Gaylord Palms $50 million expansion complete: New water park, new sports bar, new character breakfast and more

The Gaylord Palms Resort has a jam-packed schedule of fun this summer with new Dreamworks experiences, a new family water park, a new two-story sports bar and more that are all part of the resort’s recent $50 million renovation.

According to Johann Krieger, the resort’s senior vice president and general manager, the new outdoor leisure experiences offer guests the best of all worlds. “The resort is the best of Florida all in one place. The perfect alternative to staying in the theme parks, a short shuttle ride from Gaylord Palms Resort to Walt Disney World’s main gate makes it easy and convenient. And with the new leisure experiences and one-of-a-kind attractions, summer visitors have new choices conveniently located on our property.”

Cypress Springs Family Fun Water Park and pool
This new multi-level, Everglades-inspired water wonderland has a zero-entry, beach style design. The interactive fun includes a multi-level treehouse with four twisting waterslides; an outdoor stage for DreamWorks entertainment and ongoing activities; “Splash ‘n’ Screen” movies with child-friendly films; Day Dreaming Games; Crack-a-Lackin’ Pool Parties; ground sprays and gurgling springs; hoop water basketball; water tipping bucket. A full time recreation staff makes sure the fun and games never stop. Family cabanas are available for rental.

Here’s a look at the new water park and pool in action:

Wreckers Sports Bar
Designed as the favorite “neighborhood hangout” of resort guests, the new Wreckers Sports Bar features a two-story sports screen, and is filled with authentic remnants that reflect a time when scavengers came home from treasure-laden shipwrecks to celebrate their earnings with a pint or two of brew. The oversized two-story, 37-foot, sports screen in an atrium setting ensures a good vantage point for watching sports from around the world. More than 50 HDTVs ranging from 32″ to 60″ provide up-to-the-minute coverage throughout the venue. Relax in oversized rattan chairs or view programming from dining areas.

South Beach Pool
This exclusive adult-only swimming pool features a sophisticated South Beach design lined with tropical palms. Amenities include fully stocked private cabanas, television screens, lounges and ceiling fans. The adjacent outdoor SandBar offers dining and cocktails under covered seating.

Coquina Lawn
This 10,000-square-foot, park-like setting offers a backdrop for picnics, theater, Frisbee, kite flying, movies and more. Three fire pits provide a “warm” spot for conversation.

Remodeled Guest Rooms and Suites
Stylish, contemporary and comfortable, all 1,406 guestrooms have been renovated to include updated amenities such as flat screen televisions, new furniture, bed linens and towels, lounge chairs and ergonomic upholstered desk chairs. Wi-fi is available in all rooms.

Relâche Spa & Salon
The recently renovated Relâche Spa & Salon received a top to bottom makeover. And the spa’s new 4,000-square-foot Relâche Fitness Center is outfitted with Life Fitness cardio and strength training equipment and offers a schedule of fitness classes.

Shrek Fest
Want more fun with Shrek and his friends? Join them for a fairytale brunch every Saturday and Sunday. In addition, DreamWorks-themed packages are available.

The resort is located five minutes from the gates of Walt Disney World at 6000 W. Osceola Parkway, Kissimmee, FL 34746. Information and additional packages may be found at gaylordpalms.com or by calling 407-586-2000. There are no additional fees or admission charges to the resort’s new attractions and activities.

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