My family was recently invited to a media preview of some of the spectacular entertainment at the Gaylord Texan. Their theme for their 13th annual Summerfest is Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. It’s been going on since May 27th, and will be going on through September 5th this year (2016).
The Gaylord Texan seriously knows how to maximize your summer fun! There are tons of free and inexpensive events and experiences. Not only that, but guests at the Gaylord Texan can enjoy Paradise Springs, the 10-acre outdoor pool and lazy river playground.
Here is a glimpse at the activities available for FREE
Queen of Hearts “Light Up the Night” Party
Every Friday and Saturday night, plus Sunday, September 4th at 9PM in the Lone Star Atrium. Join the Queen of Hearts and other Wonderland friends for a little fun right before the 3D light show starts! There are balloon artists, music, light up items for purchase, and more.
“Breaking Through the Looking Glass” 3D Visual Light Show
Every Friday and Saturday night, plus Sunday, September 4th at 9:30 PM in the Lone Star Atrium. The Mission Plaza wall magically transforms into a 3D canvas during this exciting light show, set to some booming music! It’s a little trippy, a lot of fun, and so imaginative. You’ll be entranced!
Queen of Arts Tour
Check this out any time! You can grab a map at the Concierge Desk and stroll through the four and a half acre property. There are Alice-themed paintings, blown glass, sculptures, and more.
Giant Glow Checkers
Over on the Oil Derrick Patio from 7AM-11PM, grab some buddies and play on the super-sized checker board!
Summer Movies
Every night at 6PM, you can enjoy a free family-friendly movie in the private dining room at Texan Station. Check with the concierge for a movie schedule.
Strolling Entertainment
Every Friday and Saturday night, as well as Sunday, September 4th throughout the atrium, you can meet and greet with some of the characters from Alice’s Adventure in Wonderland! We’re talking the Queen of Hearts, Mad Hatter, Alice herself, and more!
Wonderland Photo Opps
Any time during this special Summerfest, you’re welcome to find the unique photo opportunities located all around the atriums. Whether you visit when it’s light or when it’s dark, there are neat places to take your photo to really show your love for Alice’s Adventure in Wonderland!
Live Music
Every night from 6-9PM, Gaylord Texan has free live music! It will be either at Silver Bar or Texan Station Patio and will help you unwind and enjoy your summer night.
Unique Experiences for a Cost
There are plenty of other interesting things to experience during Summerfest that have a cost associated with them. However, they’re different than activities you’ve done before, so I’m sure you’ll appreciate the intricately themed adventures!
4D Wonderland Adventure Maze
This is located at the Lower Level Texan Station and runs $15 plus tax for adults and $12 plus tax for kids 4-12. 3 & Under are free with a paid ticket. Tickets can be purchased at GaylordTexanTickets.com
Hours are M-F 5pm-9pm, Saturday 10am-9-pm, and Sunday 10am-4pm.
My kids and I enjoyed this one a lot! You go through this 4D maze. You’ll explore hidden rooms, crazy colors, and a spinning vortex tunnel to a land of adventure and excitement.
Hatter’s Tea Party
This experience is $25 plus tax per person and tickets can be purchased at GaylordTexanTickets.com. Times available are Friday at 6PM and 8PM, Saturday at 2PM, 4PM, 6PM, and 8PM, and Sunday at 12PM and 2PM. It is at Mission Plaza Marketplace Patio.
At this special tea party, you are the guest of honor at the Hatter’s table. You’ll enjoy a totally interactive, fun-filled experience. You’ll be able to pur on your souvenir top hat, try some scrumptious Wonder Punch, decorate delectable cupcakes, and watch as the Hatter creates nonsensical magic.
This Way & That Way Scavenger Hunt
For just $10 plus tax (maps available at hotel concierge and all event outlets), you follow the clues to solve puzzles. There are different clues during the day and during the night. Complete either hunt and you will receive a special prize souvenir, which can be redeemed where you got your scavenger hunt map. Can you find the Cheshire Cars hidden around the atrium? Can you solve the riddles?
Cups & Canvases Crafting
Try your hand at being an artist with some Alice-themed keepsakes for $19.99 plus tax for 1 item (cup or canvas) or $35.99 plus tax for any 2 items. Choose from a pre-printed design or freehand it to create your own one-of-a-kind treasure to take home. Purchase tickets at GaylordTexanTickets.com
This is located in the retail corridor, next to Mission Plaza Marketplace. Hours are Thursday-Friday 5PM-9PM, Saturday 10AM-9PM, and Sunday 10am-4PM.
If You Want to HAVE IT ALL
Alright, you’ve seen it all and now you want to experience it all. Guess what? You can purchase the Wonderland All-Access Pass for $48 plus tax at GaylordTexanTickets.com.
Package includes:
- 4D Wonderland Adventure (unlimited entrance)
- This Way & That Way Scavenger Hunt
- Hatter’s Tea Party or Cups & Canvases (choose one)
- One 6×8 souvenir SummerFest Picture
Summer at Gaylord Texan
Believe it or not, there’s even more going on than that over at the Gaylord Texan this summer. Be sure to check out their website for more details on special events.
What are you waiting for? Go have some fun at SUMMERFEST!