Summer's in full swing. If you're searching for a new way to cool-off or a "Stay-Cation" in Florida, you’ve come to the right spot. Each week during July, Florida on a Tankful is spotlighting an "Inland Oasis" that's perfect for a quick getaway with the entire family.
From the lush tropical landscaping to the waterfalls that spring forth at the touch of a button, one resort not far from Interstate has a reputation of shutting out the outside world.
"This is a great place to relax and get away from everything,” says father Jason Ressman.
The Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress just outside of Walt Disney World features several pools and a new slide from a world away.
"Brand new waterside, lots of twists and turns,” says Recreation Manager Laura Horwood as children climb the steps of the new slide tower behind her. “Kids love it."
Taking a break from the water while sunbathing with her mermaid doll, Bella Ressman reports the slide moves “really fast.” When prompted, she agreed the slide may allow passengers to a fictional 100 mph.
Around this pool complex, there are no right angles, just waterfalls, caves and tropical landscaping. Even the most discerning visitor from age 10 to age 90 will find new amenities that satisfy.
"The slide, the caves, the waterfalls, the hot tub” are what Bella’s brother Owen Ressman says are his favorites.
"It has a hot tub? I didn't know it had a hot tub!,” stunned brother Max cuts in. "The palm trees, the umbrella, everything” are Max's favorites.
The Ressman children did everything at the Grand Cypress's pool and beyond.
"We also added a jet park splash zone for toddler aged kids, as well as a smaller rock climbing wall,” Laura says.
Besides swimming in the lagoon pool known for the suspension bridge spanning from side to side, spending time on Lake Windsong is a must.
"You can peddle or paddle,” Laura explains. Hotel guests can grab a bicycle boat, kayak or sailboat and take them out on the water. Bikes are also available for rent. The poolside path eventually leads into a tree-lined nature area. Miniature golf is also an extra hotel guests enjoy.
Looking to escape the noise, the quiet pool is just what adults ordered. This pool is for those looking to relax without the sounds of children.
Hungry? Working up an appetite in the sun can be fierce. Take a close look at the table next to your lounge chair. A server is only a button push away.
"We have servers that come around,” explains Chef Kyle Anderson. “There is a call button right by your chair, and a server will be at your side in a matter of minutes."
Kyle’s poolside menu is more than what you would expect to find on a water park menu.
Tomato bruschetta, a spinach empanada made in house roasted and seared Roman tomatoes, crab and cheese filled rangoons along with sushi are offered poolside.
Large glass coolers also hold infused water with fruit free of charge. The goal is to stay hydrated in the warm Florida sun.
"Yummy,” says Bella when slurping her last bit of water.
Like all the Inland Oasis locations that Florida on a Tankful is spotlighting, The Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress has several Florida Resident specials. Find them by clicking here.
The hotel is located just outside of Walt Disney World's Downtown Disney shopping and dining complex in Orange County.
There is more Florida on a Tankful waiting for you On Demand and on television.
Watch On Demand
Watch Florida on a Tankful now with the new "Bright House Local On Demand" on your Bright House Networks digital cable. Visit
channel 999, Bright House Local on Demand. Use your remote control to scroll to the right to the TRAVEL category. Then SCROLL DOWN to TANKFUL.
Tankful on Television
You can catch new Florida on a Tankful stories each Thursday and Saturday on News 13 and Bay News 9. New editions play at the end of each hour starting at 6 a.m. Classic Florida on a Tankful stories can be found each Friday and Sunday on Bay News 9 and News 13 at the end of each hour starting at 6 a.m.