FREE Things to Do in Orlando Florida
As the summer season winds down, Orlando is offering some great deals on lodging and attraction tickets. Vacation homes are renting for lower than ever and activities are priced at affordable rates that make a vacation in Orlando budget-friendly. Plus, there are several FREE things to do in Orlando that are plenty of fun too! 1) It’s your birthday and you’re FREE if you want to be! Take advantage of the birthday promotions at area attractions like Disney World Theme Parks and Pirate’s Dinner Adventure. Both attractions let guests in FREE on their birthdays. 2) Universal Orlando Resort’s CityWalk is a great place to spend time with friends and family, and admission is absolutely FREE day or night. Fantastic shopping, dining and entertainment are always available. 3) Visit Downtown Disney, a unique area that is home to more than 70 shops, eateries and Disney-centric entertainment. Nestled along the shores of Village Lake, Downtown Disney offers some beautiful scenic views at its restaurants. 4) Tour the Zora Neale Hurston National Museum of Fine Arts. The museum celebrates the Floridians contributions to the arts, as well as the material culture of people of African descent. 5) Stroll the streets of Celebration, Disney’s town that is as close to perfection as a town can get. Admire the old-fashioned properties and let the kids play in the interactive fountain. Experience the pleasant atmosphere and beauty of a town only Disney could create. 6) The Harry P. Leu Gardens features three miles of paved scenic walkways that take you through fifty acres of southern styled gardens. FREE admission is offered every Monday morning 9am-noon through September 30, 2009. From October on, FREE admission is offered from 9am-5pm on the first Monday of each month. 7) Window shop at some of Orlando’s fantastic shopping locations. Choose from Mall at Millenia, which features high-end stores like Gucci, Fendi, Tiffany and Mont Blanc or scour the stores of The Florida Mall, of which there are over 270. 8) Visit Lake Eola Park in Downtown Orlando. This 43 acre park offers spectacular views of the city as well as FREE events throughout the year. 9) Explore the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum, home to the world’s largest collection of Louis Comfort Tiffany items. Everything from lamps, to pottery, to stained glass windows to dining sets is displayed. Visitors are FREE on Fridays November – April from 4pm-8pm. Otherwise, admission is $3 for adults and $1 for children. 10) Take a walk in Big Tree Park, the home of “The Senator,” a 118 ft. tall, 3,500 year old Bald Cypress tree. Labels: Disney_World_Theme_Parks, Downtown_Disney, Pirate's_Dinner_Adventure, Universal_Orlando_Resort
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
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
Pirate's Dinner Adventure is Swashbuckling Fun for the Whole Family
-743793.jpg) Swashbuckling pirates, lovely damsels in distress, intense sward fighting duels, daring stunts all put together with an original musical score - only at Pirates Dinner Adventure in Orlando. One of Orlando's top dinner show attractions, Pirates Dinner Adventure is open nightly with two performances on Saturday and Sundays. The entire main stage contains a full size replica of an 18th century Spanish Galleon which is surrounded by a 300,000 gallon lagoon. This family friendly adventure puts you right in the middle of the action. Eat, drink and be merry while rooting for your favorite pirate. With the Port of Call Feast, you will start your meal with the option of soup or salad. The main entree choices are chicken, pork or seafood with a side of rice or potatoes. In addition to a special dessert, your meal comes with complimentary beer, wine, soft drinks and coffee. Before and after the show a cash bar is available. Kids meals are available upon request. This is one of those times where you will want to arrive about 20 - 30 minutes before the show starts. Along with a pre-show appetizer buffet, this is a great opportunity to find out more about the show as you gain a little insight as to what will follow. Starting late November and running through the end of the year, Pirate's Dinner Adventure is transformed into the annual Pirate's Christmas Show. Information courtesy of Pirate's Dinner Adventure Labels: Pirate's_Dinner_Adventure
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
Pirate's Dinner Adventure presents a Swashbuckling Christmas Dinner Show
Pirate’s Dinner Adventure is celebrating the season with an all-new holiday version of its popular nighttime theatrical experience, renowned as the “World’s Most Interactive Dinner Show.” After 10 years of pillaging, pirating, and plundering, this infamous band of buccaneers, cast, and crew will set sail on the merriest Christmas adventure ever seen on the high seas. For a limited time only, November 25 - January 6th, Pirate’s Christmas Dinner Adventure will feature an exciting new holiday story line, spectacular sets, seasonal music, and a shipload of yuletide surprises throughout the show. The entire Pirate’s Dinner Adventure Theatre in Orlando, FL will be decked out in true pirate fashion with a frosty twist for this swashbuckling holiday celebration. This family-friendly holiday experience kicks off in the pre-show area decked out with snowmen, brightly colored garlands, and holiday trimmings. Turkey and roasted chestnuts add a festive dash to the holiday appetizer buffet. Fresh from the North Pole, St. Nick is on hand for photos. In the museum, a nativity will feature live cuddly barnyard animals available for gentle touching by young lubbers. The Christmas story begins during the pre-show as the evil Magistrate tries to halt the holiday festivities, the princess is captured, and Magee the Elf -- a pirate wannabe -- is called on to save the day. Jack Frost has come to town as a spectacular wintry scene of a galleon on the high seas greets guests entering the theatre in the round. Anchored in a 300,000-gallon indoor lagoon, and appearing frozen in time, sits an authentic replica of an 18th century Spanish galleon with a 40-foot mast. Giant icebergs surround the ship, icicles hang from her bow to stern, and snow blankets huge sections of the deck. The audience is swept up in a snowy, cold winter’s eve as dramatic lighting bathes the entire scene in a chilling white light. Led by their own pirate mascot, guests go back in time to the 1800’s as pirates dazzle, thrill, and entertain with spectacularly choreographed swordplay, aerial artistry, and dynamic duals. Magee the elf transforms into a pirate in a thrilling, heroic effort to save both Christmas and the Princess. Pirate team leaders enlist guests to join the fun in thrilling head-to-head competitions pitting one audience group against another. Over 150 guests each night will find themselves in the middle of the show as they don costumes and join the pirate action. New for the holidays, youngsters will be able to join the March of the Toy Soldiers and help Magee save Christmas. The show ends will a spectacular, pyrotechnics-filled, audience-involving celebration guaranteed to raise the roof. The merriment continues in the post-show area, where guests can mingle with the swashbuckling stars of this holiday celebration. And after the last performance of the evening, guests can party like a pirate at the Buccaneer Bash Dance party, included with each paid admission. The high-energy DJ disco party features a state-of-the-art sound and special effects system and dancing to a wide variety of music. Pirate’s Christmas Dinner Adventure serves up a hearty, satisfying four-course feast that includes appetizers, salads, and a dinner with a choice of chicken and pork or shrimp, along with steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, and Caribbean rice. Dessert is warm apple cobbler a la mode. Complimentary beer, wine, coffee or soft drinks are included during dinner, and vegetarian “Captain Kid’s” meals are available upon request. Labels: Pirate's_Dinner_Adventure
Discover Orlando this Spring
Discover Orlando this Spring Orlando, Florida is a vacation destination worth discovering! This sunny Florida city boasts seven incredible theme parks, three water parks, and more than 80 other attractions. Orlando offers a little bit of everything and something for everyone. From Orlando shopping to Orlando golf, there are plenty of Orlando activities for you and your family. The warm weather, exciting attractions and interesting nightlife provides visitors with the perfect combination of fun and relaxation. Sunny Orlando, Florida appeals to beach lovers and theme park fanatics due to its central location. This spring, your Orlando vacation can be as unique as you are, with one day spent at the beach and the next enjoying wonderful Disney World. This spring, Disney World launched its Year of a Million Dreams along with Dream Along with Mickey at the Magic Kingdom; the Laugh Floor Comedy Club starring the cast of Monsters Inc.; Finding Nemo the Musical at the Animal Kingdom and three new rides, including Expedition Everest, The Seas with Nemo and Pirates of the Caribbean. There is so much to see and do, you'll want to give yourself enough time to explore it all. Cypress Gardens also has new additions this year. Starliner, a classic wooden coaster, will premiere as well as Bugsville, a children’s area comprised of rides, a special theater and eventually, a large interactive play structure. There are plenty of other things to do in Orlando. Gatorland, an alligator theme park and wildlife preserve, introduces their “Trainer for a Day” program this spring. It gives guests a glimpse into what it takes to work with dangerous animals. Gatorland is also opening Gator Gully, a water play area where families can cool off after their adventure in the park. The Kennedy Space Center is launching an impressive new attraction this year with their Shuttle Launch Experience. This special effects ride gives the effect of a real space flight. Several other Orlando attractions let visitors experience the unexpected Orlando. This spring, go on a hot air balloon adventure with Thunderhawk Aviation, experience the Miami Everglades or go on a Florida Adventure Tour. All three are great ways to discover something unexpected! Entertainment in Orlando can be found everywhere, including in great Orlando Shows. The Pirates Dinner Adventure, Sleuths Mystery Dinner Show and The Outta Control Dinner Show are popular with families because of their fantastic combination of entertainment and delicious food. Opera and ballet can be found at the Bob Carr Performing Arts Center with productions of Swan Lake, Spartacus and Madame Butterfly. Deciding to visit Orlando is one of the easiest decisions you’ll ever have to make. The appeal of this vacation destination lies not only in its fabulous array of entertainment but also in the endless possibilities for recreation. Golfing in Orlando is a favorite pastime for visitors. Orlando Golf Courses combine the beautiful landscape of the area with championship layouts that are a golf lovers dream. There are also great spas in Orlando, interesting Orlando Museums to explore and numerous parks, zoos and gardens in Orlando. This year, make the most of your spring by visiting beautiful Orlando. You’ll discover an experience that will create a lifetime of memories. Labels: Cypress_Gardens_Adventure_Park, Disney_World_Theme_Parks, Gatorland, Kennedy_Space_Center_Visitor_Complex, Pirate's_Dinner_Adventure, Sleuths_Mystery_Dinner_Shows
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