Orlando is renowned for its theme parks and family-friendly attractions, making it an ideal destination for a memorable family vacation. Among its many highlights, Discovery Cove and The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes are premier spots offering unique experiences and unparalleled luxury.
Discovery Cove: An Oasis of Adventure
Discovery Cove is a tropical paradise in the heart of Orlando that blends adventure, relaxation and close encounters with marine life. Unlike traditional theme parks, Discovery Cove provides an all-inclusive, immersive experience that allows visitors to swim with dolphins, snorkel among tropical fish and hand-feed exotic birds.
Top Four Things to Do There
1. Swim With the Dolphins
Imagine stepping into the tropical waters, feeling the warmth of the Florida sun on your skin, and then meeting a friendly bottlenose dolphin. The dolphin swim experience is designed to be both educational and exhilarating. You’ll start with a brief orientation, where experienced trainers introduce you to the dolphins’ behaviors and personalities.
Then you’ll wade into the lagoon and meet your dolphin. The trainers guide you through various interactions, from gentle caresses to an unforgettable dorsal fin ride. You’ll feel the dolphin’s smooth skin and experience its incredible strength as it propels you through the water. Each interaction is tailored to ensure guests and dolphins have a joyful and safe encounter.
2. The Aviary
As you enter the aviary, you’re greeted by the chirping and singing of over 250 species of birds. The space resembles a rainforest, with dense foliage, waterfalls and streams, providing a natural and inviting environment for visitors and birds.
One of the most delightful aspects of the aviary experience is the opportunity to hand-feed the birds. Armed with a cup of bird food the staff provides, you can attract various birds to come right up to you. From vibrant lorikeets to elegant toucans, the birds are remarkably friendly and curious, often perching on your arm or shoulder to get a closer look (and taste) of the treats you’re offering.
3. Snorkel in the Grand Reef
The reef is teeming with life as brilliantly colored angelfish, butterflyfish and parrotfish dart around you. One of the Grand Reef’s highlights is the opportunity to encounter rays. These gentle giants glide gracefully through the water; some species are friendly enough to allow you to touch them. The sensation of their smooth, velvety skin is a tactile delight. You might even find yourself swimming over schools of rays as they glide along the sandy bottom.
4. Serenity Bay
The bay’s warm, crystal-clear waters invite you to in to let your cares float away. The water is impeccably clean and warmed to the perfect temperature, and the gentle currents allow you to drift along effortlessly. As you float, you can gaze up at the sky, framed by swaying palm trees, and feel the sun’s warmth on your skin. The lush, tropical landscaping around the bay adds to the sense of seclusion, making it easy to forget you’re in the heart of Orlando.
Discovery Cove is all-inclusive, so guests can enjoy gourmet meals, snacks, beverages and gear rentals (like wetsuits and snorkels) without worrying about additional costs. The park also limits daily attendance to ensure a serene and uncrowded experience.
Where to stay
Situated amid 500 acres of lush grounds, The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes, is a sanctuary of elegance and comfort. This luxurious resort offers impeccable service, world-class amenities and a serene environment perfect for relaxation and recreation.
Combining luxury with family-friendly fun, The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes and its neighboring JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes at Grande Lakes hit all the right notes. Among the standout features of this premier resort is its spectacular water attractions, which include exhilarating waterslides and a serene lazy river. These amenities provide endless entertainment for guests of all ages, making the hotel complex a must-visit destination for families and thrill-seekers alike.
Where to Eat and Top Things to Do
1. Highball & Harvest
Tucked away in the The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes’ serene and luxurious grounds, Highball & Harvest offers a dining experience that marries the charm of Southern hospitality with the elegance of modern cuisine. This farm-to-table gem attests to the growing trend of sustainable and locally sourced dining. The restaurant is wrapped in a rustic yet refined setting that makes every meal an occasion to remember.
2. The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club, Orlando, Grande Lakes
Designed by the legendary Greg Norman, this 18-hole championship course offers a formidable yet enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels. Each hole presents a unique challenge, ensuring your round is exciting and rewarding.
3. Waterslides
For those seeking a bit of adrenaline, the waterslides at the JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes are sure to deliver. These slides are a favorite among guests, offering a fun and thrilling way to cool off under the Florida sun. Each slide is designed for both safety and excitement, making it suitable for older children, teens and adults. The slides’ twists and turns provide a rush, while the refreshing splashdown at the end ensures everyone stays cool and invigorated.
4. Lazy River
If relaxation is more your style, the lazy river at the JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes is the perfect escape. This winding waterway allows guests to drift leisurely along, carried by the gentle current. The lazy river meanders through beautifully landscaped gardens and under charming bridges, offering a calm and scenic journey ideal for all ages. Grab a float, sit back and let the river guide you through a tranquil paradise.
5. Adventure Experiences
The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes’ private lake is a peaceful haven for kayaking, offering guests the chance to experience nature right at their doorstep. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler, a beginner or casting a line in hopes of a big catch, the lake’s placid waters provide the perfect setting for a laid-back adventure.
Combining the thrilling, hands-on experiences of Discovery Cove with the unparalleled luxury and relaxation of The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes creates the perfect family getaway. Whether swimming with dolphins, savoring gourmet meals or simply lounging by the pool, these destinations offer something for everyone, ensuring a vacation with unforgettable memories.
