Years ago, at our marketing firm, Bonfire Agency, we pitched a marketing idea to a hotel chain suggesting they use superheroes for a promotional program to build awareness and entice customers to book rooms. We wanted to leverage DC or Marvel heroes to reach and attract families and fans. The potential client liked the idea, but never could seem to get the necessary buy off at all the right levels.
I’m glad that someone at Gaylord Hotels was able to pull it all together (I still wish we had done it, though) with their DC Summer program. Here’s their official copy:
Bring your superhero dreams to life at select Gaylord Hotels this summer! In an exciting collaboration with DC, step into a world where legendary heroes and notorious villains leap straight from the pages of your favorite comics. When you stay overnight, you don’t just visit—you become part of the adventure. Unlock exclusive experiences, from suiting up with a hero’s badge at check-in to completing thrilling challenges and earning your hero’s certificate. Witness an electrifying nightly battle between heroes and villains and uncover secret menu items at our restaurants. Your legendary journey awaits—only when you stay overnight.
They had some specific programs too:
DC Super Hero Splash
Join us for a poolside celebration packed with superhero games, DC trivia, epic waterslides, and DJ-spun beats. It’s the ultimate splash bash for heroes of all ages!
DC Fun by the Pool
Relax by the water with fun facts, hero spotlights, specialty superhero cocktails, and refreshing ICEE drinks like Amazonian Freeze and Metropolis Chill as you soak in the fun! (I had a Strawberry Daiquiri).
DC Movie Night Poolside
The pool is your front-row seat for an epic superhero adventure! Watch your favorite DC heroes come to life on the big screen. With themed snacks and fellow fans all around, this outdoor movie night is the perfect superhero escape.
Want to see more? The official site is here. The Licensing Newsletter talked about it back in April too.
This program is active at certain locations: Gaylord Opryland, Gaylord Rockies, Gaylord Texan, and the Orlando Gaylord Palms, where my wife and I dropped in for their superhero brunch.
Now, let’s be real: Orlando is a town that’s full of characters walking around and socializing with vacationers. It’s perfectly natural to see Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman strolling about.
The brunch was for me, like a preview of San Diego Comic-Con. Cosplay, food and fun.
I think that of all the princesses in Orlando, Princess Diana of Themyscira is my favorite. I greeted her with a warm “Nice to meet you, Princess”. She shocked me by then explaining that “not many people know I’m a princess.”
All in all, a fun collaborative program. I just wish the hotel gave out comics to all those kids too.
*So sue me! I know that’s a corny title. I just saw Don Felder live in concert and he co-created that Eagles’ song I’m ripping off. He was fantastic live in concert- don’t miss him if you get the chance. And he also wrote the theme song the Heavy Metal movie. I didn’t know that! (Editor’s note: The editor did know that Felder wrote the Heavy Metal theme song. Try to keep up Ed.)
