events, and understanding the resort’s layout, you can ensure a productive and relaxing stay. Whether you are there for business or pleasure, the combination of Florida charm and modern luxury makes it a standout choice in the Orlando area. For more helpful guides on navigating Florida travel and hospitality, explore our other articles on local attractions and travel tips.