Have you been to the Gaylord National Resort in Maryland during December? It's been a few years for me but the place never disappoints. It's always decorated so beautifully for the holidays and offers many family-friendly activities. I went last Sunday with my friend Gloria and her two boys, Dylan (4) and Zachary (9) to see what's new this year.
When we arrived at the resort, we rode up the elevator to the Replay Rooftop Lounge, an 80's themed space. While there we enjoyed some very delicious chocolate milk shakes topped with cookies, chocolate, and a crispy cereal treat. Yum! We went outside on the balcony and were able to view the National Harbor. Then, we went back downstairs and headed to the Christmas Village. On the way, we found a whimsical photo opportunity and had to take pictures.
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In the Christmas Village, there is a new attraction that I was really looking forward to exploring. In I Love Christmas Movies you walk through the sets of five beloved Christmas Movies. The crew members and special effects along the way kept things fun and interesting. We were blown away by the detail of each scene. It really felt like we were walking IN the movies. Dylan let us take lots of pictures of him in the fantastical scenes. I think he liked everything but the "snowfall," etch-a-sketches, and Polar Express "train ride" seemed to be favorites.
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After that we headed to Snow Flow Mountain. Zachary was the only one in our group to go down in an ice tube. He said it was fun, fast and asked to do it again. Dylan told us the mountain was too big so he opted not to go down. Instead, he sat at the base of the slides and enjoyed watching people fly down the mountain and make joyful noises.
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Inside the Christmas Village there was a place to take pictures with Santa, hear about Christmas traditions from Mrs. Claus, shop for ornaments, drink hot cocoa, and participate in the Merry Snoopy Scavenger Hunt.
In the Gaylord Resort's Lower Atrium there is a huge Christmas tree hanging from the ceiling and a laser light show at night. There are also shops and places to eat.
By the time we made it outside to Winter Square, the boys were tired and ready to go home. I'm really sad we didn't get to ride the Ice Bumper Cars because I think it would have been a lot of fun. There is also an ice skating rink outside. The view from this area of the Potomac River and National Harbor ferris wheel was spectacular.
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When we were leaving the Gaylord National Resort, Zachary said, "The fun stops when you leave." He is SO right!
On the way home, I asked each boy what their favorite activity was. They both said the Snowball Build & Blast. I happen to agree! And... It's not our fault that some of the snowballs went in the wrong direction and hit their mom, Gloria. Ok, well... maybe! We had such a great day at the Gaylord National Resort.
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Although I was compensated for this article, the opinions given are my own.
