With 1,883 rooms and a massive amount of meeting and event spaces, it has been an incredibly successful go-to hotel for trade shows, conventions and a multitude of Orlando events.
But now – in the wake of a multi-million-dollar renovation – the Orlando World Center Marriott has emerged from its chrysalis as far more than a top-shelf convention hotel.
It’s a world-class resort.
Tropical oasis meets Marriott luxury at Orlando World Center Marriott's Falls Pool Oasis — Photo courtesy of Orlando World Center Marriott
“We’ve completed some amazing upgrades on infrastructure, technology, guest rooms and meeting space and more,” says Gary Dybul, director of sales and marketing. “But the pool renovation is by far the largest thing we have done.”
Dybul is talking about Falls Pool Oasis, the resort’s brand new, sparkling centerpiece.
Over three months, their 1.0 pool metamorphosed from simple into 2.0 sublime. Three massive water slides – one open and built for speed, and two tube chutes that wend and bend – encourage families that stay together to play together.
“We have much more deck capacity than ever before,” notes Dybul. “And the new stonework and planting beds give the space an elevated feel.”
Refreshing cocktails and casual fare are available poolside or at the expansive new restaurant — Photo courtesy of Orlando World Center Marriott
A new restaurant with expanded seating accommodates roughly 180. Added in its previous location – atop a pavilion overlooking the pool area – there's a splashy playground for guests who haven’t yet hit the slide’s height requirement.
“There’s a kiddie-sized pool, splash pads with water jets and lots of different things for the toddlers and younger guests,” Dybul explains. “And everyone loves the new waterfall, which is great for playing, but also for its aesthetic and the soothing white noise.”
Families looking for a day (or more) away from the theme parks will find a haven at Falls Pool Oasis — Photo courtesy of Orlando World Center Marriott
Indeed, although the property also boasts a quiet pool for guests seeking solace, they may simply choose to camp out adjacent to the larger pool’s namesake.
Clean, warm pavers blanket the recreation area, where tiered seating allows for optimum visibility; guests can keep an eye on their kids from the comfort of their deck chairs.
But they may be in the capable hands of the property's recreation specialists. An online calendar of the pool schedule goes about 10 days out, helping guests plan their stays.
Complimentary shuttles to nearby Walt Disney World means no woes about finding parking on theme park days, either.
Of course, with poolside activities that include mermaid experiences (Participants wear beautiful tails and are taught how to use them in the water.); hula hoop competitions; bounce houses; and interactive fun with guests from fun places like Gatorland, parents may find they’re able to camp out more often than expected.
Older kids may enjoy the new interactive arcade located beneath Mikado, the property’s Japanese steakhouse. Xbox, Wii and a host of other lures give teens a little breathing room.
But they’ll want to come back for an evening around the poolside firepits for s’mores and family bonding.
Wii! Gamer girls (and boys) will enjoy the clean, spacious G.R.I.D. arcade — Photo courtesy of Orlando World Center Marriott
Orlando World Center Marriott is one of a handful of local properties with a walk-out golf course. This not only adds convenient championship play to its many amenities, but also allows for private holiday fireworks shows for guests staying for Memorial Day, July 4 and New Year’s Eve.
By December, says Dybul, they should have something all new on tap: nightly laser shows.
“Every night, it will shoot off from the pavilion area back to the hotel. Our renovated outdoor lounges and new pool area will be front-row seats.”
Not to mention the World Center’s 617 pool-view balcony rooms.
Laser shows will run about eight to 12 minutes, he says, and they can be themed for groups they’re hosting and holidays, as well.
Along with the excitement, relaxation is also on tap. The property’s spa expansions and renovations mean more space for room treatments and pedicures. These overhauls and additions are slated for completion in October.
Fun food and beverage programs are available for groups large and small — Photo courtesy of Orlando World Center Marriott
