If you’re travelling to Orlando with the family to go to Disney World or Universal Orlando and wondering where to stay, the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress is a fantastic choice.
Rated one of the best luxury hotels in Orlando by Five Star Alliance, the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress is a luxurious resort with all of the amenities. Located in the Lake Buena Vista area, families can easily enjoy the theme parks, and then return to enjoy the majestic 1,500 resort.
The resort offers daily scheduled shuttle transportation to Walt Disney theme parks, and Universal Studios. We had valet service for our vehicle which was super convenient, and a great way to kick-off a luxurious stay.
The lobby atrium is wondrous, and open all the way up to the top floor of the hotel – a full 18 floors high. We were greeted by resident parrot, Merlot – my kids got a kick out of meeting him! The front desk and concierge were also pleasant and eager to assist and make us feel welcome.
A room with a view
Rooms are modern, clean and comfortable. We enjoyed being on the 15th floor which offered us an amazing pool and lake view. Whether during the day or at night, the view was gorgeous. Our double room also offered a balcony, a lovely touch.
Amenities
The hotel offers plenty of things to do, including free bikes for adults and children, as well as two and four-person surreys. For golf fanatics, the resort has a 9-hole Pitch N Putt, Golf Driving Range, and 45 holds of Jack Nicklaus designed golf. There’s also a 24 foot climbing wall, 24-hour health club, and racquet club.
The swimming pools are divine with waterfalls and waterslides for the kids along with a beach in front of Lake Windsong for water sports and beach volleyball. Guests can enjoy water activities such as kayaks, paddle boats, canoes, sailboats and hydro bikes. If you’re looking to relax instead, enjoy the man-made beach, or lounge by the lagoon swimming pool which boasts 12 tumbling waterfalls.
The grounds
Pools and hot tubs are surrounded by rocks, caves, waterfalls, and bridges. Children can enjoy the pool with the waterslide, while adults can enjoy the other side. The landscaping offers a lovely setting – there are lush tropical gardens and adorned walkways. The grounds are stunning, and well maintained.
Dining
For a lovely dining experience, Cascades American Bistro is top notch. The resort restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a lovely view of Lake Windsong. Some of Orlando’s finest sushi is freshly prepared by the city’s premier sushi chef, Chef Yoshi, right at Cascades. We were offered a tasty sushi platter to try – my 8 year old tried sushi for the very first time!
I was impressed that the restaurant had many gluten-free options (vegetarian and vegan also) including bread to start, and gluten free bread and bun for my hamburger. The kitchen was so eager to accommodate my food intolerances, which can be challenging for some restaurants. I tried the Sweet Potato, Cheddar Soup with crème fraîche, pickled shallots, and the Myers Natural Burger with red onion jam, white cheddar, horseradish aioli, dill pickle slices for my entree. Of course I also indulged in their signature cocktail, Everglades Cooler which had Malibu, Captain Morgan’s Spiced Rum Midori, Blue Curacao & Pineapple Juice.
Before we knew it, the sun had set and we were absolutely stuffed after a meal to remember.
Marilyn Monroe Spa
Aside from the pools, lush grounds, and golf, guests can enjoy a little pampering too. I was lucky to unwind with a 50-minute massage at the The Marilyn Monroe Spa inside the resort. The atmosphere is everything Marilyn – think old-style glamour. Relax with a massage, wrap or body treatment, and then head on to the Glamour Room for a facial, manicure and pedicure. Finish with a shampoo and styling, then have your makeup done at the Marilyn-inspired makeup bar. You can even take a little Marilyn with you by shopping the extensive line of Marilyn Monroe Spas skincare, hair care, makeup, lips and nail products, all available in the Spa.
Our stay at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress was unforgettable. The resort has everything you’d desire in an upscale luxury resort for the family. I hope to visit again on our next Florida trip!