The last time we were in this hotel was approx. 2 years ago so take the review with the grain of salt, especially since the latest reviews of this hotel on other web sites are far from stellar. The hotel is one of Hyatt resorts and is relatively close to Orlando attractions. It still takes at least 20 minutes to get to Disney World so this would not be the first option have I not been a Hyatt GP diamond. Speaking about diamond recognition, it is average at best. The front desk didn't seem to care about the status and the room we were given was average. Asking for a better room didn't help as supposedly the hotel was full (not according to the Hyatt's web site which was still offering all room types for sale). The rooms were OK and from what I understand they were renovated since our last visit. The balcony was a nice thing to have but it is tiny and you can barely put a chair sideways so don't plan on spending any significant time out enjoying weather (which was great every time we were there in the Oct-Dec time frame). To justify its resort designation, the hotel has a relatively elaborate pool complex with waterfalls and play areas. There are some "hidden" hot tubs, too. The grounds are pretty well maintained. There is also a small lake right behind the pools. My biggest complaint regarding the recreation/sports facilities is the location of the tennis courts. It's a pretty long hike around the lake and the courts themselves are nothing special. You can also borrow bikes for a leisurely ride on the hotel grounds. The food in the RC was decent - typicall US HR flare. The Hemingway's is decent but definitely does not live up its fine dining aspirations. The path to the restaurant is poorly lit (at least it was 2 years ago). We had reservations under our name and were there on a slow night. It still took them 5 minutes to seat us (almost as much to even acknowledge us). It also took some time to get the food and once it came it was just average. Definitely wouldn't recommend eating there.
Pulled up and asked about parking options, Valet $20, self is free. I found THE last spot on Saturday night, farthest away from the resort, holy crap it was a busy night, I parked and there were still 6+ cars circling and waiting for someone to leave. Not a good situation, anyone else experienced this hectic lot here? The street was full also, quite insane. Client paid for dinner @ Hemingway's. Food was good, pricy but he had the $150 F&B credit. We really enjoyed the corn meal crusted oysters over the blue cheese bacon sauce. I never got to see the pool area during daylight, is there a lazy river at this property?
I had the exact opposite experience regarding status recognition. I checked in 2 weeks ago for a 2 night stay and a VIP/Diamond hostess escorted me to my room and made sure that it was to my liking. I found the staff very helpful and attentive, and the RC was good, albeit overcrowded. I enjoyed a hot breakfast option each morning - something that I don't see in a lot of domestic clubs. I know that we always say that YMMV, but MMreally did V!
Since it's been over a year since this property has been reviewed I figured I would post a new one to freshen up some of the observations left from others above... First, let me start by saying this is one of my favorite Hyatt hotels due to the overall size of the property and the various activities they offer including golfing, kayaking/canoeing/paddle-boating, wall climbing, biking, etc. all. After a long day spending time with hords of tourists it's nice to enjoy the space. Big picture, this property is well maintained and the staff is generally very accommodating and friendly. They've gone through complete guest-room renovations within the last few years and they tend to keep the landscaping in very good shape. Pros: Lots to do! - a great property for families to enjoy a "day off" from the theme parks. There are plenty of activities to keep kids and adults busy all day: tennis, basketball, pitch-n-put golfing, biking, running/jogging through nature trails, rock climbing, water activities (boating/sailing/paddle-boats), hot tubs (3), pools and slides Modern, clean rooms most with a small balcony Free transport to Disney, Universal (and I think Seaworld too...) Friendly staff that almost always properly recognize Gold Passport status/amenities A good RC with helpful concierge and GREAT views. See my pics below. Free champagne during checkin! (usually) Cons: Parking - self parking is no longer free and can sometimes fill up to the point where you can expect a decent walk on high occupancy nights ($12 self, $23 overnight valet) Resort fee - although I think it's worth it for all that's offered, some business travelers may not have time to fully utilize/enjoy the resort amenities ($22 per day) Internet speeds - while it's good that they've included internet with the resort fee, I always find that their infrastructure is not equipped to handle the large number of users. Connection speeds can range throughout the day equivalent from slow DSL to worse than "dial-up." As a business traveler, an internet connection in my room is as important to me as running water is in the bathroom. Here are a few photos taken from the Regency Club patio:
My financee were thinking about going back to Orlando next year. For those who have been to both, how would you compare this Hyatt to the Waldorf Astoria? Price really isn't a factor here, as I'm willing to pay whatever they're asking for (within reason). I'm a Hyatt Plat and Hilton Gold, in case that makes any difference in your evaluations. We have no kids.
I have stayed at both properties. I would recommend the Waldorf Astoria over the Hyatt Grand Cypress. Why? The WA is a newer property. I believe it has been open less than 5 years. WA service is a cut above the rest. I am a Hilton silver and felt treated diamond. Of course, didn't get the free Internet nor breakfast, but that isn't the fault of the WA. If price in not a concern, then book a suite. This gets you a balcony, separate living room, and a large bathroom suite. I would be interested to know what others think. A view from the suite.
I have stayed at both properties as well as the Hilton Bonnet Creek. Each trip was a family vacation which includes 2 kids, 8 and 10. I enjoyed all the properties. At the Hyatt I used a suite upgrade which was nice since we had two connecting rooms and some added space. I asked my kids which property they liked better and the answer was the Hyatt. The Grand Cypress is a "resort" that lets you just relax and enjoy the property. Since your traveling with your fiancee and no kids, I would recommend the Waldorf. In my opinion, it may be more of a "quiet and personal" atmosphere with less crowds. Btw my kids really liked the lazy river at the Hilton. Both properties have great golf courses with the Hyatt adding a par 3 course. I don't think you can go wrong either way, have fun and enjoy your trip.
I've been at all three this year while traveling solo on vacation to WDW. I would rate them 1- Waldorf, 2- Hilton Bonnet Creek, 3- Hyatt. Whatever you do, don't stay at Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista (across from Downtown Disney).
I too have stayed at all four and agree with your rating. However, there was nothing "wrong" with the property, but compared with the other three it does rate last. It is the least expensive and probably the oldest of the properties. But, it is within walking distance of Downtown Disney.
I don't have any status with Marriott, so I haven't tried the World Center yet. Orlando Marriott World Center Renovation
