Gaylord Palms: What is inside those walls?

[MrDroopy]

For years, my family and I (especially me) have wondered what is Gaylord Palms. Obviously it looks like a resort but what ammenities do they hae there? Unfortunately, if my family and I were to attempt to enter the building to look around, we would probably be asked to leave the premises due to the fact that we are of the Middle Class. So could someone who has been there, explain to me, what's there?

 

[CarolA]

Gaylord Palms is NOT a luxury resort, it's a convention hotel. So 'middle class' is thier target LOL!

They build an "atrium" concept. It's actually very neat to walk around in and they would be glad to have you and your money. "Admission" is the cost of parking (I think it's $7, but it's been a while)

The Florida one has a "Florida" theme, so there's a "swamp" where they feed alligators a few times a day, etc. Just drop by

 

[lpizzuro123]

We went there last December for their ICE show. They bring in thousands of pounds of ice and have carvings done and there is a walk through exhibit in part of their convention area.

Like the previous poster stated, there is a large atrium in the middle and alot of different shops and places to eat. It is a beautify place to walk around as it is all inclosed it would a great place to check out if it is really hot out. It is very nice to walk around but it does not have that "Disney" feeling. We love visiting all the Disney resorts and this not being a Disney resort I do not know if I would go back.

Linda

 

[Lewisc]

Although it's a convention hotel the level of service is as good, probably higher, then Disney deluxe hotels.

The public is welcome to come to shop, dine or just look around. They have a buffet restaurant that is excellent. Many people rate their Canyon Ranch Spa ahead of the spa in the GF.

The parking fee probably discourages people who just want a quick look.

The atrium is divided into sections. The everglades section has gators, St. Augustine a fort and the Key West section has boat.

http://www.gaylordhotels.com/gaylordpalms/things_to_do/FloridaLive.cfm

 

[CarolA]

Although it's a convention hotel the level of service is as good, probably higher, then Disney deluxe hotels.



http://www.gaylordhotels.com/gaylordpalms/things_to_do/FloridaLive.cfm

I agree with Lewis. I would not call the Gaylord "luxury" but the service is good, rooms are very nice and it's got a great theme.

It's a lot better value for the buck as a general rule then a Disney Deluxe IMHO.

 

[Lewisc]

I suspect you agree but for the benefit of others reading this thread,

Disney "deluxe" hotels including the GF are only rated 3* by leading rating agencies.

Gaylord Palms is not luxury or upscale if the basis of comparison are true luxury hotels such as the Four Seasons or Fairmont.

Gaylord Palms is certainly luxury and upscale if your basis of comparison is Disney Deluxe hotels. GF is themed like a luxury resort but really isn't.

I don't think it's just a price issue, I think the level of service at GP is superior to Disney deluxe hotels.


To go back to the original question, Gaylord Palms welcomes visitors to the hotel. Several times during the year they have events that are promoted to guests not staying there. ICE during the Christmas season, a salute to Florida and even live music.

I agree with Lewis. I would not call the Gaylord "luxury" but the service is good, rooms are very nice and it's got a great theme.

It's a lot better value for the buck as a general rule then a Disney Deluxe IMHO.

 

[KayR]

We had a great time one evening at Sam's Fish Camp in Gaylord Palms. They had live music, a face painter, baloon twister and more. We did happen to visit during a quiet time, so our kids probably got more attention than they would have normally, but it was fun. Food was OK too.

BTW they also have a kids club in there, so you can drop off the kids and then have a quiet adult meal in one of the restaurants. (Make reservations though!)

I don't remember paying for parking (we may or may not have), but we said we were going for dinner.

Its neat to just wander round the atrium area. It's cool.

-Kay

 

[tarheelmjfan]

It's a lot better value for the buck as a general rule then a Disney Deluxe IMHO.

All the perceived & true luxury resorts in Orlando are, but I guess that's another thread.

 

[tropical depression]

I've managed to not pay the parking fee by mentioning the name of a particular store I wanted to shop at the gate. PGA Tour, Mel Fisher's...just my experience.

 

[deejay-55]

They do a great Sunday brunch there.

 

[Lewisc]

Parking is handled by an outside company. Registered hotel guests pay for parking.

Nothing wrong with trying to get the parking fee waived but I wouldn't drive over the GP without planning on having to pay.

According to the GP website self parking is $10, valet is $16. Guests who dine in one of the full service restaurants can get their ticket validated for free self parking or reduced price ($5) valet parking.

I've managed to not pay the parking fee by mentioning the name of a particular store I wanted to shop at the gate. PGA Tour, Mel Fisher's...just my experience.

 

[disneymom3]

It's a lot better value for the buck as a general rule then a Disney Deluxe IMHO.

I have never heard ANY bang from my buck while staying onsite! Seriously, I don't ever find Disney accomodations to be comparable price wise to offsite accomodations.

I am thrilled to know you can go into Gaylord Palms. We will be checking it out for sure our next trip.

 

[CaliforniaDreaming]

I stayed at Gaylord Palms a couple years ago (Emerald Bay section, I think that's what it is called). I liked how the rooms had the computer/internet, doorbells, bath sheets instead of regular towels, extremely comfortable beds (and real beds, not just a headboard screwed to the wall). We had a room with a balcony facing the atrium, and a room across the hall with windows facing the pool. I saw advantages to both "view". The hotel was very nice, nicer than the Grand Floridian I'd have to say (without the excellent location, though). It's worth a look, and a try especially if you can get a good rate (or even try Priceline and you might be lucky enough to get it).