We kicked off summertime this year with a week-long multigenerational road trip to some great American destinations. Stop #1 was in Nashville, Tennessee, where we decided to check in at the Gaylord Opryland Resort (a Mariott Bonvoy hotel). Conveniently located near both the Nashville airport and downtown, it’s easy to get around to see the sites – although with everything the Gaylord Opryland has to offer, it was sometimes hard to leave!
With our first steps into the lobby, we were met with grand views of cascading waterfalls, surrounded by upscale furnishings, and serenaded by live country music. After receiving our room keys (and a very necessary map of the resort – it’s huge!), we set off to explore. In searching for our rooms, we followed pathways that wound around a massive indoor botanical garden and around beautiful water features. It truly felt like we were outside!
Activities & Attractions
While the Gaylord Opryland offers numerous activities and dining opportunities, below are some of the major attractions:
Convenient Coffee Shops serving Starbucks
First and foremost, I must mention that the morning coffee run is easy and enjoyable at this resort. There are multiple cafes located throughout the resort and a walk through the gorgeous gardens with a coffee in hand was the best way to start the morning!
SoundWaves Waterpark
Perhaps the key selling point for our family was the SoundWaves indoor/outdoor waterpark, located right inside the resort. Featuring slides, a wave pool, FlowRider, swimming pools, two lazy rivers, and a toddler splash and play zone, there was something for everyone in our group at this waterpark! Something to note, however, is that admission to the waterpark isn’t automatically included with a room reservation but must be added either at the time of reserving or with a visit to the waterpark desk.
Delta Riverboat Cruise
If guests are interested in the wide variety of botanical plants (or would just like to put up their feet for a moment!), the Gaylord Opryland offers Delta Riverboat rides, which travel down and around the waterways that wind through the resort.
General Jackson Showboat
If searching for more opportunities to listen to live country music, guests can book a cruise aboard the Jackson Showboat, docked conveniently nearby the Opry Mills mall. Guests of all ages are invited, and cruises are offered with either lunch or dinner depending on the style of cruise that is booked. Cruise offerings can be found here.
Light & Fountain Show
Located in the Delta Atrium, the musically coordinated light and fountain show is a great activity for all ages to enjoy. I recommend grabbing ice cream from one of the nearby restaurants to enjoy during the show!
Arcades and Rock Walls
Great for kids and adults alike, the arcades at Gaylord Opryland offer a fun outlet after a day spent at the waterpark. Guests can also test their skills on the indoor rock-climbing wall!
Relache Spa and Wellness
For guests seeking pampering and relaxation, a visit to the Relache Spa and Wellness Center may be just the ticket. The Spa offers a wide variety of services, included manis and pedis, facials, massages, hair, and makeup. Reservations and menu offerings can be found here.
Transportation
While the Gaylord Opryland does offer an airport shuttle bus, there may be an additional fee and service does not necessarily operate daily. If you are not planning on renting a car, I recommend checking with the hotel before arriving in order to confirm transportation through the hotel. More information on airport transfers can be found here.
For guests wishing to visit the nearby Opry Mills mall and the restaurants and attractions located there, the resort does offer a complimentary shuttle service that operates on a continuous loop.
The Gaylord Opryland resort was a fantastic place for our multigenerational family to spend quality time together. It truly was its own little vacation destination within itself, and there was something for everyone in our party to enjoy. We highly recommend a stay if you find yourself in Nashville!
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