Sure, it “snows” on Main Street U.S.A. at the Magic Kingdom (along with lots of other local destinations) during the holiday season. But, if those soap bubble “snow” flurries (combined with 80-degree weather) don’t really get you in the frosty holiday spirit there’s always ICE! at Gaylord Palms, which starts on November 19 (and runs through January 3).

Step inside ICE! and you’ll forget the weather outside. Within this ice-filled surrounding the temperature is kept at a chilly 9 degrees (but don’t worry, they provide a parka to keep you warm). If you can stand the cold you’ll be wowed by breathtaking ice sculptures hand-carved out of nearly 2,000,000 pounds of ice. Some of the sculptures contain lights, giving them an even more sparkling glow. And then there’s my favorite part - the ice slide. It’s a little cold on the tush (and you’ll have to maneuver your way through the kiddies to try it out) but it’s a thrill people of all ages can enjoy. In total, ICE! spans more than 18,000 square feet.

When you’re done seeing ICE! there’s lots of other great things to see at Gaylord Palms as well. You can warm up with a cup of hot cocoa (or even some Ben & Jerry’s ice cream if you’d like to keep the cold feeling with you), go ice skating, gaze at their 70-foot Christmas tree, have Sunday brunch with Mrs. Claus (at Villa de Flora, the restaurant I consider the hands-down best brunch location in Orlando), enjoy a holiday show and even visit with Santa himself.

You can get a discount on ICE! by buying your tickets in advance. Visit the Gaylord Palms Web site for more information.

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