THE GRAND ESCAPE— A SOPHISTICATED HOME BASE FOR YOUR DISNEY ADVENTURE

When it comes to planning a trip to Orlando, it’s easy to default to theme park logistics—FastPass strategies, snack maps, and parade schedules. But what if your Disney vacation could offer more than just character sightings and roller coasters? What if, instead of collapsing into a standard-issue hotel room at the end of a long day, you retreated to a lush, palm-draped haven of elegance, where every detail—down to your morning cappuccino—is infused with a touch of luxury?

Welcome to The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes, where the enchantment of Disney meets the refinement of a five-star resort.

The Ritz Carlton, Grande Lakes, Orlando

A Sanctuary of Style

Tucked away just 15 minutes from Walt Disney World, The Ritz-Carlton Orlando is worlds apart from the frenetic energy of the parks. Spread across 500 acres of tropical gardens, lakes, and a Greg Norman-designed golf course, this resort isn’t just a place to rest your head—it’s a destination unto itself.

Recently reimagined, the hotel balances classic elegance with contemporary Florida style. Think light-filled interiors, soft neutral palettes, sweeping views of palm-lined lakes, and the kind of attentive service that feels both discreet and personal.

Families can expect plush accommodations, many with balconies that overlook the pool or golf course. For a touch more privacy and indulgence, book a Club Level room, which grants you access to one of the resort’s most exclusive and pampering offerings:

The Club Lounge: An Elevated Experience

More than just a private space, the Club Lounge at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando is a sanctuary within a sanctuary. Located on a dedicated floor, this retreat offers five daily culinary presentations—from sunrise breakfast spreads to artisanal evening hors d’oeuvres and artful desserts. Wine, champagne, and curated cocktails are poured throughout the day, allowing you to unwind at your own pace, no waiting or bar tabs required.

What makes it feel truly pampering? The personalized service. The Club’s dedicated concierge team gets to know your preferences—whether it’s your kids’ favorite snack or your go-to nightcap—and ensures they’re waiting for you. Need a last-minute park reservation, stroller delivery, or dinner booking? Just ask. Everything feels effortless here, from the handcrafted espresso in the morning to the soft hush of conversation over evening canapés.

Disney, Reimagined

Yes, you’re here for Disney—but no, you don’t have to sacrifice comfort or calm. The Ritz-Carlton makes park days seamless with luxury transportation options and personalized concierge planning. Prefer to skip the shuttle chaos? Private car service can whisk you to the gates in style. Even better: their concierge team can arrange VIP Disney experiences, dining reservations, and insider tips to help you avoid the crowds and maximize the joy. You’ll feel like you’ve got your own fairy godmother on speed dial.

Where Recovery Meets Indulgence

After a day dodging strollers and chasing fireworks, the 40,000-square-foot Ritz-Carlton Spa is pure balm. Inspired by nature and the rhythms of Florida’s landscape, the treatments here focus on deep relaxation and renewal. Choose from massages using locally sourced citrus oils, or book a couple’s ritual that includes a private soak in the spa garden.

Of course, sometimes the best recovery happens poolside. The resort’s sprawling, palm-fringed pool area offers a serene escape from the park’s sensory overload, with sparkling waters, shaded loungers, and attentive service that seems to anticipate your next drink order. For the ultimate in privacy and pampering, reserve a private pool cabana—complete with plush seating, ceiling fan, stocked mini-fridge, and dedicated attendant—turning your pool day into a personal oasis.

Kids in tow? The hotel offers Ritz Kids programming, complete with nature walks, crafts, and even mini-chef classes, allowing grown-ups a few blissful hours to unwind.

Dining That DeliversForget chicken tenders and churros. The dining options at Grande Lakes rival any fine dining in Orlando. At the on-site Knife & Spoon, helmed by award-winning chef John Tesar (a Michelin-starred steak and seafood temple), the menu shines with bold flavors and pristine ingredients. The dry-aged ribeye, is cooked to perfection and paired with decadent bone marrow butter, the buttery Alaskan king crab legs served with miso beurre blanc, and the signature caviar-topped deviled eggs are all worthy of attention.

Just steps away, Highball & Harvest offers a farm-to-table Southern concept that sources much of its produce from the resort’s own gardens. Here, dishes like shrimp and grits with a smoky Andouille kick or heirloom tomato salad with garden herbs feel as fresh as the Florida sunshine.

Looking for a magical way to end the evening? Opt for the resort’s Fire Pit Experience, complete with curated bourbon flights and gourmet s’mores.

Why It Works

Pairing the whimsy of Disney with the sophistication of The Ritz-Carlton creates a uniquely balanced family vacation: one where kids can chase characters by day and parents can toast with champagne by night. Whether you’re a first-time visitor to the Magic Kingdom or a seasoned Disney devotee, The Ritz-Carlton Orlando offers the rare chance to see Orlando through a more refined lens—without losing the spark of wonder.

Avelo Airlines flies directly from Wilmington, NC to Orlando, Fl every Monday & Friday.