If you’re like me, you can’t wait for that much-anticipated vacation. All those hours you spent working hard are finally about to pay off. It’s time to book your well-deserved getaway!
After researching, you’ve chosen Orlando, Florida, for that family adventure. You’re ready to explore the theme parks and dive into the Sunshine State’s local hotspots. All that’s left is finding the perfect resort to complete your stay.
Easier said than done, right? There are so many hotels and resorts in the Orlando area. You may be asking yourself many questions. Is this resort genuinely worth it? Do you need to stay in a theme park resort? Is the area safe? So many questions can make planning a trip feel overwhelming.
But what if I told you there’s a resort that ticks all the boxes? A place with a trusted name, where you can spend the whole day entertained without ever leaving the property. That place is Marriott’s Grande Vista.
Let’s dive into what makes this resort so unique and see if Marriott’s Grande Vista could be the top family resort in Orlando.
Spacious and Stylish Accommodations
When planning a trip, it’s always important to pay close attention to room size to ensure enough space for everyone traveling, especially when it’s a family getaway. For a resort to stand out, it must offer accommodations catering to all kinds of travelers, from solo adventurers to large families.
Fortunately, this is where Marriott’s Grande Vista truly shines. The resort offers a range of spacious and stylish accommodations, making it easy for each guest to find the perfect fit.
Find the Ideal Room for Your Family or Group
At Marriott’s Grande Vista, accommodations are tailored to fit every type of guest. Room rates shift with the season, so explore the latest prices directly on the official Marriott Grande Vista website.
Here’s a breakdown of the available room options.
Rooms
- Guest Room: Ideal for couples or solo travelers, featuring 1 king bed, a sofa bed, and a balcony.
Villas
- 1 Bedroom Villa: Ideal for small families or couples, featuring 1 king bed, a sofa bed, and a balcony.
- 2 Bedroom Villa (King/Double): Suited for families or groups, with 1 king bed, 2 double beds, a sofa bed, and a balcony.
- 2 Bedroom Villa (King/Queen): Great for larger families, offering 1 king bed, 2 queen beds, a sofa bed, and a balcony.
- 2 Bedroom Villa (Dual King): Spacious option with 2 king beds, 2 sofa beds, and a balcony.
- 3 Bedroom Villa (King/Double): Perfect for large families, featuring 1 king bed, 2 double beds, 1 additional king, and 2 sofa beds.
- 3 Bedroom Villa (King/Queen/Double): The ultimate family suite with 1 king, 2 queen, 2 double beds, a sofa bed, and a balcony.
Room Features for a Comfortable Stay
Before my wife and I visited Marriott’s Grande Vista, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. We had done our research, but with the resort dating back to 1997 (renovated in 2009), I was curious about the room quality.
We chose the Guest Room with a balcony overlooking the golf course. I really loved the sweeping views of the greens, peaceful lakes, and even a gator casually swimming by.
Yes, they have gators! It is Florida, after all.
Walking into the room, I was genuinely impressed. Despite the resort’s age, it felt well-maintained. The king bed was new and comfortable, and though some furniture showed its age, the essentials were fresh and inviting.
If I had one minor critique, it would be the TV. It’s on the smaller side and positioned for viewing from the sofa rather than the bed. But with so much to do outdoors, the TV wasn’t a big deal. I’ll get into that soon.
It’s impressive to see an older resort keep its rooms so well-maintained. This experience was the opposite of a Disney World resort we had stayed at the week before. But that’s a story for another day!
Dive into Marriott Grande Vista’s Premium Amenities
As I mentioned previously, the Marriott’s Grande Vista has so much to explore outdoors that you might not want to spend too much time in your room. The resort is designed with an impressive range of amenities catering to relaxation and recreation, making it easy to spend your days entirely on the property. From tranquil pools to exciting outdoor activities, there’s something here for everyone.
Pools and Relaxation Areas
One of the main attractions here is undoubtedly the swimming pools, a place where you’ll likely spend countless hours under the Florida sun.
And yes, I said pools! Marriott’s Grande Vista offers plenty of options to keep things interesting.
In total, there are four outdoor heated pools, each providing a unique experience:
- Village Center Lap Pool: Ideal for those who love to swim laps.
- Village Center Pool with Adjacent Children’s Pool: A family-friendly pool with a separate area designed for kids.
- Plaza del Sol Pool with Children’s Splash Pad: Featuring a splash pad, making it a favorite for the little ones.
- Golf Village Pool: Another inviting pool where guests can kick back and relax.
- Two outdoor whirlpools: perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.
The pools here have a hint of old Spanish influence. This theme is especially present at the Plaza del Sol pool, where Spanish-style forts with playful water cannons give the space a unique character. While the resort as a whole doesn’t follow one particular theme, the pools seem inspired by Spain, adding a distinct and memorable touch.
Overall, I enjoyed the pools at this resort. With so many options, it was easy to find a spot, even if one of the pools was a bit crowded. There was ample seating, plenty of lounges, and a decent number of umbrellas to shield you from the sun.
At the main pool, there was always some form of entertainment. They would usually have live music or trivia, which added to the vibrant atmosphere. My wife and I enjoyed relaxing in the whirlpools, sipping wine as we soaked in the tranquility.
One thing to note: Each pool has a towel vending machine. You’ll need your room key to access it, and each guest is limited to a few towels. Make sure you return the towels on your way out. The sign warns that you will be charged if you do not do so. Just return them right away to be safe.
The Spa at Grande Vista
If relaxation is on your agenda, The Spa at Grande Vista is the place to be. Conveniently located right across from the fitness center, the spa offers a full range of wellness therapies to help you unwind and recharge during your stay. From soothing massages to revitalizing facials, there’s something here for everyone looking to treat themselves. It’s the kind of amenity you expect from a quality resort, and I was pleased to see it at Marriott’s Grande Vista.
Fitness Center for Every Workout
If you’ve read my last hotel resort review for Margaritaville Resort Orlando, you know I always like mentioning the resorts’ fitness centers. For some travelers, having a well-equipped fitness center can be a deciding factor when choosing where to stay on vacation.
Now, you don’t need the largest fitness center, but it’s essential to have a good variety of equipment so guests can get a full-body workout. Fortunately, Marriott’s Grande Vista has one of the most up-to-date fitness centers I’ve seen at any resort. There’s an impressive mix of free weights and machines, and the equipment is state-of-the-art, providing a smooth yet challenging workout.
They have plenty of treadmills and bikes to keep up your cardio routine. The dumbbells range from 5 to 70 pounds, a rarity in resort fitness centers where dumbbells typically max out at 50 pounds. This setup makes it suitable for guests of all fitness levels.
The fitness center also offers a towel service. You can grab a fresh towel on your way in, and there’s a water fountain to refill your bottle.
Overall, this was one of the top resort fitness centers I’ve experienced and was a highlight of my stay.
Grande Vista Golf Club
Marriott’s Grande Vista is known for its golf course, and it’s one of the first things you notice as you drive up to the resort. The greens are beautifully maintained, and the whole course looks impressive.
That said, I have to admit I’m not a skilled golfer. I haven’t had many chances to play, and when I did, let’s say I wasn’t winning any trophies. Still, learning to play golf is on my bucket list.
Even though I’m no expert, I can still recognize a quality course when I see one. Spanning 35 acres, the Grande Vista Golf Club offers a 9-hole course designed by Ron Garl. Plus, the Marriott Golf Academy is on-site, offering custom club fittings and expert lessons, making it perfect for beginners and seasoned golfers.
Of course, playing here isn’t free, but they offer daily rates and membership options. So, if you’re a golfer, choosing this resort adds even more to your list of things to enjoy.
Remember to look out for the gators!
Other Fun Activities
If you thought Marriott’s Grande Vista already offered plenty of activities, think again. There’s even more to enjoy here beyond golf. The resort has a variety of games and sports to keep everyone entertained.
At the Boathouse, you can rent small boats to cruise around the lake or try your hand at fishing with rented poles. For a fun, no-cost option in the same area, there’s a ping-pong setup where we saw plenty of families enjoying themselves. It was a nice spot to kick back and have some friendly competition.
The resort also features a sports center near the entrance, where you first enter the Marriott’s Grande Vista property. Here, you’ll find four tennis/pickleball courts, a basketball court, and even an indoor pool table, all available free of charge. My wife and I spent a few hours playing pickleball on the courts, and it was a lot of fun. I appreciated how much the resort focused on outdoor activities, which enhanced our experience.
Pro tip: No need to bring your own sports gear, as they’ve got you covered. When we played pickleball, we stopped by the fitness center’s front desk to rent paddles and a ball. This was all included at no charge.
If all these activities aren’t enough, you can still explore the resort by taking a stroll along its many walking paths. There’s plenty to see around the property, with scenic trails that let you take in the surroundings at your own pace.
The resort also features fire pits with seating by the lake, offering a relaxing spot to unwind. With so many options, there’s truly something here for everyone.
Dining Options at Marriott Grande Vista
Marriott’s Grande Vista offers a range of choices for food and drinks, catering to every taste and craving. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a refreshing drink, or a full meal, there’s something here for everyone. Let’s start with the convenient spots and work up to the main dining options.
The Marketplace
If you’re looking for convenience, The Marketplace is your spot. It’s your traditional grab-and-go, perfect for picking up snacks, drinks, or any essentials you might need during your stay. Whether you’re stocking up for a day by the pool or want a quick bite to return to your room, The Marketplace has you covered.
Brewcoast Coffee Co.
Brewcoast Coffee Co. offers a selection of freshly brewed coffee, specialty drinks, and light breakfast items. It’s a comfortable place to pick up a latte or espresso and prepare for a day of exploring. I had the Iced Macchiato while my wife had the chai latte, and both were good.
The Grande Cove Restaurant and Mist Pool Bar
Located by the main pool, The Grande Cove Restaurant and Mist Pool Bar provides a relaxed dining experience with indoor and outdoor seating. With options for kids and adults, finding something to satisfy the whole family is easy. This is a good choice if you’re looking for a quick meal.
Copa Loca Bar & Grill
Copa Loca Bar & Grill is another poolside favorite. It’s the perfect spot to grab a burger or a refreshing drink while enjoying the warm Florida weather. I tried their Burger Bowl, which was really good, and my wife enjoyed the Tuna Poke Bowl. It’s an excellent option for pool days since it’s right next to the pool.
The Grill at Grande Vista
For a more formal dining experience, The Grill at Grande Vista is the place to be. Overlooking the golf course, it’s an excellent spot for breakfast, lunch, or dinner with a view. The menu offers everything from gourmet burgers to plated dishes, and the outdoor patio adds a nice touch to your dining experience.
Out of all the dining options, this was my favorite. I loved our breakfast, and the pancakes were delicious and lightly powdered. I could go for some more right now!
As for dinner, if you want to try something unique, order the Brisket Mac and Cheese. It was one of the best mac and cheese dishes ever. We also enjoyed the drinks they made.
Although this restaurant is pricey, the portions and taste make it worth it. I suggest you give it a try.
Memorable Guest Experience
When we walked into Marriott’s Grande Vista, we felt genuinely welcomed. Guest experience is one of the most essential parts of any stay, and it’s clear that the resort prioritizes making guests feel at home. This warm reception made a great first impression as we began our vacation.
Smooth Check-In and Check-Out Process
The check-in process was pretty smooth. There was a small line, but the front desk concierge attended to us quickly. Since it was our first time at the resort, the staff member explained how to get around, highlighted the amenities, and patiently answered all our questions. Overall, check-in was a positive experience.
The check-out process was equally simple, with no issues at all. You’d be surprised how often hotels get this part wrong, but fortunately, that was not a problem here.
Impeccable Cleanliness and Resort Maintenance
Remember how I mentioned that Marriott’s Grande Vista first opened in 1997? Well, you’d never guess it by its appearance.
This resort is impressively clean, and I was impressed by the attention to detail from the moment I arrived. The rooms, including the bathroom, were spotless, giving me immediate comfort. Cleanliness is a significant factor when deciding whether to return to a resort, and Grande Vista delivered.
Even before stepping into the main lobby, you can tell how well-maintained the property is. The landscaping outside is beautiful, with vibrant plants and well-kept grounds. It felt like a dedicated team was tending to the property every other day during our stay. We even noticed the sprinklers working to keep the plants and grass looking fresh. They put a lot of care into the outdoor areas, which makes sense for a resort focused on outdoor activities.
You can rest assured that Marriott’s Grande Vista keeps its standards high regarding cleanliness.
Exclusive Services for Guests
Marriott’s Grande Vista provides several exclusive services to make your stay comfortable. Guests enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the resort while the concierge desk assists with reservations and local recommendations to help plan your Orlando adventures.
For added convenience, the resort offers laundry facilities and valet dry-cleaning, making it easy to explore the area.
There is No Resort Fee. However, parking is available at a daily rate of $25 at the time of this blog post.
Easy Navigation Around the Resort
Although it’s easy to find your way around Marriott’s Grande Vista, the resort is so large that it can take some time to get from one spot to another.
Expect a fair amount of walking here. Whether you’re heading to eat, play pickleball, or explore another area, you’ll likely have a bit of a walk. So, the walking can be positive or negative, depending on your preference.
I enjoyed the walks. The views around the resort were beautiful, so I didn’t even notice how far I’d gone until I arrived. However, for those who may not enjoy walking or have limited mobility, the distance could be more of a challenge.
What’s Nearby Marriott Grande Vista Resort
Marriott’s Grande Vista resort is near some of Orlando’s biggest attractions. Discovery Cove, SeaWorld, Universal Orlando Resort, and the lively International Drive are just a short drive away, giving you plenty of unique experiences and entertainment options. Disney World’s four parks are around 12 miles away.
With so many popular spots nearby, Grande Vista makes a great base for exploring Orlando’s offerings.
The Value of Staying at Marriott Grande Vista
I can’t express enough how good the value is at this resort. While prices vary, planning your trip as early as possible will score great deals. We booked the Guest Room for under $200 a night, and for that rate, with all the amenities included, it was worth it. I’ve stayed at theme park resorts that cost more and offered far less. You get great value from staying here.
How Marriott Grande Vista Compares to Other Resorts
Compared to other resorts in the area, Marriott Grande Vista stands out as one of the best options. For the price, it competes easily with many theme park resorts.
Its spacious layout, excellent amenities, and activities for all ages make it an easy choice when looking for a resort in the Orlando area.
Final Verdict: Is Marriott’s Grande Vista The Top Family Resort In Orlando?
After staying at Marriott’s Grande Vista, I can confidently say it’s one of the top family resorts in Orlando. The resort’s clean, spacious layout and various activities kept us engaged, and the beautiful grounds and well-kept rooms added to the experience.
While it may not have the theme park branding, Grande Vista offers a well-rounded, enjoyable stay at a competitive price, making it a top choice for families looking for a memorable Orlando getaway. This is especially true with a new theme park, Epic Universe, set to open nearby soon.
My wife and I look forward to revisiting this resort, which is definitely on our list for the future.
The Review
Marriott’s Grande Vista Review Score
PROS
- Scenic views
- Clean and well-maintained
- Variety of amenities
- Convenient location
- No Resort Fee
- Good value
CONS
- Daily parking fee
- Small TVs in rooms
