The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes Earns Five-Star Forbes Award

Central Florida's first hotel to receive the prestigious Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star designation.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes has been awarded a coveted Five-Star rating from Forbes Travel Guide, becoming the first hotel in Central Florida to receive this prestigious accolade. The 582-room luxury resort, part of the larger Grande Lakes Orlando complex, was recognized for its exceptional service, amenities, and experiences that cater to discerning travelers.

Why it matters

Earning the Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star award is an incredible accomplishment that solidifies The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes as a premier luxury destination in the Orlando area. This recognition not only highlights the resort's world-class offerings but also elevates the reputation of Central Florida as a top-tier travel market, attracting high-end visitors and solidifying the region's status as a luxury getaway.

The details

The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes sits on 500 acres at the headwaters of the Florida Everglades, offering guests a 40,000-square-foot spa, three pools, an 18-hole Greg Norman-designed golf course, and over 126,500 square feet of meeting space. The resort is also home to the acclaimed Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star Knife & Spoon restaurant led by chef John Tesar. As part of the larger Grande Lakes Orlando complex, guests have access to additional amenities like the Grande Lakes Waterpark, outdoor activities, and a working farm that supplies fresh ingredients to the on-site restaurants.

  • The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes earned the Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star award in 2026.

The players

The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes

A 582-room luxury resort located on 500 acres at the headwaters of the Florida Everglades, offering world-class amenities and experiences.

Jon McGavin

The Area General Manager of Grande Lakes Orlando, who oversees the operations of the Ritz-Carlton and JW Marriott properties.

Amanda Frasier

The President of Standards & Ratings for Forbes Travel Guide, the organization that awards the prestigious Five-Star rating.

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What they’re saying

“We are honored to receive the Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star award, a recognition that reflects the dedication of our staff who are consistently looking to push boundaries to create meaningful, memorable experiences for our guests.”

— Jon McGavin, Area General Manager of Grande Lakes Orlando (PRNewswire)

“Forbes Travel Guide's Star Award winners exemplify excellence in hospitality. This year's list reflects the changing landscape of luxury with properties setting the standard for authentic experiences while offering unparalleled amenities, enhanced well-being and delivering unforgettable moments. We are thrilled to recognize their dedication to creating truly world-class travel options for today's discerning guest.”

— Amanda Frasier, President of Standards & Ratings for Forbes Travel Guide (PRNewswire)

What’s next

The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes will host a celebratory event on March 15, 2026 to commemorate its Five-Star achievement and showcase the resort's luxury offerings to the local community and travel industry.

The takeaway

The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes' Five-Star Forbes Travel Guide award solidifies Central Florida's status as a premier luxury travel destination, raising the bar for hospitality experiences in the region and attracting discerning guests seeking world-class amenities, service, and authentic local experiences.