Let’s play a game. One of those word association games. Where I say “sky” and you say “blue” or whatever pops into your head … got it? Here goes.
“Orlando.” What did you say or think? Probably something to do with a theme park, right? That’s what comes to mind when you think of Orlando; that’s its claim to fame. I get that. But right in the mix of all that is an oasis that delivers family friendly fun, food and more, whether you decide to set foot in a Disney or Universal park or not -- and if you want to hit one of the parks, they are just 15 minutes away.
Alissa, the PR manager for the property (and our host), told us that many guests come with ambitious plans to hit the parks, but after visiting one or two decide the amenities and recreational options of the resort are an equally enjoyable option. After an awesome but exhausting day at Universal, we couldn’t have agreed more.
I once heard this said about family travel, “Happy kids, happy wife … happy wife, happy life”. So if it starts with the kids, it must start with the kids club. The Ritz Kids Club at Grande Lakes is new and well thought out. One of the most unique elements is all the animals that live there; it’s practically a petting zoo. The star of the place is “Mr. Nugget”, a large and docile grey rabbit. Other animals on-site include chickens, lizards, snakes, a tarantula and even baby alligators (not for petting). The club was very hands-on with face painting and other activities, as well as the obligatory kids club video games. We even heard the magic words from our daughter on pick-up “I made a great friend today”.
For mom and dad, the hotel is what you’d expect from a Ritz-Carlton or JW Marriott property. And there’s golf, tennis and a wonderful spa (our treatment was so good the 50 minutes seemed more like 15!). But what really makes this property special is their adventure program. Aptly titled, “Adventure Experiences” include fishing outings and instruction, a sunrise safari, and eco-tours on the headwaters of the Everglades.
On the eco-tour the family kayaks along with a guide on Shingle Creek, the actual start of the Everglades. While keeping an eye out for native inhabitants ranging from bald eagles to alligators, a staff naturalist shares the history and importance of this unique environment.
After a day of fun, adventure and more (even a theme park) you’ll need to refuel your family. We were treated to dinner at Highball & Harvest in the Ritz-Carlton, one of the many restaurants on property ranging from casual to fine dining. Our dinner started with bread so good, we devoured it before we could grab a picture. The picture below is from another couple of diners who were kind enough to let us take the shot before they dove in. We shared the “kickin wings” to start and then sampled the chicken and waffles, grouper and ribs, all of which were spectacular.
Now, if someone were to play the word game with me and say “Orlando”, the thought that would pop into my head would be “sophisticated adventure” thanks to Grande Lakes Orlando.
***
The writer and his family were provided with two nights hospitality to facilitate the writing of this article. No other compensation was received and all opinions are his own.
***
The writer and his family were provided with two nights hospitality to facilitate the writing of this article. No other compensation was received and all opinions are his own.
Save
