Ten Ways to Play in Orlando Florida
There are a lot of things to do in Orlando. Whether you want to explore one of their world-renowned theme parks or discover the other side of Orlando, there is something for everyone to do. It doesn’t matter if you’re a first time visitor or a repeat Orlando explorer, there’s always something new to discover. 1) Visit Walt Disney World: The happiest place on earth has plenty to offer guests. Spread over an area  the size of San Francisco, the park encompasses more than 30,000 acres, of which about a quarter is developed. That means there are four fantastic theme parks (Magic Kingdom; Epcot; Hollywood Studios; Animal Kingdom), two water parks (Blizzard Beach; Typhoon Lagoon) and Downtown Disney to treat yourself to while you’re in Orlando. 2) Disney World Extras: Disney World Theme Park Orlando is more than jus t rides. The great thing about Disney is that at no extra charge, there are theme parades, like “Mickey’s Jammin’ Jungle Parade” at the Animal Kingdom, and spectacular firework displays like “Wishes Nighttime Spectacular” at Magic Kingdom, as well as live shows like “Finding Nemo,” “Festival of the Lion King,” “Illuminations” and “Dream Along with Mickey” to take advantage of. All of these Disney extras make a day at Disney even more magical. 3) Universal Orlando Resort: Orlando’s other major theme parks offers two theme parks – Universal Studios & Islands of Adventure. Islands of Adventure promises plenty of thrills with rides like The Hulk, Dueling Dragons and The Amazing Adventures of Spider Man, while also appealing towards younger kids with areas like Seuss Landing, which is a 10 acre are based on the beloved Seuss books. Kids love to see the Seuss characters and take a spin on The Cat in the Hat Ride, One Fish Two Fish Red Fish Blue Fish Ride and others. 4) Explore Universal Orlando Resort CityWalk: CityWalk excels at entertainment. Shopping, dining and activities are available at CityWalk and eating at one of their theme restaurants is a must. There is a big nightlife scene at CityWalk, but kids will also love going to the NASCAR Café, NBA City and Hard Rock Café as they have game areas, memorabilia and giants televisions for viewing. 5) Blue Man Group: Located at Universal’s CityWalk, the Blue Man Group is an indescribable mix of mime, percussion and audience participation that is a must-see show when visiting the Orlando area. People of every age will enjoy their show and will leave with a smile on their face once the one hour and 45 minute show is over. 6) Gatorland: When you visit Orlando, you’ll want to take a bite out of this attraction. Located on 110 acres, this gator preserve is home to an incredible display of huge alligators and crocodiles, a train ride, aviary, breeding marsh and bird sanctuary, petting zoo, nature walk, gift shop, and one-of-a-kind shows such as the world famous Gator Jumparoo. Kids will love the Gator Gully Splash Park too, because they can splash around in water sources resembling the parks famous residents. 7) Wet ‘n Wild: This water park is a great combination of thrilling rides and lazy day activities perfect for spending a day in the Orlando sun. With daring rides like The Black Hole, Brainwash. Bomb Bay & Disco H20, as well as a Surf Lagoon, Lazy River and Kids Play area, Wet ‘n Wild promises to be the coolest place to go in Orlando. 9) Discover the Other Side of Orlando: Orlando is known for its theme parks, but there’s more to explore. When visiting, make time to discover the side of Orlando with activities like the Florida Adventure Tour, where you get to swim with manatees; Florida EcoSafaris, where zip lining and safari’s are a  vailable; and Spirit of the Swamp Airboat Tours, where guests get an up close guide of Florida on a private airboat outdoor adventure. 10) Spend at Day at Your Resort: A stay in Orlando provides luxury and amenities to make your stay a fun one. Orlando lodging options include standard hotels, luxury condos, upscale resorts, vacation homes and family-friendly condos, all reasonably priced for customer satisfaction. Spending a day at your resort allows time for some relaxation, plus the kids love playing in the pool, of which Orlando has some of the best. A few of the top choices to stay at while in Orlando include WorldQuest Orlando, Excel Management, The Point Orlando Resort, Magical Memories, Regal Palms Resort and Caribe Cove Resort. Labels: Arabian_Nights, Blue_Man_Group, Excel_Management, Florida_Adventure_Tour, Florida_EcoSafaris, Gatorland, Pirate's_Dinner_Adventure, Sleuths_Mystery_Dinner_Shows, Wet_n_Wild_Orlando, WorldQuest
Arabian Nights Dinner Theater is an Equestrian Experience
-705075.jpg) Since February of 1988, Arabian Nights Dinner Theater in Kissimmee has been amazing Central Florida guests with it's unique blend of world famous horses, expert riders, special effects and beautiful costumes all of which is rolled into a delightful family theatrical performance. With seating for up to 1,200, it is known as the world's largest indoor Equestrian Arena. Arabian Nights beckons both Central Floridians as well as tourists from around the globe into it's 140,000 square foot facility. Voted the four-time winner of Orlando's #1 Dinner Attraction, Arabian Nights has entertained millions of visitors since it's opening in 1988. Showcasing the talents of 40 performers and 65 prized horses with daring stunts and remarkable horsemanship within a magical, romantic story. The number of costume changes here surpasses even the most complex Broadway show. Walter Farley's Black Stallion is the main star in this cast of 65 horses. Fourteen breeds from around the world consist of: Arabian American Quarter Horse Andalusian Appaloosa Belgian Canadian Warmblood Donkey Lippizzaner Paint Percheron Saddlebred Standardbred Prior to the show, as guests arrive at Arabian Nights Dinner Theater, they are invited into the Great Hall to enjoy pre-show entertainment. There they may meet some of the stars of the show or listen to the live music. As you enter the Great Hall, family photos are taken with the themed background. Near the end of the show, the souvenir photos and photo key-chains are brought to your table, where you can choose to purchase them. The gift shop has a large selection of horse figures, cards, jewelry and many show mementos.
Sixty beautiful horses and 40 talented performers make up the entire cast for this 1 hour and 30 minute production. There is never a dull moment as twenty-two themed acts continuously blend together to form the story line of the birthday of the beautiful Princess Scheherezade (from the literary Arabian Nights) and her quest to find the prince of her dreams. A showcase of talented riders and beautiful horses from around the world partake in the adventures. Each event is designed to demonstrate the great skill of the performers and the immense training and ability of the prized horses. Different acts include: A Chariot Race from ancient Rome Square dancing Cowboys and Native Americans Gypsies offering daredevil stunts in a circus-like atmosphere Individually plated three-course dinners feature salad, rolls and butter, the choice of New York strip steak, grilled chicken breast, certified Black Angus chopped steak with gravy, pasta primavera or chicken tenders, and specialty dessert. Unlimited beverages include Budweiser products, California blush wine, Pepsi products, coffee and tea. A cash bar for cocktails is also available.
The 1 hour 30 minute production is shown nightly and tickets can usually be purchased the day of the show. Discounts are available to military personnel and veterans, AAA, AARP, college students and seniors with appropriate identification. For those who would like a little more information, there is a guided behind the scenes where you can learn more about the horses and trainers. An enclosed skybox is available for individuals and group functions. The skybox, which seats up to 80 guests can be reserved for larger groups, including wedding receptions and company parties.
Starting mid-November and running through January 1st, Arabian Nights Dinner Theater in Kissimmee adds a new storyline with a festive winter theme. The colorful Arabian Nights Holiday Show finds Princess Scheherazade in need of a distraction while her husband, Prince Khalid is off searching the globe for the perfect Holiday gift for his new wife. The always-faithful genie Hocus Pocus invites a new friend, Santa Claus to come distract Scheherazade from missing her husband with gifts and good cheer. Hocus Pocus does even more to lighten the Princess’ mood, bringing each of Santa’s gifts to life in the magical Palace of Horses. In this dazzling show, the 60 Arabian Nights horses and 40 talented performers are joined by spectacular pyrotechnics, snow, special sets; including four incredible 25 foot Christmas trees, and breathtaking costumes. Santa and Hocus put on quite a show for the Princess, bringing to life a variety of gifts including Toy Soldiers, Mystical Unicorn, and a Winter Wonderland Snow Globe! Santa’s Reindeer, Horse-riding Elves, Gingerbread men and Sugarplum Fairies are just a few of the astounding guests who stop by to bring the Princess some Holiday Cheer! Guests can also join Princess Scheherazade, Prince Khalid and Hocus Pocus on New Year’s Eve, for this colorful Holiday Show and stay to ring in the New Year as part of a special New Year’s Eve package available. Information courtesy of About.com Labels: Arabian_Nights
New Years Eve in Orlando Offers Family Celebrations
Ring in the New Year with your family this year in Orlando. Area events offer safe and family friendly celebrations across Orlando, including late hours at area Theme Parks. Free New Year's Eve Celebrations
Celebration Town Center: Featuring it’s first ever New Years Eve bash with live entertainment, fireworks and a whole lot more leading up to the midnight countdown. Old Town: Ring in the New Year at Old Town in Kissimmee. There will be something for everyone to do, food, kids' activities, music and more! Enjoy classic rock n’ roll performed by The Repeatles, rides and the fireworks show at midnight. Theme Park New Year's Eve Celebrations Walt Disney World Theme ParksThe Magic Kingdom, Epcot and Disney's MGM Studios are all open past midnight for a special night of family celebrations to ring in the New Year. Universal Orlando Theme ParksIslands of Adventure and Universal Studios are open until 1:00 am with special events for New Year's Eve. SeaWorld OrlandoEnjoy a New Year’s Eve bash at SeaWorld Orlando. Dance to a 14-piece band, jazz musicians and a DJ keeping the party going all the way through midnight. Cirque Du SoleilAt Downtown Disney, Cirque du Soleil fans can celebrate the New Year La Nouba style with two presentations of the theatrical production, at 6 and 9 p.m. A champagne toast celebration, souvenir program, glow sticks and gift are included in the special ticket price. Tickets are from $67 to $139, plus tax, depending on category. Dinner Shows Open On New Year's EveArabain Nights Dinner TheaterThe show is presented with a new festive storyline with a winter theme. Pirate's Dinner AdventureThe swashbuckling Pirate's Dinner Adventure celebrates the holidays with an array of yuletide surprises, from spectacular sets "decked" out in seasonal finery to a special holiday-themed show starring Magee the elf. Purchase tickets online for special savings. Labels: Arabian_Nights, Disney_World_Theme_Parks, Pirate's_Dinner_Adventure, Universal_Orlando_Resort
There's More to Explore in Orlando Than Just Theme Parks
-755768.jpg) Feel the wind in your hair as you cruise through Florida’s Everglades at speeds up to 45 mph, experience an equine fairy tale come to life or frolic amid a prehistoric playground. With so many exciting options, Orlando is filled with little-known gems sure to dazzle your whole family. Arabian NightsAn incredible dinner show like no other, Arabian Nights blends expert horsemanship, glamorous costumes, 65 horse stars, 35 incredible performers, and a sumptuous meal into an experience unique to Orlando. Highlights of the show include dancing Arabian horses, bareback riding, chariot races, trick riding and even square dancing on horseback — all presented over 20 horse-themed acts woven together with a romantic story that will amaze and entertain. Boggy Creek Airboat RidesLocated just 35 minutes from Orlando’s attractions, Boggy Creek Airboat Rides offers breathtaking tours of Lake Tohopekaliga, headwaters to the Florida Everglades. During this adventuresome ride, you’ll explore natural wetlands, cypress trees, and wildlife such as alligators, turtles and exotic birds in their natural habitat. SeaWorld Orlando’s Educational Tours Have a close encounter with majestic beluga whales, dive with over 30 sharks, feed playful dolphins, or learn about SeaWorld® Orlando’s animal rescue, rehabilitation and release program. With more than 10 tours and programs to choose from, you can get a behind-the-scenes look at marine life conservation efforts, and turn your vacation into a once-in-a-lifetime learning experience. For more information, call toll-free at 800-327-2424. Orlando Sharks Professional SoccerFor an action-packed activity found only in Orlando, attend an Orlando Sharks professional soccer game. Part of the Major Indoor Soccer League, the Sharks play an exciting style of soccer known for high scores and fast-paced play, complete with music, cheerleaders and a fun-filled night of entertainment. Orange County Regional History CenterExplore Orlando’s fascinating history with the Orange County Regional History Center’s new permanent exhibit, Destination Florida: Tourism Before Disney. Visitors will see how Orlando has grown from an Indian settlement to a small town surrounded by citrus groves and cattle ranches to today’s tourism wonderland. Step inside a replica tepee from Wigwam Village, an Orlando motel and popular tourist destination in the 1950s, or sit inside a replica Model T modified into a “tin-can camper” for an audiovisual trip on the roads tourists traveled before the advent of interstate highways. General admission is $9 for adults, $7 for seniors ages 60 and over, and $6 for children ages 5–12. For more information, call 407-836-8500. Orlando Science CenterUsing knowledge to entertain through engaging interactive exhibits, giant-screen films and live programming, the Orlando Science Center will delight and amaze your whole family, no matter their ages. You can discover re-creations of six Florida habitats at the NatureWorks exhibit, uncover “fossils” in the dig pit at the DinoDigs exhibit, experience hurricane-force winds in the TechWorks exhibit’s Hurricane Simulator and so much more. General admission is $21 for adults, $18 for children 13–17 and free for children ages two and under. For more information, call 407-514-2000. Fantasy of FlightA stunning art deco aviation museum, Fantasy of Flight is home to more than 40 rare and vintage aircrafts, a variety of guided tours and the Compass Rose diner. Tour the Tuskegee Airmen exhibit and learn about a compelling piece of American history, witness a daily aerial demonstration of vintage aircraft, and take your vacation to new heights when you fly in a real hot air balloon or ride in an open-cockpit vintage bi-plane. Information courtesy of Orlando CVB Labels: Arabian_Nights, Boggy_Creek_Airboat_Rides, Fantasy_of_Flight
8 Ways to Save on Your Orlando Vacation
Orlando, Florida is synonymous with family fun. Home to some of the best theme parks in the world, Orlando offers exciting thrills, close encounters with your favorite cartoon characters and amazing ways to spend your summer days with your family. This summer season money is tight for many families and some are struggling to ensure their families can still have an unforgettable, deserved vacation. Look no further than Orlando, Florida for the one-stop, do-it-all destination you and your family have been searching for. Even though budgets are tight and gas prices are high, Central Florida is a vacation destination offering discounts and cheap things to do in Orlando making it easy for any family to enjoy some summer fun. Here are 8 ways to save on your Orlando Vacation:
1) Purchase a Go Orlando Card for discounts on over 50 Orlando attractions, including Cypress Gardens, Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum, Kennedy Space Center, Wonderworks and more. Do as much as you like each day for one low, affordable price. The Go Orlando Card is easy to use....simply present the card. Visit as many attractions as you want in a day! Admission to all listed attractions is included with the card. It comes in 1, 2, 3, 5 & 7 day increments and is activated the first time you use it. Days do not have to be used consecutively, and you can take up to 2 weeks to use it. 6) There are plenty of Free Things to do in Orlando. Spend some time at Lake Eola Park, visit a museum like the Cornell Fine Arts Museum or explore Old Town, where every Saturday night free rock-n-roll concert and a parade of 300 vintage cars. There are plenty of outdoor activities for families and historical sites to visit, so be sure to check out all of the Free activities in Orlando. 8) Take a short trip to the beach. Orlando may be in central Florida, but a trip to the beach is just a short drive away. Cocoa Beach is the closest beach to Orlando, with about an hour drive time on SR-528 to the east. Daytona Beach and New Smyrna Beach are about an hour and a half away, and are located east on I-4. A trip to the beach is cheap, fun and family friendly! Labels: Arabian_Nights, Cypress_Gardens_Adventure_Park, Disney_World_Theme_Parks, Kennedy_Space_Center_Visitor_Complex, Pirate's_Dinner_Adventure, Sleuths_Mystery_Dinner_Shows, Universal_Orlando_Resort
Orlando Celebrates Holiday with Shows, Shopping and Seasonal Spectacles
From festive events to a variety of themed holiday shows and unique shopping experiences, Orlando offers one of the most elaborate and diverse holiday celebrations of any destination in the world. In addition to the well-known theme park activities, visitors can enjoy breathtaking light displays; choral concerts; specialty shopping and shows; guaranteed nightly snow showers; seasonal hotel packages and more throughout November and December. Here are just a few of the trimmings that make the holidays in Orlando merry and bright: Holiday Dinner Theater OfferingsArabian Nights - In this stunning holiday fairytale, 60 magnificent Arabian Nights horses and a cast of more than 40 holiday characters are joined by spectacular pyrotechnics, snow, special sets and breathtaking holiday costumes to create a winter wonderland fit for a prince and princess. The Arabian Nights Holiday Show includes a wide range of seasonal music from Andy Williams, Hilary Duff, Rebecca St. James and the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. Appearances by toy soldiers, horse-riding elves, gingerbread men and sugarplum fairies add to the holiday cheer. Pirate's Dinner Adventure - A shipload of yuletide surprises are in store for guests of the Pirate's Christmas Dinner Adventure. Choreographed swordplay, aerial artistry and dynamic duals combine as the cast of pirates engage in a thrilling, heroic effort to save Christmas. All youngsters are invited to participate in the show's March of the Toy Soldiers and more than 150 guests each night find themselves in the middle of the show action. A pre-show Nativity Scene with live barnyard animals and a post-show Buccaneer Bash Dance Party with a live DJ complete the high-seas holiday festivities. Holiday Music and TheatreThe Plaza Theatre - Internationally acclaimed crooner Michael Andrew and the Atomic Big Band present some of the hippest renditions of holiday favorites in Michael Andrew's Swinging Christmas Show Friday Dec. 21 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 22 at 4 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. at The Plaza Theatre. The evening will kick off with pre-show entertainment in The Plaza's very own Swingerhead Lounge followed by a night of swingin' music, including the Michael Andrew original song, "Mistletoe Mambo," and nutty comedy hijinx for all ages. Tickets are $43 for both adults and children. Winter Park Playhouse - Ring in the holidays with music from Broadway, film, television and radio, plus the return of crowd favorites, the wacky duo, Eb and Flo. Performances take place Nov. 30 - Dec. 15 on Fridays at 7:30 p.m. and Saturdays at 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. at the Winter Park Playhouse.Tickets are $30 for adults and $20 for students. Holiday ShoppingOld Town - Holiday-goers can stroll Old Town's brick-lined streets and browse through a diverse selection of merchandise at more than 75 specialty stores. A variety of rides and attractions are also offered. Every evening from Dec. 3-21, Old Town turns into a flurry of fun with nightly snow showers on the hour from 6-9 p.m. and offers free pictures with Santa Monday - Friday to anyone who brings an unwrapped toy or offers a cash donation. Orlando Premium Outlets - Savvy shoppers can kick off their three-day Thanksgiving Weekend gift-buying spree with special deals at high-end designer and name brand fashion outlet stores during the Orlando Premium Outlets "Midnight Madness" event beginning at midnight on Black Friday (Nov. 23). Exclusive offers and coupon book vouchers worth hundreds of dollars in additional savings are also available at Orlando Premium Outlets online throughout the holiday season for impressive savings at Ann Taylor, Barneys New York Outlet, Burberry, Coach, Diesel, Fendi, Gap Outlet, Giorgio Armani, Kenneth Cole, Lacoste, MaxMara, Nike, Polo Ralph Lauren, Salvatore Ferragamo, Theory, Tommy Hilfiger and more. Special EventsHistoric Bok Sanctuary - Stunning holiday décor is showcased at the 1930's 20-room classic Mediterranean Revival Pinewood Estate, a National Historic Landmark mansion. The 8-acre estate also features a spectacular winter garden and a 60-bell carillon housed in a 205-foot-tall Gothic bell tower, which rings daily throughout the sanctuary. Historic Bok Sanctuary is open every day of the year from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. General admission is $18 for adults, $9 for children ages 5-12 and free for children ages 4 and younger. ICE! at Gaylord Palms Resort - Guests will experiences thrills and chills during this walk-through winter wonderland hand-carved by Chinese artists from two million pounds of ice. The interactive, larger-than-life display includes ice monuments, sculptures, ice slides, memorable holiday scenes, a walk-through igloo and a towering gingerbread candy house made from colored ice. The enormous structure that houses ICE! is cooled to 9 degrees and over-sized parkas are loaned to guests to stay warm. An outdoor skating rink, special Christmas show and display of country wreaths add to the resort's holiday activities. ICE! at Gaylord Palms Resort runs Nov. 19 - Jan. 3 and tickets range from $9.99 to $24.99, depending on the type of ticket and day of week. The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art - For the 29th year, the Morse Museum, which is renowned for its comprehensive collection of Louis Comfort Tiffany jewelry, pottery, and leaded-glass windows; lights up century-old Tiffany windows in downtown Winter Park, just north of downtown Orlando, on Dec. 6 from 6-8 p.m. The spectacular lighting ceremony is complemented by a free outdoor concert featuring the 150-voice Bach Festival Society choir. SeaWorld Orlando - Guests can create yuletide memories and celebrate the season during "Christmas at SeaWorld." The holiday event features festive decorations, snowfalls and live holiday music from classical musicians and carolers. The event is included in daily park admission, which is $64.95 for adults, $53.95 for children ages 3-9 and free for children ages 2 and under. Universal Orlando Resort - The world's most famous parade has become a holiday experience for park guests at Universal Studios. The Macy's Holiday Parade features some of the most popular balloons and floats direct from the famous Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City. The excitement and pageantry of the parade, complete with a festive tree-lighting ceremony by Santa Claus himself, is exhibited each day of the holiday season. Walt Disney World Resort - Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party at Disney's Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World includes a series of fun nighttime events for the little ones including holiday shows, fireworks and magic treats with Minnie and Mickey. Holidays Around the World at Epcot features international holiday storytellers, a daily character tree-lighting ceremony and a stunning display of snow-white lights. The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights electrifies Disney Hollywood Studios with millions of sparkling lights. Information courtesy of Orlando/Orange County Convention & Visitors Bureau Labels: Arabian_Nights, Disney_World_Theme_Parks, Pirate's_Dinner_Adventure, Universal_Orlando_Resort
Christmas Comes to life at Arabian Nights
The 2007 edition of the fantastic Arabian Nights Holiday Show finds Princess Scheherazade in need of a distraction while her husband, Prince Khalid, is off searching the globe for the perfect holiday gift for his wife. The always-faithful genie Hocus Pocus invites a new friend, Santa Claus, to come distract Scheherazade from missing her husband with gifts and good cheer. "We've taken the idea of a holiday show one step further by adding the kind of magic only Arabian Nights can do," explains Arabian Nights Owner/CEO Mark Miller. "The result is even more of the holiday fun that everyone enjoys." Hocus Pocus does even more to lighten the Princess' mood, bringing each of Santa's gifts to life in the magical Palace of Horses located at the intersection of U.S. 192 & I-4, minutes from the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando. In this dazzling show, the 60 Arabian Nights horses and 40 talented performers are joined by spectacular pyrotechnics, snow, and special sets, including four incredible 25 foot Christmas trees, and breathtaking costimes. "Arabian Nights truly becomes a Winter Wonderland," says Miller. "Add to that music by artists including Andy Williams, Little Texas, Hilary Duff, Rebecca St. James and the Trans-Siberian Orchestra and you have an amazing show that leaves everyone happy!" Santa and Hocus put on quite a show for the Princess, bringing to life a variety of gifts including Toy Soldiers, a Mystical Unicorn and a Winter Wonderland Snow Globe. Santa's Reindeer, Horse-riding Elves, Gingerbread men and Sugarplum Fairies are just a few of the astounding guests who stop by to bring the Princess some holiday cheer. Guests can also join Princess Scheherazade, Prince Khalid and Hocus Pocus on New Year's Eve, where they can enjoy the dazzling holiday show and stay to ring in th New Year as part of a special New Year's Eve package available. Labels: Arabian_Nights, Orlando_Special_Events
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