Review of The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes

TBT Rating: 9.5/10

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Spending the Fourth of July weekend at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes was a decision driven by several enticing factors: its proximity to Universal Studios, stunning landscapes, and a plethora of children’s activities as part of the hotel’s GLO summer event. Our stay provided a mix of luxury, relaxation, and family-friendly fun, making it a memorable holiday retreat.

Smooth Check-In with a Festive Welcome

Upon arrival, the check-in process, though slightly delayed due to the holiday crowd, was handled with grace and efficiency. The staff, ever courteous, greeted us warmly and even offered a glass of champagne to start our stay on a celebratory note. In the lobby, children were handed Fourth of July goodie bags filled with themed coloring pages, crayons, and inflatable beach balls—small touches that instantly made the young ones feel special.

The hotel also featured a “Ritz Kids Check-In” area adjacent to the main check-in desk. Although modest in size, with a TV and a coloring activity station, it provided just enough distraction for our son, Eli, while the adults managed the formalities.

Luxurious Accommodations

We opted for a lake view room with two queen beds. The room was spacious, featuring a large bathroom with a full bathtub, shower area, and a separate private toilet room. Every room at the Ritz-Carlton boasts a balcony, and our view over the lake was nothing short of spectacular. I imagine it's hard to find a bad view anywhere on the property.

The beds were exceptionally comfortable—perhaps the best I’ve ever experienced in a hotel. A quick Google search revealed that the Ritz-Carlton sells their mattresses, a testament to their quality. The room also included plush bathrobes and slippers, adding to the luxurious feel. Despite the bustling hotel environment, the soundproofing was impressive; we couldn’t hear any hallway noise, ensuring a restful sleep.

Expansive Grounds and Shared Amenities

The Ritz-Carlton Orlando is an expansive property, seamlessly connected to the adjacent JW Marriott. Guests at the Ritz have the added advantage of accessing the amenities at the JW Marriott, including their pools and waterpark. We took a short walk to explore these on our first day but found the area too crowded to fully enjoy. Eli preferred the more serene atmosphere of the Ritz-Carlton pool, so we spent most of our pool time there.

Poolside Relaxation and Activities

The Ritz-Carlton’s heated saltwater pool was a highlight of our stay. The absence of chlorine smell and the warmth of the water, even late into the evening, made for delightful swimming sessions. Although the pool was quite crowded on the first day, which necessitated a waitlist for pool chairs, the crowd thinned significantly the following day, allowing us to relax fully.

The poolside service, though busy, offered food and drinks directly to loungers, a convenience we unfortunately didn’t get to experience due to the servers’ bustling schedules. Watching the fireworks from the comfort of the pool was an unforgettable way to cap off a day at Universal Studios.

Impeccable Service Throughout

Throughout our stay, the service was consistently top-notch. Staff members were not only professional but also genuinely kind, engaging with Eli and making sure he was enjoying his time. On our first day, we were greeted with a personalized message and a bottle of champagne in our room, a thoughtful touch to celebrate my upcoming birthday.

Kid-Friendly and Adult Luxuries

The hotel’s commitment to family-friendly amenities was evident in every detail. The Fourth of July goodie bags and the Ritz Kids Check-In area were just the beginning. The GLO summer event offered various kids’ activities, keeping Eli entertained and engaged.

For adults, the Ritz-Carlton also caters to a more luxurious experience. Although we didn’t have time to visit, the hotel’s spa is renowned and includes an adults-only spa pool. Many guests have praised the spa services, adding another layer of relaxation to the stay.

Final Thoughts

Our Fourth of July weekend at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes was everything we hoped for and more. The combination of luxury, impeccable service, and family-friendly activities made it a perfect holiday destination. Whether you’re planning a visit to Universal Studios or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, this hotel offers something for everyone.

In summary, The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes, offers a blend of opulence and family-friendly fun, making it a top choice for holiday stays. Whether lounging by the pool, exploring the nearby attractions, or simply enjoying the luxurious accommodations, this hotel promises a memorable and delightful experience.