BookResorts™ is an independent travel network offering over 100,000 hotels worldwide.is an independent travel network.

Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center Kissimmee, Florida
Book Now Or call, 24/7+1 (888) 605-1350
Rooms & Suites Dine & Drink Activities Spa Gallery FAQs
Ready to book?Lowest online rate, free perks and upgrades.Book nowCall 24/7 · 888-605-1350
Hotel comparison guide

Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center vs Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge

Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center is a large, family-focused Kissimmee resort built around a 4.5-acre indoor Florida-themed atrium, water park, multiple restaurants and a full-service spa. Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge is an African safari–themed Disney deluxe resort in Kissimmee/Bay Lake known for savanna animal viewing and Disney perks; read this if you're deciding between a resort with big on-site attractions (Gaylord) or a Disney deluxe with wildlife viewing (AKL).

Updated · about 3 miles apart

Resort pool with waterslide and lounge chairs at Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center

Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center

Indoor atrium · Family water park · Large convention space

Best for families and groups who want a big on-site water park, varied restaurants, and convention/event space.

See rooms & suites
Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge, Kissimmee, Florida

Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge

Savanna animal viewing · Disney deluxe resort · Close to parks

Best for guests who want a Disney deluxe experience with savanna-style animal viewing and direct Disney connections.

Quick Verdict: Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center vs Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge

When Gaylord Palms wins: choose Gaylord if you want an on-site water park (Cypress Springs) included in the resort experience, many casual dining options, a large indoor atrium that recreates Florida landscapes, and extensive meeting or wedding venues.

When Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge wins: pick Animal Kingdom Lodge if the main draw is watching animals on the savanna from your room or public areas, staying inside the Disney resort system with complimentary theme-park shuttles, and dining at signature Disney restaurants.

Bottom line: Gaylord Palms is a destination resort with large-scale amenities for families, events and water-park fun; Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge is a Disney deluxe property centered on the savanna-animal experience and park proximity. Choose Gaylord for resort activities and space; choose AKL for the Disney atmosphere and animal viewing.

Call +1 (888) 605-1350Book Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center

Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center vs Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge – At a Glance

Side-by-side facts for Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center and Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge
CategoryGaylord Palms Resort & Convention CenterDisney's Animal Kingdom Lodge
Overall vibeUpscale, family-focused resort with an indoor Florida-themed atrium and water-park energyDeluxe Disney hotel with African safari theming and relaxed savanna viewing
Location6000 West Osceola Parkway, Kissimmee; ~3 miles from Walt Disney World2901 Osceola Parkway, Kissimmee/Bay Lake; inside the Disney resort area
Size1,406–1,718 rooms reported with extensive meeting space and multiple venues972 rooms
Ages / audienceAll ages — family-oriented with a separate adults-only pool areaAll ages — family friendly with animal viewing that appeals to adults and kids
Pools / water featuresCypress Springs Water Park (3 acres) with four slides, action river, FlowRider; 3 outdoor pools and 2 hot tubs; separate adults-only South Beach Pool2 outdoor pools (listing); no water park — main draw is savanna and resort pools
Restaurants & barsMultiple outlets including Old Hickory Steakhouse, MOOR, Villa de Flora, Socio, Wreckers Sports Bar and poolside SandBarThree restaurants listed plus 24-hour room service and a coffee shop; known for signature Disney dining experiences
Spa & fitnessRelâche Spa — 25,000 sq ft, 25 treatment suites, sauna/steam, fitness center and classesFull-service spa listed; fitness and wellness amenities available
Known forGlass atrium that recreates Florida landscapes, family water park, large convention/wedding facilitiesSavanna-style animal viewing and Disney deluxe resort services
Disney transportationScheduled shuttle service to Walt Disney World covered by resort feeComplimentary Disney theme-park shuttle
Parking & accessSelf-parking and valet available (fees apply); EV charging on siteSelf parking (surcharge) listed; complimentary theme-park shuttle

A Look Inside Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center

Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center: rooms & suitesRooms & suitesGaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center: pools & beachPools & beachGaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center: diningDiningGaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center: spa & wellnessSpa & wellness
See all photos →

Location: Gaylord Palms vs Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge

Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center – Location

Gaylord Palms sits on 63 acres at 6000 West Osceola Parkway in Kissimmee, marketed as about a 3-mile drive to Walt Disney World.

  • About a 5-minute drive to Walt Disney World Resort attractions via Osceola Parkway.
  • Close to local Kissimmee attractions: Old Town, Fun Spot America, nearby golf courses.
  • On-site shuttle service to Disney theme parks is included in the resort fee.

Choose Gaylord for easy driving access to a range of Orlando-area attractions plus resort-hosted shuttle service.

Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge – Location

Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge is located at 2901 Osceola Parkway in the Bay Lake/Disney resort area and is close to Disney parks.

  • Inside the Disney resort footprint — short drive or complimentary shuttle to Disney parks.
  • Listed distances place it within a few miles of Disney's Hollywood Studios and Epcot.
  • Parking available (self/valet surcharges may apply) and Disney transportation options are offered.

Choose Animal Kingdom Lodge if you want to stay inside the Disney resort area with easy park access and Disney transport.

Rooms: Gaylord Palms vs Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge

Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center – Rooms

Gaylord Palms has a very large room inventory with many rooms overlooking the atrium, water park or gardens.

  • Room types include Atrium-view, Main Atrium view, Florida view, Water Park view, and several suite options (1,406–1,718 rooms reported).
  • Many rooms have balconies; connecting rooms are available on request.
  • Wi‑Fi, in-room amenities and resort-fee inclusions vary; check booking terms for Marriott Bonvoy benefits.

Gaylord Palms is best if you want many room choices and family-friendly configurations near resort activities.

Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge – Rooms

Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge offers rooms with views designated as Savanna View, Resort View and Water View, among other types.

  • Room types include Savanna View (with club/club-level options), Resort View and multiple accessible configurations.
  • Some rooms and public areas look out over savanna habitats with animals visible from balconies and overlooks.
  • Complimentary wireless internet in public areas; Disney benefits and booking policies differ from independent hotels.

Pick Animal Kingdom Lodge if seeing animals from your room or balcony is a priority.

Dining & drinks: Gaylord Palms vs Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge

Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center – Dining & drinks

Gaylord Palms offers a broad on-site dining program ranging from a signature steakhouse to casual cafés and poolside bars.

  • Signature: Old Hickory Steakhouse (dinner-only, upscale steakhouse).
  • Casual and family options: Villa de Flora buffet (breakfast), MOOR (seafood), Wreckers Sports Bar, SandBar and quick outlets like Cocoa Bean and Cold Stone Creamery.
  • In-room dining (6:00 AM–12:00 AM) and multiple bars, including Socio lounge for cocktails.

Gaylord Palms suits groups and families who want variety on-site without leaving the resort.

Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge – Dining & drinks

Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge lists three restaurants and 24-hour room service, with Disney-style signature dining available nearby.

  • On-property dining includes a mix of table-service restaurants and a coffee shop/cafe.
  • Buffet breakfasts and themed dining experiences are commonly available (fees may apply).
  • Room service is available 24 hours and a bar/lounge and poolside bar are listed.

AKL is strong for Disney-themed and signature dining connected to the resort atmosphere; options are fewer but focused.

Pools & signature amenity: Water park & atrium vs Savanna viewing

Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center – Pools & signature amenity

Gaylord Palms centers much of its guest activity on the Cypress Springs Water Park and a 4.5-acre indoor atrium with waterways and gardens.

  • Cypress Springs Water Park: 3 acres, four water slides, Crystal River Rapids action river, and FlowRider surf simulator; admission included in resort fee for overnight guests.
  • Three outdoor pools and two hot tubs on property; a separate adults-only South Beach Pool is available.
  • Atrium public spaces recreate Florida landscapes and include lagoon areas and resort dining adjacent to the water features.

Gaylord Palms is the choice for families who want a resort-centered water-park experience and an indoor-atrial setting.

Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge – Pools & signature amenity

Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge's signature draw is its savanna habitats and the ability to view wildlife from rooms and public overlooks.

  • Savanna animal viewing — guest rooms and public areas overlook managed savanna habitats where animals can be seen.
  • Two outdoor pools are listed for guest use; the property does not include a water park.
  • Activities and programs often tie into the resort's African theme and animal-focused experiences.

Animal Kingdom Lodge is ideal if the primary draw is wildlife viewing and a themed Disney stay rather than a water park.

Wellness & nightlife: Spa, fitness and evening options

Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center – Wellness & nightlife

Gaylord Palms provides a large spa and fitness offer alongside night-time dining and bars.

  • Relâche Spa: 25,000 sq ft, 25 treatment suites, steam room, sauna and ELEMIS treatments; spa hours vary by listing.
  • Relâche Fitness Center: 24/7 access with cardio and weight equipment; fitness/yoga classes are included in the resort fee schedule.
  • Evening options include Socio lounge, Wreckers Sports Bar and poolside SandBar for casual nightlife.

Gaylord Palms supports both daytime family activity and quieter adult wellness and evening bars on site.

Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge – Wellness & nightlife

Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge lists full-service spa and fitness amenities and quieter evenings aligned with Disney resort culture.

  • Full-service spa and fitness facilities are listed as on-property amenities.
  • Evening offerings tend to center on dining, savanna viewing and Disney entertainment rather than a resort nightlife scene.
  • Disney resort benefits and evening programming vary by season and Disney policies.

AKL fits guests who want spa and fitness options within a calm, themed Disney environment rather than late-night resort nightlife.

Who Wins? Best Pick by Travel Style

Best for families who want a water park
Lobby seating area with velvet chairs and large artwork at Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center

Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center

Gaylord Palms — Cypress Springs Water Park, three pools and family activities are included in the resort experience.

Best for savanna/animal viewing
Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge, Kissimmee, Florida

Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge

Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge — rooms and public areas overlook managed savanna habitats for animal viewing.

Best for meeting, wedding or convention groups
Grand arched lobby corridor with large chandelier at Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center

Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center

Gaylord Palms — extensive meeting and event space, multiple ballrooms and outdoor ceremony sites.

Best for staying inside the Disney resort system
Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge, Kissimmee, Florida

Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge

Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge — Disney perks and complimentary theme-park shuttle service make it the pick for Disney-focused stays.

Frequently asked questions

Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center vs Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge: FAQs

See all FAQs →
Which resort is better for small children who love pools and slides?

Gaylord Palms is better for young kids because Cypress Springs Water Park, the FlowRider and family-friendly pool areas are built into the resort experience.

Which property gives better access to Disney theme parks?

Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge is inside the Disney resort area with complimentary Disney shuttles; Gaylord Palms is close by and offers scheduled shuttle service covered by the resort fee.

Can I see animals from guest rooms at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge?

Yes — several room types are designated Savanna View and public overlooks also provide animal viewing opportunities.

Does Gaylord Palms have a full-service spa?

Yes — Relâche Spa at Gaylord Palms is a 25,000-square-foot facility with 25 treatment suites, sauna, steam room and ELEMIS treatments.

More Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center Comparison Guides

Explore how Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center stacks up against other hotels nearby:

Private poolside cabana and loungers near slides at Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center
Book your stay

4.5-Acre Garden Atrium Views

  • Lowest rate guarantee
  • Complimentary perks & upgrades
  • 24/7 concierge
Check availability Call 888-605-1350
Offer terms

Price comparison & offer terms

These terms apply to the price comparison, Lowest Price Guarantee, free perks and concierge service shown on this site.

How we compare rates

The nightly rate shown is the lowest nightly rate we found for Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center after searching every available night up to 12 months in advance, based on single occupancy (one guest). We compared that rate with publicly available rates on other online travel agencies (OTAs), such as Expedia, Hotels.com and similar sites, and show the price difference we found. We don't name the specific site each comparison came from.

Rates and availability change constantly. The rate for your dates, room type and number of guests may be different. The full price, including taxes and fees, is shown before you confirm.

Lowest Price Guarantee

Free perks & upgrades

24/7 concierge

General

BookResorts may change or end these offers at any time. These terms are in addition to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy. BookResorts is an independent travel agency and is not affiliated with Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center.
Legal

Terms & Conditions

Last updated: January 1, 2026

Please read these Terms carefully. They contain important information about limitations of our liability and the resolution of disputes through binding arbitration and a class action waiver (Section 16), and our right to change these Terms (Section 18).

1. Acceptance of these terms

These Terms & Conditions (the “Terms”) govern your access to and use of BookResorts and any booking you make through us. By using the site or making a reservation, you agree to these Terms. If you do not agree, please do not use the site.

2. Definitions

“We,” “us,” and “our” refer to BookResorts, operated by SVH Tours & Travel Services, Inc. “You” refers to the person using the site or making a reservation. A “Supplier” or “Travel Provider” is the hotel, resort, or other provider that supplies the travel services. “Travel Services” means the room stays and related services made available through us. “Content” means text, descriptions, images, reviews, and other material on the site.

3. Who we are

BookResorts is an independent online travel agency that acts as an intermediary between you and Suppliers. We are not a hotel, and we are not owned by, affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by any hotel or brand featured on the site. When you book, your reservation is made with the Supplier through us as agent.

4. Eligibility & use of the site

You must be at least 18 years old (or the age of majority where you live) and able to enter a binding contract. You agree to use the site only to make legitimate reservations for yourself or for someone you are authorized to act for, to provide accurate and complete information, and to inform any other traveler of the terms that apply to their reservation.

5. Bookings & confirmation

All reservations are subject to availability and to the rate rules, restrictions, and policies shown at the time of booking. A reservation is confirmed only when you receive a confirmation from us. You are responsible for reviewing the rate rules (including cancellation terms) before you book.

6. Prices, fees, taxes & currency

Prices are shown in the currency indicated and include applicable taxes and fees unless stated otherwise; the total is displayed before you confirm. Our price may include a service fee and may differ from the rate offered directly by the Supplier. Currency conversions, where shown, are estimates. Certain taxes or resort fees may be collected by the Supplier at the property.

7. Cancellations, changes & refunds

Each rate carries its own cancellation policy, shown before you book (for example, non-refundable, or refundable up to a stated deadline). Refund eligibility and timing follow the policy attached to the rate you select. Service fees may be non-refundable. Failure to check in (“no-show”) may result in forfeiture of the amount paid, per the rate rules.

8. Your responsibilities

You are responsible for having valid identification and any required travel documents (such as a passport or visa), and for complying with the Supplier’s policies, including minimum check-in age, occupancy limits, deposits, and identification requirements. You are responsible for the accuracy of all guest information you provide.

9. Suppliers & third-party services

Suppliers are independent third parties. We are not liable for the acts, errors, omissions, representations, warranties, or negligence of any Supplier, or for the quality, condition, or safety of the travel services they provide. Any dispute regarding your stay or the services delivered is between you and the Supplier. Supplier terms and policies apply in addition to these Terms.

10. Third-party links

The site may contain links to third-party websites provided for your convenience. We do not control and are not responsible for those sites, and a link does not imply endorsement. Your use of any linked site is at your own risk and subject to that site’s terms.

11. Intellectual property

The site and its Content (excluding third-party trademarks) are owned by BookResorts or its licensors and are protected by law. Hotel names, logos, and trademarks are the property of their respective owners and are used only to identify the property being booked. You may not copy, scrape, or reuse any Content without permission.

12. Prohibited conduct

You agree not to use the site for any unlawful or fraudulent purpose; not to make speculative, false, or fraudulent reservations; not to use automated tools to access or scrape the site; and not to interfere with the site’s operation or security.

13. Reviews & user content

If you submit reviews or other content, you grant us a non-exclusive, royalty-free license to use, display, and distribute it in connection with our services. You are responsible for what you submit, and we may remove content at our discretion.

14. Disclaimers

The site, its Content, and the travel services are provided on an “as is” and “as available” basis, without warranties of any kind, whether express or implied, including as to accuracy, availability, or fitness for a particular purpose. We do not warrant that listings, prices, or descriptions are error-free.

15. Limitation of liability

To the fullest extent permitted by law, BookResorts will not be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, punitive, or consequential damages arising out of or connected with your use of the site or any booking. If we are found liable, our total liability will not exceed the greater of (a) the fees you paid to BookResorts for the booking at issue, or (b) US$100. This limitation reflects the allocation of risk between us.

16. Dispute resolution

We want to resolve any concern quickly and fairly. Before pursuing a formal claim, you agree to first contact our support team at 888-605-1350 or support@bookresorts.com and give us 60 days to resolve the matter informally. If we are unable to resolve it, any dispute will be handled by the state or federal courts located in California, as set out in Section 17 (either party may still bring qualifying claims in small claims court).

17. Governing law & venue

These Terms are governed by the laws of the State of California, USA, without regard to conflict-of-laws rules. Any permitted court action will be brought exclusively in the state or federal courts located in Los Angeles County, California, and you consent to their jurisdiction.

18. Changes to these terms

We may update these Terms from time to time. The version in effect at the time of your booking applies to that booking. Your continued use of the site after changes take effect means you accept the updated Terms.

19. Force majeure

We are not responsible for any failure or delay caused by events beyond our reasonable control, including severe weather, natural disasters, pandemics, strikes, government actions, or Supplier closures.

20. Miscellaneous

If any provision is found unenforceable, the remaining provisions stay in effect. Our failure to enforce a provision is not a waiver. These Terms are the entire agreement between you and us regarding the site.

21. Contact

Questions about these Terms or a reservation? Call our support team, available 24/7, at 888-605-1350.
Legal

Privacy Policy

Last updated: January 1, 2026

This Privacy Policy explains how BookResorts collects, uses, shares, and protects your personal information when you use our site or make a booking. For the purposes of applicable data protection law, the data controller is SVH Tours & Travel Services, Inc. (operating as BookResorts).

1. Information you provide

When you search, book, or contact us, we collect information such as your name, email, phone number, billing and payment details, the names and details of other guests, your travel dates and preferences, and the content of your communications with us.

2. Information we collect automatically

When you use the site, we automatically collect technical and usage data such as your device and browser type, IP address, approximate location, pages viewed, referring URLs, and interactions with the site, using cookies and similar technologies.

3. Information from other sources

We may receive information about you from Suppliers, business partners, fraud-prevention services, and (if you choose to connect one) social media platforms.

4. How we use your information

We use your information to process and manage bookings; communicate with you about reservations; provide customer support; personalize your experience; send marketing where permitted (with the ability to opt out); analyze and improve the site; prevent fraud and secure our services; and comply with legal obligations.

5. How we share your information

To complete a booking, we share necessary details with the relevant hotel and room Suppliers and with payment processors. We may also share information with service providers who support our operations, with advertising and analytics partners, with our corporate affiliates, in connection with a business transfer, with authorities where required by law, and with your consent.

6. Cookies & tracking

We use essential, performance, functional, and advertising cookies and similar technologies. You can manage non-essential cookies through your browser and through our cookie settings. For more detail, see our Cookie Policy.

7. Your privacy rights

Depending on where you live, you may have the right to access, correct, delete, or restrict the use of your personal information, to data portability, and to opt out of marketing.

EEA/UK (GDPR): You may access, rectify, erase, restrict, or object to processing of your data, withdraw consent, and lodge a complaint with your local supervisory authority. We process data based on your consent, the performance of a contract, our legitimate interests, and legal obligations.

California (CCPA/CPRA): You may request to know, delete, or correct your personal information, and limit the use of sensitive personal information, without discrimination. We do not sell or share your personal information as those terms are defined under California law, so no opt-out is necessary. To exercise any of your rights, contact us at support@bookresorts.com; we verify requests before responding.

8. Data retention

We keep personal information for as long as needed to provide our services and to meet legal, tax, accounting, and dispute-resolution obligations.

9. Security

We use reasonable technical and organizational measures to protect your information. However, no method of transmission or storage is completely secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security.

10. International transfers

Your information may be processed in countries other than where you live. Where required, we put appropriate safeguards in place (such as standard contractual clauses) for those transfers.

11. Children’s privacy

The site is intended for adults and is not directed to children. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 18 without appropriate consent.

12. Third-party links & social features

The site may contain links to, or features from, third-party services. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of those third parties; please review their policies.

13. Changes to this policy

We may update this policy from time to time. The “last updated” date above reflects the current version, and we will provide notice of material changes where required.

14. Contact us

Questions or privacy requests? Reach our support team, available 24/7, at 888-605-1350 or by email at support@bookresorts.com.
About BookResorts · Independent since 1993

A better way to book your hotel

BookResorts is a full-service, independent travel agency connecting travelers to unforgettable stays since 1993. Detailed hotel information, competitive all-in rates and 24/7 concierge support, all in one place.

Est. 199330+ years
100K+Hotels & resorts
200+Countries
24/7Concierge
This is not the official website of Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center. BookResorts is an independent travel agency and is not owned by, affiliated with, endorsed by or sponsored by Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center or its parent brand.

Why travelers choose BookResorts

Best available rates

We compare rates from top suppliers. Taxes and fees included, no hidden charges.

100,000+ hotels & resorts

200+ countries and 2,000+ cities, from all-inclusives to boutique stays.

24/7 concierge

Real travel specialists to build, change or help with your reservation anytime.

Full transparency

Honest details on every property: rooms, amenities and policies.

Trusted since 1993

Three decades as a full-service, independent travel agency.

Secure & protected

Every booking is handled securely and your information is protected.

How booking with us works

Questions about a reservation? Our team is here 24/7 at 888-605-1350.
Full details in our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.

Lowest Price + Free Perks

UsOthers
Nightly rate
Price guarantee✓
No hidden fees✓
Perks & upgrades✓
24/7 concierge✓
Check availability

vs. sites like Expedia, Hotels.com and other OTAs ·

Book by phone888-605-1350
Book nowLowest rates Call usAvailable 24/7
Photo viewer