After a two year hiatus, the wait is finally over. ICE! has officially returned to the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center. Featuring massive ice sculptures, walkthrough storytelling, and frozen family fun; ICE! is an incredibly unique event and a memorable addition to your holiday celebrations.
Recently, we were invited to attend a special media preview of this year’s ICE! attraction. During the sneak peek, we walked the many chiseled scenes and watched as the artists put their finishing touches on the sculptures, effects, and overall decor for this incredible exhibit. We had such an amazing time at this event. Thank you, Gaylord Palms, for inviting us out!
A Little About ICE!
An almost 20 year Kissimmee tradition, Gaylord Palms’ ICE! is a walkthrough exhibit featuring frozen scenes and colorful characters – completely made of ice sculptures and carvings. Plunging guests into snowman-friendly temperatures of only 9 degrees Fahrenheit (Don’t worry, there are Resort-provided parkas to help keep guests warm and comfortable), ICE! is one of the only places in Florida to offer a truly winter-esque holiday experience.
*While Gaylord Palms will provide parkas for use inside the ICE! attraction, it is recommended that guests bring gloves, scarves, or other clothing items to stay warm when enjoying the ice sculptures. Closed-toed shoes are HIGHLY recommended.*
While it generally takes an average of 20-40 minutes to experience the ICE! attraction, there is no official time limit. Once inside, guests can take as long as they’d like to explore the scenes. However, tickets are single entry. While the Gaylord will allow attendees to step just outside ICE!’s doors to warm up, they may not leave the immediate area if they wish to re-enter the attraction.
The ICE! Experience
For 2022, the 20,000 square foot ICE! attraction features the story of Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas. Using 6,700 blocks of both clear and colorful ice, talented artists have been hard at work for over a month to create whimsical, life-size scenes from the classic tale. The attraction includes a total of ten story sections, featuring favorite characters like Cindy Lou Who, the Grinch, and his trusty canine sidekick Max.
Before entering the exhibit, guests will select a signature blue parka (the Gaylord Palms carries a variety of adult and children’s sizes) and begin their journey inside the Grinch’s desolate lair.
As you walk through the exhibit, you’ll encounter a variety of incredibly detailed scenes from the beloved holiday story. Some of the featured displays include the Whos decorating for Christmas, the Grinch coming down the chimney to steal a roast beast, Max wearing his reindeer disguise, and the final feast between the Grinch and the joyful Whos. Each section is full of intricate details, colorful characters, and incredible storytelling.
While you’re exploring the beautifully carved, Seussian scenes; don’t forget to stop by the arctic playground! Complete with sizable ice slides, colorful arches, and a stunning sculpture of the Grinch and his sleigh; both kids and adults will enjoy this one-of-a-kind experience!
Continuing Gaylord Palms’ yuletide tradition, ICE! ends with a stunning, crystalline nativity set. Using lighting effects, this display will seemingly change colors before your eyes!
Getting Tickets for ICE!
ICE! will operate daily from now until January 1, 2023. Buy your dated and timed entry tickets online at christmasatgaylordpalms.com. Pay attention to your selected arrival time. If you are more than five minutes late for your prescribed window, you could be denied entry into the attraction.
Other Christmas Happenings at Gaylord Palms
There’s so much Christmas happening at the Gaylord Palms Resort! In addition to ICE! you can find specialty dining options, live entertainment, festive activities, and more holiday fun. Check out christmasatgaylordpalms.com for a complete list of available activities and to purchase your attraction tickets.
Know Before You Go
- It is 9 degrees Farenheit inside the ICE! attraction. While Gaylord Palms will provide complimentary parkas to every guest, it is important to wear closed-toed shoes, pants, and any other items that might make you more comfortable inside the exhibit.
- ICE! is a single entry attraction. While you are able to step just outside the doors for a few moments to warm up, you may not leave the exhibit for an extended period of time.
- Arrive on time! Those more than 5 minutes late for their timed entry ticket will not be guaranteed entry into ICE!
- You will need to pay for parking at the Gaylord Palms. There are both valet and self parking options.
