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Destination Spotlight on Orlando, Grande Lakes, Florida

4/14/2019

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Grande Lakes, Florida in Orlando covers over 500 acres, where you’ll find two gorgeous, luxury resorts, JW Marriott and The Ritz-Carlton,  surrounded by stunning lakes and natural beauty.
​What is the first thing you think about when your kids ask to visit Disney World? It’s not always so magical with constantly screaming kids, standing in long lines, and walking miles in hot, humid temperatures. That’s exactly the reason we discovered an oasis called Grande Lakes, Florida. 
​Covering over 500 acres, you’ll find two gorgeous, luxury resorts surrounded by stunning lakes and natural beauty. Choose either JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes or The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes and you’ve found your own magical haven, close to the theme parks but still far enough away. Located only 9 miles away from the Magic Kingdom, 5 miles from Universal Orlando and 2 miles from Sea World, both hotels offer complimentary shuttle transportation to and from the parks.
Lake at Grande Lakes Resorts
Grande Lakes is a fabulous retreat after a bustling day with rides and characters. Return to the lazy river and outdoor heated pool at JW Marriott or visit the spa at The Ritz-Carlton to relax in the (adult-only) salt water pool or pamper yourself with a luxurious spa treatment. 
Poolside dining at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando
Poolside at The Ritz-Carlton provides fabulous views
Pool at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando
You might want to take a day off from the theme parks and stay here!
You can choose from twelve dining venues to please everyone’s palate in the family. From a casual meal poolside or a fine dining experience, every restaurant has extensive menus highlighting local and farm-to-table ingredients. ​
The Kitchen at JW Marriott Grande Lakes
Just one of the many fabulous farm-to-table restaurants at Grande Lakes
Room Service at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando
Even room service is decadent at The Ritz-Carlton with this Chocolate Cake with Grand Marnier
​Are you a golfer? Treat yourself with a round of golf at the 18-hole par-72 Greg Norman Signature Golf Course. The best part is that the amenities and activities throughout are available to all resort guests.
Golf Course at The Ritz-Carlton Grande Lakes
You’ll be impressed by the variety of accommodations, perfect for an adult getaway or a family vacation. ​
So, what’s difference between the two resorts? JW Marriott generally has more activities and accommodations geared towards families. It’s glamorous with marble floors, a fountain in the lobby, and a welcoming staff. They offer 1,000 guest rooms and suites, all easily accessible to the lazy river and grounds. Deluxe Rooms offer a King bed with a pull-out sofa bed or two Queens. You can also splurge on a spacious suite with even more living space and a kitchenette. Click here for a detailed list of accommodations and amenities found at JW Marriott Grande Lakes. 
Lobby of JW Marriott Grande Lakes
Section of the lobby at JW Marriott
With over 560 guest rooms and suites, The Ritz-Carlton also offers Deluxe Rooms with two Queen beds, which is a great find! They have a variety of large, elegant suites and 24-hour Club Level amenities. When you stay here, the décor is truly sophisticated with dark woods and marble accents. Click here for a detailed list of accommodations and amenities found at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando. 
Rooms at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando
The Ritz-Carlton Deluxe Queen-Queen Room
Two Queen Rooms at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando
Plenty of room, even with two queen beds.
Whether you choose The Ritz-Carlton or JW Marriott, you’ll be happy to choose Grande Lakes. To me, this is how you can turn a kid-friendly visit into a relaxing escape and everyone in the family will have incredible vacation memories. ​
Explore more by visiting Grande Lakes in the destination section  of My Virtual Vacations.
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    ​​I'm the creator behind this blog, where I share our family’s love for travel, especially cruising. By day, I work full-time in an office—and all the time, I'm a proud mom to two amazing young men. We took our first cruise when they were energetic little boys, and I’ve included plenty of tips for traveling with kids in tow.

    With our packed work and school schedules, we cherish every holiday break and make the most of our time off. We gravitate toward cruises and luxury hotel stays, always on the lookout for family-friendly experiences that offer comfort, elegance, and a touch of indulgence—think spacious suites, gorgeous décor, excellent service, and memorable dining.

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  • Home
  • Blog
  • Destinations
    • Alaska Inside Passage
    • Arizona: Scottsdale and Sedona
    • Mid-Atlantic Region >
      • Baltimore, MD
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      • Philadelphia, PA
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  • Cabins
    • Celebrity Cabins >
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      • The Retreat and Michael's Club
      • Celebrity Cruises Stateroom List
    • Crystal Cabins
    • Princess Cruises
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    • Holland America Cabins
  • Dining
    • Hotels and Restaurants
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      • Celebrity Specialty Dining >
        • Blu
        • Cafe al Bacio & Gelateria
        • Lawn Club Grill
        • Le Petite Chef
        • Le Voyage
        • Luminae >
          • Luminae for Alaska on Celebrity Solstice
        • Murano
        • The Porch
        • Rooftop Garden Grill
        • Sushi on Five
        • Tuscan Grille
        • Edge Class Dining
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