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All About the Extras
Every member of the family will feel like a VIP at this lavish property, where the staff prides itself upon doting and superior service. From a special check-in desk for kids in the front lobby to a topnotch children's program and a dedicated corner at The Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge featuring kid-friendly foods like fresh fruit and perfectly trimmed PB&J sandwiches, children are truly pampered from time of arrival to departure.
If you're traveling with small children, the resort offers a cradle full of complimentary amenities upon request, from cribs, high chairs, Pack 'n Plays and step stools to pint-sized robes and a "Protect Our Little Ones" kit, complete with outlet covers, shampoo and conditioner, as well as Ritz-Carlton rubber ducks. Coloring books, crayons, playing cards and toys are available through Guest Relations. Upon request, the resort will customize a guestroom for young guests' arrival, with special bedding, toys and games. In guestroom corridors, visitors will enjoy displays of historic photographs on loan from the Florida State Archives.
At holiday times, the resort pulls out all the stops, with events ranging from carnivals and fireworks to family gingerbread-house decorating sessions. At check-in, children receive a tip sheet for a self-guided "Very Important Kids" resort scavenger hunt. Completed forms can be traded in for a bracelet, which may be redeemed for ice cream.
Offering the latest equipment (complimentary use for guests) along with regular classes (fee), the fitness center at The Ritz-Carlton Spa is open from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Alternatively, a mile-long path along Grande Lake offers a scenic route for walkers or runners.
Planning and Tips
Spa visits, Ritz Kids, cabana rentals, tee times, eco-tours and reservations for signature restaurants should be booked in advance for maximum success. Contact the Concierge for assistance.
Dress codes are in place at the Golf Club as well as in the Club Lounge and the Lobby Lounge after sundown. Resort casual is the preferred attire at these venues. Collared shirts and mid-length shorts or slacks are required at the Golf Club. For travel between your accommodation and pool areas, be sure to pack a few cover-ups.
For in-room babysitting, check with the Concierge for a list of local babysitters.
The Art of Smart Timing
Along with the JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes Resort next door, the resort enjoys a healthy convention business, and occupancy may swell when there's a major event onsite. The resort pulls out all the stops during holidays; at these times, expect to find lavish buffets and kid-friendly events like special themed teas and carnivals. If your kids enjoy the water, summer is a great time to visit. For families traveling with children, September and November (before Thanksgiving) can be particularly appealing in terms of added elbowroom and pleasant temperatures.
Getting There
The resort is 10 miles from Orlando International Airport (MCO). By car, take 528 West (Beachline/toll road) to exit 3 (John Young Parkway). Turn right on Whisper Lakes Boulevard. The hotel main gate will be on your left. For assistance with transportation, contact the Concierge. For overnight guests, there is a daily fee for self- and valet parking.
For Mom and Dad
Check the kids into Ritz Kids and enjoy a night out at Norman's. Alternatively, enjoy a couples' treatment (try the signature East Indian Lime Body and Scalp Massage) at The Ritz-Carlton Spa.
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