We made reservations at the Opryland Hotel and were asked what area we wanted to stay in. I have never been there, and understand the place is huge. The reservationist recommended the Cascades.
Any feedback on what section of the hotel is best? We are traveling as a family of 4, with kids ages 11 and 8.

Rudy,
My kids are the same age as yours. They will LOVE the hotel. The Cascades rooms overlook a waterfall and outdoor restaurant. This is where the "dancing waters" show is held nightly. Easier to watch it from your room than getting a spot on the walkway, IMO. Ask the reservationist for a room with a good view. The Delta section has a waterway and a little shopping town. There is a small food court here with pizza, sandwiches, etc. Make sure you check the hours- they aren't always open.My kids enjoyed the home cookin at Rachel's Kitchen as well. Good value. There's a walkway from the hotel to OpryMills Mall which is HUGE and has everything, including a Rainforest Cafe- a favorite for the kids. Enjoy!

what a hotel. i can't help you with the room. went there once for brunch and was very impressed with the lobby portions. (expensive brunch though)

You will love the hotel. It is just beautiful. Have you checked out their website? We only live an hour away but our kids gave us an overnight there for our anniversary. Whenever we have people come in from out of town we go there just to walk around.
If you can afford it, get a room with a balcony overlooking whatever area you choose. We stayed in the Delta section.
You might want to ask them which section has the newest rooms.
I will tell you, though, that all the food places are pretty pricey. So you might want to eat elsewhere.
Opry Mills is a nice mall. There is a place called Jillians there that your kids will like. Video games, bowling etc.
Also, take the little boat ride in the Delta Section.
The General Jackson is fun, too. It docks right behind the hotel.

Thanks for all the great information. I looked at the General Jackson, but wasn't sure if this was appropriate for kids. Would my 11 & 8 year old like the dinner cruise?

There were kids at the show that we were at and they seemed to enjoy it. A couple of them were even taken up on stage for a little skit.
That has been a couple years ago.
You could probl. ask at the hotel.
Not all kids enjoy the same thing so I hate to tell you that they would.
There is also a lunch cruise.