Recent Gaylord Palms Stays?

[SarahC97]

Hi all! My family is booked at the Gaylord Palms the first week of August but I'm having second thoughts after reading a few recent reviews online. I know that people tend to only write negative online reviews, but there were several complaining of the same things: the resort was obviously understaffed, the pools were closed for extended periods, and several of their restaurants are closed, making it difficult to get food at the resort. Has anyone stayed there recently that can comment on this? I can get Wyndham Grand Orlando Bonnet Creek for around the same rate, actually a little cheaper, and I'm considering switching. But my husband really wants to try the Gaylord, so we're kind of at an impasse. The entire reason we're going is to mostly enjoy the pools, so if those are having issues, then it would be very disappointing. Thanks!

 

[pindecisive]

Hi all! My family is booked at the Gaylord Palms the first week of August but I'm having second thoughts after reading a few recent reviews online. I know that people tend to only write negative online reviews, but there were several complaining of the same things: the resort was obviously understaffed, the pools were closed for extended periods, and several of their restaurants are closed, making it difficult to get food at the resort. Has anyone stayed there recently that can comment on this? I can get Wyndham Grand Orlando Bonnet Creek for around the same rate, actually a little cheaper, and I'm considering switching. But my husband really wants to try the Gaylord, so we're kind of at an impasse. The entire reason we're going is to mostly enjoy the pools, so if those are having issues, then it would be very disappointing. Thanks!

I'm curious about this as well, if you end up staying would you share your experience?

 

[DL1WDW2]

I love staying at Gaylord Palms. I visited for the holidays and again for their Halloween festivities. I have visited their Texas and Florida locations.
I recommend getting the interior courtyard with a balcony view and French doors Because it is fun to enjoy the nightly light show without worrying about the weather or insects. You can sit on the balcony to watch the activity . It is fun to see families that decorate for the holidays .
Also be sure to visit the alligator pond during their feeding time… it is pretty amazing.

I admit many restaurants were not open during the recent times I visited due to Covid . I just googled and it seems reservations can be made using OpenTable website. They also have a coffee shop featuring Starbucks selections .
Be sure to plan on eating at Wreckers Bar for a unique venue! two story sports screen and over 50 HDTVs Also a huge outdoor courtyard and many giant fireplaces outside for relaxation and kids tossing frisbee, etc.

I know they have just opened a new pool section which is amazing. I wonder if the staffing issues currently are creating a reduced daily Pool Hour Schedule. They have a lot of activity for all ages to enjoy. Also has pool bar outside for dining ….and drinking! Unfortunate that all of the local business are having staffing issues . I just visited in Texas area Hilton and realize it is not just Florida having issues. Lots of complaints from guests sitting around pool area during Fourth Week Visit .

I hope you can find a discount…I usually only stay for one or two nights at a time. It is $$$
I would volunteer to drive over to check everything out for you but they charge to park… but now I am curious. I’m also trying to remember if they have mini frig in room… maybe I can figure something out to take a look around.
I think Adamthe woo just blogged or vlogged his recent visit…I tried watching it but kept thinking I know how to have way more fun .
Hope this helps with your decision

 

[SarahC97]

I actually ended up changing my reservation to the Wyndham Grand Orlando and saved some money. This is a trip where we're focusing on resort time mostly and I didn't want to chance the pool having problems like I had been reading about. I do want to stay at the Gaylord sometime, though!

 

[SwanVT2]

I actually ended up changing my reservation to the Wyndham Grand Orlando and saved some money. This is a trip where we're focusing on resort time mostly and I didn't want to chance the pool having problems like I had been reading about. I do want to stay at the Gaylord sometime, though!

I saw those reviews, too, and they were definitely concerning. I would have made the same choice as you!

 

[BostonEd]

The Wyndham Grand has its own pretty big pool PLUS you can use all the Club Wyndham Bonnet Creek pools.

I've stayed at the Gaylord once and it was fine. I guess their pools have been seriously upgraded, so that would be an improvement, but I thought the place otherwise was over-rated. If your husband merely wants to check it out, I think you can park for free, if you have a dining reservation. (Double check that.) Maybe you can do a field trip to check out the alligators and have lunch with those huge TVs.