When families picture an Orlando holiday getaway, they usually imagine the twinkling lights of beloved theme parks and the larger-than-life celebrations that fill every corner of the city between November and January. But guests staying with Magical Vacation Homes quickly discover something special: Orlando’s holiday magic doesn’t stop at the park gates. All across Central Florida, immersive experiences, seasonal festivals, and one-of-a-kind attractions transform the region into a festive wonderland.
One of the most breathtaking examples is the ICE! extravaganza at Gaylord Palms Resort in Kissimmee—an attraction that has become a cherished holiday tradition for locals and visitors alike. This year, the event brings the classic story of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer to life in vivid, hand-carved ice sculptures that must be seen (and felt!) to be believed. And the best part? Most Magical Vacation Homes properties are located only a short drive away.
Whether you’re planning a full holiday itinerary or simply looking to add extra seasonal sparkle to your Orlando vacation, ICE! is a must-experience.
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A Frozen Masterpiece in the Heart of Central Florida
ICE! Featuring Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer transforms over 7,000 blocks of ice—each weighing nearly 300 pounds—into a walk-through retelling of the timeless 1964 animated classic. The exhibit is kept at an astonishing 9 degrees Fahrenheit, and yes, Gaylord Palms provides guests with heavy-duty winter parkas to keep warm. (You’ll still want gloves, scarves, and—Floridians, take note—closed-toe shoes.)
This year’s presentation includes 11 intricately sculpted scenes, all illuminated with enchanting lights to highlight the clear, colorful, and textured artistry. Created by master ice carvers from Harbin, China—a city famous for its world-renowned ice festivals—the sculptures take over a month of nonstop carving to complete.
Every scene reflects the warmth and nostalgia of the original Rudolph story, recreated in crisp icy detail. The glowing red nose, the frosty landscapes, and the iconic characters feel lifted straight from the television special and frozen in time.
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Key Scenes and Can’t-Miss Moments
From the moment you step inside, the cold hits—and the magic begins. Some of the exhibit’s most talked-about highlights include:
✨ Rudolph’s Shining Nose
Even in a world made almost entirely of ice, Rudolph’s iconic nose steals the spotlight. Clever wiring and battery-powered lighting give it a blinking glow that stands out beautifully against the frozen backdrop.
✨ Bumble the Abominable Snow Monster
Towering above guests, Bumble dominates several scenes, including the incredibly popular ice slide room. His outstretched arms and toothy grin make him both imposing and irresistibly photogenic. Guests—kids and adults—glide down icy slides carved into the scenery as Bumble looms overhead.
✨ The Island of Misfit Toys
A fan favorite, this vibrant chamber showcases King Moonracer and the wonderfully quirky misfit toys. Every character is sculpted with playful precision, making it the perfect spot for holiday photo ops.
✨ Santa, Mrs. Claus, and the Reindeer Crew
From the slender, early-story version of Santa (with Mrs. Claus trying to fatten him up) to Rudolph’s father Donner and Coach Comet, the exhibit brings the entire cast of characters to life in ice.
✨ The Grand Nativity Finale
Traditionally, ICE! ends on a serene and reverent note, and this year is no exception. The final room features a breathtaking crystal-clear Nativity scene—a stunning work of craftsmanship set apart from the colorful Rudolph displays, offering a moment of quiet reflection.
Interactivity and Family Fun
ICE! is more than a frozen gallery—it’s an immersive, hands-on experience designed to engage visitors of all ages.
Slide Room Adventure
The famous ice slides let you glide through a scene featuring a dramatic chase with Bumble. Many families return to this spot again and again during their visit.
Crawl-Through Tunnels & Photo Stations
In several scenes, guests can pop up next to characters like Hermey the Elf, creating instantly shareable holiday photos.
Reindeer Games
A playful stretch of the exhibit encourages guests to take part in simple, low-tech games such as hopscotch projections and Tic-Tac-Toe—perfect for little ones and nostalgic adults alike.
Every corner invites exploration, making the experience feel both cinematic and personal.
Beyond the Ice: Holiday Activities at Gaylord Palms
Ice! is just one part of Gaylord Palms’ spectacular annual Christmas offerings. Visitors can extend their day with:
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Indoor Snow Tubing
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Pomp, Snow & Cirqueumstance, an acrobatic holiday stage show
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Snowball Build & Blast interactive play
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Gingerbread decorating experiences
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Storytime with Mrs. Claus
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Seasonal dining and themed treats
This makes the resort a full holiday destination on its own—perfect for families wanting a festive break from the busy theme parks.
Stay Close to the Magic with Magical Vacation Homes
One of the biggest advantages of booking with Magical Vacation Homes is location. Our luxury vacation rentals—many situated in renowned communities such as Reunion Resort, Windsor Hills, Windsor Island, and Solara Resort—offer easy, convenient access to Central Florida’s top attractions.
Most of our properties are located:
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10–15 minutes from Walt Disney World® Resort
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A short drive to Gaylord Palms and ICE!
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Near major attractions in Orlando and Kissimmee
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Minutes from I-4, making travel to holiday events quick and seamless
After spending the day in a 9-degree wonderland, return to spacious accommodations featuring private pools, game rooms, themed bedrooms, fully equipped kitchens, and resort amenities that make the holidays feel extra special.
Make ICE! Part of Your Holiday Itinerary
Whether you’re visiting Orlando for the theme parks or planning a cozy seasonal getaway, the ICE! exhibit at Gaylord Palms adds an unforgettable layer of holiday charm. It’s family-friendly, visually stunning, delightfully chilly, and perfectly located for guests of Magical Vacation Homes.
This is the kind of holiday tradition families come back for year after year—and experiencing it alongside the comfort of a luxury Orlando vacation rental makes it even more memorable.
Start Planning Your Magical Holiday Stay
Create new traditions, explore all the festive attractions beyond the theme parks, and enjoy the warmth (and occasional chill!) of an Orlando holiday.
Every time you pack your bag in the name of vacation and your travel sights are set on Orlando, Florida, you’re in for an inevitable treat! This sunny and exciting city is an amazing place to embrace the best of Disney magic or simply kick back in Florida-inspired style. At Magical Vacation Homes, we’ve long been industry leaders when it comes to creating unforgettable vacation moments for our guests headed this way. We work hard to make sure booking a stay through us not only includes the comfort, luxury, and convenience travelers deserve, but provides access to those one-of-a-kind extras that are sure to thrill. Take for example the recent hibachi party hosted at the prestigious Isole Villas for our guests by Hibachi Omakase. This personalized event paired the very best of food and fun while highlighting culinary art as entertainment too! The on-site staff not only delivered up delicious dishes for villa guests looking to enjoy hibachi in Orlando but made sure that fun for all ages was a priority from start to finish. Check out all the entertainment for yourself here!
Partner Up with Hibachi Omakase for Your Next Visit and Enjoy Hibachi in Orlando
Every day in Orlando is filled with opportunity to embrace fun to the fullest. Whether you’re exploring Magic Kingdom® Park, making the most of exotic adventures at Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park, or relishing the big screen come to life at Disney’s Hollywood Studios®, you’ll find moments that inspire. However, all of those activities are sure to lead to a craving or two. When there are appetites to be satisfied, there’s no reason to do anything less than spectacular for dinner. The finishing touch on a truly unforgettable day of adventure in Orlando might just be a hibachi party hosted at your personal villa booked through Magical Vacation Homes the next time you’re in town! At Magical Vacation Homes, we partner up with the professionals at Hibachi Omakase to provide our guests with an unsurpassed on-site hibachi party experience upon request. When you link up with this team, you’ll be in for all the entertainment and flavors you crave. With Hibachi Omakase, the party comes to you. Guests can set up their villa according to preference, but the Hibachi Omakase team brings the food, beverages, and fun. Every guest enjoys a customized meal which the chef prepares before your very eyes. From sake drops to the amazing aromas that will fill the home, it’s an experience you won’t soon forget.Incredible Concierge Services to Utilize with Magical Vacation Homes
Crafting an unforgettable stay in Orlando comes down to the luxurious details that matter most. At Magical Vacation Homes, our commitment to personalized service is unsurpassed! We provide our guests with an array of concierge services to pick and choose from that make each getaway experience one-of-a-kind in Orlando. Our team is happy to provide everything from Walt Disney World® Resort advance ticket booking to mid-stay cleaning services and in-villa massage options as well! When you’re looking to travel in style during your stay, let our team help you get an exotic car rental in place or even organize a private jet charter. From Disney VIP tours and party bus bookings to personal in-home chefs and photography sessions to remember your adventure, we’re here to handle the upgrades that make your getaway complete.
A Closer Look at Isole Villas RVH_500X
Booking through Magical Vacation Homes gives Orlando bound travelers a plethora of luxurious property options to choose from. However, if the property that recently hosted the incredible Hibachi party is just your style, you’ll want to be sure to book your stay in one of our stunning villas the next time you’re in the city! Whether you’re in town with family or friends, our properties are an ideal place to settle into the style you deserve. Additionally, those who book a stay enjoy access to all Reunion Resort amenities, including tennis courts, waterparks, golf courses, spa services and beyond.Book Your Orlando Vacation Today
There’s never been a better time to book your getaway to Orlando and when you’re ready to turn travel plans into a reality, the team at Magical Vacation Homes is here to help. Reach out today to learn more about our many inspired property options as well as our added services that turn travel into one-of-a-kind adventures with every reservation!When you book your stay with us at Magical Vacation Homes, you’re getting more than just a place to stay, you’re getting a full magical experience. Your vacation rental already comes equipped with the essential things you’ll need for your vacation. If you’re interested in adding additional experiences to your trip, our dedicated Concierge team is happy to assist you with planning. We have a full list of Concierge Services that we offer. Check out some of our most popular services that the Magical Concierge team can assist you with planning!Magical Concierge Services
Our guests are our number one priority here at Magical Vacation Homes. We want you and your family to have a truly magical experience!Elite Arrival Service
When you arrive at your Elite Magical vacation home, our Concierge Team will welcome you to the property with a full home tour, including how to operate electronics and answer any questions you might have about the home. The Concierge Team is dedicated to exceeding expectations for your entire vacation experience. This service is available during business operating hours for guests who have booked a home from our Elite category. To book, please call 1-866-991-3158 prior to your arrival.
Kissimmee Guest Services
Kissimmee Guest Services is the most trusted name in tickets since 1997. They provide tickets for all of the major theme parks, including Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld, Busch Gardens, and Legoland. In addition to theme parks, get tickets for Orlando sports teams including Orlando City and Orlando Magic or local attractions like the Orlando Eye, Madame Tussauds Wax Museum and iFly Indoor Skydiving. Check out Kissimmee Guest Services for all of your ticket needs!
Orlando Party Servers
Party Servers offers a complete range of wedding services, party services, including catering, setting up the buffet, butler pass, bartending, portion control on the buffet, cleaning up, during and after the party and any other assistance that may be needed. Party Servers will take care of all the details from start to finish. Contact our Concierge team to assist in arranging your Orlando Party Servers, or visit the website PartyServers.net
VIP Tours
My VIP Tour services provide private guided tours at both Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort. Their tour guides offer services to tailor your VIP tour specifically to your needs, from attractions to entertainment offerings. Avoid the long lines and getting lost in the parks and book a VIP Tour Guide!Dog Vacay
We know your pet is your best friend, but unfortunately our vacation rentals are not pet friendly. While you’re having a magical vacation, we want your pets to enjoy their vacation too! We highly recommend DogVacay for the best pet experts!Childcare Services
The Kids Pac provides 24-hour in-room childcare services, for everything from family vacation assistance to services during events at our vacation homes. Their team of nurturing and professionally trained childcare specialists provide quality service from the comfort of your vacation rental home. For arranging The Kids Pac childcare during your stay, call our Concierge at 1-866-991-3158 or head to their website TheKidsPac.com
Our full list of Magical Concierge services can be found on our website at MagicalVacationHomes.com
Call our reservations team at 1-866-991-3158 to book your dream vacation and add any of these amazing magical concierge services to your stay!