Grand Lakes Orlando - Review of the Ritz and JW Marriott

Why Grande Lakes Is Orlando's Best-Kept Secret

Ritz Carlton and JW Marriott

This resort has always been one of my go-to recommendations, and honestly, it never disappoints. While it's well known among Florida locals, it's often overlooked by out-of-town visitors who default to staying closer to Disney or Universal. If that's always been your approach, consider Grande Lakes for your next Orlando vacation.

Following a stunning $118 million renovation, the resort is better than ever. Situated on 500 acres in the heart of Orlando, Grande Lakes is home to two distinct hotels—the Ritz-Carlton and the JW Marriott—and guests at either property have access to the amenities of both.

I've stayed here many times over the years, and it's genuinely one of those resorts that consistently delivers. Whether you're traveling as a couple, with friends, or as a family, there's always something to do, and the property never feels lacking in activities or experiences.The restaurants are excellent, and the spa is truly top-notch, making it easy to enjoy some relaxation while still having plenty to keep everyone entertained.

Grande Lakes Balcony view from the Ritz — Grande Lake View from the Ritz

Which Hotel is Right for You?

You honestly cannot go wrong with either, and regardless of which you choose, you will have access to all the same pools, restaurants, and resort activities. The meaningful differences come down to size, atmosphere, room configurations and budget.The Ritz tends to have a higher price point

The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes

MORE INTIMATE · BEST FOR COUPLES

The Ritz is the more refined and intimate of the two, with 582 rooms and suites featuring a light, modern aesthetic and a beautifully updated Club Level lounge that is genuinely one of the best hotel club experiences I have come across. We stayed in a one-bedroom suite with our two kids and it was the perfect setup — spacious, beautifully appointed, and thoughtfully designed for a family without feeling generic. The Ritz pool area leans more relaxed with a fenced splash pad and playground that is ideal for toddlers and younger kids.

Ritz Grande Lakes two queen room — Ritz- Two Queen Room

Ritz Grande Lakes — Austin has always been a fan!

JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes

BEST FOR FAMILIES AND LARGER GROUPS

The JW is nearly double the size of the Ritz with over 1,000 rooms. Its modern design incorporates beautiful wood and blue tones, and it offers the most family-friendly room configurations on the property, including three-bedroom suites and rooms with built-in bunk beds that kids absolutely love. If you are traveling with a larger group or need more flexible accommodations, the JW is the way to go. The JW pool area is where all the energy is, especially after the recent additions to the waterpark.

JW Marriott Grande Lakes King — JW Marriott- King

JW marriott grande lakes orlando Bunk Family suite — JW Marriott Family Suite

JW Marriott suite living area — JW Marriott, Suite Living area

The Pools

The pool scene at Grande Lakes is honestly one of the best parts of the resort and a big reason I recommend it so often for families. There are two completely different pool experiences, and the best part is that guests at both the Ritz-Carlton and JW Marriott have access to all of it.

The Ritz-Carlton pool is more relaxed and refined. Beautiful cabanas line the pool, and the atmosphere feels peaceful and elevated without being stuffy. It's still very family-friendly, but definitely quieter and more relaxing than the JW.

Ritz orlando grande lakes kids splash pool — Ritz Orlando- Kids splash Pool

Ritz Orlando Kids playground — Ritz Orlando- Kids Playground

The JW Marriott pool is where all the action is. The recent renovation added an impressive mini water park with three water slides, a lazy river, and an AquaVenture obstacle course that older kids absolutely love. Just note that children must be at least 48 inches tall for the obstacle course, and they are pretty strict about it. Austin is still waiting for his turn!

Despite all the activity, the pool area never feels overcrowded. It's spread out with plenty of different sections and seating areas. There's also a zero-entry splash area near the sand playground, which is a huge hit with younger kids.

JW Orlando Grande lakes Pool — JW Grande Lakes- Pool

Aquaventure JW Grande lakes — AquaVenture Course - JW Grande Lake

For those looking to splurge, the exclusive cabana section has its own private plunge pools and hot tubs, making it a great option for larger groups or special celebrations. During the summer, you can also reserve one of the Ocean Grande Cabanas for the resort's Saturday night fireworks, which makes for a really special evening. The fireworks take place over the lake every Saturday at 9:00 PM and are one of my favorite touches at the resort. If you're staying in a Lake View room, you can even enjoy the show right from your balcony.

Both pool areas have excellent food and beverage service. And if you're spending the day at the JW, do yourself a favor and order the Signature JW Margarita and Ahi Tuna Poke bowl, you won’t regret it.

Resort Activities

One of the things I love most about Grande Lakes is that there is always something to do. Whether you're looking to relax by the pool, spend time outdoors, or keep the kids entertained, the resort does an incredible job creating experiences for every type of traveler.

Private Lake Activities
One of the most unique features of Grande Lakes is its private lake and surrounding waterways. Guests can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, eco tours, and fishing. It's a peaceful way to spend the morning and feels worlds away from the typical Orlando vacation.
Active Adventures
If you're looking to stay active, the resort offers tennis and pickleball courts, guided bike tours, and miles of walking trails throughout the property.
Spa & Wellness
The 40,000-square-foot spa is one of my favorites in Florida. I find myself coming back again and again because the service is exceptional, the facilities are beautiful, and the adults-only spa pool is one of the most relaxing places to spend an afternoon

Greg Norman-Designed Golf Course
Golfers will love the 18-hole championship course which is also home to the annual PNC Championship each December, where some of golf's biggest legends and their families compete.
Ritz Kids Club
The Ritz Kids Club offers half-day and full-day drop-off programs for children ages 4–12, making it a great option if parents want to enjoy a spa treatment, round of golf, or a quiet lunch. There are also game areas at both hotels where older kids (and adults!) can enjoy foosball, ping pong, and pool tables. There is also a kids train on property that makes it way around at certain times.

Family Fun Activities

During the summer, Grande Lakes adds even more family-friendly programming that makes the resort feel extra special. In addition to the Saturday night fireworks over the lake, you'll find laser tag on the lawn, fire dancers, outdoor games, kids' activity areas at both the JW Marriott and Ritz-Carlton, and classic American cookouts.

If you're visiting over Fourth of July or Labor Day, expect even more activities. Usual activities have included inflatable water slides, silent discos, family games and races, movie nights under the stars, magic shows, and plenty of festive entertainment.

Fall is one of my favorite times to visit. The resort transforms with seasonal activities including pumpkin decorating, fall crafts, archery, canoeing, laser skeet shooting, face painting, a petting zoo, live music, and family games. There is also a charming fall market featuring local Central Florida vendors and food cottages, making it feel more like a fall festival than a typical resort weekend. We have stayed here many times for a perfect fall weekend

The holidays are another magical time at Grande Lakes. The entire property is beautifully decorated, and the resort hosts holiday markets, ice skating, festive food and beverage experiences, mixology classes, and plenty of seasonal activities for both kids and adults.

No matter what time of year you visit, Grande Lakes always seems to have something special planned. It's one of the reasons I continue recommending it year after year. The resort does an incredible job creating experiences that make every stay feel unique, whether you're visiting for a family vacation, couples getaway, or a relaxing staycation.

Dining

Dining is honestly one of the strongest parts of Grande Lakes and something that genuinely surprised me the first time I stayed here. The property has 13 restaurants that source ingredients directly from their on-site 18,000-square-foot working farm called Whispering Creek, as well as on-property apiaries. That farm-to-table commitment shows up in the food in a way that is noticeably above what you typically expect at a resort. Here are the ones I would prioritize.

Knife & Spoon

The flagship restaurant at Grande Lakes and one of the best steak and seafood restaurants in Orlando. Award-winning, elegant without being overly formal, and the kind of dinner you will be talking about for days.

Primo

Authentic Italian cuisine featuring farm-sourced ingredients. A fantastic option to enjoy and relax after a long day at the pool.

Highball & Harvest

Southern-inspired seasonal cooking with a warm, casual atmosphere. Great for a more laid-back dinner or an even Sunday brunch. They also have two pool tables and table shuffleboard to entertain kids while waiting.

The Ritz Club Level lounge is also worth the splurge at this hotel. The evening food and drink spread is excellent and can easily replace a dinner out if you have younger kids who are winding down.

Final Thoughts

Grande Lakes is, without question, my most recommended Orlando resort for families, couples, and groups looking for a true luxury experience without staying at a Disney or theme park hotel. The combination of two world-class resorts, 13 incredible restaurants, multiple pool experiences, a private lake, and one of the best spas in Florida makes it hard to beat.

What I love most about recommending Grande Lakes is the feedback I consistently receive from clients. Many have never even heard of it before booking, and they always come back saying it exceeded their expectations. As a travel advisor, that's one of the best compliments I can receive.

Whether you're planning a family vacation with a few park days, a couples getaway, a girls' weekend, or a multigenerational trip, Grande Lakes truly has something for everyone. It's one of those rare resorts that appeals to every age and travel style without feeling like a compromise—and that's exactly why I find myself returning again and again.

*They do have a shuttle to Disney, Universal, and Sea World if you want to include a few days at the parks during your stay.

Interested in staying at Grande Lakes?

I can book both the Ritz-Carlton and JW Marriott with preferred partner benefits included at no extra cost to you!

PERKS INCLUDED AT BOTH PROPERTIES

$100 resort credit
Daily breakfast for two included
Room upgrade whenever available at check-in
Extended check-in and late check-out based on availability

If you have questions about planning a trip to Grande Lakes Orlando or want help deciding between the Ritz-Carlton and JW Marriott for your specific trip, I am always happy to help!

Orlando