One major bonus about living in Florida is that summer weather will last well into what those north of Florida might consider “fall”. This means that weekend getaways in southern locations are ripe for the picking in September and quite often better priced than summer getaways. We recently took advantage of this fact and headed to Reunion Resort in Orlando, Florida for a family weekend getaway.
We would like to thank Reunion Resort for hosting us so that we could share our experience with you. As always, thoughts and images are our own.
Reunion Resort
Reunion Resort is an AAA Four Diamond-rated property and sits on 2,200 acres. It’s also conveniently located just six miles from Walt Disney World and only 20 minutes from Orlando International Airport. You can even see the fireworks from Disney while having dinner at the rooftop restaurant Eleven (located on the 11th floor with spectacular views-a must). They offer luxury one-, two- and three- bedroom Villas plus multi-bedroom Vacation Rental Homes. The property was beautiful inside and out. The boys were especially in love with the fountain in the lobby. Within seconds they were emptying their pockets of all their change.
Rooms at Reunion
We stayed in a two-bedroom villa at Reunion Grande which was super spacious and more than enough room for our family of 5. The villas also come with a full kitchen, washer/dryer, etc… It’s luxury but with the conveniences of home which are wonderful when vacationing as a family (hello laundry). We brought our own breakfast to make in the room which made mornings quick and easy and they supplied the coffee, win win.
The bed we slept in was amazingly comfortable. So much so that our two little boys tried to sneak into it a time or two. Thankfully it was a King so some snuggles in the morning were still comfortable for all of us. If you happen to have a babe like we did (5 months old) Reunion has you covered. A comfortable, looked brand new pack n play was delivered along with baby soap, lotion, etc…it’s the little things.
Reunion Resort Activities
Reunion Pools, Waterslides, and a Lazy River
With a selection of Pools, Slides, Kids play areas, and a Lazy River, you’ll have plenty of options to play in the sun, and with poolside food and drink delivery (served 11-4 daily) you can enjoy lunch without leaving your coveted umbrella chair. The shaded area was the perfect spot for myself and baby Scarlett while we watched the boys swim in the shallow pool.
After our trip I asked the boys what their favorite part was and they quickly replied the lazy river…which is evident from the face of our youngest. My oldest had a great time trying to push my tube under the waterfalls. Watching him laugh with each try may be my favorite memory from the trip.
Tennis
If you’re looking for more of a dry activity during your stay there are options for that too. Golf, Tennis, and Pickleball will keep you active and having fun no matter the season. We were lucky enough to get a family lesson during our stay. Heading to our tennis lesson I was a bit apprehensive. I believe my husband and I played every major sport, except for tennis. I felt bad for our amazing instructor Josh because he was getting 4 newbies to the game. However, I can honestly say that this was my favorite part of our trip (my husband’s too). We started with basics, and Josh even documented our lesson with video to show how we had progressed at the end of the lesson. Josh kept it fun, was super patient, and had us all making major strides by the end of the lesson.
The award-winning Tennis Centre at Reunion has 6 state-of-the art clay “Hydro-Grid” tennis courts, keeping it cooler and better on your joints. They offer private and group lessons and clinics for every level, taught by USPTA certified pros. This isn’t your average tennis lesson experience. This is a luxury experience. The instructors and the staff tend to your every need and are on hand and checking in to offer water, towels, etc. When we ended the lesson with peppermint towels to cool off with, I knew this wasn’t your average experience. They also have a fully stocked shop with everything you need for tennis- from clothes to equipment. So even if your aren’t prepared, just go!
Pickleball
Little did I know that pickleball is the fastest growing sport in the US, but after our tennis lesson Josh introduced us to it, and now we love it. We even researched the closest court to our house. The pickleball courts are right by the tennis courts. It’s a sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton and ping-pong. It’s fun exercise and a lot of laughs. Great for the entire family!
Dining At Reunion
With all the fun you’ll be having at Reunion, you’ll also need some breaks to eat and enjoy the variety of dining options they offer. When we first checked into the resort we were happy to find a Sushi Bar right by the lobby. They also offer other kid-friendly items for little taste buds.
Our favorite dining experience was dinner at Eleven. Beautifully placed on the 11th floor of the Reunion Grande, its views are unmatched. Tip: schedule dinner or drinks and appetizers for the patio around Disney’s fireworks schedule. Dinner and a free show! The rooftop pool adds to the ambiance outside. A great date night idea.
My favorite moment of the night (minus dessert) was seeing our 3 year old dive into the lobster bisque. You know it must be delicious when a 3 year old enjoys it! From appetizers to dessert we loved every bite. I can highly recommend the Filet Mignon and the Peanut Butter Macadamia Chocolate Torte.
The Spa at Reunion
Just a short ride from the Reunion Grande you’ll find a boutique spa that is reminiscent of an old southern home with porches that leave you wanting to stay, sip, and enjoy the shade from beautiful magnolias just a little longer. I had the privilege of stepping away from the boys and the babe for a bit and escaping here for a little mommy time.
This isn’t your large spa with lots of people coming in and out. It was quiet and serene. After a wonderful Swedish massage I stepped out onto the Verandah with my complimentary Mimosa in hand to just be. To feel the breeze and enjoy my mommy timeout. Tip: there is no time limit after your service. So stay and sip as long as you like, maybe even bring a book.
“I think togetherness is a very important ingredient to family life”
-Barbara Bush
If you were to ask me why I do what I do- this is it. To put all of the distractions aside for a time, make memories with my little family and spend time together intentionally. Not just living together passively, but being intentional about connecting with each other. I think this happens beautifully when traveling and experiencing new places together. So whether it’s simply a night spent camping in the backyard or visiting a wonderful resort like Reunion, I would encourage you all to experience something new and set aside time to really be present with those you love.
Until next time!
-Amy
