6 Ways to Make the Most of Your IHI Stay
When the Independent Home Improvement Conference agenda wraps up for the day, the JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes offers plenty of reasons to stick around the property. Shared with the Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes, the 500-acre resort has evolved into much more than a convention-friendly hotel. Here are six ways to take advantage of the amenities.
1. ESCAPE TO THE ADULTS-ONLY SPA POOL
The Grande Lakes Water Park and lazy river get plenty of attention, but those looking for a quieter escape should head next door to the Ritz-Carlton Spa. By the spa is an adults-only heated lap pool surrounded by lounge chairs and gardens. Unlike the main resort pools, access is limited to guests who book a spa treatment or purchase a Spa Day Pass, creating a calmer atmosphere between conference sessions. It’s an ideal spot to recharge before an evening reception or dinner.
2. SLIP AWAY TO THE EVRBAR TERRACE
Most conference attendees gather in the JW Marriott lobby after sessions, but one of the property’s more relaxed gathering spots sits just steps from the water park. EvrBar combines craft cocktails, local beers and a menu of shareable plates in a setting that’s noticeably quieter than many convention hotel bars. With indoor seating and a terrace overlooking portions of the resort, it’s well-suited for informal meetings, catching up with colleagues or simply winding down after a full day of education sessions. Its location adjacent to the water park also makes it an easy stop after an afternoon by the pool.
3. LOUNGE IN A LAZY RIVER CABANA
The quarter-mile lazy river has become one of Grande Lakes’ signature attractions, and the premium cabanas overlooking the water are an excellent way to enjoy some pool time. Reservations can be made online through Marriott’s Day Pass portal, with options ranging from daybeds to larger cabanas that include televisions, refrigerators stocked with beverages, fruit platters, dedicated cabana hosts and food-and-beverage service. Check-in is handled at the hotel before guests are escorted to their reserved space.
4. SCHEDULE AN EARLY A.M. TEE TIME
Designed by Greg Norman, the Ritz-Carlton Golf Club, Orlando, Grande Lakes, has earned certification as an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary for its environmental stewardship while winding through natural wetlands, cypress stands and live oaks rather than rows of homes. The course recently completed a significant renovation, introducing TifEagle greens and reshaped bunkers while maintaining its reputation as one of Central Florida’s more strategic resort courses. Morning tee times are recommended during the summer months, and conference attendees should allow extra time before their round. Practice facilities are extensive, and the course’s resort pace tends to encourage players to enjoy the experience rather than rush through 18 holes. Hotel guests have direct access to tee times through the resort concierge.
5. BOOK A DINNER WITH A SEAFOOD VIBE
While Primo and Knife & Spoon draw much of the attention—deservedly so—another worthwhile culinary option flies under the radar. Bleu, located beside the Ritz-Carlton pool, serves fresh seafood, salads, sandwiches and tropical cocktails in an open-air setting that feels surprisingly secluded for a resort of this size. During the evening, it provides a relaxed alternative to the busier lobby restaurants and can be an excellent choice for casual conversations with customers, vendors or fellow retailers away from the conference bustle.
6. EXPLORE THE RITZ SIDE OF THE PROPERTY
Guests staying at the JW Marriott sometimes forget they have access to many of the shared amenities across the pedestrian bridge connecting the two hotels. The Ritz-Carlton offers a distinctly different atmosphere,
with quieter pool areas, landscaped courtyards, boutique shopping and several dining options that feel removed from the convention environment. Even a short evening walk through the property provides a change of pace after spending the day in meeting rooms.
