NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Ryman Hospitality Properties has announced that Gaylord Hotels will temporarily suspend its operations due to effects from the COVID-19 pandemic, including Gaylord Opryland.The closure is expected through the end of April, although the company is not setting a reopening date at this time.
Ahead of an investor call scheduled for Thursday, Colin Reed, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Ryman Properties announced the closure, beginning Thursday.
"In addition to the previously announced actions we have taken to mitigate the operating and financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are working with our management company, Marriott, to temporarily suspend operations at our five hotels that comprise the Gaylord Hotels convention network," Reed said in the release. "After taking into account the recommendations of local health authorities and expected demand levels over the upcoming weeks, we have determined that a temporary suspension of operations is in the best interests of the employees in our hotel properties, the local communities in which our hotels operate, and our shareholders. We will assess hotel demand levels throughout the month of April and in consultation with local health authorities determine an appropriate reopening date for the facilities.”
In a separate email to staff obtained by NewsChannel 5, it was announced that all reservations at Gaylord Opryland would be relocated to The Inn at Opryland during the closure. The Inn, along with Opry Backstage Grill, remains open, although the restaurant is only open for takeout.
SoundWaves, the General Jackson, and the Wildhorse Saloon are also closed. Gaylord Springs Golf Links currently remains open.
