ARRIVAL/CHECK-IN: Last month I shared about the business side of a bleisure trip my husband, then-11-month- old daughter and I took to Nashville in August 2024. This month I’m here to report on the leisure side of that same trip. When it comes to leisure in Nashville with (or, honestly, without, as there’s much to see and do) children in tow, there’s no better option than Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center. As you wander the massive complex, you will see both business and leisure travelers comingling.

We had rented a car, and the ride from the airport to the resort was easy; we did get slightly turned around once in the complex with where to enter, park and valet; but once we found our bearings, the valet and check-in process was smooth. We were able to check in at the Celebrity Services office next to the main hotel check-in in the Cascades Lobby, which made the experience even easier — especially with a baby.

GUEST QUARTERS: Gaylord Opryland boasts several atriums, all interconnected by walkways, escalators and elevators, and select guestrooms boast balconies and overlook one of three of the atriums. Our room afforded a view of the Cascades atrium, home to Cascades American Café and The Falls Bar & Lounge. Walking through the whole resort feels like being in a beautiful botanical garden, with lush foliage, flowers and water features. The small balcony from our guestroom afforded a beautiful view, but (a word of warning) with the bar and restaurant in that atrium — and live music at the bar some nights — it can be a bit loud in the guestroom.

The best thing about our guestroom was the size! The spacious accommodation opened into a small threshold with a little alcove to the left that boasted a single sink and mirror on one side and a closet opposite. This sink was perfect for setting up our baby bottle washing station without using any bathroom counter space. The bathroom was generously- sized as well, with a shower.

The hotel provided a crib in the room, although our daughter seemed to prefer the comfortable king-sized bed, which was flanked by two nightstands. Across from the bed sat one long piece of furniture serving as a desk, dresser and more. Again, the space that piece afforded proved a luxury while traveling with a small child. An armchair with a table sat in a corner near the balcony doors. A small table and two chairs were on offer on the balcony.

SERVICES/AMENITIES: You won’t want for things to do at Gaylord Opryland. We took advantage of several hours at SoundWaves, the on-site, 4-acre indoor and outdoor waterpark. Atrium and fountain light shows take place nightly. We hopped on the Delta Riverboat Rides which take you through the resort’s indoor gardens, with a tour guide offering insight into the property. There’s also a spa, golf course and more, with a weekly entertainment calendar available on Fridays. Even just a stroll around the grounds to shop and admire the scenery is a leisurely and enjoyable way to pass some time.

There’s a variety of quick-service and sit-down eateries. Of the many on offer, we tried Cascades American Cafe, with an ample breakfast buffet; Fuse Sports Bar; and Solario Cantina for delicious Mexican. I still regret not sampling something sweet from Bravo Gelato!

Currently, Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center offers more than 760,000 square feet of event space across 90 rooms. The largest space can accommodate up to 10,000.

TOP TAKEAWAYS:

• Gaylord Opryland recently announced a $131 million expansion, with planned completion in spring 2027, that will add a new ballroom and other event space.
• There’s no better hotel in Nashville if your trip plans involve a tour or performance at Grand Ole Opry.

GAYLORD OPRYLAND RESORT & CONVENTION CENTER
2800 Opryland Drive
Nashville, TN 37214 tel 615 889 1000                                                                                 marriott.com