Exploration Bar at Gaylord Palms entices guests to embrace cocktail adventures

Ready for the Summer of More? Gaylord Palms in Orlando has opened its doors to the Exploration Bar and these summer beverages are filled with cocktail adventures. While the whole family can go on the E.X.Ploradex to seek adventure and embrace knowledge, the older guests might be ready for a libation when they return to tell Edward Xavier Plore of their tall tales.

Periodically, the Gaylord Palms holds seasonal experiences on site. Now that the springtime flowers have faded, the resort is ready to set forth on celebrating all that summer has to offer. With the idea that more is never enough, the resort has many opportunities to excite guests around every corner.

As seen in with the pirate speakeasy and most recently the Art Bar, themed cocktails and mocktails have become part of each special event. Nicole Cortes Rodriguez, Assistant Restaurant Manager, Gaylord Palms, continues to push both the flavor and visual elements in these seasonal, summer cocktails.

Building on the theme of exploration, each of the cocktails has a nod to a sense of adventure. From the names to the flavors, the first sip should have guests feeling carried away yet yearning to discover more. With four cocktails and two mocktails on the menu, it can be difficult to choose just one. For the truly adventurous, there might be an opportunity to have a second libation.

Which Exploration Bar summer cocktail should you try first?

While the Florida sunshine and a great adventure can cause a thirst, the four cocktails on the menu are a diverse selection, similar to the flora and fauna that is blooming in the Gaylord Palms atrium. To narrow down the choices, it might be best to consider the route, sweet or slightly more savory.

For the savory path, the Two Tickets to Paradise is a top choice. Made with cucumber vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, lime juice and jalapenos, the cocktail has a beautiful balance of sweetness and heat. Like the compass rose that directs you on a journey, this cocktail choice will not steer you wrong.

With a sweeter path, the Sunshine Stunner sparkles. While the yellow pepper crown is a picture perfect garnish, the flavors radiate a warm glow. The floral from the elderflower syrup and the botanicals from the gin make this cocktail a delightful pre-dinner choice.

Since color is a story with these cocktails, the Sand & Sea showcases a variant on the margarita. From the watermelon chunks to the blueberries encased in ice, the contrasts in colors and flavors paint a tasty picture.

Lastly, sometimes a mocktail can be the refreshment that people crave. The Orange-Sunset Float isn’t just for the kids. The addition of the guava nectar adds the perfect tropical twist that will have everyone re-thinking their favorite summer dessert.

The Summer of More, featuring the Exploration Bar, runs now through Labor Day weekend. The Exploration Bar is open on Friday and Saturday nights.

How will you embrace the Summer of More? Are you ready to start exploring the Gaylord Palms?