Orlando has become both a grand vacation destination and home to major conventions. Walt Disney World offers great entertainment, and convention goers can bring along the family to mix business with pleasure.
The Gaylord Palms Resort and Convention Center, located at 6000 W. Osceola Parkway in Kissimmee Florida, is one of the largest hotels and convention centers in the area. It is located close to the major theme parks of Disney, Universal Studios and other attractions.
The Gaylord Palms is a massive hotel, with 1406 guest rooms and 115 suites, along with 400,000 feet of convention space. It features several swimming pools, restaurants and a spa.
Getting to the Gaylord Palms
The hotel is convenient to Orlando International Airport, serviced by many airlines. There is a toll on the airport highway. Visitors renting a car at the airport may want to consider pre-paying the tolls. Inquire at the rental counter. Most agencies are right on the airport grounds.
If you need to fill the tank with gasoline when returning the car, it is a good idea to get gas a bit away from the airport and away from the tourist areas, because stations in these areas are known to charge excessive prices for gasoline.
Layout of the Gaylord Palms
The hotel is set up as a giant rectangle, with guestrooms surrounding the giant indoor tropical forest. Yes, indoors. Four and a half acres of indoor gardens, set to three different Florida environments. Walking paths wind through the flora. It is a great way to experience the nature of The Sunshine State without dealing with the pesky insects found outside. The temperature and humidity are controlled, a welcome break from the muggy Florida weather.
Restaurants at the Hotel
The Gaylord Palms has several places to dine and enjoy a tropical beverage. At Sunset Sam’s, guests can enjoy appetizers on the signature boat before dining on seafood in the restaurant in the atrium. There is also the Old Hickory Steakhouse, Sora and Villa de Flora, allowing for choices of different cuisines each night of your stay.
There are plenty of places to shop for souvenirs right in the hotel. Prices are comparable to the theme parks, but higher than you will find in some of the places around town.
Parking is fairly expensive for convention goers not staying at the hotel.
Whether the family is looking for a good hotel to use as a jumping off for the theme parks, or a great place to relax and play while someone is attending a meeting, the Gaylord Palms has the amenities to entertain the entire family.
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