Gaylord Palms turns into one of the most magical winter destinations in Orlando each holiday season, and this year’s ICE experience feels more date-worthy than ever. My husband and I brought our son with us, but it still felt like the kind of night that lets you reconnect as a couple while also making sweet family memories.
Here’s what makes ICE such a unique date night (and family night) this holiday season. Plus, lots of photos to show off just how astonishing this year's special Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer™ display really is.
The Magic of ICE! at Gaylord Palms
The centerpiece of the holiday celebrations at Gaylord Palms is ICE, a jaw-dropping walkthrough attraction kept at a frosty nine degrees. Stepping inside feels instantly transportive as you’re surrounded by millions of pounds of brilliantly colored ice carved into scenes from beloved holiday stories. The craftsmanship is stunning, and it’s worth the time to slow down and appreciate all the little details.
We loved braving the legendary ice slide room together and bundling up in layers we rarely wear in Florida felt fun, cozy, and just a little surreal.
Besides this super cold and amazing ICE! experience, the resort is decorated for the holidays. You can even be dazzled by Christmas lights in the atrium with a synchronized light show.
The Ice Slide Room
Nothing brings out your inner child quite like the famous multi-story ice slides. Sliding down together is a thrill, and the whole room is filled with larger-than-life sculptures, including the intricately carved Bumble, which stole the show for my husband.
It’s also the spot where families and couples tend to laugh the hardest.
Take your time in this room. It is among the largest, and most people get focused on the ice slides, which are a must-do. But before or after your swift slide down the ice, take some time to appreciate the detail in here. It's a great spot to get up close with one of the Rudolph sculptures.
And I loved walking through the ice archway just before the steps to the ice slides. Being surrounded by ice and then the reveal of the Bumble sculpture is a literally cool moment.
Date Night Meets Family Fun
Even with our son tagging along, this night felt like a date. Maybe it was the novelty of the cold or the shared excitement of discovering each new room, but something about ICE creates a feeling of escapism. You hold hands a little tighter, you huddle closer for warmth, and you share those “did you see that?” moments that spark connection.
What to Wear for ICE! (Your Floridian Date Night Survival Guide)
The moment you step inside ICE, the temperature drops to nine degrees and everything feels instantly magical. The resort hands you their signature blue parka, but trust me, you’ll want to layer up underneath so you can linger, explore, and enjoy every frosty detail — especially if you’ve got the kids with you and you’re trying to keep everyone happy long enough to savor the date-night vibes.
Layers on Layers
Start with long sleeves and add a cozy sweater. Nine degrees might not sound intimidating, but for those of us from the Sunshine State, it’s an absolute shock.
Thick Socks
Regular socks won’t cut it. Double up or break out those fuzzy ones hiding in the back of your drawer.
Closed-Toe Shoes
This is the one night of the year sandals stay home. Your toes will thank you.
Gloves and a Hat
You may feel like you're dressed for the North Pole, but you’ll be able to stay long enough to enjoy the sculptures and keep the kids from melting down. Gloves are a must!!! And although the parka has a hood, it is loose, so put on a knit hat to stay warm.
Cozy Scarf
A small detail that makes a big difference for warmth — plus it looks great in photos. I tucked my tight to my chest.
A Tote Bag
Bring a roomy bag for all the layers everyone peels off once you're back in that familiar wall of Florida humidity. Extra cute if it’s festive.
If you’re squeezing in a date night with little ones in tow, dressing right is the secret to keeping everyone comfortable and giving yourselves a chance to focus on the fun together.
Christmas at Gaylord Palms Activities
Besides the main attraction, ICE! there are multiple activities you can enjoy during Christmas at Gaylord Palms, most are an additional charge.
Cirque-Style Holiday Show
Before or after witnessing the beauty of ICE!, the live show Pomp, Snow, and Cirqueumstance adds a dazzling, high-energy layer to your evening. Acrobats, music, bright colors, and big visual moments keep the night feeling festive and full. Kids love it, and it’s short enough to hold everyone’s attention.
My husband and I were impressed by the incredible acrobatics throughout the performance. It is always a treat to see your sweetheart being wowed by a performance.
The Snow Bar
A slower, adult moment comes when you stop by the Snow Bar. The atmosphere is frosty, fun, and perfect for warming up with a drink or a cozy mocktail. It’s a nice pause before heading back out into the larger resort experience.
Why ICE Makes a Great Date Night
ICE gives you something to talk about, something to laugh about, and something to hold onto each other about. It’s an out-of-the-ordinary experience that doesn’t require leaving Central Florida, and it’s one of the rare opportunities to bundle up and enjoy a bit of winter magic without ever boarding a plane.
If you’re looking for a holiday date that feels memorable and playful, the ICE experience at Gaylord Palms absolutely delivers.
Special savings: Save up to 25%: SEE THE MOST FAMOUS REINDEER OF ALL!
Keep in mind, parking is $40.
