Getting in shape may not be what you had in mind when planning a visit to the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center in Nashville, Tennessee. But you’ll definitely find you’re in for a workout during your stay at this one-of-a-kind property that features roughly 2,888 guest rooms plus close to 200 suites, including five presidential suites. Plenty of walking to take in the many offerings of what reportedly is the nation’s largest non-gaming resort—thanks to the connected convention center—awaits you.
Between a menu of dining options, family activities—including an indoor water attraction, an indoor pool and an arcade—shopping and the opportunity to treat yourself to a spa visit, you won’t see a need to leave Gaylord while spending your home away from home there. And, yes, if walking isn’t enough to help with your exercise, there’s an on-site fitness center.
If you’re like my family, the most work you’ll do when it comes to deciding on something to eat will come through choosing to have Mexican, American, Southern or something else. You’ll even have choices for getting that morning coffee or light breakfast and picking up snacks and desserts.
Make time for play at the on-site arcade or SoundWaves water attraction—4 acres that include waterslides, lazy and rapid rivers and more. Looking for some relaxation? Singles, couples or mom-daughter duos—as with me and my 14-year-old—can check that off the list at Relâche Spa. As mom took in a much-needed massage, Braxton relaxed while getting a pedicure.
Relaxation didn’t end at the spa. From our patio, we were able to take in the sights, such as music décor, including life-size guitars hanging from the ceilings, and string lights. The property, which opened in 1977, features acres of beautiful indoor gardens and cascading waterfalls. Take a ride along the indoor river via a Delta Riverboat cruise, as a guide shares some history and facts about Gaylord Opryland.
Not ready to hit the streets for the live music Nashville has to offer from one downtown establishment to another? No need to worry. You can take in the sounds of music from local artists while grabbing a bite at one of the dining spots. Bottom line: There’s no need to leave unless you want, and with all that’s within reach, you’re sure to get it all and then some under one glass roof.