While the Gaylord Opryland Hotel is a hotel there is enough going on inside its walls for it to be a destination in its own right.  And because it is always 72° inside the Opryland is a great place to spend the day when the weather gets cold.

Walking in the doors of the reception area you are greeted by an enormous stained glass dome directly over the concierge desk.  Adorned with butterflies, ladybugs, flowers, guitars and banjos it only hints at the beauty that waits beyond the lobby.

Stained Glass Dome

Passing through the columns and arches in the lobby you enter the Cascades which flows, almost seamlessly, into the Garden Conservatory.  Stroll the paths, sit in a gazebo, venture behind the waterfalls or watch the fish swim around a fountain.  You can almost feel the stress melt out of you.  (Note: wear comfortable shoes; the paths are brick or stone.)

The Cascades and the Garden Conservatory

For a romantic dinner visit the Ristorante Volare and sit “outside” near the gardens.

Wandering through the gardens brings you to a small area of shops.  Light lunch is available from a cafe or chocolates from Godiva.  Specialty shops include jewelry and a golf shop.  Walk a bit farther and you’ll find 650 am WSM broadcasting live.

Just past the radio station is the entrance to the Delta.  Here you’ll be transported to the deep South with its lush gardens, riots of brilliant flowers, large plantation houses and a gentle river.

The Delta

Wander through the shops, enjoy family friendly restaurants or take a ride in a flat bottom boat ($9).  From the Delta you can enter the Convention Center in grand style.

Entering the Convention Center from the Delta

The Gaylord Opryland also hosts many events during the year including family events for Valentines Day, St. Patrick’s Day and Mother’s Day as well as ICE!- 2 million pounds of ice carved into an interactive display complete with slides!  The Opryland Hotel should definitely be on your list of places to visit if you’re in Nashville.

All photos by Jody Halsted