• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • About | Press
  • Up the Waterfall
  • Media Kit

ZANNALAND!

Magical Adventures & Memories

  • Latest News
    • Top Stories
    • Disney News
    • Disney Movie News & Reviews
    • Movie Reviews
  • Places to Explore
    • Walt Disney World
    • Universal Orlando Resort
    • Disneyland Resort
    • Orlando Area Resorts
    • Disneyland Resort Paris
    • Disney Cruise Line
  • Things to Do
    • Disney Dining
    • Disney Special Events
    • D23 Expo
    • RunDisney
    • Travel, Theme Parks, and Resorts
    • Florida Theme Parks & Attractions
      • Universal Orlando Resort
      • Medieval Times
      • LEGOLAND Florida
      • Busch Gardens
      • Sea World Orlando
    • Orlando Area Resorts
    • Central Florida Family Entertainment
  • Up the Waterfall Podcast

gaylord palms resort

REVIEW: Gaylord Palms Goblins and Giggles Weekends 2020

22 September 2020 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Share
Tweet
Pin
Share

Gaylord Palms Resort

If you haven’t heard of the Gaylord Palms Resort, it is situated over in Kissimmee. It’s actually very close to the ESPN Wide World of Sports/Art of Animation side of the Walt Disney World Resort property. It’s super easy to get to and close-by for those wondering if it’s easy to stay there and go to the parks. We have stayed there a few times over the years, and absolutely love the resort. The resort itself is a great place to do a staycation for locals too because there is so much to explore and do in the hotel itself. We’ll have full resort and room tour videos coming up later this week, so be sure to subscribe to our Zannaland channel and click the bell to get notified when they go live! Now, let’s get to our review of Goblins & Giggles Weekends!

What is Goblins and Giggles Weekends? 

We discuss all that’s included in Goblins and Giggles Weekends in our previous article, so check that out if you’re curious as to what’s included. In addition to this Goblins and Giggles review, you can watch our video from our weekend there to see what we saw and enjoyed! Watch here:

Is Goblins and Giggles Worth it? 

I think it is, yes. The event weekend rates start at $189/nt and I think that’s a great value with some extras thrown in like the Halloween Hide & Seek with Spookley the Square Pumpkin, the Trick or Treating, and the little shows, animal encounters and storytelling on the tv. We didn’t get video of that but basically on channel 51 of our room tv, from 6-10pm, we could watch storytime with Morgana, and Monster Mash with Vlad, where their costumed characters told stories or did dance numbers for the kids. That was the only place we saw the Goblin in question from the weekend name. Unless we missed him being somewhere else, be sure to tune in to see him.

I will say that while I personally enjoyed the Castillo de San Marcos ALIVE! experience, because I love fun theatre-y stuff like that where people perform dramatic monologues, I can see how some people might not think it was worth the $15 per person ticket price. I don’t usually do any sort of Halloween experiences like that, so maybe that’s the going rate, I’m not sure, so I’ll let you decide for yourself.

For the ticket fee, you see some lit up jack-o-lantern collections, which are very fun, but I do wish I could’ve taken some photos of them in the daylight too. Then you experience 3 different ghost “stations” where each ghost tells you their tale and then ushers you on. It ends with Bones, a “comic relief” performance to counteract the creepy (and based on real stories?) tales you just heard. Bones was really fun, we loved him. Then you are sent to the SpookEasy, where you can enjoy an alcoholic drink if you’d like. So if you had a big family, that price would add up quickly, but again, it’s up to you to decide if it would work for you. I will say the performers were all great, really into their characters and the makeup and costumes were on point too. I really had fun.

Gaylord Palms Goblins and Giggles
All of the Goblins & Giggles activities
Gaylord Palms Goblins and Giggles
Gaylord Palms Goblins & Giggles
Gaylord Palms Goblins and Giggles
Adventure Kids Live!
Halloween Hide & Seek with Spookley
Gaylord Palms Goblins and Giggles
Can you spot Spookley?
Gaylord Palms Goblins and Giggles
Trick or Treat station
Spookley the Square Pupmkin
Spookley, Gio and me!
Gaylord Palms Goblins and Giggles
Some of the jack-o-lanterns on display
ALIVE Castillo de san Marcos
Castillo de San Marcos ALIVE!
Gaylord Palms Goblins and Giggles
Jack-o-lanterns at night
Phantom of the Atrium Light Show
Phantom of the Atrium Light Show

Lastly, there is the Phantom of the Atrium Light Show. I was really looking forward to this as I love a light show, and anything Phantom of the Opera related. This was a fun show, but it was quick, only 5 minutes long. The Phantom “conducts” from below, and the lights display various Halloweenie images and characters, with classical spooky music. I think this could be a much longer show, even if the lights aren’t necessarily showing graphics, they are just lights. Some of the images were a little cheesy, but again, it was super fun to watch from our balcony. I’d have sat through an hour-long show!

Will My Kids Like it?

There are some activities which are definitely geared toward younger kids. The Seth the Sea Turtle and Ava the Alligator Adventure Kids show is for sure. The bedtime stories on the tv are as well. The Hide and Seek is great for little kids and older kids, because if the little ones can’t solve the puzzles, older siblings or parents can help, and the littler kids can search for Spookley the Square Pumpkin. Trick-or-Treating is of course for everyone. The ALIVE! experience isn’t really very scary, it’s just loud in some parts when the actors really get into something. But little kids may not enjoy it if you are going at night. The Phantom of the Atrium Light Show is great for everyone!

Bottom Line Review

My Gaylord Palms Goblins and Giggles review in a sentence: I had a great time, my family had a great time. I think the value is there, and on par with Disney’s value resorts, which Gaylord Palms certainly exceeds in terms of comfort and surroundings. Again, I love going there for a Staycation and not even visiting the parks, because with the resort itself (even now when some things are closed) and the water park area, there is a ton to do.

I will say that we were a little disappointed in the lack of enforcement of the mask-wearing policy. It IS clearly stated everywhere that it’s required in the hotel, and at the pool unless you are in the water, but we did not see anyone outside of the front desk reminding people to keep their masks on or up over their noses. Many times people would be asking an employee a question, with no mask on, and no one was telling them to stop and put their mask on.

Additionally, they have notices to keep elevators at 4 people max occupancy, or your entire party, and we had to, at least twice, stop people from getting on the elevator with us. I realize that is a people problem and not a Gaylord Palms problem, but I do wish they had at least one person stationed around the atrium enforcing mask-wearing. We felt safe the whole time, however, we just stayed away from those who weren’t complying. Just something to be aware of if you are immuno-compromised.

How to Book

You can book directly at GaylordPalms.com and don’t forget about their upcoming holiday season as well with the Gaylord Palms I Love Christmas Movies pop-up experience!! We can’t wait for that! Thank you to Gaylord Palms for having us out and we hope you enjoyed our Goblins and Giggles vlog and review – stay tuned this week for Resort and Room Tour videos coming up on Zannaland!

You can also see the fun from our weekend on my instagram story if you missed it while we were there, I’ve saved it in a Gaylord Goblins highlight.

 

Disclosure: Gaylord Palms invited my family and I to stay for the weekend and experience Goblins and Giggles Weekends. We were provided with a $100 resort credit, passes for the ALIVE! experience and preferred seating at the pool area. As always, my thoughts and opinions are my own. 

Share
Tweet
Pin
Share

Filed Under: Family Travel, Gaylord Palms Resort, Latest News, Orlando Area Resorts, Travel, Travel, Theme Parks, and Resorts Tagged With: Gaylord Palms, Gaylord Palms deals, Gaylord Palms Goblins and Giggles, Gaylord Palms Halloween, Gaylord Palms hotel, gaylord palms resort, Gaylord Palms Review, Gaylord Palms weekend getaway, Goblins and Giggles, Goblins and Giggles review, Goblins and Giggles Weekends

I Love Christmas Movies! Pop Up Experience at Gaylord Palms

4 September 2020 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Share
Tweet
Pin
Share

On the heels of their last announcement regarding Gaylord Palms Halloween event – Goblins and Giggles Weekends, the resort hotel has now announced their holiday offerings. Gaylord Palms ICE! has become a staple of holiday events in the Orlando area for well over a decade. My family have been visiting since 2007, and it has become a tradition for us and many others as well. However, due to international travel restrictions and the global pandemic this year, ICE! will not be a part of the Christmas at Gaylord Palms lineup.

Gaylord Palms Atrium Christmas Lights

Don’t let that deter your plans to include Gaylord Palms as part of your holiday traditions. Gaylord Palms still has a HUGE schedule of events for the upcoming season. Traditional favorites like Cirque Dreams and the tree lighting atrium light show return, along with an all-new “pop-up” offering. Let’s see the news directly from Gaylord Palms:

As the holiday season approaches, Gaylord Palms is excited to announce a new one-of-a-kind marquee Christmas pop-up experience that will debut November 13, 2020 and run through January 3, 2021.  Called “I Love Christmas Movies,” the new experience presents a multi-sensory exhibition in collaboration with Warner Bros. Consumer Products allowing guests to experience beloved holiday movies in a completely new way. The new pop-up experience anchors Gaylord Palms’ lineup of renowned annual Christmas programming, promising an enchanting holiday celebration this year.

With the unveiling of the new I Love Christmas Movies immersive pop-up experience, visitors will enjoy enhanced holiday fun and delights as they discover this exclusive activity offered only at Gaylord Hotels for a limited time.

Elf gaylord palms Christmas

I Love Christmas Movies presents a fully immersive exhibit featuring key moments from some of the most iconic Warner Bros. Pictures Christmas movies including THE POLAR EXPRESS™, A CHRISTMAS STORY™, ELF™, NATIONAL LAMPOON’S CHRISTMAS VACATION™, and THE YEAR WITHOUT A SANTA CLAUS™. As guests young and young at heart navigate the multi-sensory exhibits, they will enjoy over 13 fully immersive scenes complete with replicas of film props, audio clips and more, making participants feel as if they have stepped into part of the actual story. Guests will travel with Buddy the Elf from Santa’s North Pole workshop to New York City; take photos in front of the Griswold’s house adorned with thousands of Christmas lights; and more.

National Lampoon Christmas Vacation Gaylord Palms

For almost two decades, Gaylord Palms has become legendary for providing magical holiday events and activities for winter visitors to experience, and this year will be no different. A lineup of additional signature activities and experiences visitors have come to know and love over the years is being developed and will be featured alongside the new I Love Christmas Movies experience.

With a full lineup to be announced soon, visitors can look forward to experiences such as ice tubing, scavenger hunts, gingerbread decorating, elf training academy, holiday stage shows and much more, all to be enjoyed within acres of airy indoor atriums decorated with millions of twinkling holiday lights, towering Christmas trees and thousands of shimmering ornaments.

“The holidays are the perfect time of year to make memories with friends and family, and we know that this year more than ever, guests will be looking for places where they can celebrate the magic of the season in a safe environment,” said General Manager Johann Krieger. “This year we are excited to present the new I Love Christmas Movies experience, along with our other amazing events and activities our guests have come to know and love.”

As the safety of guests and STARS (employees) is of paramount importance, the Christmas at Gaylord Palms program is being developed in accordance with Marriott’s “Commitment to Clean” program and with enhanced protocols and social-distancing measures. Programming will also operate in consideration with the latest local, state and federal legislation.

Overnight Christmas packages including admission into the I Love Christmas Movies immersive pop-up experience are available to book now. Tickets for all the events and activities for Christmas at Gaylord Palms will go on sale in early October.

For more information about the I Love Christmas Movies pop-up and Christmas programming, visit ChristmasatGaylordPalms.com, which will be updated with this year’s lineup soon.

Gaylord Palms Christmas

Have you visited Gaylord Palms for the holidays? What was your favorite part of the lineup? Let us know in the comments below!

Check out our Gaylord Palms room tour below:

Share
Tweet
Pin
Share

Filed Under: Family Travel, Gaylord Palms Resort, Top Stories, Travel, Travel, Theme Parks, and Resorts Tagged With: Christmas at Gaylord Palms, Christmas at Gaylord Palms 2020, Gaylord Palms, Gaylord Palms Christmas, Gaylord Palms deals, Gaylord Palms holidays, Gaylord Palms hotel, Gaylord Palms ICE!, gaylord palms resort, Gaylord Palms room tour, Gaylord Palms weekend getaway, I Love Christmas Movies Pop-up, Marriott Christmas, Orlando Christmas

Gaylord Palms Goblins & Giggles Weekends Begin Soon

28 August 2020 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Share
Tweet
Pin
Share

As you may know if you have been following Zannaland for a while, or subscribed to our YouTube channel – we LOVE Gaylord Palms Resort! It’s such an amazing getaway, it’s THE perfect place for a “staycation.” There is so much to see and do within the resort, you have no reason to leave! Now, to celebrate the spooky season coming upon us soon (I know all of 2020 has been pretty spooky, but you might as well have some FUN with it, right?) Gaylord Palms is presenting Goblins and Giggles Getaway Weekends!

Gaylord Palms exterior Goblins

What are Goblins and Giggles Getaway Weekends you ask? Let me explain. This Fall, guests are invited to experience spooktacular weekends September 11 through October 31, 2020. Throughout the season, in addition to their amazing holiday experiences, Gaylord Palms creates fun family weekends that really give you a reason to getaway, relax, and have fun. These weekend themed events are such great fun and Gaylord Palms Resort is so huge, a scavenger hunt is really a hunt! There are so many places to explore and discover: pools, a water park, dining, live alligators, saltwater fish, and so much more. Here’s the breakdown of the Gaylord Palms Goblins & Giggles Weekends:

Gaylord Palms Goblins and Giggles logo

Goblins & Giggles Getaway Weekends offers a wide array of family-friendly activities from spooky animal encounters and a Halloween-themed scavenger hunt to wicked pool fun and a meet and greet with Spookley the Square Pumpkin.

Most of the activities take place Friday through Sunday.

• In celebration of Goblins & Giggles, the resort is offering a special package starting at $189.

The package includes overnight accommodations, a Hide and Seek Scavenger Hunt booklet and tickets to the new Castillo de San Marcos ALIVE! Ghost Experience. The package excludes resort fee and parking.

Weekend events and activities include:

  • NEW! Castillo de San Marcos ALIVE! Ghost Experience features live storytellers who recount real-life ghost stories for all who are brave enough to listen. Guests will explore the fort’s stone walls and encounter the spirits who remain trapped within. Includes an imaginative walkthrough experience transporting visitors of all ages through a world of Halloween Jack-o-Lantern fun.
  • NEW! The resort’s haunted hideaway SpookEasy offers spine-chilling craft cocktails and a spooky collection of terrifying, ghostly artwork procured by owner’s past. *This haunt is PG-13 due to graphic spooky activities inside.*
  • NEW! Meet and Greet with Spookley the Square Pumpkin at a fun photo op. One day in the pumpkin patch, the strangest little pumpkin hatched. Spookley the Pumpkin was different. All the other pumpkins teased him, until Spookley proved that being different can save the day.
  • Spooky Animal Encounters provides guests with the opportunity to conquer their fears by getting up-close to live animals and learn about common myths surrounding some of the world’s most misunderstood creatures.
  • Guests, young and young at heart, can explore the resort during a Trick-or-Treat Expedition, with stops throughout the resort for some deliciously spooky treats.
  •  Seth the Sea Turtle, Ava the Alligator and everyone’s favorite Adventure Kid Sophie explore Florida’s creepier flora and fauna during Adventure Kids: A Spooky Celebration.
  • Families can hang out poolside with the Halloween host with the most Jack O’ Lantern for some Wicked Awesome Pool Fun in the Sun.
  • Spend the evening at Moonlight Movies watching family-friendly movies on the resort’s pool screen at Cypress Springs Water Park.

Gaylord Palms Goblins and Giggles Gaylord Palms Goblins and Giggles

Daily activities include:

  • The Hide and Seek Scavenger Hunt featuring Spookley the Square Pumpkin. Spookley found eight spooktacular hiding spots at the resort for his game of Halloween Hide & Seek. Guests solve puzzles to find each clue’s missing word and then use the clues to find Spookley.
  • The Wildlife Rescue Experience guides guests throughout the resort to track down endangered species and help ensure that they are monitored for their protection. The virtual adventure highlights  indigenous animals from Florida and, with the magic of  augmented reality,  brings them to life before the participants’ eyes.
  • From the comfort of their guest room, families can enjoy two interactive Halloween videos: Bedtime Stories with Morgana, a treat-making witch from Spooksville, and Monster Mash Bash with Vlad the Vampire.
  • The Phantom of the Atrium Light Display is a haunting masterpiece filled with mystery, mischief and, of course, magic in the St. Augustine atrium sky.

Gaylord Palms Goblins and Giggles character

 

What About Pools?!

Guests can relax and unwind at Cypress Springs Water Park & Resort Pools, which feature a zero-entry swimming pool, multi-level water playground, racing slides, a drop slide and a FlowRider surf simulator.

The pool experience has been upgraded to implement new cleanliness and social distancing measures. Gaylord Palms has done this while balancing the aquatic experience guests have come to love.

In addition to spaced seating, guests can rent a private cabana for the day including shaded seating, a flat-screen television, refrigerator, and snacks. Premium guaranteed pool seating is also available for purchase.

Gaylord Palms Goblins and Giggles interior

In accordance with Marriott’s “Commitment to Clean” practices, the resort provides enhanced cleaning technology.

This includes:

  • hospital-grade disinfectants
  • attendants dedicated to sanitizing frequently throughout the day
  • social distancing protocols
  • hundreds of new cleaning processes
  • all to take care of guests while they enjoy the resort’s amenities.

This sounds like such a FUN event! With so many Halloween events being canceled this year, it would be such a fun family getaway to make some wonderful memories. Sign me up! 

For more information on Gaylord Palms Goblins & Giggles events and overnight room packages, visit GaylordPalms.com. Let ’em know Zannaland sent you! 😉
Share
Tweet
Pin
Share

Filed Under: Central Florida Family Entertainment, Family Travel, Gaylord Palms Resort, Latest News, Travel, Travel, Theme Parks, and Resorts Tagged With: Gaylord Palms, Gaylord Palms deals, Gaylord Palms Goblins and Giggles, Gaylord Palms Halloween, Gaylord Palms hotel, gaylord palms resort, Gaylord Palms weekend getaway, Goblins and Giggles, Goblins and Giggles Weekends

Orlando’s Gaylord Palms Wants You to Get Scared Shrekless and Prepare for a Merry Madagascar!

21 September 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Share
Tweet
Pin
Share

I always love any chance I get to hang out at the Gaylord Palms Resort – it is like another little self-contained world. Actually, there isn’t anything little about Gaylord Palms. From the moment you walk in the lobby, the space is awe-inspiring and the attention to detail and theming just gorgeous. I think I could spend all day just wandering around and exploring the Florida-themed sections of the hotel (and they realize this and offer kids scavenger hunts as a result!). The rooms and dining are just as fabulous, making it a place a family or couple could truly escape and never leave the grounds for a mini-vacation.

Gaylord Palms knows how to entertain families as well. They have two holiday packages coming up, one for Halloween featuring Shrek and Kung Fu Panda  – who wouldn’t want to trick-or-treat around 4.5 acres of hotel gardens?! Of course, their amazing Christmas experiences such as ICE!, decorations, shows and more! The official information follows – I can’t recommend the Gaylord Palms Resort enough, it’s just beautiful!

 …

Scared Shrekless at Gaylord Palms ResortGaylord Palms Resort invites guests to come out and experience Halloween a little early this year during Scared Shrekless Family Fun, an interactive experience featuring beloved characters from DreamWorks Animation SKG Inc.’s Madagascar franchise and this summer’s hit film Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted, along with friends from the Shrek and Kung Fu Panda franchises.

Package guests can dress up in their most spooktacular costumes; trick-or-treat around the resort’s 4.5 acres of gardens; participate in a kids’costume contest with prizes; make ooey, gooey Swamp Sludge; dive into fun at the Madagascar Crack-A-Lackin’ Pool Party and much more ghoulish fun!

Scared Shrekless Family Fun at Gaylord Palms offers families a safe and weather controlled environment to celebrate the Halloween holiday. Overnight packages begin at $179 and are available on October 13 and October 27. For more information visit www.DreamWorksExperienceatGaylordPalms.com or call 407-586-2000.

 

…

 

ICE! featuring DreamWorks’ Merry Madagascar

Celebrating its 10th year, ICE! is back and features an all-new awe-inspiring tribute to the unforgettable DreamWorks’ Animation TV classic Merry Madagascar. Guests can relive the story of how Alex the Lion and his friends saved Christmas after Santa and his reindeer crash onto the island of Madagascar.

Thrill-seekers can take a trip down one of four, two-story ice slides. With more than 20,000 square feet of exciting hand-carved sculptures made of 2 million pounds of ice, the frosty 9-degree bliss of ICE! is Florida’s favorite frigid Christmas tradition. A team of 40 talented artisans from Harbin, China, spend more than a month in Kissimmee creating this one-of-a-kind attraction.

While visiting Gaylord Palms to take in the excitement of ICE!, guests can also amplify their Christmas experience with one of these special events available FREE of charge:

  • Majestic Christmas Tree Lighting — Guests looking for a more traditional treat can enjoy Gaylord Palms’ famous tree-lighting ceremony, complete with singers, carols, lights and the star of the show, a massive 54-foot-tall majestic Christmas tree! It towers over the St. Augustine atrium, waiting for the special moment to light up and cast holiday cheer on guests.
  • LIVE Stage Shows — As part of the holiday lineup, Gaylord Palms offers live stage entertainment, including the spirited Luminescence Christmas show, throughout the Christmas season. Shows take place in the Emerald Bay Plaza, and guests are welcome to attend, free of charge!
  • Polar Bear Pursuit Scavenger Hunt — Guests can take a joyful jaunt throughout the indoor atriums to spot cleverly hidden polar bears. Answers are entered online to be eligible to win a grand prize.

The festivities don’t stop there! Guests can also participate in a few of their favorite things (additional charges apply):

  • ShrekFeast Interactive Character Breakfast — Kids will love becoming an honorary Ogre and joining Shrek and friends for a fairytale feast fit for a king. Tableside hugs and photos included! This experience features a Magic Fountain bubbling over with delicious chocolate potions and Shrek-shaped waffles with syrup.
  • Gingy’s Gingerbread Decorating — This fun, sticky, interactive decorating tradition just got a whole lot sweeter! Hosted by Gingy, the most famous of all Gingerbread men, you can choose from several different design options. After you’ve decorated to your heart’s content (don’t forget the gum drop buttons!), make your way to meet Gingy for a heartwarming hug that you can capture with your own camera.

The best way to benefit from all that Gaylord Palms has to offer is to book a room and become immersed in the splendor of Christmas. Guests seeking to jingle all the way into their holiday hoopla can purchase special “Christmassy DreamWorks Experience” packages starting at $189 per room per night!

ICE! featuring DreamWorks' Merry Madagascar at Gaylord Palms Resort

Specially designed with all of the activities above, packages include tickets to ICE! and the exciting adventures of DreamWorks Animation’s latest feature film, in theaters November 21st, Rise of the Guardians Scavenger Hunt, in which the whole family will search throughout Gaylord Palms’ spectacular indoor atriums and enter their answers online to win a grand prize. Enthusiasts can then meet the whole DreamWorks gang with a “Character Passport” that allows them to stroll through Shrek’s beloved swamp for a face-to-face encounter with the green ogre himself; explore the island of Madagascar; discover China’s ancient Valley of Peace where Po, the Kung Fu Panda, has become a true kung fu master; and greet Gingy in a giant gingerbread house.

A DreamWorks welcome amenity package, character wake-up calls and a family photo are also included in overnight packages for guests to commemorate their unforgettable visit. Additionally, they can enjoy special holiday menus at the expansive dining outlets and attractive holiday merchandise at the myriad specialty shops.

ICE! is open daily from Nov. 10, 2012 through Jan. 1, 2013, including holidays. Ticket prices range from $13.99 to $29.99. For more information and to purchase tickets, go to www.ChristmasAtGaylordPalms.com.

Gaylord Palms Resort is located five minutes from the gates of Walt Disney World at 6000 W. Osceola Parkway, Kissimmee, FL 34746. For more information, visit www.gaylordpalms.com or call 407-586-2000.

Be sure to “Like” Gaylord Palms on Facebook to get the most up-to-date information and promotions!

Share
Tweet
Pin
Share

Filed Under: Central Florida Family Entertainment, Disney Movie News & Reviews, Orlando Area Resorts Tagged With: Christmas at Gaylord Palms, Christmas hotel packages, DreamWorks, dreamworks animation, Gaylord Palms Christmas, Gaylord Palms holiday, Gaylord Palms ICE!, Gaylord Palms Orlando, gaylord palms resort, Halloween, Halloween hotel package, Holidays at Gaylord Palms, ICE!, Kung Fu Panda, Madagascar, Merry Madagascar, Orlando hotels, Orlando resorts, Scared Shrekless, Shrek

Move It Move It to Gaylord Palms this Winter for ICE! Featuring Merry Madagascar

18 July 2012 by Suzannah Otis 1 Comment

Share
Tweet
Pin
Share
Madagascar characters at Gaylord Palms
King Julien, Gio – my 3 year-old, me, and Mort!

This morning we learned that the 2012 season of Gaylord Palms Resort’s ICE! will feature Alex, Marty, Gloria and the whole gang with a  Merry Madagascar theme. Alex the Lion and King Julien were on hand last year with the Kung Fu Panda themed ICE!, for character greetings. Now in addition to Alex and Julien, there is a Mort and Gloria and penguins characters as well. Mort is simply adorable and my favorite, so I was excited to see him there.

ICE! is an amazing display of sculpted ice along with some play areas as well. Gaylord Palms will present ICE! from November 10, 2012  – January 1, 2013 and will be themed after the Dreamworks Animation holiday special Merry Madagascar. An interactive world of colorful ice sculptures and four two-story ice slides carved entirely from two million pounds of ice. It is truly breath-taking (and don’t worry, winter parkas are provided!).

Gingy’s Gingerbread Decorating will be back this year as well, where you can choose from two different options to create a gingerbread cookie family or a complete gingerbread house – don’t forget the gumdrop buttons! Gingy will be on-hand for photos after you finish your edible creations.

 

A Madagascar penguin

Gaylord Palms also offers amazing holiday decor throughout the sprawling Florida-themed resort. Holiday lights, trees and entertainment as well as scavenger hunts offer plenty to keep you in the Christmas spirit.

ICE! tickets start at $22.99 for adults and $13.99 for children – you can call 407-586-2000 or head to ChristmasAtGaylordPalms.com for more information. There are also special packages starting at $189 per night, where you can enjoy the beautifully renovated rooms and Cypress Springs Water Park within the resort grounds.

I can’t wait to Move It, Move It! in November!

Oh, and as a special treat – Gaylord Palms brought in Vanilla Ice to sing his hit “Ice Ice Baby” for this fun announcement. Vanilla Ice is back and better than ever! Check out the video of his performance below:

 

 


 

 

Share
Tweet
Pin
Share

Filed Under: Central Florida Family Entertainment, Disney Movie News & Reviews, Florida Theme Parks & Attractions, Orlando Area Resorts Tagged With: character greetings, Christmas at Gaylord Palms, cypress springs, dreamworks animation, edible creations, Gaylord Palms ICE!, Gaylord Palms Orlando, gaylord palms resort, gingerbread cookie, gingerbread house, holiday decor, holiday lights, Holidays at Gaylord Palms, ice sculptures, ICE!, King Julien, Kung Fu Panda, Merry Madagascar, scavenger hunts, vanilla ice, water park

Gaylord Palms Orlando Opens Cypress Springs Water Park and Renovated Rooms

5 June 2012 by Suzannah Otis 1 Comment

Share
Tweet
Pin
Share

Gaylord Palms St. Augustine AtriumGaylord Palms Resort is just a short drive from the Walt Disney World Resort area, yet is like another world altogether when you step inside. Each time I walk in the front doors, I’m overwhelmed with the tropical beauty and vast spaces which are unrivaled in area resorts. For those who haven’t been, the atrium within the hotel is divided into several sections themed to different parts of Florida. You can wander through Key West with its laid back, island feel, stroll through a fort you might find in St. Augustine, or explore cypress trees and old Florida in the Everglades section (my personal favorite, it’s so realistic – minus the fear of gator attacks of course). Add to that impeccable gourmet food and gorgeous rooms and you won’t want to leave.

Gaylord Palms offers many special deals and events for families throughout the year as they partner with Dreamworks and feature characters like Shrek, Kung Fu Panda and more at character meals and holiday parties. Now they appeal even more to families with the recent grand opening of their Cypress Springs family water park area for resort guests. I was able to visit with a friend recently, and it’s a wonderful place for families to relax and rejuvenate, while the kids have a blast.

Here’s more from Gaylord Palms Resort about their recent updates: (all images courtesy Gaylord Palms Resort)

We’ve got fun new indoor and outdoor play spaces, including the expansive Coquina Lawn. Indoors, our four-and-a-half acres of lush climate-controlled gardens and waterways beautifully recreate three unique Florida-themed environments. Don’t forget to visit our baby alligator and stingray feeding areas while you’re there!

Gaylord Palms Cypress Springs Waterpark

For a real splash of WOW, kids will absolutely flip over the thrilling new Everglades-inspired Cypress Springs Family Fun Water Park! This fabulous water play area features a zero-entry swimming pool with four waterslides, a multi-level water playground tree house, an active lagoon, a plunge pool, “Splash ‘N’ Screen” movies, “Crack-A-Lackin’ pool parties” and a huge array of exciting adventures (some with a DreamWorks twist!). Conveniently located just steps from our pools, SandBar lets you grab a bite without having to leave the fun in the sun! Indulge in All-American favorites and refreshing beverages to quench your thirst.

Gaylord Palms Cypress Springs Waterpark

And for your tranquil escape, the new South Beach Pool offers a chic, adult-only tropical oasis with covered restaurant and bar. Or visit our refreshing Relâche Spa & Salon for an invigorating body wrap, rejuvenating facial or exotic Ayurveda treatment. If you’d rather get your pulse racing, schedule a personal workout session at our 4,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art Relâche Fitness Center.

Gaylord Palms Cypress Springs Waterpark

For sports fans, we’ve tackled the extraordinary and won with Wreckers Sports Bar, a neighborhood-style watering hole featuring more than 50 HDTV’s, a two-story, 37-foot-high sports screen; floor; and two scenic terraces overlooking the posh palm-lined waters of the South Beach pool.

And to punctuate our grand renovation with the ultimate blend of comfort and style, we’ve updated each of our Guest Rooms with luxurious furnishings, quality linens, and flat screen TVs, all in a relaxing yet refined Florida décor.

Gaylord Palms Renovated RoomsGaylord Palms Cypress Springs Waterpark
I've seen these new rooms in person, they are stunning!

 

Gaylord Palms Renovated Room
A king bed or two queens (above) are available as well as suites.

Sounds (and looks) amazing, right? You can find out more at the Gaylord Palms Resort site, including specials and even Florida resident deals as well. It’s definitely on the top of my list for favorite places to escape, even though I live just down the street!

Share
Tweet
Pin
Share

Filed Under: Central Florida Family Entertainment Tagged With: Cypress Springs water park, DreamWorks characters, family resorts, Gaylord hotels, Gaylord Palms, Gaylord Palms Orlando, Gaylord Palms renovations, gaylord palms resort, hotels, Orlando resort hotels, renovated rooms, renovations, resorts, Wreckers Sports Bar

Gaylord Palms Family Fun Night Package With Shrek & Friends

8 February 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Share
Tweet
Pin
Share

ShrekOne of our family’s favorite parts of visiting Gaylord Palms ICE during the holidays was the Dreamworks’ characters. They are so larger than life, it’s impossible not to want to hug them (especially when I see Puss in Boots). Even better, the resort itself is just gorgeous, you could walk around in the atrium and various themed areas for hours, not to mention the wonderful dining options and relaxing spa.

Now Gaylord Palms is offering another DreamWorks Experience package for Saturday, February 18, 2012. Families will have an immersive experience with Shrek, Fiona and Puss in Boots that features dancing, movies, scavenger hunts, crafts and special treats. And best of all, kids stay FREE*!

From $99* per person based on double occupancy, The one-night package includes:

  • Accommodations at Gaylord Palms Resort for a family of up to four (4)
  • Admission to DJ dance party with appearances by Shrek, Fiona and Puss in Boots
  • Admission to a DreamWorks movie shown on a big screen
  • Puss In Boots Quest for the Magic Beans Scavenger Hunt
  • Swamp Juice & Ogre Treats
  • A Family Souvenir Photo
  • DreamWorks craft activity
  • Resort Fee
  • Self-Parking

Guests are encouraged to make it a two- or three-night stay* to take advantage of all the entertainment and extraordinary experiences available. Gaylord Palms Resort features signature, glass-covered atriums that offer acres of sculpted indoor gardens, walkways, and streams that feel like the outdoors but are kept at a pleasant, 72 degrees year round.  Visitors can also indulge in rejuvenating treatments at Relâche Spa & Salon, voted a 4-Star Spa by Forbes Travel Guide; enjoy world-class cuisine at a multitude of award-winning restaurants, including the new Wreckers Sports Bar; and enjoy excellent shopping and nightlife options. Gaylord Palms Resort, located in the heart of Central Florida, is the perfect “home base” for day trips to some of the nation’s most thrilling and exciting attractions and theme parks!

StAugustineAtrium

For a full itinerary, more information and to book the Family Fun Night With Shrek & Friends, visit www.GaylordPalms.com

*Per person based on double occupancy plus tax and Osceola County Assessment Fee for two occupants; up to two children (age 12 and under) stay FREE. Limited availability. Extra nights and atrium upgrades may be available at prevailing rates. Not valid or combinable with other offers or groups.

Shrek, Madagascar, Kung Fu Panda and all related characters and properties © 2012 DreamWorks Animation L.L.C.

Share
Tweet
Pin
Share

Filed Under: Central Florida Family Entertainment, Disney Movie News & Reviews, Florida Theme Parks & Attractions Tagged With: DreamWorks, DreamWorks Experience, family vacation packages, Gaylord Palms Orlando, gaylord palms resort, hotels, immersive experience, Orlando, Orlando area hotels, Orlando area resorts, Orlando hotel package, Puss in Boots, relaxing spa, resorts, Shrek

Primary Sidebar

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Twitter
  • YouTube

Subscribe to Our Up the Waterfall Disney History Podcast

Up the Waterfall podcast

Get Some Park Candy!

Park CandyUse code ZANNA at checkout for 10% off your entire order!

FAVORITE VLOG

https://youtu.be/jUQvxcguh9o

Click below to SUBSCRIBE to our latest Vlogs & LIVE Shows!

Recent Posts

  • D23 Events for 2023 – Destination D23 Returns to Walt Disney World
  • Hocus Pocus Cottage in Salem, MA Airbnb – Book this Unique Stay for October 20, 2022
  • LIVE Updates from the 2022 D23 EXPO in Anaheim California
  • Walt Disney’s Grumman Gulfstream I Airplane Makes its West Coast Return for D23 Expo 2022
  • Lilly Singh and Raven-Symoné To Host ‘Disney’s Epic Entertainment Showcase: The Musical: The Extravaganza!’
  • ICE! To Return to Gaylord Palms Resort in Orlando for 2022
  • DIS Con 2022 Fan Expo Will Take Place at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
  • Disney+ to Highlight Upcoming Content Throughout D23 Expo Panels
  • D23 Expo 2022 Full Schedule Lineup – Including Muppets Christmas Carol
  • LEGOLAND Florida Brick-or-Treat presents Monster Party

Zannaland Archives

Recent Vlog

https://youtu.be/aRB70OJelLc
DisneyStore.com

Subscribe to our podcast

Free Shipping on New Kate Spade Collection now at shopDisney.com!

Copyright Zannaland © 2023