Discover the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center: Ultimate Orlando Hotel & Room Tour

The Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center is one of the most unique luxury resort hotels in the greater Orlando area. This massive property was originally constructed in 2002 and recently expanded in 2021.  The resort consists of 1,718 rooms & 106 suites surrounding more than 4.5 acres of indoor, glass-covered atrium that is separated into four distinct themed areas.

With approximately 500,000 square feet of convention, event and meeting space, the Gaylord Palms is one of the largest convention hotels in the state and it is known as the “unofficial” convention center for Osceola County. 

In addition being a hotel for “business travelers”, the Gaylord Palms is perfect for families and vacationers as it is a very short distance to the Walt Disney World Resort theme parks in Orlando, Florida and has a number of family-friendly amenities including a massive outdoor water park.

The Gaylord Palms Orlando is one of our favorite hotels not only for visiting the Walt Disney World theme parks, but also for a quick weekend getaway as there is so much do to without ever leaving the property.  We stay at this hotel several times per year and typically visit during the resort’s annual Christmas at the Gaylord Palms in December 2021.

If you thinking about staying at the Gaylord Palms Orlando or any Marriott hotel, we would appreciate if you can use our links when making the reservations. Endless Summer is an affiliate with Marriott and receives a small commission for each stay that was referred by our website. Booking directly with Marriott not only gives you a BEST RATE GUARANTEE and FLEXIBLE CANCELLATION, but also helps Endless Summer continue to make great content for our audience.

Frequently Asked Questions – Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center

What are the hotel rates at the Gaylord Palms Resort Orlando?

Hotel rates at the Gaylord Palms Resort Orlando typically range from around $300 per night for a standard room to more than $600 per night for the suites depending on the time of year.  See our chart below for pricing for specific dates / room types.

Is there a Resort Fee or Parking Charge at the Gaylord Palms Resort Orlando?

There is a $45 per day Resort Fees at Gaylord Palms Resort Orlando which includes free wireless internet access, pool / water park access, fitness center access, two bottles of water in the room, two pieces of dry cleaning daily, sunrise yoga class, one bucket of golf balls as the nearby golf Celebration Golf Club and transportation to the Walt Disney World parks and Disney Springs. 

On-site self parking at the Gaylord Palms Resort Orlando is $38 per day and valet parking is $50 per day.

How close is the Gaylord Palms Resort to Walt Disney World?

According to Google Maps, the Gaylord Palms is 7 miles to the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World.  Travel time is typically less than 15 minutes.  Epcot, Animal Kingdom, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney Springs are also all less than 15 minutes from the Gaylord Palms.

Is there a spa at Gaylord Palms Resort Orlando?

The Gaylord Palms features the 25,000 square foot Relache Spa that features 24 individual treatment rooms and a full-service salon with make up services.

Is the water park at the Gaylord Palms Resort Orlando free?

Access to the Cypress Springs Water Park at the Gaylord Palms is free to hotel guests.  This includes a resort pool, multi-story water play area, water slides, a fast moving “lazy” river (Crystal River Rapids) and a FlowRider surf simulator. 

Does the Gaylord Palms Resort Orlando offer free transportation to Walt Disney World?

The Gaylord Palms Resort Orlando offers free transportation to the Walt Disney World theme parks and Disney Springs as part the the $45 per day resort fee.  Disney shuttle tickets are available at the Concierge or front desk.

What is the pet policy at the Gaylord Palms Resort Orlando?

Unfortunately pets are not allowed at the Gaylord Palms Resort and Convention Center.

How close is the Gaylord Palms Resort to the Orlando International Airport?

According to Google Maps, the Gaylord Palms Resort is approximately 20 miles from the Orlando International Airport.   Travel time would vary during the time of day but typically ranges from 25 to 35 minutes. 

Can you use reward points to stay at the Gaylord Palms Resort Orlando?

The Gaylord Palms Resort Orlando is part of the Marriott family hotels so Marriott Bonvoy members can earn or use points during their stay. 

About the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center

Located just outside the Walt Disney World Resort, the Gaylord Palms is one of the largest hotels in the greater Orlando area.  There are over 1,700 rooms, 106 suites including 9 Presidential suites and ten hospitality suites under a 4.5 +acres of indoor atrium which is separated into five individually themed areas which are knows as:

• St. Augustine
• Key West
• The Everglades
• Gulf Coast
• Emerald Bay

St. Augustine is the largest of four and includes a replica of the Castillo de San Marcos (oldest fort in the continental US) as well as “Alligator Springs” where guests will find live alligators and turtles.  This area of the atrium is also home to a wedding pavilion, the Villa de Flora Italian restaurant and an evening light show (see our video for the show).

The Key West area is themed after Mallory Square which is a popular Florida keys destination and features a 65-foot sailboat in a central lagoon.  The sailboat is home to a seafood restaurant called Moor.

The Everglades is picturesque and themed with a number of tropical plants as well as raised deck-type walkways.  This area is home to the Old Hickory Steakhouse restaurant, the Relache Spa and the Arcade.  

Gulf Coast is the newest wing of the resort which opened in the summer 2021.  While it does not feature an atrium, it overlooks the all new Crystal River Rapids and the water slides.

Emerald Bay is home to some of the finest rooms at the Gaylord Palms including several luxury suites.  It also has more than 15,000 square feet of meeting space, several gift shops and boutiques, The Cocoa Bean Coffee House, ice cream parlor and the Emerald Bay Marketplace.

Emerald Bay also features Emerald Plaza which is a large open area that hosts events & gatherings as well as a fantastic holiday show.  See our video in the “Special Events at the Gaylord Palms” section for highlights from the holiday show.

The Location of the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center

The Gaylord is located adjacent to Interstate 4 along Osceola Parkway at the intersection of International Drive in Kissimmee, Florida.  

The Gaylord Palms has a direct route from the Orlando International Airport via SR 528 (the Beachline Expressway) to Interstate 4 west.  Barring any significant traffic issues, it will take approximately 30 minutes to get from the airport to the resort.  The Orlando / Orange County Convention Center is also quite close the this hotel at just 10 miles along Interstate 4 east towards downtown Orlando.

The Walt Disney World Resort including all four Disney theme parks, the two Disney water parks and Disney Springs, is just a very short distance away with most destinations being less than 15 minutes drive time.

Travel time per Google Maps (non-peak hours) to the other Orlando area theme parks and significant destinations include:

• The Universal Orlando Resort: approximately 20 minutes
• SeaWorld Orlando: approximately 15 minutes
• ICON Park: approximately 20 minutes
• Downtown Orlando: approximately 30 minutes
• Vineland Premium Outlets: approximately 15 minutes
• The Mall at Millenia: approximately 25 miles
• The Florida Mall: approximately 25 minutes

For an additional fee, the Gaylord Palms offers airport shuttle services through Mears Transportation.

Hotels Amenities at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center

Amenities are the Gaylord Palms are some of the best in all luxury hotels throughout Orlando. From exciting features for kids to relaxation areas for adults, there is something for everyone at this resort.

Amenities at the Gaylord Palms Include:

• The Cypress Springs Water Park which features a huge resort style zero-entry pool with in-water basketball hoops, a multi-story water play area, two racing style slides including a 35-foot freefall drop and a double “FlowRider” surfing wave machine. 
• New for 2021 is the Crystal River Rapids which is the Gaylord’s high-tech action river.  This fast moving “lazy” river features numerous interactive water features as well as a state of the art.
• For a more relaxing experience, The South Beach Pool is adjacent to Cypress Springs.  Palm trees line this “South Beach” themed pool that is surrounded by two whirlpool tubs, lounge chairs and private cabanas.  This pool is located just behind the SandBar (pool restaurant).
• The 25,000 square foot Relache Spa at the Gaylord Palms is one of just two Orlando area spas that were awarded four-stars by the Forbes Travel Guide.  The spa features 24 treatment rooms, a full-service salon, make-up services and locker rooms with steam room / sauna and rainforest showers.  
• The 24-hour Relache Fitness Center is a fully equipped fitness center with floor to ceiling windows that feature a variety of cardiovascular equipment with the UNITY 3.0 console, strength training machines and free weights.  Personal training services and group training classes are offered.
• Arcade / Game Room
• Complimentary shuttle service to the Walt Disney World theme parks and Disney Springs. Shuttle service to SeaWorld Orlando and the Universal Orlando Resort is offered for a separate fee.

Dining at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center

The Gaylord Palms offers a variety of dining experiences including quick-service, room service, casual dining and fine dining.  There is something to offer for any palette. 

Villa de Flora

Guests will enjoy authentic Mediterranean / Italian style gourmet cuisine in this buffet-style restaurant. Enjoy fresh pasta, carving stations and more at this classic restaurant that is located in the St. Augustine atrium.  Open for breakfast and dinner service only.

Having previously eaten at Villa de Flora, this is one of the finest Mediterranean /  | Italian restaurants of any of the major hotels in the Orlando area. 

MOOR

MOOR is a casual seafood restaurant located in the Key West atrium.  Part of the dining area is located on the 65-foot sailboat that is located within the hotel atrium itself.   This restaurant is open for both lunch and dinner service.

Old Hickory Steakhouse

Located in the Everglades atrium, this rustic steakhouse restaurant features certified Black Angus beef along with a Wine Spectator award-winning wine list.

Wreckers Sports Bar

Watch the game on a 37-foot, two-story screen along with over 50 HDTV’s while dining on wings, burgers and salads.  Wreckers is open for lunch and dinner service and is adjacent to the Gaylord Palms Convention Center.

With seating for up to 400 guests including a VIP skybox, lounge, patio & veranda seating, Wreckers can accommodate most  groups and private events.

SandBar

Dine alfresco at this poolside restaurant and bar.  The SandBar serves a variety of burgers, sandwiches and flatbreads.  There is also a kids menu offered for the younger travelers.  The SandBar is open for lunch and dinner service.

Socio

Guests will enjoy Cuban-inspired / Caribbean style cuisine at this casual lobby bar and lounge.  In addition to small plates, Socio features a variety of cocktails, wines and beer.  Socio is only open in the evenings.

Emerald Bay Marketplace

Enjoy grab-and-go meals which include fresh salads, sandwiches, wraps and deserts.  The Emerald Bay Marketplace also serviced Starbucks coffee, beer and wine.

The Cocoa Bean

Guests can get their Starbucks coffee along with gourmet sandwiches, bakery items as well as beer and wine at this grab-and-go venue.

Crystal River Refreshments

New for 2021, this poolside quick-service restaurant services a mixture of burgers, sandwiches, salads and flatbreads as well as beer, wine and specialty cocktails.

The Rooms at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center

Rooms and suites range from standard guests rooms to two lavish Presidential Suites. Features include premium linens, modern decor and high quality bathroom finishes. Several rooms offer balconies and stunning views of the hotel atrium.

The room types at the Gaylord Palms Resort and Convention Center are as follows:

• Florida view guest room with one King bed.
• Florida view guest room with two Queen beds.
• Atrium view guest room with one King bed.
• Atrium view guest room with two Queen beds.
• Main Atrium (St. Augustine) view guest room with one King bed.
• Main Atrium (St. Augustine) view guest room with two Queen beds.
• Emerald Bay, pool or lawn view guest room with one King bed.
• Emerald Bay, pool or lawn view guest room with two Queen beds.
• Emerald Bay, Main Atrium (St. Augustine) view guest room with one King bed.
• Emerald Bay, Main Atrium (St. Augustine) view guest room with two Queen beds.
• One-bedroom 625 sf Executive suite with one King bed.
• One-bedroom Deluxe 831 sf Executive suite with one King bed.
• Vista Suite and Hemingway Suite.
• Grand Presidential Suite includes a 14-seat dining table with bar, pool table, private fitness area, office and two bedrooms.

Each room includes a writing desk and chair(s), alarm clock, coffee maker / tea service, mini-refrigerator, in-room safe, flat panel television featuring HBO, ESPN, CNN and pay-per-view movies, complimentary high-speed internet and room service. 

Select rooms have pool views, lawn views, atrium views (St. Augustine, Everglades and Key West) as well as balconies and outdoor patios.

Hotels Rates at the Gaylord Palms

The Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center in Orlando offers a range of nightly rates that reflect its luxurious accommodations and extensive amenities. Standard room rates typically start around $250 to $350 per night during off-peak seasons, providing guests with access to the resort’s beautifully themed atriums, multiple dining options, and world-class spa.

During peak seasons, such as holidays and summer months, rates can increase significantly, often ranging from $400 to $600 per night or more.

There is a resort fee of $45 per day as well a 6% resort tax on top of a 6.5% sales tax on rates for this hotel.  Other charges include an on-site self parking fee of $38 per day ($50 for valet parking).

Special Events at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center

Christmas at the Gaylord Palms

Christmas at the Gaylord Palms is one of the premier holiday events enjoyed by both locals and vacation travelers alike.  Typically running from mid-November to the New Year, this amazing event is not to be missed. 

Several of the special holiday themed activities and special events include:

• ICE!  This separately ticketed multi-sensory experience features a new theme every year.
• Alpine Village at the Gaylord Palms. The Alpine Village offers a number of spectacular winter things to do including snow tubing, snowball throwing, a Build-A-Bear Workshop, gingerbread decorating, holiday themed gift shop and a meet & greet with Santa & Mrs. Clause.
• Cirque: Sprit of Christmas. This amazing acrobatic show is held at the Emerald Plaza right in the St. Augustine atrium featuring a number of amazing theatrics.
• #LIT Light Show. This holiday themed light and sound show above the St. Augustine atrium featuring two-million lights.
• The Greatest Story Stage Show 
• The Gaylord Palms Christmas Tree Trail See all the wonderful Christmas trees on this walking tour through the Everglades atrium.
• Secret Santa Scavenger Hunt

Easter Eggstravaganza

Held annually during select dates in March and April, kids enjoy special Easter themed events like Easter egg hunts, themed Easter displays throughout the hotel, character breakfasts and a visit from the Easter bunny.  

On Easter Sunday kids can grab up to 1,000 multi-colored eggs which are filled with all kinds of sweets.

Pirate & Princess Weekends

Typically held on weekends from late April to early May, the Pirate & Princess Weekends features a number of special activities.  The Gaylord’s press release states:

“Pirate and Princess Weekends tells the tale of Gaylord Palms Resort as it’s commandeered by a notorious band of pirates led by Captain Hornswoggle. Swashbuckling Sunshine and her first mate Clarence Mockingbird the Third are searching for kind Princess Orangeblossom’s treasure Guests will get to embark on their own adventures as they choose to be recruited for the Captain’s crew or join Orangeblossom and become an honorary prince and princess for the day.”

Special Pirate and Princess Activities include:

• The Pirate Invasion Pool Party
• A nighttime Pirate & Princess Light Show in the St. Augustine Atrium
• Princess Orangeblossom’s Shiny Stash Scavenger Hunt
• Storytelling in the Princess Orangeblossom and Sunshine the Pirate
• A Pirate and Princess dance party
• The Captain’s Hidden Treason Escape Room (separate ticket event)

SummerFest at the Gaylord Palms

SummerFest at the Gaylord Palms typically extend from take June to Labor Day weekend and provided summer concerts, poolside DJ’s, the Illuminate Florida Light Show (in the St. Augustine Atrium), family movie nights, sunrise yoga sessions, animal encounters, the Florida Explorer Scavenger Hunt and interactive trivia sessions.

Goblins and Giggles Getaway Weekends at the Gaylord Palms

Get ready for a goolish adventure at the Gaylord Palms which hosts a number of Halloween themed activities from mid-September to Halloween night.  These special activities include:

• Poolside fun with “Jack O Lantern”
• Trick or Treat Expedition under the 4.5-acre enclosed atrium
• Halloween themed Moonlight Movies.
• Spooky the Square Pumpkin Meet & Greet
• Spooky Animal Encounters
• Adventure Kids: A Spooky Celebration – Kids will join along with Adventure Kid Sophie, Seth the Sea Turtle and Ava the Alligator to explore some of Florida’s creepy plant life.
• Bedtime Stories with Morgana & Monster Mash Bash with Vlad – television stories broadcast right to your room on Channel 51.
• Halloween Hide & Seek featuring Spooky the Square Pumpkin (separate ticketed event)
• A “Ghost Experience” within the walls of the Castillo de San Marcos fort in the St. Augustine atrium (separate ticketed event).

Conferences and Events at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center

The Gaylord Palms boasts the second largest hotel conference center in the metro Orlando area (second to the Rosen Shingle Creek).

The resort features 72 event rooms which comprise an astounding 462,296 square feet of event space and have a capacity of more than 10,000 attendees.  The Osceola Ballroom is 48,505 square feet and features a 42 by 96 foot stage with dressing rooms and green rooms.  This ballroom can be divided into six sections for maximum flexibility.

In addition to the indoor meeting and event space, the Gaylord Palms Resort features the 14,000 square foot outdoor Coquina Lawn as well as 3,100+ square feet of deck and lawn space surrounding the South Beach Pool.

What We Liked about the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center

There are so many things to like at the Gaylord Palms Resort and Convention Center.  Following are some of the highlights:

• Unique Design and Features including the 4.5 acres of enclosed atrium themed after various locations in the state of Florida.
• Extensive amenities including a large water park with a FlowRider
• Excellent location adjacent to the Walt Disney World Resort.
• Unique experiences including special events like Christmas at the Gaylord Palms (including ICE!), SummerFest and more.
• Spacious rooms with atrium facing balconies
• Excellent Service –  that signature services goes a long way.

What We Didn’t Like about the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center

There are just a few things we found to dislike at the Gaylord Palms.  Nothing that we would consider significant but should be mentioned when doing an honest review.  

• Massive Size of the Hotel. This hotel is so large that it’s very easy to get turned around, even for repeat guests.  It can also be a fairly long walk to your car or vehicle.  And it is especially frustrating when the electronic key does not work (happens to us almost every stay) and it takes 20 minutes to get another key from the front desk.
• Resort fees and Parking Fees.  While these are becoming the norm in luxury hotels in Orlando, it still adds almost $70 to the daily hotel rate.
• Limited Poolside Seating for the size of the hotel.  During peak summer travel times and conventions, getting a place to sit at the pool can be difficult.

What We Think the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center is Perfect For:

This hotel has so much to offer in just about every area and we consider it perfect for the travelers who are coming to the Orlando area for:

• Family Walt Disney World vacations
• Couples and/or Family weekend getaways (With all there is to do – especially when the Gaylord Palms hosts special events, guests really never have to leave the property).
• Conferences, events and business conventions in the Orlando area

Endless Summer Recommendation:  If you are spending the full day at a theme park and are fine with a lesser quality hotel, there are less expensive options than the Gaylord Palms Resort and Convention Center that are in the immediate area of Walt Disney World.