The Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center is more than just a place to stay—it's an immersive experience. From the moment you arrive, you'll be captivated by the resort's lush tropical gardens, elegant design, and vibrant atmosphere. The resort features an impressive array of dining options, entertainment venues, and recreational activities, ensuring that there's something for everyone to enjoy. Plus, with its convenient location near Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and other popular attractions, the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center is the perfect base for exploring all that Central Florida has to offer. In this comprehensive guide, we'll take an in-depth look at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center, exploring everything from its luxurious accommodations and award-winning restaurants to its state-of-the-art convention facilities and family-friendly attractions. Whether you're planning a visit or simply curious about this iconic resort, you'll find all the information you need right here.
Resort Overview
The Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center is a sprawling resort complex located in Kissimmee, Florida, just minutes away from Orlando's most popular attractions. Known for its stunning architecture and immersive environment, the resort offers guests a luxurious escape with a touch of Southern charm. The resort's atrium is a marvel in itself, replicating several regions of Florida, including the Everglades and St. Augustine, complete with lush foliage and themed decor.
Spanning over 63 acres, the resort includes a wide range of amenities designed to cater to both vacationers and business travelers. Guests can enjoy a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to fine dining establishments, as well as a full-service spa, fitness center, and expansive pool area. The resort also features a state-of-the-art convention center, making it an ideal choice for conferences, meetings, and special events.
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One of the standout features of the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center is its commitment to providing an exceptional guest experience. From the moment you arrive, you'll be greeted by friendly staff and a welcoming atmosphere. The resort's attention to detail and dedication to customer service ensure that every guest enjoys a memorable stay.
Accommodations
The Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center offers a variety of accommodations to suit the needs of every guest. Whether you're traveling with family, attending a conference, or enjoying a romantic getaway, you'll find the perfect room or suite to meet your needs.
Room Types and Amenities
The resort features over 1,400 guest rooms and suites, each thoughtfully designed to provide comfort and convenience. Guests can choose from a range of room types, including:
- Standard Rooms: These well-appointed rooms offer a choice of king or double queen beds, along with modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, mini-refrigerators, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
- Deluxe Rooms: Enjoy additional space and enhanced amenities in these deluxe rooms, which feature upgraded furnishings and views of the resort's stunning atrium or pool area.
- Suites: For a more luxurious experience, opt for one of the resort's spacious suites. These accommodations include separate living areas, premium amenities, and breathtaking views.
Accessible Accommodations
The Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center is committed to providing accessible accommodations for all guests. The resort offers a variety of accessible rooms equipped with features such as roll-in showers, visual alarms, and accessible vanities. In addition, the resort's public areas are designed to be accessible, with ramps, elevators, and designated parking spaces available for guests with mobility needs.
Dining Experiences
One of the highlights of staying at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center is the diverse array of dining options available to guests. From casual bites to gourmet meals, the resort's restaurants cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences.
On-Site Restaurants
The resort features several on-site restaurants, each offering a unique dining experience:
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- MOOR: Enjoy fresh seafood and farm-to-table dishes at this upscale restaurant, which offers stunning views of the resort's atrium.
- Villa de Flora: Indulge in Mediterranean-inspired cuisine at this buffet-style restaurant, known for its delicious brunch offerings.
- Old Hickory Steakhouse: Savor premium steaks and fine wines in an elegant setting at this classic steakhouse.
- Wreckers Sports Bar: Catch the big game while enjoying pub fare and craft beers at this lively sports bar.
Quick Bites and Cafes
For those looking for a quick bite or a casual meal, the resort also offers a variety of cafes and quick-service eateries, including:
- Java Coast: Grab a coffee, pastry, or light snack at this convenient coffee shop.
- SandBar: Enjoy poolside dining with a selection of burgers, sandwiches, and refreshing drinks.
Convention Center Facilities
The Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center is renowned for its exceptional event facilities, making it a top choice for conferences, meetings, and special events. The convention center spans over 400,000 square feet and includes a variety of flexible meeting spaces to accommodate events of all sizes.
Meeting Rooms and Event Spaces
The convention center offers a wide range of meeting rooms and event spaces, including:
- Ballrooms: Ideal for large conferences, banquets, and gala events, the resort's ballrooms feature elegant decor and state-of-the-art audio-visual technology.
- Breakout Rooms: Perfect for smaller meetings and workshops, these versatile spaces can be configured to suit your specific needs.
- Outdoor Venues: Take advantage of Florida's beautiful weather with an outdoor event in one of the resort's picturesque gardens or terraces.
Technology and Support Services
To ensure the success of your event, the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center offers a range of technology and support services, including:
- High-Speed Internet: Stay connected with reliable Wi-Fi access throughout the convention center.
- Audio-Visual Equipment: Enhance your presentations with state-of-the-art audio-visual technology, including projectors, screens, and sound systems.
- Event Planning: The resort's experienced event planning team is available to assist with all aspects of your event, from logistics to catering and decor.
Recreational Activities
At the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center, there's no shortage of recreational activities to keep guests entertained. Whether you're looking to relax by the pool, stay active, or explore the local area, you'll find plenty of options to suit your interests.
Pool and Water Park
The resort's expansive pool area is a highlight for guests of all ages. The Cypress Springs Water Park features a thrilling water slide, a lazy river, and a zero-entry pool, making it the perfect place to cool off and have fun. For a more relaxing experience, guests can lounge by the South Beach Pool, which offers a tranquil setting and private cabana rentals.
Fitness and Wellness
Stay active during your stay with the resort's fitness and wellness offerings, including:
- Fitness Center: The resort's state-of-the-art fitness center is equipped with a variety of cardio and strength-training equipment to help you stay in shape.
- Relâche Spa: Indulge in a range of spa treatments and services designed to rejuvenate and relax, including massages, facials, and body treatments.
Family-Friendly Attractions
The Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center is a family-friendly destination, offering a variety of attractions and activities designed to entertain guests of all ages.
Kid-Friendly Activities
The resort offers a range of activities and programs designed specifically for children, including:
- Kids' Club: Young guests can participate in supervised activities and games at the resort's Kids' Club, providing parents with peace of mind and kids with endless fun.
- Interactive Experiences: From scavenger hunts to character meet-and-greets, the resort offers a variety of interactive experiences to delight children and families.
Seasonal Events
The Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center hosts a variety of seasonal events and celebrations throughout the year, including:
- Christmas at Gaylord Palms: Experience the magic of the holiday season with festive decorations, ice sculptures, and special holiday-themed events.
- SummerFest: Enjoy a summer filled with fun activities, live entertainment, and poolside events for the whole family.
Weddings and Events
The Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center is a popular choice for weddings and special events, offering a variety of elegant venues and comprehensive event planning services to ensure a memorable occasion.
Wedding Venues
The resort offers a range of stunning wedding venues to suit every couple's style and preferences, including:
- Garden Terrace: Exchange vows surrounded by lush gardens and breathtaking views at this picturesque outdoor venue.
- St. Augustine Atrium: Host a romantic ceremony or reception in this elegant indoor space, featuring beautiful architecture and natural light.
Event Services
The resort's experienced event planning team is dedicated to making your special day unforgettable, offering a range of services, including:
- Catering: Enjoy a customized menu prepared by the resort's talented culinary team, featuring delicious dishes and beautifully presented cuisine.
- Decor and Design: Create the perfect ambiance with the assistance of the resort's decor and design experts, who can help bring your vision to life.
Sustainability Efforts
The Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center is committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility, implementing a range of initiatives designed to minimize its environmental impact and promote sustainable practices.
Eco-Friendly Practices
The resort has implemented a variety of eco-friendly practices, including:
- Energy Efficiency: The resort utilizes energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems to reduce energy consumption.
- Water Conservation: Low-flow faucets and showerheads are installed throughout the resort to conserve water.
Waste Reduction
The resort is dedicated to reducing waste through initiatives such as:
- Recycling Program: The resort offers recycling bins throughout the property to encourage guests to recycle.
- Composting: Food waste from the resort's restaurants is composted to reduce landfill waste.
Guest Services
The Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center offers a range of guest services designed to enhance your stay and ensure a seamless experience.
Concierge Services
The resort's concierge team is available to assist with a variety of services, including:
- Reservations: The concierge can help with dining reservations, attraction tickets, and transportation arrangements.
- Local Recommendations: Receive personalized recommendations for local attractions, dining, and entertainment.
Business Services
For guests traveling on business, the resort offers a range of business services, including:
- Business Center: The business center is equipped with computers, printers, and other office essentials.
- Meeting Support: The resort's team can assist with meeting logistics, technology support, and more.
Local Attractions
The Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center is ideally located near some of Central Florida's most popular attractions, making it the perfect base for exploring the area.
Theme Parks and Entertainment
Guests can easily access a variety of world-famous theme parks and entertainment venues, including:
- Walt Disney World: Experience the magic of Disney with a visit to the iconic theme parks, located just minutes from the resort.
- Universal Studios Florida: Explore the thrilling rides and attractions at Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure.
Shopping and Dining
The resort is also conveniently located near a variety of shopping and dining options, including:
- Disney Springs: Discover unique shops, restaurants, and entertainment at this vibrant outdoor complex.
- Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets: Shop for designer brands and enjoy great deals at this popular outlet mall.
Transportation and Accessibility
The Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center is easily accessible by a variety of transportation options, ensuring a convenient and stress-free travel experience for guests.
Airport Transfers
The resort is located approximately 20 miles from Orlando International Airport (MCO), and guests can arrange for airport transfers through the resort's transportation services.
Parking and Accessibility
The resort offers on-site parking for guests, including valet and self-parking options. Accessible parking spaces are also available for guests with mobility needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the check-in and check-out time at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center?
Check-in time is 4:00 PM, and check-out time is 11:00 AM. Early check-in and late check-out may be available upon request.
2. Is there a resort fee at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center?
Yes, a daily resort fee is applied to each reservation, which covers amenities such as Wi-Fi access, pool access, and fitness center use.
3. Are pets allowed at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center?
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed at the resort, with the exception of service animals.
4. Does the resort offer any shuttle services to local attractions?
Yes, the resort offers shuttle services to select local attractions, including Walt Disney World. Please check with the concierge for schedules and availability.
5. Can I host a wedding or special event at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center?
Absolutely! The resort offers a variety of elegant venues and comprehensive event planning services to make your special day unforgettable.
6. What dining options are available at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center?
The resort features several on-site restaurants, including MOOR, Villa de Flora, Old Hickory Steakhouse, and Wreckers Sports Bar, as well as quick-service eateries and cafes.
Conclusion
The Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center offers a unique and luxurious experience for guests seeking a memorable stay in Central Florida. With its stunning accommodations, diverse dining options, and exceptional event facilities, the resort caters to a wide range of travelers, from families and couples to business professionals. Whether you're exploring the local attractions or enjoying the resort's amenities, the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you longing to return.