Headed to Orlando with kids and need to get out of the house? Head to Gaylord Palms Resort. Let me tell you, this resort is family friendly and has everything a family needs. We were highly impressed from the beautiful inside to the outside waterpark/pool area. We stayed in the Emerald Bay deluxe suite with the atrium view overlooking the lush gardens.
The hotel provides many activities from alligator feedings to a scavenger hunt. This scavenger hunt wasn't easy, but it sure was a lot of fun! We ran around the hotel answering clues about FLORIDA! It sure helped us keep Henry entertained while learning history and seeing the beautiful hotel. At night there is evening music at two different times and a beautiful light show in the atrium. There are many summer deals going on right now for you to check out!
The best place Henry and William would say was the waterpark/pool area. Ben and I both went on the slides and they were so fun. Unfortunately, Henry couldn't go on any slides, due to his height. We lived outside as it was very fun! I loved that they had a huge screen that showed us if a storm was coming near us. It made me feel safe while having the little ones in the pool.
ELEPHANT IN THE ROOM COVID --- What? You traveled to a hotel with COVID in our state? YESSSS our family ventured out of our house and trusted we were in good hands at the Gaylord Palms Resort. And yes we were. Social distancing, hand sanitizing stations, only one family per chair sections at the pool per day, masks to be worn in social areas, one family in the elevator at a time, and all staff in masks always. Also, if you wanted to you could check in/out with your phone.
Questions I received on Instagram:
1. Did they have temperature checks? No, at least I didn't have one.
2. Mask Required/Enforced? Yes, they were required and there was many signs. Quiet a few times I didn't see other guests wearing them, but all workers were in masks. My family kept a mask on during all social times.
3. How do you social distance in a pool? The seating around the pool were in sets of four/five. We had premium seats which means we were in the front row. Sitting in the front made me feel away from other groups. There were announcements made to "please make sure you are social distancing." many times.
4. Were places being cleaned that you saw? I honestly only saw the pool area getting cleaned, I did not witness anything else being cleaned while I was out.
5. How does housekeeping work with someone coming into your room? There was no housekeeping due to COVID. However, we had to order towels and they came very quick.
6. Did they make you walk one ways? No, there was no signs for one way walking.
Overall, we had a great time with many laughs, beautiful views, family fun, and most of all we felt comfortable and safe on our weekend vacation!! Thank you Gaylord Palms Hotel for hosting my family and I.