A Family-Friendly Review

Introduction

When it comes to finding the perfect family getaway, Gaylord Palms Resort in Kissimmee stands out as a top destination. Located just minutes from Walt Disney World, this sprawling resort offers a unique blend of luxury, comfort, and endless entertainment tailored for families. In this review, we’ll explore why Gaylord Palms is an ideal choice for families looking to maximize their vacation experience using credit card points.

Location and Accessibility

Gaylord Palms Resort boasts a prime location in Kissimmee, Florida, making it incredibly convenient for families planning to visit the nearby theme parks. Situated just a short drive from Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld, the resort offers easy access to some of the most popular family attractions in the world. For those flying in, Orlando International Airport is a mere 20-minute drive away, ensuring a smooth start to your family vacation. It also has a complimentary shuttle to Downtown Disney Springs.

Rooms and Accommodations

One of the best options is the atrium view rooms, which provide stunning views of the resort’s lush indoor landscapes. Staying in an atrium room allows you to experience the beauty of the St. Augustine and Key West-themed areas right from your balcony, adding an extra layer of enchantment to your stay. Parents will appreciate the thoughtful details like in-room refrigerators, and plenty of storage space for all the essentials.

Our room's balcony at Gaylord Palms Convention Center, Kissimmee, FL, with two chairs overlooking the lush, vibrant atrium.

Pool and Entertainment

Gaylord Palms is a haven for family fun, offering a wide range of activities that will keep kids and parents entertained throughout their stay. The resort’s on-site water park, Cypress Springs, features thrilling water slides, a multi-level treehouse playground, and a relaxing lazy river. A highlight for many families is the giant kid water fort with a massive bucket that periodically dumps water, delighting children of all ages. Our kids especially loved watching the alligator feeding sessions, which take place on Tuesdays and Saturdays. For indoor fun, the arcade and interactive adventure zones provide endless entertainment. Seasonal events, such as holiday-themed activities, add to the excitement, ensuring that every visit is unique and memorable. The resort’s expansive atrium is a destination in itself, featuring themed areas like St. Augustine and Key West, where guests can explore lush gardens, historic architecture, and enjoy interactive experiences. One of the standout activities is the Wildlife Rescue Experience, an augmented reality (AR) scavenger hunt that lets guests use their mobile devices to discover and interact with virtual animals from around the world.

Aerial view of the lazy river at Gaylord Palms Resort, Kissimmee, FL, showcasing winding waterways, lush greenery, and relaxing poolside areas.

Giant kids' play fort area in the water at Gaylord Palms Resort, Kissimmee, FL, featuring multiple slides, water cannons, and interactive splash zones.

Dining Options

Dining at Gaylord Palms is an adventure in itself, with numerous family-friendly restaurants to choose from. The resort offers everything from casual dining at SandBar, with its kid-friendly menu, to more sophisticated options like the newly renovated Old Hickory Steakhouse, where you can savor a refined dining experience. One of the highlights of our stay was dining at Wreckers with family and friends, accompanied by a bunch of kids. There’s a great open field right outside where the kids could play their hearts out while we enjoyed our meal and some adult beverages. Another unique dining experience is at MOOR, a Key West-themed restaurant featuring a boat where you can enjoy fresh, sustainable, and local seafood and vegetables in a charming nautical setting. Kids will love the themed dining experiences, such as the Key West-inspired restaurant, where they can enjoy meals in a fun and engaging environment. For parents looking for a bit of relaxation, the resort’s bars and lounges provide a perfect escape after a long day of activities.

Customer Service and Experience

During our stay at Gaylord Palms, we were thoroughly impressed by the exceptional customer service. The staff consistently went above and beyond to make us feel welcomed and valued. From the seamless check-in process to the attentive service at the restaurants and poolside, the resort’s commitment to providing a memorable experience was evident. Even without any special requests, the personal touches and genuine care from the staff truly made our visit unforgettable. The beautifully maintained grounds, luxurious amenities, and diverse dining options added to the overall enjoyment of our stay. Highlights included the relaxing pool area, the exquisite dining experiences, and the overall ambiance of the resort.

Cost and Value

While the cost of staying at Gaylord Palms can be on the higher side, the value you receive, especially when utilizing credit card points, makes it an attractive option for families. The resort’s all-encompassing amenities and convenient location offer significant savings on transportation and entertainment costs. By optimizing your credit card points, you can enjoy luxurious accommodations and countless activities without breaking the bank.

Conclusion

In summary, Gaylord Palms Resort in Kissimmee is a fantastic destination for families seeking a blend of luxury, convenience, and fun. With its prime location near top attractions, family-friendly accommodations, a wide range of activities, and exceptional customer service, the resort provides an unforgettable experience for all ages. We really can't find any negatives about the resort. It is one of our favorites, if not the favorite, in Central Florida. Don’t miss the opportunity to discover your paradise and make the most of your vacation by optimizing your credit card points. Book your stay at Gaylord Palms today and create lasting memories with your loved ones. For an even more magical experience, we highly recommend booking an atrium view room to fully immerse yourself in the resort's breathtaking indoor scenery.

Discovering Paradise at Gaylord Palms Resort in Kissimmee: