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We spent the night at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando with a 5 year old and are here to share all the nitty gritty details. Is staying at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando worth it with kids? Is The Ritz-Carlton Orlando kid-friendly? We’re here to share our experience to help you better make that decision if staying here is right for your family.
We stayed at The Ritz-Carlton for 2 full days, and stayed on-site the entire time to take advantage of all the hotel has to offer.
Here are the highlights of our stay [in no particular order]:
*Keep in mind, this is from the perspective of a family with a small child. Had this been a business trip or adults only trip, our stay would have looked quite different!
The pool at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando was a hit from the moment we stepped in. The water was at just the right temperature which made swimming enjoyable for all of us, especially our daughter.
Though we had the option to use the lazy river at the JW Marriott next door, our child actually liked the pool at The Ritz-Carlton better. There was a lot of seating around the pool and it never felt overcrowded. The atmosphere around the pool was relaxed and low-key, with a good mix of guests. There were a few other kids around which was nice, but it was mostly adults enjoying a quiet time by the water. This tranquil setting made our time by the pool even more enjoyable, providing a calm backdrop to our daughter’s energetic splashes and play. Despite the serene environment, there was a friendly vibe that made us feel at ease and welcome.
Our daughter particularly enjoyed the water fountains in the pool, she loved swimming over to them and playing around. It was a sight to see her having so much fun.
We were also thankful for the umbrellas around the pool that provided some much-needed shade from the sun. It was a relief to have places where we could cool off and relax.
In simple terms, the pool at The Ritz-Carlton made our stay special. It was more than just a place to swim; it was a place where our daughter could have fun, and we could relax, making our vacation a memorable one.
We spent most of our time at The Ritz-Carlton pool, but we also decided to check out the lazy river at the JW Marriott next door that The Ritz-Carlton guests have access to. The lazy river was definitely busier with a lot more kids around. We had fun floating around in our inner tubes for a few laps. It was our daughter’s first time in a lazy river, and she found it interesting. It was a new experience that added to our vacation memories.
Even though the lazy river was fun, our 5-year-old daughter liked the pool at The Ritz-Carlton better, which was a surprise to us. So, we didn’t spend a lot of time at the lazy river. Besides the lazy river, JW Marriott also had some slides and an obstacle course, but they seemed to be for older kids, so we didn’t try them out.
In the end, we went back to spending our time at The Ritz-Carlton pool. It was quieter and less crowded, which we and our daughter preferred. Plus, she really enjoyed playing around the water fountains in the pool. So, even after trying out the lazy river, the pool at The Ritz-Carlton was still our favorite spot.
One of the huge benefits we discovered while staying at The Ritz-Carlton in Orlando, especially with a young child, was having the options of both a serene pool and a lively lazy river. Having access to the lazy river at the JW Marriott right next door, in addition to the lovely pool at The Ritz-Carlton, was a godsend. Initially, we thought our daughter would be all over the lazy river given its playful nature. However, kids have a way of surprising you! Having the two options was fantastic. It allowed us to switch scenes easily when we felt like a change, ensuring our daughter remained entertained and happy throughout our stay.
The flexibility to choose between a calm swim or a playful float down a lazy river based on our mood, or more importantly, our daughter’s mood, was invaluable. It eliminated the worry of keeping our child entertained and added a layer of ease to our vacation, making our stay at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando even more enjoyable and stress-free.
One of the best parts of our stay at The Ritz-Carlton was the service we got by the pool. The staff were friendly and always ready to help. We loved that we could eat and drink right by the pool. In fact, we had most of our meals there since it was just so easy with our young child.
We didn’t feel like dressing up for a fancy lunch or dinner, even though The Ritz-Carlton has those options. The poolside dining was casual and relaxed, which was exactly what we were looking for.
They have a special menu for kids, but we had to ask for it as it wasn’t always offered to us. So, a quick tip – make sure to ask for the kids’ menu if you have little ones with you! There were many kid-friendly options on the menu, and it was also the best value food we found onsite.
All in all, eating by the pool made our stay more comfortable and enjoyable. It was a big plus to have such a simple and convenient dining option, especially with a kid along.
We decided to try out the breakfast buffet at The Ritz-Carlton one morning, and while it was on the pricey side ($$$), it was also really delicious. The buffet spread was huge with a lot of different foods to choose from. There were plenty of healthy items, which we appreciated.
Funny enough, out of all the choices, our daughter initially went for Fruit Loops. But the variety did get her to try various foods, which was a fun experience and added to our vacation memories. It was a delight seeing her explore different tastes.
One little thing that stood out to us was the mini ketchup bottles they brought to our table. It’s small touches like these that brought smiles to our faces. Our waiter was excellent, and when we asked for coffees to go, he was more than accommodating.
I could have spent hours sitting there, slowly enjoying my coffee, but our young one was eager to get on with her day, and honestly, the views and scenery outside were more inviting. So, with a satisfying breakfast in our bellies, we headed out to enjoy another beautiful day, carrying with us the pleasant experience of a hearty morning meal at The Ritz-Carlton.
*Tip: We have the Amex Platinum card, so the 2 adults were able to get the breakfast buffet for free. One great perk of this credit card!
Our room at The Ritz-Carlton was clean and spacious, which made our stay very comfortable. It was really nice not to feel cramped, especially when we were spending time in the room together. We brought along some bracelet making supplies for a little craft activity, and there was plenty of room to spread out and get creative.
The cleanliness of the room was top-notch, which is super important to us. A clean room makes a world of difference in how we feel about a hotel stay, and The Ritz-Carlton seems to nail it every time. It’s a big deal to walk into a room and find it spotless and well-maintained; it immediately sets a positive tone for the whole trip.
Having a spacious room also meant we could move around easily without tripping over each other, which is a simple yet significant comfort. Whether we were crafting bracelets, planning our day, or just relaxing, the ample space contributed to a relaxing and enjoyable stay.
In short, the clean and roomy accommodation at The Ritz-Carlton was a big thumbs up in our books. It provided a peaceful retreat amidst our adventures, ensuring our vacation was as comfortable as it was exciting.
One of the comforts at The Ritz-Carlton that we really appreciated was the large bathtub in our room. Our 5-year-old isn’t quite into showers yet and has a fondness for baths, so this feature came in very handy. It’s one of those home luxuries that often get overlooked, especially when you’re traveling with kids, but the necessity of a bathtub becomes pretty clear.
The cleanliness of the room, which was outstanding, extended to the bathroom and bathtub, making us feel totally comfortable using it. This isn’t something we’ve felt at all hotels, so it was a welcomed comfort.
After a day filled with swimming and being covered in sunscreen, having a good bath was crucial for us all to feel refreshed. The spacious bathtub made this routine easy and enjoyable, turning into a fun and relaxing part of our day.
One of the delightful surprises during our stay at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando was discovering the high-end bathroom amenities. We were not expecting to see Diptyque branded soap, lotion, shampoo, and other items waiting for us. This was a truly lovely surprise that added a touch of luxury to our stay.
Another highlight was finding a bamboo toothbrush and travel-sized Marvis toothpaste in the bathroom. These little touches of quality and thoughtfulness made a significant difference in our experience. Although these finer details didn’t mean much to our child, they were definite highlights for us parents.
It’s the little things like these that elevated our stay at The Ritz-Carlton, making it feel more special and luxurious. These unexpected amenities not only met our practical needs but also added a feeling of indulgence, showing a level of care and attention to detail that we greatly appreciated.
Being pampered with such premium brands, even in the bathroom, made our stay at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando a memorable and enjoyable experience. It’s amazing how such small inclusions can leave a big impression and contribute to a fulfilling and delightful hotel stay.
A definite highlight for our child during our stay at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando was the array of free games available outdoors. The offerings included air hockey, ping pong, and giant Jenga, providing a fun and engaging way to spend time outside of the room. Among these, air hockey emerged as her absolute favorite, and it was a joy watching her excitement as she played.
These outdoor games were a brilliant addition to the hotel’s amenities, offering a casual and enjoyable way to unwind and have fun as a family. They provided a delightful break from the pool, allowing us to engage in friendly competition and create some playful memories together.
What made this even more enjoyable was the fact that these games were freely available, making it a hassle-free option whenever we were in the mood for some playful time. It was evident that other families were also enjoying this feature, adding to a pleasant, communal atmosphere in the outdoor game area.
Moreover, the outdoor setting allowed us to enjoy the beautiful weather while indulging in some light-hearted games. It was a great way to relax, laugh, and enjoy each other’s company amidst a friendly, lively environment.
The variety of games ensured there was something for everyone, and the easy access made it a go-to activity for our child. This simple yet thoughtful provision by the Ritz significantly enriched our stay, adding a dose of fun and laughter to our vacation memories.
We had a fantastic time at the “Open House” event at the Ritz Kids Club, which allowed us free access for an hour or so. Although parents had to stay, we found the experience enjoyable just as much as our daughter did. There was a craft activity available (which seemed like it was from Oriental Trading), and we decided to take it with us to complete at home. The variety of activities was impressive, with a plethora of animals, toys, books, coloring stations, and a TV to keep the little ones entertained.
Our daughter was particularly drawn to the coloring area, where she happily spent most of her time. We weren’t the only family there; a few other families were present, creating a friendly and communal atmosphere. It was delightful to see all the kids engaged and enjoying themselves.
The staff at the Ritz Kids Club were a friendly bunch, showing genuine interest and skill in interacting with the kids, which we appreciated. Their warm and engaging approach made our visit to the club enjoyable and memorable.
As we strolled through the Ritz Kids Club, exploring the different activities together, it was evident that this was a well-thought-out space for families to enjoy. This visit added a lovely new layer to our vacation memories, allowing us to explore a different aspect of what The Ritz-Carlton Orlando had to offer for its young guests and their families.
In summary, the Open House at the Ritz Kids Club was a hit, offering a fun, interactive experience that we all cherished. It was a pleasant opportunity to mingle with other families, engage in creative activities, and enjoy the vibrant, kid-friendly atmosphere under the guidance of friendly and skilled staff.
One of the major highlights of our stay at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando was the close encounters with various animals and wildlife. Right from the start, we were greeted by animals near the check-in counter which set an exciting tone for our stay. The Ritz Kids Club was a mini-zoo in itself, housing a bunny, alligators, a turtle, a snake, and even chickens outside. Additionally, a caged bird was stationed right outside the Kids Club near the giant Jenga, adding to the lively ambiance.
The abundance of animals on-site and The Ritz-Carlton’s ability to care for them effectively was indeed impressive. It not only provided a fun and educational experience but also an interactive one as we got to see the animals up close.
Our wildlife encounters didn’t stop indoors. Post breakfast, we had a delightful sighting of a wild bunny hopping through the grass outside. It’s amusing how such random sightings can create unforgettable memories, especially for kids. Our daughter was so enchanted by the bunny that she kept reminiscing about it long after our trip. It has become a sweet and amusing memory that we all cherish.
For any family with kids, the presence of animals and wildlife adds a magical touch to the hotel experience. The Ritz-Carlton Orlando did a splendid job of blending this natural element within its luxurious ambiance, making our stay a unique and enjoyable adventure.
In essence, the variety of animals on site brought a sense of wonder and amusement to our stay, creating lasting memories and making our vacation at the Ritz even more special and enjoyable. This whimsical encounter with nature was not something we had anticipated, yet it turned out to be a delightful surprise, adding a unique charm to our luxurious getaway.
One of the most remarkable aspects of our stay at The Ritz-Carlton was the extraordinary lengths the staff went to in order to honor our special occasion. Before our trip, a thoughtful staff member from the hotel reached out to us, and we shared what we were celebrating. To our utter delight, upon arrival, we were greeted with a heartfelt handwritten note and a thoughtful gift waiting for us in our room.
The level of thoughtfulness and personal attention was absolutely touching, and it clearly made our celebration all the more special. The surprise had us all smiling from ear to ear, but it was our daughter who was the most thrilled, adding an extra sparkle to our celebration.
This kind gesture from The Ritz-Carlton Orlando staff truly epitomized the exceptional service and personal touch that The Ritz-Carlton brand is renowned for. It’s often the little gestures and extra effort that transform a good hotel stay into an unforgettable experience, and on this occasion, The Ritz-Carlton certainly delivered beyond our expectations.
Every interaction with the hotel staff was warm and courteous, making us feel valued and celebrated throughout our stay. This special attention to detail not only made our celebration memorable but also created a lasting positive impression of The Ritz-Carlton.
In a nutshell, the exceptional service, the personal touch, and the willingness of the staff to go above and beyond to honor our celebration were the crowning glories of our stay. These wonderful gestures contributed to making our vacation filled with joy, smiles, and memories that we will cherish for a long time to come.
For families with energetic little ones, discovering a playground within the luxurious premises of The Ritz-Carlton Orlando is nothing short of a delightful surprise. Our daughter found herself a slice of paradise in this playful corner, which led us to multiple visits throughout our stay. Along with making new pals, the playground also offered a unique design that stands apart from the commonplace metal structures we encounter in city parks.
A noteworthy feature that caught our eye was the gated enclosure of the playground. This additional safety measure is a testament to the attention to detail that The Ritz-Carlton pays towards ensuring a safe and enjoyable environment for its younger guests. The gated area allows kids to play freely while giving parents an extra layer of assurance regarding their child’s safety.
Adjacent to the playground, we noticed a cute little splash pad. Though we didn’t indulge, it’s a fantastic option for families looking to cool off, especially in the warm Florida climate. The surrounding area also boasts ample lounge seating, which was a plus for us parents. It provided a comfortable spot to relax while keeping a watchful eye on our energetic tot.
The soft and cushioned flooring of the playground is another thoughtful touch, offering a safer landing for those inevitable tumbles during play. Even the splash pad area had its seating, allowing parents to relax while the kids splash around.
The Ritz-Carlton Orlando’s initiative to blend luxury with family-friendly amenities is indeed commendable. The playground, with its gated enclosure, unique design, and adjacent splash pad, is a wonderful addition that amplifies the family-friendly appeal of this luxurious resort. It’s clear that The Ritz-Carlton has gone the extra mile to cater to guests of all ages, ensuring a joyful and memorable stay for everyone. The gated playground is just another feather in its cap, showcasing the hotel’s endeavor to provide a secure and enjoyable experience for its little guests and their families.
During our family vacation at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, we stumbled upon a nifty feature that sparkling water aficionados would certainly appreciate. Nestled within the gym premises, there’s a Soda Stream machine offering complimentary carbonated water for guests. Although we discovered this perk towards the tail end of our trip, and couldn’t make the most of it, it’s a fun fact worth sharing for anyone planning a visit and shares a love for fizzy water.
It’s always the little details that enhance the overall vacation experience, and this small yet thoughtful amenity is a reflection of that. Had we found out about this feature earlier in our stay, we definitely would have been frequent visitors to the gym, at least for a sparkling refreshment!
It’s not often that you come across complimentary offerings like this, especially in a setting as upscale as The Ritz-Carlton. For those who enjoy maintaining their fitness routine even while on vacation, this sparkling surprise would surely add a bubbly touch to their gym visits.
The presence of a Soda Stream machine is another testament to the diverse amenities offered at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando to cater to the varied preferences of their guests. It’s discoveries like these that add a dash of excitement to the vacation, and leave you with an eager anticipation of what other pleasant surprises might be awaiting around the corner.
So for anyone heading to The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, especially the sparkling water enthusiasts, do check out the gym for a fizzy refreshment after your workout or just for a bubbly break. It’s little perks like these that contribute to making your stay a memorable and enjoyable one.
If you’re considering staying at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando with kids, we definitely recommend it! We were very pleased with our experience, and found the hotel to be very kid-friendly. We’ve stayed at quite a few hotels in the Orlando/Disney area, including other 5 star hotels, but The Ritz-Carlton Orlando is one of our favorites.
We found The Ritz-Carlton Orlando to be exceptionally kid-friendly with a variety of amenities that kept our child engaged and entertained throughout our stay. From the perfectly temperate pool, the engaging outdoor games, to the fun Ritz Kids Club and unique playground, there was never a dull moment for her. The spacious and clean room provided a comfortable base for our family. The staff’s attention to detail, especially in celebrating our special occasion, made our experience feel personalized and extra special. The ease of dining by the poolside with a kid-friendly menu made meals hassle-free and enjoyable. The additional adventures at the nearby JW Marriott, the close encounters with animals around the hotel, and the quirky finds like the Soda Stream machine in the gym added more layers of enjoyment to our stay. We left with cherished memories and a strong desire to return to The Ritz-Carlton Orlando on our next family vacation.
