Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center

The grounds at the Gaylord resort in Orlando were nice and well kept, but that was the end of the good parts. Our room was a major disappointment. It faced outside but had no blackout curtains, so after going to sleep in darkness, we woke to sunlight so bright it felt like someone had turned on the lights. At this price, blackout curtains should be standard, especially for families with infants. Early morning construction noise woke us and our infant, ruining the morning. There was no warning at check-in, no sign on the door, and no heads-up. The response was just as bad: no apology, no effort to fix things, no offer to adjust the stay or provide compensation, and not even a discussion of an early checkout. Poor room design, poor communication, and worse customer service. I wouldn’t recommend this resort or return.

The buffet breakfast was fresh and delicious, with everything you could want. Our server had worked at the resort for over 20 plus years and told us all about it. Staff were sweet and accommodating, and our daughters loved the pool. Poolside food and drinks were excellent, and the service stayed outstanding despite how busy it was. The room was spotless and the beds were so comfortable. We only booked two nights and wished we’d stayed a week. We can’t wait to come back with our whole family for longer, and highly recommend the Gaylord Palms Resort. This was our first stay, and it felt perfect from start to finish. We arrived very late because of a car accident on the way. The resort employee we spoke with by phone was so kind and went above and beyond to make a stressful situation easier. When we arrived, the lobby was stunning, and the front desk staff were just as sweet and accommodating.

We came for the Christmas experiences, and even though the property is big, everyone was ready to help so we never felt lost. On our first morning, Ruby was in the atrium and walked us to the buffet entrance when we weren’t sure where to go, chatting with us along the way. The buffet is amazing, with eggs any way you want, fresh pastries, waffles, and outstanding turkey sausage. Our server was Irish, who was born in the Philippines. We asked for her whenever we ate at the restaurant because she noticed the small things that make a stay memorable, like remembering our daughter loves hot chocolate when asking what she’d like to drink. The restaurant manager kept checking that everything was great, and on Christmas evening the Executive Chef stopped by to make sure we were satisfied. From arrival, the treatment felt first class. If you have kids or grandkids, the holiday activities and atmosphere at Gaylord Palms are well worth experiencing.

The place is huge and beautiful, and it’s very well cared for. Everything was clean, and the design felt thoughtful in every corner. Our kids had a blast, whether they were at the water park or just wandering around to see all the sights. They loved seeing the snakes and alligators at Gaylord, a big win for a family. The restaurants and stores were great too, with good food and drinks, attractive design, and great service everywhere. We’d never stayed at a Gaylord resort before, but this visit won us over. We’d pick Gaylord again anywhere near one, even if it cost more. At check-in, the woman who helped us was phenomenal and went above and beyond to make the stay special. I think her name was Maria, and her name tag said she was from Queens, New York. She was amazing and deserves recognition. Can’t recommend the place enough!