Orlando's Dixie Stampede Closes Doors

The mystery buyer of Dolly Parton's Dixie Stampede is little more than a stone's throw from the now-shuttered dinner attraction on Interstate 4 near Walt Disney World.

The parent company of the Orlando Premium Outlets shopping center confirmed Tuesday that it holds the contract to buy the property at 8251 Vineland Ave. The company, Chelsea Property Group, is a division of Simon Property Group, the nation's biggest shopping-mall owner and operator.

Chelsea officials wouldn't elaborate on their plans for the 13-acre site, which is across Vineland Avenue from Orlando Premium Outlets.

The outlet center, with 110 stores, is already undergoing an expansion that will add 30 more shops. The expansion is scheduled to be finished in November. The center also recently added a parking structure.

Dixie Stampede LLC abruptly closed the Dolly Parton dinner theater Monday, putting more than 160 employees out of work. The attraction, which had been open about 4 1/2 years, said it was looking for a new location, having received an offer for its property that was too good to turn down.

Dixie Stampede employees were notified that their jobs had been eliminated during what was to have been a weeklong break in operations. Rumors that the attraction might be sold circulated last week, though the company had denied as recently as Monday morning that a sale was pending. The company continues to operate Dolly Parton dinner attractions in Branson, Mo.; Pigeon Forge, Tenn.; and Myrtle Beach, S.C.

Orlando Premium Outlets, which opened in June 2000, contains many designer-brand stores and has become a popular tourist stop. With the addition of 30 stores and a parking garage, it appears that little developable land remains on its current site.

Chelsea Property Group bills itself as the world's largest developer, owner and operator of manufacturers' outlet centers. It was acquired by Simon Property Group in October 2004 and operates as a wholly owned subsidiary. In the Orlando area, Simon owns Seminole Towne Center, The Florida Mall, Waterford Lakes Town Center and a half-dozen other smaller shopping complexes. Orlando Premium Outlets was Chelsea's most lucrative outlet property last year, with sales nearly double the industry average.

Information courtesy of Orlando Sentinel

Summer Fun in Orlando, Florida

Summer fun and Orlando go hand in hand. The family friendly atmosphere combined with all of the wonderful things to do in Orlando create the perfect vacation destination. Orlando is known for its great theme parks, like Walt Disney World, but there’s a whole world of fun to discover in Orlando, Florida.

Entertainment in Orlando begins with family attractions like Walt Disney World, Cypress Gardens, Fun Spot Action Park, Magical Midway and Wet ‘n Wild Orlando. Walt Disney World, Florida’s premier family fun park, invites guests into a magical world where everyone can be a kid again. A trip to the Animal Kingdom, an enchanted journey through the Magic Kingdom, exploring Disney-MGM studios and the wonders of Epcot is all a part of the magical world of Disney. The rides, the characters and the experience are something you and your family will treasure for years to come. Other theme parks in Orlando, like Cypress Gardens, allow families to experience roller coasters, family shows, and animals and botanical gardens that make this a unique compliment to Walt Dinsey World. Both can be a part of your families summer vacation! If water rides are your favorite summer activity, Wet ‘n Wild Orlando is a cool way to cool down and have some fun! There rides, like Brain Wash, will give guests the splash of fun they need.

Summertime in Orlando is also a great time to discover Outdoor Orlando. There are several thrilling ways to view scenic Orlando, including Thunderhawk Aviation Hot Air Balloon Rides and Boggy Creek Airboat Rides, where you’ll see a different side this vacation destination. Several other attractions in Orlando allow guests to enjoy the history, beauty and excitement of Orlando. The Miami Everglades Adventure Tour takes guest on a discovery tour through the Everglades, complete with a stop in famous South Beach. Kennedy Space Center is also a great place for families, where education fun and history combine for a unique experience. Gatorland is another one of Orlando’s attractions that top visitors’ to do lists. This alligator theme park presents gators, exciting shows, nature area and a water park that’s unique, fun and exciting.

Families can enjoy many activities in Orlando, including Orlando shows. A family favorite is the Dixie Stampede and Dinner Show, where you’ll feast on a delicious four-course feast while enjoying a theatrical production complete with comedy, music and animals.

A vacation to Orlando is an easy summer getaway that will create memories that are treasured for years.