Experience the Holiday Cheer of Universal Orlando Resort
Universal Orlando Resorts embrace the holiday spirit as both of their parks feature holiday fun for everyone. The holiday festivities begin December 5th and end January 1st.
At Universal Studios, guests can head to the streets of New York for Macy’s Holiday Parade. This seasonal favorite features authentic floats and balloons, including several brand new ones, direct from the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade in New York City. Festive street performers and talented marching bands from around the country create the parade, which includes Santa himself. Afterwards, there is a beautiful tree lighting ceremony with music and a gorgeous display of lights.
The KidZone Holiday show, Barney’s Christmas Show and Blues Brothers Christmas Show are also planned.
The all-new Holiday Concert Series at Universal Studios new Music Plaza will feature Mannheim Steamroller on December 5th; Chris Isaak on December 12th; and Natalie Cole on December 19th.
From December 26-31, Universal Studios presents Universal 360 – A Cinesphere Spectacular. Through unique technological innovations, guests can experience the sights and sounds of some of Hollywood’s biggest films projected onto huge spheres in the Universal Studios lagoon, accompanied by a dynamic laser display and dazzling pyrotechnic show.
At Islands of Adventure at Universal Orlando Resort Seuss Landing is transformed into the wintry wonderland of Grinchmas. It features the popular live musical performance of “How The Grinch Stole Christmas,” which stars The Grinch and includes music recorded by Mannheim Steamroller. Guests are encouraged to stroll through the Whoville Wonky Tree Lot and take in the zany Wholiday decorations.
Holiday Breakfast with The Grinch is also available to park goers. The breakfast event includes a delicious breakfast buffet and appearances by The Grinch, Whos and The Cat in the Hat. This does cost extra and is $19.95 for adults and $13.95 (plus tax).
Walt Disney World in Orlando revealed a new attraction, Wednesday, October 14th, at Epcot. The new attraction is called “Sum of All Thrills,” and is a small but significant addition as it features first-of-its-kind simulators that allow guests to design – then ride – their own roller coasters, bobsleds and jet planes. The Disney attraction has robotic arms that loft riders to through the air. It robotic arms were developed by German robotics company KUKA Aktiengesellschaft.
The “Sum of All Thrills” was created to be an experience for kids, as they must use math and science principles to design the thrill rides they will experience. The goal of the attraction is to get more children interested in learning about math and science. The robotic arms can move in multiple directions at once because they rotate on six different axes, which create a smooth ride. It is located inside one of Epcot’s Innoventions pavilions.
The launch of this attraction is interesting as it offers a glimpse of the technology that will be used on the main ride at Universal’s highly anticipated Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Universal Orlando Resort has kept most of the details of The Forbidden Journey of Harry Potter ride a secret. However, construction documents on file show they are working with a company that builds robotic arms based on KUKA arms. The Universal attraction will be a much more lavish experience than “Sum of All Thrills.” Universal’s ride is expected to be a type of “robocoaster” in which the robot arms advance along a track as they swivel riders in various directions. The bases of the robot arms at “Sum of All Thrills” are in a fixed place.
Conquer the Coasters in Orlando - ReserveDirect Style
Orlando is synonymous with theme park fun. From the magic of Walt Disney World to the action of Universal Studios to the safari adventures offered at Busch Gardens to the aquatic allure of SeaWorld, Orlando offers plenty of ways to experience thrilling rides and great live shows. Recently, members of the ReserveDirect team hit the pavement of Orlando’s theme parks to discover for ourselves the fun that could be had.
As roller coaster enthusiasts, we were set on experiencing as many as possible during our short stay in Orlando. First, we went to Universal Studios at Universal Orlando Resort with their new ride, Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, on our radar. After a wait of almost an hour, during which we had plenty of time to review the song selections we’d be offered during our ride, we boarded the new coaster, selected our songs, and quickly ascended the coaster’s vertical track. The trip began with a 90-degree ascension to Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit’s tallest point – 167 feet straight up. After that, we were taken on a 65mph journey through six maneuvers, all packed with plenty of action. The ride went by quickly, was exceptionally smooth, and as promised, the music selected by other passengers could not be heard during the almost two minute ride. The video footage of our ride was high quality and provided a good laugh for our entire party. Riders can purchase their video for $29.95, which promises at least 14 images of the rider, all set to the song selected at the start of your ride.
For our next roller coaster adventure, we headed to SeaWorld to explore the new Manta ride that had quickly become a fan favorite since opening in May 2009. Due to looming thunder clouds the crowds were very light at SeaWorld during our visit, so we were able to board Manta without a wait, although it is certainly worth one. Manta is a unique coaster, and it sets itself apart from other rides right away. After we were securely fastened in our seats, in a horizontal position, the manta ray shaped apparatus inverted so we were positioned vertically, to simulate the flying-like capabilities of manta rays. From there, we were treated to 3,359 feet of track that did not disappoint. At first the ride felt like we were gliding, but it quickly got faster, and once the pretzel loop was reached, we dipped 98 feet down the track into a 360-degree in-line twist. A wind dip maneuver splashed the manta-shaped riding apparatus into a lagoon surrounding the coaster, lightly splashing us with water. The experience was so incredible the ReserveDirect team rode Manta three consecutive times. It most definitely receives the ReserveDirect seal of approval and is a can’t miss SeaWorld experience.
The African adventures of Busch Gardens were next on our itinerary, where wild coasters like the Sheikra awaited us. The Sheikra coaster promised big thrills, and it delivered on its promise. After a 200 foot climb, the coaster took us to the edge of a 90-foot drop and stopped. For four seconds, we hung precariously in the air staring at the plunge that awaited us. Then, we plummeted toward the ground at speeds of 70 mph before we encountered an Immelmann loop and a second vertical dive into an underground tunnel.
After the excitement of Sheikra, we eagerly made our way towards Montu, one of the longest and tallest coasters in the world. Montu holds the record for the number of inversions on a roller coaster at seven. These seven inversions - a 104 foot vertical loop, an Immelmann loop, a Zero G roll, a Batwing (two inversions), a 66 foot tall vertical loop, and a corkscrew - combined with the intense 3.85 Gs we felt as we blazed through the track, created an incredible ride that was a highlight of our time at Busch Gardens Tampa.
Next on the agenda was Kumba, which stands 143 feet tall and reaches speeds of 63 mph. Kumba also has seven inversions including a 114-foot tall vertical loop, a diving loop, Zero G Roll, cobra roll and two interlocking corkscrews. This ride lasted almost three minutes and was one of the best steel coaster experiences the ReserveDirect team has had. Kumba, which means roar in the African Kongo language, also mimics a roaring sounds as it races through the coaster’s track.
Gwazi, the park’s dueling wooden roller coaster, includes almost 7,000 feet of combined track and reaches speeds of 50 mph. Both tracks have similar but non-identical track layouts. Gwazi holds the record for most fly-bys on a dueling roller coaster with six. A fly-by is where the two roller coasters pass each other in opposite directions at high speeds, giving the psychological impression that the two will collide. It also holds the record as the fastest and largest double wooden roller coaster in the Southeastern United States. Wooden coasters are notorious for their rough rides, and although Gwazi was by far the least smooth of the roller coasters we experienced, its unique design made it worth the trip.
If you’re up to it, take the ReserveDirect Coaster Challenge. Experience the great roller coasters that took us for a ride, plus ones like The Hulk at Universal’s Islands of Adventure or virtual coaster encounters like Space Mountain at Disney, for an exciting theme park experience that’ll leave you dizzy with excitement.
The ReserveDirect team conquered Orlando’s roller coasters – now it’s your turn!
Prepare to be Scared during Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Orlando
Prepare to be scared at Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando Resort as your worst nightmares come to life. This year’s theme is “Ripped from the Silver Screen.” It will feature characters from Saw, The Wolfman and Chucky. The terrifying scenes, incredible creatures and blood-curdling moments will all be brought to life at Halloween Horror Nights, an event that dares to scare even the bravest patrons.
On select nights in September and October, Universal Studios is transformed into a nightmarish maze of haunted houses, electrifying scare zones and eerie live shows while zombies, monsters, mutants, ghosts and maniacs roam the streets. This year’s event will feature eight new haunted houses, six new scare zones and two new live shows. The Universal Orlando Resort plans for its annual Halloween Horror Nights to celebrate both new and classic horror films. The event will promote the launch of two highly anticipated horror movies: Saw VI and The Wolfman. For the first time in Universal's 19 years of Halloween Horror Nights, guests will be able to "relive" two films that are yet to be released in theaters.
Halloween Horror Nights is open on these select dates: September 25, 36 October 1-4, 8-11, 15-18, 21-25, 28-31
Halloween Horror Nights is a separate ticketed event that is not included with regular park admission. Admission cost to Halloween Horror Nights is $69.99.
Universal Orlando Resort Reveals More Details About Harry Potter Attraction
Universal Orlando Resort has released more information regarding the Harry Potter Attraction that is currently in the works. Universal’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter, the new theme park area opening in the Spring of 2010, will feature “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey” as its signature attraction. The ride, as described in a webcast by Universal officials, will take guests through scenes and rooms from the blockbuster movies inside a richly detailed remake of Hogwart’s Castle. Rumors suggest it will take passengers on some sort of a simulated flying ride, although nothing was confirmed during the webcast.
Visitors who travel to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter will enter through a station archway named for Hogsmeade, the magical village near Hogwarts. The experience will be an immersive environment in which nothing outside is visible after guests pass into Hogsmeade Station.
Other rides planned for the Harry Potter themed area include the Dragon Challenge and Flight of the Hippogriff. The Dragon Challenge, which will be a redesigned concept of Island’s of Adventure’s Dueling Dragons, will be themed after the Triwizard Tournament. The Flight of the Hippogriff is a family-friendly roller coaster that is named for a creature from the Harry Potter books. This attraction is a redesign of the Flying Unicorn coaster that was previously at the park.
Universal Orlando Resort wants to create a theme park experience unlike any other. Therefore, they are also creating dining and shopping environments that envelop guests into the world of Harry Potter. From The Three Broomsticks, which will serve Butterbeer, to Hog’s Head, a British Pub, to Honeydukes, which will serve chocolate frogs and Bertie Bott’s Every-Flavour Beans, the concept will provide Potter fans a way to explore a world in which they’ve only been able to imagine.
A wand shop, called Ollivanders, is also planned, as is a joke shop, Zonko’s, that will sell oddities like the Sneakoscopes. Other projects for the Wizarding World of Harry Potter include The Owl Post, an actual working U.S. Post Office from which guests will get to send letters and cards certified with a Hogsmeade postmark.
Orlando Theme Parks Honored with Golden Ticket Awards
Amusement Today has announced the winners of the 12th Annual Golden Ticket Awards. Presented to the “Best of the Best” in the amusement industry, the Golden Ticket Awards are calculated from an international poll conducted by Amusement Today. Surveys were sent to a database of experienced and well-travelled amusement park fans, asking them to rate the “bests” in 25 categories.
Several ReserveDirect attractions were honored with Golden Ticket Awards, including:
The Latin Food and Wine Festival will debut in Orlando October 1-3, presented by the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Metro Orlando. The three day festival features a schedule of events that will highlight the cuisine, culture and entertainment of Spanish-speaking countries.
On October 1, the festival will begin with “An Evening in Spain,” which will be held on the rooftop of The Plaza in downtown Orlando. The event will highlight cuisine from Barcelona, Madrid and many other Spanish cities. Delectable dishes, fine wine and exciting entertainment are all on the menu for “An Evening in Spain.”
On October 2, the festival will host the Roast & Runway at The Red Coconut Club at Universal Orlando Resort’s CityWalk. The event combines tradition with fashion to showcase top designers, all while enjoying a traditional pig roast complimented by themed beverages. A silent auction will showcase original art, jewelry and getaways inspired by Latin culture. Entertainment will be provided by award-winning pianist Adlan Cruz. The Latin Food and Wine Festival will also host Carlos Alberto, an acclaimed Puerto Rican fashion designer, to showcase his haute couture gowns during Roast & Runway.
On October 3, the festival will culminate with a Grand Tasting event, held at the Dellagio on Sand Lake Road. Guests of the Grand Tasting will indulge in the delicious flavors of Latin cuisine and beverages while enjoying Hispanic entertainment. Renowned chefs Guillermo Pernot, Jen Isham and many others will be on hand to demonstrate their culinary skills and tasty concoctions.
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.
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.
Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit Now Open at Universal Orlando Resort
The long awaited and highly anticipated Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit at Universal Orlando Resort is now open. The highly innovative attraction includes first ever maneuvers and advanced technology for a ride that provides the ultimate thrills for roller coaster enthusiasts. The interactive elements of the ride, which allow coaster goers to pick a song to rock out to during their adventure, as well as the entire ride being taped as a take-home music video available for purchase, creates an all-encompassing experience that brings roller coaster rides to a whole new level.
The twists, turns, curves and drops featured on Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit are highlighted by three first-ever maneuvers: the Double Take, the world’s largest non-inverted loop; the Treble Clef, a music symbol shaped track that has riders bursting through a building façade; and the Jump Cut, a spiraling, negative-gravity move that promises excitement. Universal Orlando Resort is promising that no two experiences on Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit will be the same, as each ride can be individualized for that rider, for that occasion.
The technology used on Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit allows the ride to be completely customized by riders using a personal touchpad mounted on the ride vehicles to make their music selection. There are five music genres to pick from – Classic Rock/Metal, Rap/Hip-Hop, Club/Electronica, Pop/Disco and Country – so every guest will be able to select a song that fits their personality, and wanted experience, best. The vehicles of Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit have separate seats, each with separate speakers, so that each rider can pick a song selection and yet never have to hear the songs playing for other riders.
The memento portion of the ride is an entirely new concept, as most rides generally offer a photo souvenir, but none offer a customized music video for guests to purchase after their adventure. With Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, the song you choose for your ride is also the soundtrack to your video, which splices ride footage, music and special effects together for a one-of-a-kind keepsake. Best of all, these videos are available immediately after the ride is completed.
For a detailed look at the playlist offered by Universal Orlando Resort’s Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, click here.
Rock the Universe Event Scheduled for Sept. 11-12 at Universal Orlando Resort
Universal Orlando Resort has announced its lineup for its annual Rock the Universe event, a Christian rock and entertainment festival slated for September 11 and 12.
On September 11, Switchfoot, David Crowder Band, Jeremy Camp, Pillar Firefight, Remedy Drive and Seven Stories Up are scheduled to perform. Sunday, September 12, Third Day, Casting Crowns, tobyMac, Hawk Nelson, The Afters, Group 1 Crew and New Method will perform.
Guest speakers Donny Robinson and Mark Stuart will speak to the crowds as well. Robinson is a BMX racing bronze medal winner and Stuart is the lead singer for Grammy award-winning band Audio Adrenaline.
September 13 is a bonus concert day, with Barlow Girl, Plumb, pure NRG, Group 1 Crew and Sidewalk Prophet taking the stage.
Rock the Universe will take place at Universal Studios Florida theme park. Guests with Rock the Universe tickets can enter Universal Studios after 4pm. The park closes for non-Rock the Universe guests at 6pm. A Rock the Universe ticket will allow you to remain in the park until 1am to experience all the music and thrills. The Rock the Universe event is not included with regular park admission. Rock the Universe is a separately ticketed event that includes admission to Universal Studios after 4pm for the date stated on the ticket. The Rock the Universe ticket does not include entrance to Universal Studios before 4pm or entrance to Islands of Adventure
Barry Meyer, chairman and CEO of Warner Bros stated, "Over the years we've received thousands of letters from fans around the world wishing they could visit Hogwarts and the wonderful locations described in each of JK Rowling's beloved stories." It appears as if next spring Potter fans will finally have their wishes granted. The new land at Islands of Adventure is expected to have a recreation of Hogwart's Castle and the Forbidden Forest.
One of the stars of the Harry Potter franchise, Emma Watson, said the core cast has filmed scenes that will be incorporated in to the ride, so the interactivity of the attraction will remain true to both characters and plot.
The location of the attraction will encompass a portion of the Lost Continent area, as well as some undeveloped land previously not used at the Islands of Adventure section of Universal Orlando Resort. The attraction will draw from all of the books, creating a fully immersive environment perfect for Harry Potter fans of all ages.
Universal Orlando Resort Reveals Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit Song List
Universal Orlando Resorts new Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit roller coaster is an entirely new kind of ride. It features first-ever maneuvers, high tech innovations and a unique new way to experience music. The coaster’s playlist features over 30 hits from artists that span five genres of music. The Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit coaster is the only ride of its kind that combines music and thrills in such a manner, creating an interactive experience set to a playlist that is all your own.
Guests will use a personal touchpad mounted on the lap bar to make their music selection. They will choose their favorite genre - Classic Rock/Metal, Rap/Hip-Hop, Club/Electronica, Pop/Disco or Country - and then pick a song. Each seat is outfitted with individual stereo speakers so guests can rock out to 90 decibels of music - and yet never hear the songs playing for other riders. Their song pick will be the soundtrack to their ride and to a music video they can purchase that uses on - and off -board cameras to mix music, moves and special effects.
Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit will feature the song list below.
Classic Rock/Metal “Born to Be Wild,” Hinder “Bring Me to Life,” Evanescence “Gimme All Your Lovin’,” ZZ Top “Kickstart My Heart,” Mötley Crüe “Paralyzer,” Finger Eleven “Rollin’,” Limp Bizkit
Rap/Hip-Hop “Don’t Phunk With My Heart,” Black Eyed Peas “Insane In the Brain,” Cypress Hill “Pump It,” Black Eyed Peas “Rock Star,” N.E.R.D. “Sabotage,” Beastie Boys “Stronger,” Kanye West
Club/Electronica “Busy Child,” The Crystal Method “Harder Better Faster Stronger,” Daft Punk “Intergalactic,” Beastie Boys “Keep Hope Alive,” The Crystal Method “Le Disko,” Shiny Toy Guns “Pump Up the Volume,” MARRS
Pop/Disco “Bad Girls,” Donna Summer “Glamorous,” Fergie “Hella Good,” No Doubt “I Will Survive,” Gloria Gaynor “That’s the Way (I Like It),” KC and the Sunshine Band “U Can’t Touch This,” MC Hammer
Country “All Night Long,” Montgomery Gentry “Guitars, Cadillacs,” Dwight Yoakam “I Can Sleep When I’m Dead,” Jason Michael Carroll “Living in Fast Forward,” Kenny Chesney “Midnight Rider,” The Allman Brothers “The Devil Went Down to Georgia,” The Charlie Daniels Band
Universal Orlando Resort Releases More Details on Wizarding World of Harry Potter
New details have been released regarding Universal Orlando Resort’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter. The Orlando Sentinel recently printed an article on the highly anticipated attraction. The attraction, which will be located in Islands of Adventure, will feature a “robocoaster,” recreations of Hogwarts, Hogsmeade, Hagrid’s Hut and the Forbidden Forest. The plans for the area show it being 20-acres large with more than a dozen buildings. At least three shops, a restaurant and many decorative buildings are planned. An elaborate pre-show/pre-ride queue is also planned and will feature special effects such as floating candles and snow falling indoors.
Hogsmeade Village, an old-European-style town from the Harry Potter novels, will feature the Three Broomsticks Restaurant and stores such as Dervish & Banges, which will sell & repair magical equipment, and Honeydukes, a sweet shop with delectables like chocolate-covered frogs.
The “robocoaster” is a ride system in which guests sit in seats suspended from a robotic arm that can swivel and swoop in multiple directions while it advances along a track. Universal also plans to add a large tent to the entrance of the “robocoaster” which fans have speculated will ultimately be converted into a recreation of a wizarding tournament from the books.
Universal Orlando Resort offers guests three exciting ways to celebrate the Fourth of July holiday. From an innovative lagoon show and extended theme park hours to summer foods and live entertainment, there’s something for all holiday revelers to enjoy.
At Universal Orlando Resort, visitors may take in a special version of Universal 360: A Cinesphere Spectacular, complete with patriotic finale and fireworks display. The show is included in regular park admission.
The Universal 360: A Cinesphere Spectacular is a high-tech lagoon show at Universal Studios Orlando featuring famous scenes from more than 100 Universal Pictures films. The show uses four-story-tall, 360-degree projection “cinespheres,” original music, outdoor speakers, lasers and pyrotechnic effects to place guests in the center of their favorite films. The Fourth of July Cinesphere show will also feature a special, high-tech, patriotic finale, complete with a dazzling fireworks display. The show begins at 10 p.m. and is included with Universal Studios park admission.
Home to the most innovative and technologically advanced rides and attractions, Universal’s Islands of Adventure will remain open until 11 p.m. for those guests wanting to experience extended theme park entertainment.
Additionally, guests can indulge in summer food favorites, a live band and street performers at an All-American Barbecue Celebration at Universal CityWalk from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. All CityWalk venues will also be open throughout the day.
The only fireworks display guests will be able to see will be at the conclusion of the Cinesphere show inside Universal Studios. Fireworks will no longer be visible from CityWalk or Universal’s Islands of Adventure. This is because development of new attraction experiences is underway across areas of the resort previously used to support fireworks displays.
Universal's Blue Man Group is a Must See Orlando Show
When one vacations in Orlando, Florida feeling blue is out of the question. The sunny skies, palm trees and laid back atmosphere simply leave no room for the blues. The Universal Orlando Resort, however, knows a little blue is just the ticket when it comes to entertaining the masses. Famous for their thrilling rides at Islands of Adventure and behind-the-scenes fun at Universal Studios, this Orlando theme park excels at providing quality amusement. CityWalk, their outdoor entertainment complex featuring restaurants, clubs, movies, music, shops and dancing, also offers plenty of ways to entertain, including the Blue Man Group, who perform at the Sharp Aquos Theater. They provide all the blue one needs while vacationing in Orlando.
Attending a Blue Man Group Orlando show is an amazing experience for a number of reasons. When I arrived at the massive Universal Orlando Resort complex, I quickly headed towards CityWalk and thoroughly enjoyed the sights and sounds that surrounded me. Because CityWalk has so many things to do, I decided to take part in some pre-show festivities at the Hard Rock Café, which is located very near to the Sharp Aquos Theater. I’ve been to several Hard Rock Cafes, and this one is definitely one of my favorites. The rock ‘n roll memorabilia, rotating pink Cadillac and attention to good music created an atmosphere perfect for relaxing and enjoying the company of good friends.
As my 7pm show time drew near, I made my way to the theater and easily found my seats, which were close enough to see all the action and nuances, but not close enough to have to wear a poncho. The first couple of rows of seats require patrons to wear ponchos as things can get pretty messy, pretty quickly when paint, food and blue men are on the stage. Before the show began, my fellow audience members and I took part in what I can only call “Mass Simon Says,” as phrases are scrolled on a digital screen and the audience is prompted to repeat them. The hilarity ensues when the phrases become pointed at certain audience members, and moreover, signals the high amount of interactivity this show requires from guests. Throughout every segment, I felt a part of the show as opposed to feeling like I was watching a show.
The energetic mix of music, comedy and multimedia theatrics during the Blue Man Group Show create a unique production that leaves an undeniable impression, and yet, it also leaves you at a loss for words as to how to explain the show to others. How do you explain how simple nuanced facial expressions can make an entire audience howl with laughter? Or how a girl plucked from the audience to dine on stage with the Blue Men could make a simple scenario one of the funniest things I’ve ever seen? Furthermore, how can one possibly put into words how gleefully fun it is to have rolls of toilet paper move over your head as you get covered in mounds of tissue? And to describe the musical elements of the show, especially the Cyber Café segment, would be bordering on the absurd, as there are simply no words to express what my eyes witnessed.
The truly amazing thing about the Blue Man Group Show in Orlando Florida is that afterwards you feel like you just watched something special. You can’t quite put it into words, but you know you liked what you saw and even more, you can’t wipe the silly grin from your face that’s been plastered there for the past two hours.
Universal Orlando Resort Sizzles with New Summer Concert Series
Universal Orlando Resort is celebrating summer with their all-new Summer Concert Series, scheduled for June 13 – July 4 every Saturday night at 9pm. Universal Resort welcomes YOU to join the party at the new Music Plaza at Universal Studios for concerts that are sure to put you in the mood for summer fun.
The Summer Concert Series schedule is as follows:
June 13: Jordin Sparks
June 20: LL Cool J
June 27: Natasha Bedingfield
July 4: The O’Jays
The July 4th Celebration concert will also feature the Universal 360 Show which will include a special, high-tech, patriotic finale complete with a dazzling fireworks display. The Universal 360 Show will NOT be visible from CityWalk or Islands of Adventure.
Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit at Universal Resort an Interactive Thrill
Universal Orlando Resort is opening their first new coaster since 2004, when they debuted “Revenge of the Mummy – The Ride.” The new attraction, named “Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit,” is so intricate the park has delayed its opening for several weeks to ensure that absolutely every element is working properly and in synch.
The interactive ride will have riders traveling 3,800 feet in one minute and 53 seconds, with the beginning of the ride providing plenty of thrills. The trip begins with a 90-degree ascension to its tallest point – 167 feet straight up. After that, riders are taken on a 65mph journey through six maneuvers, all promising plenty of excitement for park guests.
The “Rockit” element of the ride comes into play from the very start of attraction, as riders get to pick their own soundtrack from a selection of 30 songs from five genres, which are then delivered through a 150-watt system that plays throughout your ride. Literally, every time you come here, you can have a different experience.
The track alone promises excitement, as it includes pretzel loops and music-inspired maneuvers like the “Treble Clef,” as well as a negative-gravity “Jump Cut” that makes riders feel like they’ll be thrown out of their roller coaster cart.
On top of all of that, the ride is equipped with numerous video and still cameras to capture all of the action. After finishing the ride, riders can purchase the unique package of their experience, which promises at least 14 different images of the rider.
Universal Resort's Hollywood Rip, Ride, Rockit Coaster Now Opening Summer 2009
Universal Orlando Resort's new roller coaster "Hollywood Rip, Ride, Rockit" is now scheduled to open in Summer 2009, as opposed to their previously stated opening date of Spring 2009.
The ride is unique in that it combines audio and special effects engineering that will fly riders at 65 mph and 17 stories over Universal Studios.
The interactive ride allows riders to select a song to play during their ride and their entire riding expereicne will be captured on video. Once the ride is over, guests can edit their video and share it with friends and family. It is the perfect combination of the digital age and theme park thrills.
Orlando Attractions Have Something Special Underway
A number of sharp-eyed fans have spotted the rooftop of a structure rising in Universal Orlando's Wizarding World of Harry Potter that looks an awful lot like Hagrid's Hut, home of the half-giant character from the Potter novels and movies.
Looks like those fans nailed it.
Building permits pulled by Universal for the much-anticipated, highly secretive Potter project show that the resort is indeed constructing Hagrid's Hut. The setting, according to the permits, is being built for Universal by the Nassal Co. of Orlando, which specializes in themed construction projects.
While the permits offer few details, it appears Hagrid's Hut will be mostly for display purposes. The documents suggest the interior of the building will be used for prop storage.
"Hagrid's Hut is an unoccupied themed prop structure," according to one permit description.
A dream is a wish . . .
With Walt Disney World's latest attraction, the American Idol Experience, formally open in Disney's Hollywood Studios, the company is kicking its vaunted publicity machine into full gear.
Billboards have sprouted around Orlando featuring a slogan for the attraction that ties a quintessential Disney character to a production that's otherwise best known for airing on FOX.
The slogan: "Be part of the next Cinderella story."
Cypress Gardens changes
Cypress Gardens is getting ready to announce new management this week, according to the park's lawyer and spokesman, Rick Dantzler.
The small Winter Haven theme park, known for its botanical gardens, ski shows and Southern belles, closed in November after struggling with low attendance. The owners plan to reopen in late March with a new game plan that involves eliminating the park's amusement rides and focusing on the original gardens and a water park that is popular with locals.
The new management will replace Baker Leisure Group, an Orlando-based company that ended its management role at the park last summer.
Under its new structure, Cypress Gardens will likely have two admission prices: one for the gardens only, and another that includes the water park.
DISNEY'S EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival March 18 - May 31, 2009: The annual brings entertainment, food, education and of course loads of beautiful flowers to Epcot during this festival.
SEAWORLD Viva La Música Join the fiesta every weekend, March 7, 2009 through the 29, when Grammy and Latin Grammy-award winning acts perform salsa, merengue, reggaeton and more for Viva La Música. The red-hot lineup includes El Gran Combo, India, Tito El Bambino and Fonseca Saturdays at SeaWorld, and R.K.M and Ken-Y, Guayacan, Grupo Mania and El Gran Combo at Busch Gardens Sundays. Live music, Hispanic food and the fiery flair of Latin heritage combine for this lively experience.
UNIVERSAL STUDIOS Mardi Gras February 7 - April 18, 2009: On Saturday nights in February, March and April, Universal Studios Florida celebrates the spirit of New Orleans with the annual Mardi Gras celebration.
BOK TOWER • Bok in Bloom! January through March: Seasonal blooms throughout the historic Bok gardens.
MORSE MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART • Music in the Galleries November through April, free admission into the museum on Friday evenings from 4:00 - 8:00pm. Live music in the galleries on Friday, March13, Beautiful Music Muse Duo (classical guitar and flute). • A Brilliant Setting - American Cut and Pressed Glass Tableware 1876-1917 Through September 15, 2009: Includes more than five dozen examples of American-made glass tableware from the late-19th and early 20th centuries.
ORLANDO MUSEUM OF ART • Of Cloth & Culture: African Textiles Through December 2009: Exhibit features textiles from various regions of the African continent, including Kente cloth from West Africa, beaded aprons fron the Kirdi of Cameroon, and beaded animal skins of the San people of South Africa. • American Portraits & Landscapes Through December 2009: Features works by Benjamin West, Thomas Moran, Rembrandt Peale, John Henry Twachtman, and Carl Wuermer representing art from the Colonial period through the early 20th century. • 19th & Early 20th Century American Art Through December 2009: Drawn from the museum's permanent collection, the exhibition features paintings by George Inness, John Singer Sargent, Georgia O'Keeffe, William Harnett, Alfred Bricher, William Merritt Chase, Frank Weston Benson, and the museum's recent acquisition, The Sun Vow, 1901, a sculpture by Hermon A. MacNeil.
OTHER • Manatee at Blue Springs November through March: Manatee fleeing the cold ocean waters flock to the warmer temperatures of Blue Springs during the months of November thru March.
SPECIALS FOR MARCH Please call to verify specials and free admission as museums occasionally change their policy during special exhibits.
• Morse Museum of American Art Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival open house. Enjoy free admission to the galleries on Friday, March 20, 21, 22, 2009. Call 407-645-5311 to confirm.
• Disney's "Armed Forces Salute" Active and retired U.S. military personnel can receive a free five-day multi-pass to Walt Disney's Orlando Theme Parks. Special pricing for up to 5 friends and/or family members is also available. Call 1-407-939-6244 to confirm.
• Disney's Free Admission on Your Birthday "What Will You Celebrate?" Throughout 2009, Walt Disney World is offering one day of free admission to any one of their theme parks for your birthday. Call 1-407-939-6244 to confirm.
• SeaWorld's Fun Card Florida Residents can pay for a day and receive the rest of 2009 free!
• SeaWorld's "Here's to the Heroes" Free admission to Worlds of Discovery Theme parks for Military members and direct dependents during 2009.
• Morse Museum of American Art Free admission to the galleries every Friday evening from 4pm to 8pm from the beginning of November till the end of April. Music in the galleries on select nights. Call 407-645-5311 to confirm.
• Leu Gardens Free admission to the gardens every Monday from 9am till noon. Be sure to arrive early as parking is at a premium on Monday mornings. Call 407-246-2620 to confirm.
• Orlando Museum of Art Free admission to the museum on Thursday afternoons from 1pm to 4pm for residents of Orange, Seminole, Lake and Osceola Counties. Call 407-896-4231 to confirm.
The religious holiday for the patron saint of Ireland has inspired many festive celebrations. Irish themed restaurants and bars take this opportunity to party with green beer, traditional Irish meals and good times. Some of the St. Patrick's Day Celebrations in the Orlando area include:
GET LUCKY ON WALL STREET
St. Pat's Block Party at Wall Street Plaza in Orlando will be hosting not just one, but two of the largest parties in the downtown area. On Saturday, March 15th, the music will go from 8 to 11 pm but feel free to come early as doors open at 1am. On Monday, March 17th, St. Patrick's Day, music will start at 6pm. Enjoy live music while enjoying traditional Irish Fare.
Admission is $10 for each night. Order tickets in advance, on-line.
SHAMROCK 'N ROLL AT CITYWALK Starting at 2:00 pm and going till 2:00 am, Pat O' Brien's at Universal's CityWalk will once again have their St. Patty's Day party. On March 17th, wear your green and enjoy the luck of the Irish with live rock and roll, traditional Irish food and more. A live band, dueling piano bar, leprechauns, stilt walkers and giveaways are on hand. General admission is $12 and VIL (very important leprechaun) is $20.
ST. PATRICK'S DAY CONCERT IN CELEBRATION On Saturday March 15th, 2008, Grammy Award-winning recording artist Hootie and the Blowfish will perform a free St. Patrick's Day Concert in Celebration Town Centeras a part of the Robert Gamez Celebrity Weekend benefiting local charities. In addition to Hootie and the Blowfish, additional acts will include Rock and Pop Masters featuring performances by Jimi Jamieson (Survivor), Mike Reno (Loverboy), John Cafferty and Michael Antunes (Beaver Brown Band), and Larry Hoppen (Orleans). The event begins at 7:00PM and parking and admission are free.
VISIT AN IRISH PUB IN THE ORLANDO AREA Fiddler's Green in Winter Park - Don't miss the beer garden in the back constructed just for the event. Kitty O'Sheas Irish Pub in Lake Buena Vista - A favorite with locals and tourists alike.
SHAMROCK AT HELEN STAIRS THEATRE Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with Ken McBride, an Irish entertainer that performs as extraordinary number of tunes spanning the gap from current ballads to old folk songs. Irish favorites to Broadway standards at the Helen Stairs Theatre in Sanford. Tickets are $25, $30 and $35 for this concert held on March 15, 2008 at 7:30.
Universal Resort's Mardi Gras Celebrations Features All-Star Concerts
Don’t just stand there… Let the Music Move You at Universal Studios’ Mardi Gras Saturdays and select nights from February 7 through April 18. Party in the streets with music that reaches right down to your soul to lift your spirits high! Enjoy live performances by some of the biggest stars from pop, rock, R&B, country, hip-hop, you name it… all in Universal Studios’ brand new concert plaza!
The concert line-up features:
Feb. 7 – KC & the Sunshine Band
Feb. 14 – Frankie Valli & the Four Seasons
Feb. 21 – Ne-Yo
Feb. 28 – Pat Benatar (featuring Neil Giraldo guitar)
Mar. 7 - Barenaked Ladies Mar. 14 - Montgomery Gentry
Mar. 21 - Collective Soul
Mar. 27 – Boys Like Girls
Mar. 28 - Kelly Clarkson
Apr. 4 - MC Hammer
Apr. 11 - Trace Adkins
Apr. 18 – Nelly.
The party’s not limited to Saturday nights this year. On Sunday, February 15, the Village People will perform; and on Friday, March 27, you can enjoy Boys Like Girls.
You’re right in the middle of the celebration with outrageous street performers and a spectacular parade featuring colorful costumes, dazzling floats, and beads by the handful. Plus, the air will be filled with the spicy aroma of authentic Cajun food, and the sweet sounds of real bands direct from New Orleans.
Each night when Mardi Gras ends, the excitement is just beginning! Head to Universal CityWalk®, the official Mardi Gras After-Party, for more live music, food and fun. So join in the festivities at Universal Orlando Resort with Mardi Gras at Universal Studios®. It’s the biggest party this side of the bayou!
The Simpsons Ride Brings New Twists to Universal Orlando Resort
If you haven't been to Universal Studio in Florida for the past year or two, you might not realize that the classic Back to the Future simulator ride is gone. On the flipside, if you're an Orlando local, you probably know all too well, courtesy of the flurry of commercials that took over television for several weeks.
If you wander out to that corner of the park, you'll now be greeted by Krustyland instead of Doc Brown's research facility. Indeed, there is a cartoon in the queue line that explains just how the Doc lost his facility to Krusty. You can still occasionally find him hanging out by his DeLorean, which has been moved to an area closer to Finnegan's.
Because it is a simulator, the Simpsons Ride is suitable for most ages and ride-tolerance levels. It's much smoother than the old herky-jerky Back to the Future, although it can still be a bit whiplash induced, especially if you're sitting in the back row. But overall it's a fun experience for Simpsons fans and pretty much anyone else who enjoys a good simulator experience.
As the storyline goes, you are joining the Simpson family as the first riders on a new ride at Krustyland. Unfortunately, the perpetually homicidal Sideshow Bob is hot on their trail and trying to kill everyone. You'll run through everything from a roller coaster to a water ride to a giant drop. The effects are particularly convincing, even the roller coaster loop (don't worry, you don't really go upside down), and there are sensory effects thrown in for good measure.
This ride can be a slow loader, as you're counted off to wait in designated sections, then sent to a designated room to wait for your simulator car. Fortunately, there is plenty of entertainment in the form of cartoons on various monitors and detailing sets like food stands, carnival game booths, and the like. If you are staying at an onsite hotel or have purchased an Express Pass, your wait will be cut down considerably.
Back to the Future was a classic, but the Simpsons are worthy successors. Enjoy their new ride, and keep an eye out as you're walking through the park. You might just catch Bart, Lisa, Homer, and Marge hanging out for a photo opportunity.
Universal Orlando is unleashing the biggest Mardi Gras celebration this side of the bayou with the most powerful and diverse concert series in the event’s history. With a combined total of more than 300 million records sold and a dozen Grammy Awards, this year’s Mardi Gras line-up features 13 of the most popular names in pop, rock, R&B, country, hip-hop and more.
Guests will experience a Mardi Gras concert series like no other, with performances by Billboard Chart-topper Ne-Yo, “American Idol” winner Kelly Clarkson, country music-duo Montgomery Gentry and Grammy Award-winning rapper Nelly. Other headliners include the hit artists behind classics such as “Hit Me with Your Best Shot,” “Too Legit to Quit,” and “Y.M.C.A.” – Pat Benatar, MC Hammer and The Village People, respectively. In addition, New Orleans bands will showcase their authentic bayou music in the “French Quarter,” a replica of New Orleans’ famed district.
“This year’s Mardi Gras will be our best party ever,” said Jim Timon, senior vice president of entertainment for Universal Orlando Resort. “We’ve got the best music line-up in the history of the event, along with a non-stop celebration filled with an amazing parade, floats, food and all of the beads you can catch.”
Guests will experience the most authentic Mardi Gras celebration outside of The Big Easy when the event kicks off on February 7 and runs every Saturday night through April 18, with additional dates on Sunday February 15 and Friday, March 27. Guests will enjoy hundreds of costumed characters, tons of souvenir beads, Cajun cuisine and an elaborate parade featuring floats designed by Blaine Kern Artists, Inc, who designs floats for the New Orleans parade.
This year’s parade theme is “Stories,” giving guests a glimpse into the world of literature. Themed floats featuring iconic characters and settings from the pages of the most popular and beloved books featuring genres such as Mystery, Romance and Horror will cruise the streets of Universal Studios throughout the event.
Mardi Gras is included in park admission to Universal Studios.
Universal Orlando Resort's CityWalk is the place for Entertainment
Universal Orlando's nighttime entertainment complex, CityWalk is an exciting mix of shopping, dining, dancing and entertainment, all situated on 30 acres adjacent to Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios.
Daytime fun can be found as well at CityWalk, as shopping venues are open daily along with many of the restaurants. Interesting storefronts beckon visitors inside to peruse the merchandise as they scurry to and from Universal's two theme parks. A 20-screen theater showing the newest releases can be found at the entrance to CityWalk.
In the evenings, CityWalk comes alive as the rhythmic beat of music pounds from high-tech speakers and neon lights illuminate figures dancing in the streets. Stiltwalkers, jugglers and street entertainers dazzle onlookers. Kiosk vendors, outdoor bars and cafes add to the excitement as guests leaving the parks filter into the many restaurants and clubs.
Street entertainment and shopping do not require an admission charge. Some clubs and bars do require a cover charge and have age restrictions. One night unlimited admission or one club admission can be purchased as well as an annual unlimited admission pass. Packages are also put together that include dinner and a movie for one low price at select restaurants. Garage and valet parking are available for a fee. After 9:00 there is no charge for garage parking.
Seasonal Events Include:
Shamrock "N" Rock at CityWalk Annual Orlando Beer Festival July 4th extravaganza at Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure and CityWalk
Universal's CityWalk Orlando offers Variety of Fun for Visitors
You’ll find more than just the typical array of souvenirs and tourist items as you shop the retail establishments of Universal CityWalk. Browse through the entertainment complex’s fun stores and gift shops and you’ll discover stuff you never new existed, and things you didn’t realize (until now) that you just can’t live without.
Hart & Huntington Tattoo Company®, the world’s most famous tattoo company, has set up shop at CityWalk. Browse the incredible collection of flash art, pick up authentic Hart & Huntington clothing and accessories, and even take home a permanent souvenir from your trip. The Hard Rock Cafe carries everything from t-shirts, jackets, pins and even a Hard Rock Cafe Barbie!
The Island Clothing Store, featuring Tommy Bahama sportswear, Lilly Pulitzer, LaCoste, fine footwear, jewelry, apparel and accessories.
At NASCAR Sports Grille you can purchase photos of your favorite drivers in a frame which includes a genuine chunk of sheet metal from their car or NASCAR driver photos framed within the side wall of an actual racing tire!
The Endangered Species Store® has just about every critter you can think of crafted into an amazingly lifelike menagerie of statues, lamps, clocks, tables, vases, picture frames and just plain knick knacks.
The Quiet Flight® Surf Shop not only has all the coolest gear to wear while surfing or skateboarding … you’ll also find a selection of surf boards and skateboards as well.
These are just some of the stores and only a few of the unique items you’ll find at CityWalk. The Universal CityWalk entertainment complex is located at Universal Orlando® Resort, just between the entrances to both Universal Studios and Universal’s Islands of Adventure® theme parks.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay welcomes the New Year with entertainment and fireworks on Wednesday, and builds up to the celebration with parties tonight through Tuesday. The festivities are included in park admission: $67.95 for adults and $57.95 for children.
SeaWorld Orlando is throwing a big party on Wednesday complete with Michael Andrew & The Atomic Big Band performing at Bayside Stadium, followed by fireworks. Visitors may dance to the beat of a DJ as the countdown to 2009 begins at The Waterfront section of the park. At midnight, fireworks will light up the skies. The party is included in daily admission: $69.95 for adults; $59.95 for children.
Universal CityWalk: This 30-acre entertainment complex by Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure hosts a party with the Doobie Brothers, a buffet, champagne toast and live entertainment at its nightclubs. Advance tickets are $119.99; $124.99 after Tuesday.
Walt Disney World: The parks bid farewell to 2008 with a variety of events. Epcot features DJs and evening dance parties throughout World Showcase as well as a special presentation of the "Illuminations: Reflections of Earth" lights, lasers and fireworks display. Disney's Hollywood Studios offers multiple presentations of the show Fantasmic! and also a special "Lights! Camera! Happy New Year!" fireworks spectacle. The Magic Kingdom features special presentations of the "SpectroMagic" parade and multiple nighttime fireworks displays, including "Holiday Wishes" and "Fantasy in the Sky" at midnight. The events are included in regular park admission: $75 for adults, $63 for children.
Information courtesy of South Florida Sun-Sentinel
Join Universal Orlando Resort for a Grinchmas Good Time
Though Disney World is known for pulling out all the stops at Christmas, those looking for an edgier coaster scene might want to check out Universal Studios’ sister park, Islands of Adventure in Orlando, Fla. The park has been cultivating an alternative audience in recent years with holiday ticket packages, relatively quick lines and the popular Grinchmas — a stage show with a score arranged by Mannheim Steamroller.
“When they first opened Seuss Landing in 1999, I fell in love,” said Chris Kraftchick, an Orlando native who represents the Florida Region of American Coaster Enthusiasts. “The icing on the cake was Grinchmas — to have these characters walking around talking to people and telling the stories. They hit a grand slam.”
The year they opened the festival, he read the book to his children, Joshua, 8, and Madeline, 12, before they went. When they got to the park, Joshua gasped: “There’s the guy who stole Christmas.”
(Guests-in-the-know can even have breakfast with the book’s characters; $19.95 and $13.95 for ages 3 to 9; call 407-224-4012 for reservations.)
Adrenaline freaks can also take advantage of the warm weather to hit the park’s impressive coaster lineup. Next door at Universal Studios, floats from the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade have been shipped in for a daily parade, which also includes marching bands and a high-kick line. Guests can volunteer to be balloon handlers by signing up between the Jimmy Neutron ride and the Universal Studios Store.
Mickey's Jingle Jungle Parade November 28, 2008 - January 04, 2009: Join Mickey and friends as they celebrate the holidays, safari style with decorations, live entertainment and photo opportunities.
DISNEY'S EPCOT
Holidays Around the World November 28 - December 30, 2008: International holiday traditions unfold throughout World Showcase when storytellers portraying cultural icons of the season.
Candlelight Processional November 28 - December 30, 2008: A heartfelt holiday tradition led by a mass choir and 50-piece live orchestra showcases the reason for the season.
DISNEY'S HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS
Osborne Family Spectacle of Lights November 28, 2008 - January 4, 2009: Partake in the wondrous light show at MGM Studio's Streets of America backlot.
DISNEY'S MAGIC KINGDOM
Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party November 10 - December 19, 2008: Experience the enchantment of "Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade" and the excitement of a holiday-themed fireworks during a special after-hours party inside the Magic Kingdom theme park. Nov. 10, 11, 14, 16, 20, 21, 30; Dec. 2, 4, 5, 7, 9, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 19.
DOWNTOWN DISNEY
Festival of the Seasons November 28 - December 24, 2008: Downtown Disney rings in the magical shopping season with more than 50 unique stores and merchandise locations across the shopping, dining and entertainment district. The holiday celebration includes festive holiday décor, carolers, nightly tree lighting and photo opportunities with Santa.
SEAWORLD
Polar Express November 14, 2008 - January 4, 2009: SeaWorld transforms the Wild Arctic into the fables Santa Town where guests are taken on a magical trip to the North Pole.
Wheel of Fortune December 11, 12, 14, 15, 2008: Watch the taping of 4 episodes of Wheel of Fortune featuring host Pat Sajack and Vanna White.
SILVER SPRINGS
Annual Festival of Lights December 05 - 06, 12 -23, 26 - 27, 2008: Featuring more than a million twinkle lights and dozens of neon displays each evening from dusk till 8:30om. Enjoy strolling carolers, alighted boat parade and Santa Clause. Included in the admission cost.
Traveling Vietnam Wall December 05 - 07, 2008: AVTT travels the U.S.A. remembering and honoring those who have sacrificed their lives for our country's freedom. Included in the admission cost.
UNIVERSAL RESORT
Celebrate Grinchmas December 7, 2008 - January 1, 2009: Celebrate the holidays at Universal Orlando as the resort's two theme parks, on-site hotels and CityWalk transform into a seasonal spectacular featuring special holiday-themed entertainment, decorations, food and more. Meet the Grinch at Islands of Adventure and join in on the excitement of Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade transported from New York.
UNIVERSAL CITYWALK
New Year's Eve at Universal CityWalk December 31, 2008: The evening features live performances by national acts, an expansive gourmet buffet, a champagne toast and live entertainment.
CENTRAL FLORIDA ZOO
Breakfast with Santa December 13,, 2008: Annual holiday breakfast at the zoo. Call 407-323-4450 for more info.
LEU GARDENS
Leu Holiday House November 27, 2008 through January 1, 2009: The house is open each day from 10:00 - 10:30. The historic house is decorated with festive trees, ribbons and bows. Dioramas from Ron's Miniature Shop and Museum along with beautiful ornaments that garnish every room. Admission to the house is included with garden admission.
MORSE MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART
The Quest of Beauty – Louis Comfort Tiffany's Life and Art Through January 25, 2009: Louis Comfort Tiffany's lifelong "quest for beauty" is reflected in his work across various media.
A Brilliant Setting - American Cut and Pressed Glass Tableware 1876-1917 Through September 15, 2009: Includes more than five dozen examples of American-made glass tableware from the late-19th and early 20th centuries.
ORLANDO SCIENCE CENTER
Beakman’s World Tour Through January 2009: Based on the children’s hit television show Beakman’s World, this hands-on version will explore four very different worlds in exciting and innovative ways. Children and the young at heart can satisfy their curiosity for the worlds of the human body, space, dinosaurs, and rainforests.
Titanic - The Experience Through December 2008: The world-famous exhibition, features full-scale recreations of the ship's most famous locales along with historians in period costume interacting with guests as you explore the history and science behind the "ship of dreams."
The two restaurants bring burritos and other Tex-Mex dishes, and orange chicken and other Asian dishes, to a dining and entertainment district that until now has featured big table-service restaurants but only a very limited offering of quick-service foods.
Those two restaurants and a previously announced Burger King Holdings "high energy" concept restaurant called the Whopper Bar all are being built in the area next to the NASCAR Sports Grill and should be open before spring-break season, Universal Senior Vice President Ric Florell said.
Orlando Theme Parks Offer Something New for Everyone
If you think that Disney World and the other theme parks in the Orlando area just stay the same from year to year, then you are wrong. There is always a new ride, a new attraction and sometimes even a whole new theme park to make this year’s visit to the Orlando area much more exciting than your last visit. Let’s take a look at the latest offerings from the major entertainment centers in the greater Orlando area.
Starting with Universal Studios the big news is that they unveiled a new ride based on Fox’s blockbuster hit series, The Simpsons. Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa and Maggie Simpson — stars of TV’s longest running series — ride along with guests in the new attraction, which takes them on a hysterical, almost unimaginable adventure. If you or anyone in your family is a big Simpsons’ fan, then this ride is not to be missed.
Not to be outdone by Universal Studios, Disney World has a long list of new features and attractions. First of all, Disney-MGM Studios theme park has been renamed Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The new name, which reflects how the park has grown from representing the golden age of movies to a celebration of the new entertainment that today’s Hollywood has to offer, debuted in Jan., 2008. The park will unveil the following attractions in the coming months:
* Toy Story Mania! involves an interactive “Toy Story” competition inspired by the film. 3-D glasses put guests in the middle of the action as they board vehicles and zip into a world of exciting midway-style games hosted by their favorite characters. The ride opened in summer 2008.
* “Block Party Bash” encourages guests to play, party and dance at the new interactive Disney parade, which opened in March, 2008.
* “Playhouse Disney — Live on Stage!” introduces a whole new cast of friends engaging children in singing, clapping and dancing. The new show opened in Feb., 2008.
* At "The American Idol Experience," guests will experience the challenge of auditioning, the rush of performing and the thrill of judging performances live on an interactive set. Guest performers with the highest votes will win a guaranteed reservation for future "American Idol" auditions. The attraction is slated to open in Jan., 2009.
The third great entertainment player in the Orlando area, The Busch Entertainment Corporation family of adventure parks, is now known as Worlds of Discovery. Worlds of Discovery parks include Aquatica – SeaWorld’s Waterpark, Busch Gardens Africa, SeaWorld Orlando and Discovery Cove, as well as the company’s other theme parks throughout the country.
Aquatica - SeaWorld's WaterparkAquatica — SeaWorld’s Waterpark opened in March 2008. The one-of-a-kind park includes up-close animal experiences, high-speed thrills and wide, sandy beaches. Aquatica is the first new water park to open in Orlando in 12 years. It features 36 water slides; six rivers and lagoons and more than 80,000 square feet (7,432 square meters) of beach area. Guests are immersed with live animals in the park, including Commerson’s dolphins, brilliant macaws and colorful fish.
Busch Gardens Africa unveiled an exotic jungle area in the theme park, called Jungala. The four-acre (1.6-hectare) attraction area is to be located in the existing Congo area and includes tiger, orangutan and gibbon habitats mixed with dense landscaping.
As you can see, there are plenty of new things to see at the Orlando theme parks, so now is the time to plan your next visit there. And if you have never been to Disney World and other Orlando venues, then what are you waiting for?
How the Grinch Stole Christmas & More at Universal Orlando Resort
Every year at this time Universal Studios transforms its two parks into separate but equally amazing holiday extravaganzas. All the fun of Grinchmas and Macy's Holiday Parade can be experienced with a 2 park or annual pass. However, if you are only in the market to pick one, read below for an overview of all the holiday magic in store.
The magical Seussland at Islands of Adventure is transformed into the holiday festivity so familiar to Orlando residents, Grinchmas. A winter wonderland is the setting for this live musical performance of "How the Grinch Stole Christmas." The whole town is filled with singing and dancing Whos as well as a "Whoville Wonky Tree Lot" complete with marvelous holiday decorations.
When is he isn't performing in his well known holiday tale, the Grinch himself is on hand to sign autographs, take pictures, and meet and greet his adoring fans. For an even more personal meeting, have "Breakfast with the Grinch and Friends" at Confisco Grille inside Islands of Adventure. It's a holiday treat not soon to be forgotten!
Over at the Universal Studios side of the park, Macy's Holiday Parade makes it way down the New York streets. Every night at dusk authentic floats and balloons (directly brought in from the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade) fill the streets as marching bands, street performers, and Santa Claus himself put on quite a show for you. The parade is quite an experience and makes you feel like you have been placed right in the heart of New York City for the holidays. After the parade, stay for a tree lighting ceremony like no other.
Other events at Universal Studios this holiday season include Barney's Christmas show, the KidZone Holiday show,and the Blues Brothers Christmas show. The events began December 6 and run through January 1, 2009.
Join many Orlando natives and visitors alike as Dr. Seuss and the magic of Macy's take over the Universal Studios theme parks; there's no more whimsical a way to enjoy the magic of the holidays!
Turn on the night and take the party to the streets is the theme of Universal Orlando's New Year's Eve Celebration 2008. Universal CityWalk's annual New Year's Eve celebration will include non-stop dancing and entertainment throughout the night as the Doobie Brothers headline the evening, rocking in the new year.
At New Year's Eve 2008 at Universal CityWalk, you can enjoy live music on the main stage as well as inside participating CityWalk venues: Pat O'Brien's, the groove, Bob Marley's, Latin Quarter, CityJazz, Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville and the Red Coconut Club - CityWalk's newest ultra-chic, upscale lounge. An unlimited, gourmet buffet includes food like filet mignon, jumbo shrimp, desserts and is included in the event admission price. At the stroke of midnight a champagne toast is included as fireworks light up the sky.
Tickets are $119.00 plus tax per person. Save money when tickets are purchased in advance or with American Express. They can be purchased in advance online at www.citywalkorlando.com or through CityWalk Guest Services at (407) 224-2690. You must be 21 years old to attend the event, and tickets do not include admission to Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure. Celebrate the New Year at either or both of Universal Orlando's theme parks - Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios. Both theme parks will be open for extended hours. Universal Orlando will be open from 8 a.m. to 1 a.m. on New Year's Eve and Islands of Adventure from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. This is a great opportunity to ring in the New Year at one of your favorite Theme Parks.
New Year's Eve festivities in the parks include party zones that will feature DJs, character appearances and fireworks at midnight. Admission to the theme parks on New Year's Eve is the same as the standard gate price.
Have an Adventure at Universal Orlando's Character Breakfast
Breakfast is not just the most important meal of the day — now it’s the most fun. Start off your morning at Universal Orlando® Resort with a delicious and entertaining breakfast with some of your favorite characters. Bring the whole family and dine with such popular characters as Spider-Man™ and The Cat in the Hat™ at Universal’s Islands of Adventure’s Confisco Grille® each Thursday through Sunday morning from park opening until 10:30 a.m.
The hearty buffet breakfast features a delicious assortment of items created by Universal’s award-winning chefs, including scrambled eggs, French toast, sausage, biscuits and gravy, potatoes, bacon, fresh fruit and assorted breakfast pastries (items subject to change). The breakfast is $17.95 for adults and $11.95 for children, plus tax and gratuity. Theme park admission is separate. For reservations, call 407-224-4012.
There’s no better way to begin your day of excitement at Universal Orlando than by meeting some of your favorite heroes for breakfast at Islands of Adventure. It’s fun for the whole family. Universal’s Islands of Adventure is just one of two amazing theme parks at Universal Orlando Resort. It’s located right next door to Universal Studios®, and adjacent to the Universal CityWalk® entertainment complex, which sits between the entrances to both parks. At Universal Orlando you’ll also find three magnificently themed on-site hotels: the luxurious Portofino Bay Hotel, A Loews Hotel; the exciting Hard Rock Hotel®; and the exotic Royal Pacific Resort, A Loews Hotel.
Shake Up Your Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort
At Islands of Adventure, The Grinch and The Whos from Whoville sing their hearts out about the true meaning of Christmas in the park’s special holiday Grinchmas show – featuring music specially created by holiday music sensation Mannheim Steamroller.
Just one park over, guests line the streets of Universal Studios to see the larger than life Macy’s balloons and floats that make up the Macy’s Holiday Parade along with special performances by marching bands from across the country.
It’s the holidays at Universal Orlando Resort – and Grinchmas, the Macy’s Holiday Parade and other special events run from December 6 through January 1.
Universal Orlando Resort kicks off the holiday season this year with live performances by Christmas music mega-sensation Mannheim Steamroller, who will perform two live concerts at Universal Studios Florida on Saturday, December 6. The Grammy Award-winning, platinum-selling group will play songs created specifically for the resort’s original holiday stage show “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” as well as brand-new music from their newly released album Christmasville. Founder Chip Davis will join Mannheim Steamroller in his only scheduled appearance of the holiday season. Mannheim Steamroller has sold more than 30 million albums worldwide.
“We are extremely excited to partner with Universal Orlando Resort for their holiday celebration,” said Chip Davis, founder of Mannheim Steamroller. “We are looking forward to performing some of our classic hits, as well as new material, for park guests.”
The concerts will take place at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. in the New York area and are included in park admission to Universal Studios Florida.
Mannheim Steamroller’s performances are just the start of the month-long holiday festivities at Universal Orlando. Beginning December 6 and running through January 1, the resort’s celebration will include the specially themed Grinchmas show and Macy’s Holiday Parade. At Islands of Advenure, the popular Dr. Seuss book “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” is brought to life in Grinchmas, a live stage show featuring an original musical score by Mannheim Steamroller. During the show, six songs are performed by a live cast, including The Grinch and The Whos from Whoville. As a part of the Grinchmas celebration, guests will also have the opportunity to meet The Grinch.
Next door at Universal Studios, the world-renowned balloons and floats from Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade return. Guests can experience the excitement of the New York City tradition as the Macy’s Holiday Parade cruises through the streets of the park. In addition to the parade, Universal Studios guests can enjoy performances by marching bands from across the country, a nightly Christmas tree lighting, as well as specially themed holiday shows including The Blues Brothers, Woody Woodpecker’s Kidzone and Barney.
“With the heart-warming story of Grinchmas and the excitement of the Macy’s Holiday Parade, we have brought together two of the most beloved and compelling holiday experiences in our culture,” said Jim Timon, senior vice president of entertainment for Universal Orlando Resort. “We have created a month-long holiday event that every family will love.”
The celebration continues at Universal Orlando’s three on-site hotels – Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel and Loews Royal Pacific Resort – all of which will glisten with holiday decorations. Hotel guests will be immersed in the spirit of the season with carolers, tree-lighting ceremonies, holiday movie presentations and special holiday menus.
Celebrate the Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort - Grinchmas Style!
Universal Orlando Resort is known for its thrilling rides and comic-book character driven adventures that have become synonymous with Orlando family fun. During the Orlando holiday season, Universal Orlando celebrates by honoring Christmas traditions, creating new ones and bringing cartoon characters to life for over-the-top events for those of all ages. The fun begins December 6 and continues through January 1, 2009.
The New York Streets of Universal Studios welcome Macy’s Holiday Parade for some authentic festive fun featuring floats & balloons from the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade in New York City. Street performers, marching bands and Santa make special appearances during the parade as well. After the parade, a tree lighting ceremony dazzles the night with glowing light and holiday music.
Universal Studios is also presenting KidZone Holiday Show, Barney’s Christmas Show, & the Blues Brothers Christmas Show. Plus, for the week of December 26 – December 31 Universal Studios will feature Universal 360 – A Cinesphere Spectacular at the end of every night. Through unique technology, Universal is able to recreate the sights & sounds of some of the best Hollywood films, which are then projected onto huge spheres in the Universal Studios lagoon. It is a wonderful production that enables pyrotechnics and lasers for a cinematic adventure unlike any other. Mannheim Steamroller will be Live in Concert at Universal Studios for one night only – December 6 – to kick off the holiday season at Universal Orlando Resort. Their world-renowned holiday music will be performed at 6pm & 8pm.
Universal’s Islands of Adventure Seuss Landing is transformed into a wintry wonderland of Grinchmas, featuring the live musical show “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” Full of humor and heart-warming moments, the Grinch and his group of dancing & singing Who’s perform to music created by Mannheim Steamroller, while the town of Whoville comes to life. After the show, take a holiday stroll through the Whoville Wonky Tree Lot and Meet the Grinch for an autograph or photo. A special breakfast with the Grinch & Friends is available as well at Confisco Grille, and is $19.95 for adults and $13.95 for children.
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 Parks The 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 Parks Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios are open until 1:00 am with special events for New Year's Eve.
SeaWorld Orlando Enjoy 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 Soleil At 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.
Pirate's Dinner Adventure The 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.
Orlando Theme Parks Celebrate Christmas with Festive Events
Florida's theme parks are magical throughout the year. By adding an overlay of holiday cheer, the parks supersize the magic and fun between Thanksgiving and New Year's. Of course, supersized fun can also mean supersized crowds. The week between Christmas and New Year's is among the busiest--if not THE busiest--of the whole year at Orlando's theme parks. But bustle is part of the holidays, right? Besides, the parks extend their hours, increase the capacity of attractions, and offer a bunch of special events. So, put on your Santa hat and your matching red shorts while we check out the holidays, Florida-theme-park style.
Walt Disney World Santa meets Mickey: It's a perfect partnership based on warm nostalgia and unabashed corniness. Like some idealized Currier and Ives vision tucked away in our collective conscious, Walt Disney World delivers a holiday wonderland of epic proportions. Dozens of impossibly perfect Christmas trees (they used to be real, but Disney replaced them with artificial ones a few years ago), miles of garland, millions of twinkling lights, and other holiday signposts appear overnight and transform every corner of the resort.
Special holiday attractions and events, such as the Osborne Family Spectacle of Lights abound throughout the parks and across the resort, but Disney's Christmas magic may best be appreciated in the unexpected discovery of some of its less-trumpeted features. For example, a fragrant and festive gingerbread house inside the lobby of Disney's Grand Floridian Resort bombards the senses. By itself, that may not be much of a revelation, but this is no ordinary house of cookies. At 16 feet high, and comprised of thousands of gingerbread pieces, guests can actually walk inside the Victorian house. No nibbling is allowed on the walls, however. The curiosity doubles as a mini bakery, and patrons can purchase edible gingerbread cookies and other goodies. There are other Christmas creations throughout the World, including a life-size carousel made from chocolate and gingerbread in the lobby of Disney's Beach Club Resort.
The holiday season may be a bit brighter this year at Walt Disney World, because the "Year of a Million Dreams" is still underway. Disney cast members will be showering lucky guests with holiday presents in the form of daily "dream" giveaways.
Magic Kingdom: Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party 2008 dates: Evenings, Nov. 10, 11, 14, 16, 20, 21, 30, Dec. 2, 4, 5, 7, 9, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, and 19. Separate admission. Advance purchase price is $48.95 for 10 and older and $42.95 for ages 3-9. Day-of-event price is $55.95 for 10 and older and $49.95 ages 3-9. Discounts available for advance-purchased tickets on select dates.
The park presents a special Christmas parade, a Holiday Wishes fireworks show, special performances, Christmas cookies, and--get this--some honest-to-goodness snow falling on Main Street USA. Cinderella's Castle will be decked out in "Castle Dream Lights" for the holidays. The most popular Magic Kingdom attractions open for the events. The Magic Kingdom presents the holiday parade during the daytime on select dates in December as well.
Epcot: Candlelight Processional 2008 dates: Nov. 28 to Dec. 30, several performances nightly. Included with admission. The solemn retelling of the Christmas story includes a choir, symphony orchestra, and celebrity narrators such as Neil Patrick Harris (Doogie Howser or How I Met Your Mother's Barney, depending on your age and TV IQ), Abigail Breslin, and John O'Hurley.
Holidays Around the World 2008 dates: Nov. 28 to Dec. 30 Included with admissionIn the multiculti spirit of the park's World Showcase, Epcot's pavilions present holiday traditions from across the globe. The park also features a synchronized light show, a nightly tree-lighting ceremony, and storytellers.
Disney's Hollywood Studios: Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights 2008 dates: Nov. 28 to Jan. 4 Included with admissionThe megawatt light display fills the Studios' backlot with 3-D and animated displays, giant Santa Claus displays, and--whoulda thunk?--a giant Mickey Mouse made out of a zillion or so twinkling lights.
Disney's Animal Kingdom: Mickey's Jingle Jungle Parade 2008 dates: Nov. 28 to Jan. 4. Included with admission. Simba meets Santa when the colorful parade winds through the Animal Kingdom. Other holiday features include a decked-out Dinoland U.S.A. and carolers strolling through Camp Minnie-Mickey, renamed "Santa Goofy's Wild Wonderland" for the season.
Universal Orlando You'll just have to take my word on this, but I used to go to Universal Studios Florida around the holidays, saw the few measly decorations, and thought that the park really should have done something more to get into the spirit of the season. Its New York backlot area was just screaming for some tinsel. "And there's a (faux) Macy's department store," I'd ponder. "What a perfect tie-in for...a Christmas parade!" Well, they must've read my mind. Universal has been going all out the past few seasons...and Macy's has figured prominently in the holiday hoopla.
Universal Studios Florida: Macy's Holiday Parade 2008 dates: December 6th through January 1st. Included with admission. It's Universal's version of the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. The theme park rendition includes some of Macy's signature giant balloons, including Uncle Sam and a toy soldier, plus floats, clowns, and guest marching bands. Santa Claus and his reindeer wrap up the parade with a big ho-ho-ho (and not just any Santa, but the actual, authentic, Macy's-certified one, straight from the Big Apple).
Islands of Adventure: Grinchmas - 2008 dates: December 6th through January 1st Included with admission. A musical presentation of "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" will be performed in the park's Seuss Landing. The furry green Grinch will also meet and greet guests.
SeaWorld Orlando: SeaWorld's Holiday Celebration 2008 dates: Nov. 14 to Jan. 4 Included with admission. SeaWorld adds some holiday cheer to its marine park in the form of festive decorations and live holiday music from classical musicians and carolers. The Wild Arctic motion simulator ride gets a holiday makeover into The Polar Express Experience. Scenes from the film are repurposed for the ridefilm attraction. SeaWorld Orlando also features special nightly presentations of the Shamu Christmas Miracles stadium show, a Christmastide Holiday Fountain Show, and a nightly snow shower over the park's waterfornt shopping area. Maybe you can request some fruitcake to go with your poi at the Makahiki Christmas Luau (extra fee).
Cypress Gardens Adventure Park 2008 Dates: November 28 - December 30. Included with Admission. Cypress Gardens features a “Home for the Holidays” theme this Christmas. The theme park will get into the holiday spirit with millions of lights, choreographed light show to music in the Plantation Gardens every evening. Santa Clause, carolers and other festive characters will appear throughout the park, creating a cozy Christmas celebration for all. Special holiday meals and holiday crafts will also be available.
The Grammy-award winning band, which puts a New Age-jazz spin on Christmas and other holiday seasonal music, will perform songs it specifically composed for the resort's original hoiday stage show, "How the Grinch Stole Christmas," as well as new music from the band's latest album release, Christmasville.
The concerts will take place at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. in the New York area of Universal Studios and are included in park admission, which normally is $75 per person.
The performances are the start of the month-long holiday festivities at Universal Orlando. Beginning Dec. 6 and running through Jan. 1, the resort's celebration will include the specially themed Grinchmas show and Macy's Holiday Parade.
Theme parks in Orlando and Tampa are decked out with boughs of holly, plus 70-foot Christmas trees, miles of garland, and millions of lights. And the "weather forecast" calls for "snow flurries" at many of them .A bit of advice, though: This time of year — particularly over Christmas and New Year's — is not the best for an introductory trip to Florida's theme parks. They are generally crowded, so it will be harder to hit all the main attractions. Here's a park-by-park lineup of holiday attractions and festivities:
Busch Gardens, Tampa Bay: The Stanleyville Theater presents an ice show with professional skaters who bring a winter wonderland to life and the Marrakesh Theater features "Christmas from the Heart" with holiday gospel and spiritual songs performed by a live choir."Christmas Celebration" returns to the park's Desert Grill with seasonal songs, tap-dancing toy soldiers and a visit from Santa and his elves.Strolling carolers and Christmas characters provide entertainment, and poinsettias and festive decorations add holiday touches. Festivities are included in admission: $67.95 for adults and $57.95 for children.
Disney's Animal Kingdom: Mickey's Jingle Jungle Parade showcases characters, floats and large puppets with a holiday twist, Nov. 28-Jan. 4. Meet Disney characters decked out in holiday finery at Camp Minnie-Mickey, with entertainment, photo opportunities and decorated Christmas trees. Events are included in admission: $75 for adults; $63 for children.
Disney's Hollywood Studios: The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights, Nov. 28-Jan. 4, boasts millions of lights. The display features animated sparkling angels, Christmas trees and everything from Mickey Mouse to Santa Claus in lights. "Snowfalls" put the finishing touches to the winter wonderland.Included in admission: $75 for adults, $63 for children.
Epcot: Holidays Around the World at Epcot, presented Nov. 28-Dec. 30, features storytellers, a daily character tree-lighting ceremony, a display of snow-white lights and other decorations. The Candlelight Processional is featured three times each evening and includes a 50-piece orchestra, choir and a celebrity narrator telling the Christmas story. Included in admission: $75 for adults, $63 for children.
Islands of Adventure: Islands of Adventure celebrates Dr. Seuss' world with "Grinchmas," inspired on the story and movie, How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Seuss Landing is transformed into a bah-humbug haven, where visitors can meet the Grinch in his lair, outfitted with authentic movie props, and enjoy a musical stage show retelling the story. Festivities included in admission: $75 for adults, $63 for children.
Magic Kingdom: A 70-foot-tall Christmas tree decorated with Victorian-style ornaments is the centerpiece on Main Street. Miles of garlands, poinsettias and lights evoke the spirit of the season. Every evening Cinderella's Castle is illuminated with 200,000 white lights and entertainment includes musicals and carolers.Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party is presented on select evenings, Nov. 10-Dec. 19.The party includes shows, fireworks, cookies and cocoa, and the Once Upon A Christmastime Parade with Disney characters, marching toy soldiers and dancing snowflakes. Oh, and there's a 100 percent chance of "snow flurries." Admission to this evening event is $55.95 for adults, $49.95 for children.
SeaWorld Orlando: Christmas at SeaWorld, Nov. 24-Jan. 1, offers decorations, "snowfalls" along The Waterfront, and carolers and classical musicians. Included in admission: $69.95 for adults, $59.95 for children.The Polar Express Experience runs Nov. 14-Jan. 4. The park's Wild Arctic area transforms into Santa Town, taking visitors on a trip to the North Pole. The attraction is based on the film, inspired by the children's book by Chris Van Allsburg. The experience includes classic scenes from the movie, lighting, sound, scent, motion effects and animal encounters with beluga whales, polar bears and walruses. The smell of Christmas cookies fill the air, bright lights glisten on a towering tree and families greet Santa.
Universal Studios: Macy's Holiday Parade comes to Universal Studios from Dec. 7 to Jan. 1 with some of the most popular balloons and floats of Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City. Other festivities include a tree-lighting ceremony with Santa. Event included in regular admission: $75 for adults, $63 for children.
Information courtesy of South Florida Sun-Sentinel
CityWalk at Universal Orlando offers a Variety of Fun
Universal Orlando's nighttime entertainment complex, CityWalk is an exciting mix of shopping, dining, dancing and entertainment, all situated on 30 acres adjacent to Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios.
Daytime fun can be found as well at CityWalk, as shopping venues are open daily along with many of the restaurants. Interesting storefronts beckon visitors inside to peruse the merchandise as they scurry to and from Universal's two theme parks. A 20-screen theater showing the newest releases can be found at the entrance to CityWalk.
In the evenings, CityWalk comes alive as the rhythmic beat of music pounds from high-tech speakers and neon lights illuminate figures dancing in the streets. Stiltwalkers, jugglers and street entertainers dazzle onlookers. Kiosk vendors, outdoor bars and cafes add to the excitement as guests leaving the parks filter into the many restaurants and clubs.
Street entertainment and shopping do not require an admission charge. Some clubs and bars do require a cover charge and have age restrictions. One night unlimited admission or one club admission can be purchased as well as an annual unlimited admission pass. Packages are also put together that include dinner and a movie for one low price at select restaurants. Garage and valet parking are available for a fee. After 9:00 there is no charge for garage parking.
Water taxis at CityWalk can take guests to and from the three premier on-site Loews hotels at Universal Orlando. Upscale Restaurants and bars can be found at the Royal Pacific Resort, Hard Rock and Portofino Bay Hotels. Monthly events including the popular monthly Velvet Sessions along with seasonal specials and entertainment are also held at the hotels.
Most clubs require a cover charge after 9:00pm or a CityWalk party pass.
As specials, happy hour events and entertainment is subject to change, information can be verified at the CityWalk website.
Red Coconut Club: Tropical meets trendy at this club where patrons can kick back and relax or dance the night away to live music and/or a DJ. The club features signature drinks as well as a mouth watering appetizer menu. Ages 21and up welcome. The daily Happy Hour is featured Sunday through Saturday, featuring half price martinis and complimentary valet (with validated receipt).
Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville: An array of Caribbean, Cajun and fresh Florida fare is featured in the relaxed atmosphere of Margaritaville. Live entertainment on the Patio and DJ dance music nightly. Open for lunch with daily happy hour specials
CityJazz: Enjoy live music from both the legends of jazz and some of the hottest rising new stars of high energy funk, R&B, soul and rock. Ages 18 and up are welcome. Bonkerz Comedy Club presents live comedy at CityJazz on select evenings
Bob Marley’s – A Tribute To Freedom: Fashioned after Marley's home in Kingston, Jamaica, this club features Jamaican-influenced appetizers, entrees and desserts. Reggae music commemorates the life of Bob Marley. Must be 21 and Over after 9:00 p.m.
the groove: Dance floor with sound & light show nightly. Different nightly experiences include the best of the 70's, 80's, current dance hits, alternative rock and special teen nights.
Pat O’Brien’s: New Orleans themed Piano Bar with live music nightly. Menu features entrees with a spicy Cajun flair. Specialty drinks and happy hour prices available.
Dining Options at CityWalk: Breakfast to a full course dinner can be found among the many dining options available at Universal's CityWalk entertainment complex.
Nascar Sports Grille: NASCAR-themed restaurant found in the heart of Universal CityWalk offering signature . Two levels with 25,000 square-feet spanning two levels combine with state of the art audio and visual attractions to create a high tech sports bar like none other.
Bubba Gump Shrimp Company: newer addition to CityWalk's dining options this themed, chain restaurant is based on the hit movie, Forrest Gump. Offering casual family dining as well as a full service bar. Signature menu items such as a "Bucket of Boat Trash," comprised of deep fried tender shrimp, lobster and mahi mahi are served alongside traditional seafood favorites of Southern Fried Shrimp.
Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville: An array of Caribbean, Cajun and fresh Florida fare is featured in the relaxed atmosphere of Margaritaville. Live entertainment on the Patio and DJ dance music nightly. Open for lunch with daily happy hour specials
Bob Marley’s – A Tribute To Freedom: Fashioned after Marley's home in Kingston, Jamaica, this club features Jamaican-influenced appetizers, entrees and desserts. Reggae music commemorates the life of Bob Marley. Must be 21 and Over after 9:00 p.m.
Hard Rock Cafe: Decorated with rock'n roll memorabilia, including a 1959 pink Cadillac that revolves over the bar, this restaurant features classic American cuisine consisiting of burgers, marinated chicken and barbeque ribs.
Emeril's: Upscale sophisticated dining created by the noted chef Emeril Lagassee. Creole-based gourmet creations are prepared in the bustling, open kitchen. A full bar, a second-floor wine gallery and a cigar bar can also be found within the restaurant. Open for lunch and dinner daily. Reservations are suggested, 407-224-2424.
Pat O’Brien’s: New Orleans themed Piano Bar with live music nightly. Menu features entrees with a spicy Cajun flair. Specialty drinks and happy hour prices available.
NBA City: Contemporary American cuisine of pasta, burgers, pizza along with a full bar while watching exclusive programming of the great stories and rivalries of the NBA and WNBA.
Latin Quarter: Music and cuisine of Central America, South America, Mexico and the Caribbean. Live entertainment adds to the authentic mix of food, drink and entertainment that is represented in all 21 Latin American nations.
Pastamoré: Casual, colorful family dining. Italian eatery reaturing full-service restaurant offerings as well as a la carte or family style menu items. To-go delicacies can be found at the Market place Cafe.
CityJazz: Along with nightly live music, this restaruant serves pasta dishes, burgers, sandwithes appetizers and more every evening.
Fans of the world's most popular wizard will be able to immerse themselves in Harry Potter's fantastical world in late 2009: Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. and Universal Orlando Resort are partnering to create the world's first interactive theme park based on the bestselling books by J.K. Rowling and blockbuster feature films.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is planned as a theme park within a theme park, and the new environment will become part of the experience within Universal's Islands of Adventure theme park in Orlando.
"Over the years we've received thousands of letters from fans around the world wishing they could visit Hogwarts," said Barry Meyer, Chairman and CEO of Warner Bros. Entertainment. "With Universal Orlando Resort, we are confident that we'll be able to provide Harry Potter fans with an incredible experience that upholds the richness of J.K. Rowling's books and delivers on the authentic detail portrayed in our films."
Universal say that they will remain faithful to the visual landscapes of the Potter films, and visitors will be able to visit the village of Hogsmeade, the mysterious Forbidden Forest, and even Hogwarts castle itself. As well as rides and attractions, guests can sample wizardly restaurants and a secret "state-of-the-art attraction."
"The plans I've seen look incredibly exciting, and I don't think fans of the books or films will be disappointed," said author J.K. Rowling.
Disney World, Universal Orlando & SeaWorld Announce New Attractions for 2009
Move over, Cinderella, Snow White and Ariel: The Disney Fairies are on their way.
Preparing for the Oct. 28 release of a straight-to-DVD animated children's movie about Tinker Bell, Walt Disney World is about to open a walk-through attraction in the Magic Kingdom based on, and featuring, that pixie and four other Disney Fairies characters.
The Disney Fairies are a new set of characters, developed for books, movies, Internet games and merchandise, that expand the role of the always-popular Tinker Bell. Four DVD movies are in the works. The theme park's Pixie Hollow attraction opens Oct. 24 in Mickey's Toontown Fair.
"This is a franchise that is soon to be like our princesses franchise," declared Francois Leroux, a vice president of character programs with Walt Disney World Entertainment, who introduced the characters to the media on Wednesday in downtown Orlando.
The theme-park fairies made their debut as Disney World officials briefed the news media on a broad range of plans and strategies, from minority-owned business contracting to the recently announced "celebrations" campaign in 2009 to a cross-promotion with the Disney-owned ESPN cable-TV network that will result in the renaming of Disney World's athletic complex as the ESPN Wide World of Sports.
While company officials had cautioned that they had no intention of using the forum to announce a major iconic attraction, the briefing had many close Disney observers wondering when or if the giant resort might unveil plans for new rides in 2009 or beyond. Disney has often used such briefings to announce big new rides, shows, restaurants and hotels.
Rivals Universal Orlando and SeaWorld Orlando are both building new, signature roller coasters for next summer, and the following year Universal is opening the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, one of the most highly anticipated theme-park attractions in the world.
"This is the first time in our 15 years of covering the Walt Disney World scene that there isn't a single announced new attraction for any of the four parks," Simon Veness, co-author with his wife, Susan Veness, of the Brit Guide to Orlando & Walt Disney World, wrote in an e-mail.
In February, Disney announced a new game-show venue: a theme-park version of the hit Fox TV show American Idol. But that show initially was to open late this year; Disney now says it's likely to open early next. Disney has not announced any iconic attractions to follow that.
"It's also unusual given that Universal is coming out with both barrels blazing in the next couple of years," said Robert Niles editor of the blog Theme Park Insider.
In addition to Pixie Hollow and the American Idol Experience, upcoming attractions include new street parties; a new technology-based game tied to the Disney animated TV show Kim Possible; a big family restaurant in Downtown Disney called T-Rex; and other dining and entertainment expansions in Downtown Disney. This past summer, the company opened a major new ride called Toy Story Midway Mania, Disney World spokeswoman Jacquee Polak said.
"We continue to grow in traditional and nontraditional ways," Polak said. "We are going to continue to focus on delivering experiences that only Disney can provide."
John Frost, editor of The Disney Blog, a popular Internet source of news and commentary, considers 2009 "essentially a planned off year for Disney."
"With just American Idol opening next year, Walt Disney World is really relying a lot on this year's crop of new attractions. Toy Story Midway Mania is great, and they probably haven't gotten all the yardage they can out of that as far as attracting new guests," Frost said. "The Pixie Hollow Disney Fairies experience isn't an attendance driver, except for a very small target market."
John Gerner, a theme-park industry analyst with Leisure Business Advisers of Virginia, said Disney World is in a position where it does not have to add major rides all the time.
"As a strategy, one thing you don't necessarily try to do is expand the same year your competition does. It doesn't tend to serve either player," Gerner said. "The fact that Universal is putting in the big Potter area may have Disney saying, 'Let's pause and see what happens, and then we'll follow up.' "
To capitalize on both ESPN's popularity and the existing Disney's Wide World of Sports brand, Disney will rename its athletic complex ESPN Wide World of Sports.
"You really want to focus on your equities. One equity is ESPN. The other one is the fact that over the last 12 years we have built an enormous amount of equity behind the Wide World of Sports brand," said Ken Potrock, senior vice president for sports enterprises. "Not necessarily the ABC-Jim McKay brand, but the Wide World of Sports the Complex brand."
Halloween Events in Orlando offer Spooktacular Fun
Each year, Central Florida's theme parks put their scariest foot forward for Halloween with everything from a headless horseman to haunted houses.
Two of the parks present family friendly parties. At two others -- call them "scream parks" -- it's never too soon to panic with nightmarish events fit only for the most fearless.
Here's what's on tap for 2008:
Horror Nights at Universal Orlando: Universal Orlando warns this event "may be too intense for young children" and rightly (and scarily) so. Now in its 18th year, visitors feel as if their worst nightmares are about to take shape during Horror Nights. No where is safe –in the houses, in the streets, ghastly, ghostly, ghoulish creatures make their presence felt and chilling haunted houses with bizarre themes dare the intrepid to go in.
Halloween Horror Nights are presented on Sept. 26-27; Oct. 2-5, 9-12, 16-19, 22-26, 29-31; and Nov. 1.
Visitors are not allowed to wear costumes or masks.
Single night admission is $69.99 (a variety of other tickets are offered including Frequent Fear Passes for more economical multiple visits; and Stay and Scream tickets, which are upgraded tickets that have Horror Nights added to regular daytime Universal Orlando parks' admission). Halloween Horror Nights Packages including one or more nights of lodging in Orlando, tickets and other features are priced from $209 for two adults.
Howl-O-Scream at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay: Blood-curdling and spine-tingling scares await the daring at this annual event that is a nightmare of inescapable fear with surprises that border on the psychotic. This year, Howl-O-Scream feat ures new haunted houses, scare zones and thrilling shows, as well as bone-chilling coasters in the dark to keep you screaming into the night. Intended for adult audiences only, Howl-O-Scream is presented on 17 select nights Oct. 2-Nov. 1 (a Freaky Preview is featured on Sept. 26-27). General admission is $64.95. A variety of Unlimited Fear passes is offered including the Recurring Nightmare: 10 nights for the price of one, $64.95; Freaky Preview tickets are $44.95.
Mickey's Not-So Scary Halloween Party: One of the not-to-be-missed attractions of this annual event in the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World is Mickey's Boo-To-You Halloween Parade featuring a spooky headless horseman and the Disney characters parading around in their costumes –so you can bring your costume too.
The family friendly party also offers opportunities to go trick-or-treating at a variety of locations in the park, and the Magic Kingdom's most popular attractions are open for the evening. The Happy HalloWishes Fireworks display, where Disney villains go trick-or-treating in the sky, is one of the evening's highlights.
"My daughters want to go trick-or-treating so I bring them here. I's fun, it's safe, and I don't have to worry," said Rachel Myers of Lakeland, who visited last year.
Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is presented on select evenings from Sept. 5 to Oct. 31. Advance tickets (available some evenings) are $42.95 (ages 3-9) and $48.95 (ages 10 and up). Day of event tickets cost $49.95 (ages 3-9) and $55.95 (ages 10 and up).
Spooktacular at Sea World Orlando: Halloween meets the sea during this park's "Spooktacular," a "Fantasea" that offers fun for the whole family on Oct. 4-5- 11-12, 18-19, 24-26 and 31. This annual event features the opportunity for costumed children to go trick-or-treating among friendly sea witches, mermaids, octopuses and pumpkin fish.
Celebrating Sea World's new partnership with Sesame Street, The Count joins in the fun with his own character breakfast.
Shamu's Happy Harbor area is transformed into an autumn festival, adorned with scarecrows and pumpkins. Strolling entertainment includes 35 fanciful sea creatures and at a Frozen Fun Zone an ice witch and DJ entertain with interactive activities. The Halloween festivities begin at 11 a.m. on the selected days and are included in regular admission to the park: $69.95 for adults; $59.95 for children ages 3 to 9.
Sea World Orlando also offers Spooky Spectacular Family Sleepovers. Participants may dress up in their favorite costume, come face to face with stealthy stingrays and those terrors of the deep: sharks. Kids can trick-or-treat around the park's spooktacular exhibits. Your final resting place is at the Shark Encounter pavilion.
The sleepovers are designed for families with children in kindergarten through the fifth grade and run from 7 p.m. to 9 a.m. the following day. Included are a snack and continental breakfast.
Cost is $78 per person or $113 to include park admission. Sleepover dates are Oct. 19, 20, 26 and 27.
Halloween at Cypress Gardens in Winter Haven: This year Cypress Gardens is celebrating Halloween with festivities that include trick-or-treating for the children on Oct. 31 and a concert on Nov. 1. The festivities are included in regular park admission.
Information courtesy of South Florida Sun-Sentinel
• Through November 09, 2008 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Disney's premier fall event held at Epcot. Savor the flavors, sights and sounds from around the world. The daily "Eat to the Beat" concert series includes favorite performers from the 60's & 70's. Included with general admission.
• October 02, 2008 1st Thursday's Themed happy hour on the first Thursday of each month at the Orlando Museum of Art from 6pm - 9pm. For more info: 407-896-4231 x 260. Admission charge.
• October 03, 2008 Date Night at Leu Gardens Bring a picnic basket and a blanket to enjoy a family-friendly movie under the stars at beautiful Leu Gardens. Admission charge.
• October 04 - 05, 2008 Town of Celebration Sidewalk Sale The community of Celebration is having their annual Porch and Yard Sale. Free admission.
• October 04 - 05, 2008 Vintage Venture at Lakeridge Winery Central Florida's popular winery features live 50's & 60's music along with food, wine and a vintage car show. For more info: 1-800-768-WINE. Admission charge of $2.00.
• October 04, 2008 1st Saturdays at OMA Creative Programs for children held the first Saturday of every month from 10am till noon at the Orlando Museum of Art. For more info: 407- 896-4231 x 262. Admission charge.
• October 10, 2008 The Mount Dora Art Stroll A festive evening of art, music and hors d'oeuvres designed to showcase regional art at several walkable venues through out Downtown Mount Dora. For more info: 352-383-2165. Free admission.
• October 10 - 11, 2008 Ocktoberfest Celebrate Ocktoberfest with the community of Celebration. Free admission.
• October 10 - 12, 2008 Mount Dora Annual Bicycle Festival Attracting 1,500 cyclists; this is Florida's oldest and largest bicycling event! With rides of varying lengths and skill levels, cyclists of all ages. For more info: 352-383-2165.
• October 11, 2008 Fall Festival Enjoy fun activities, from dancers featuring music from each decade, food vendors, an old-timer athletic event and a classic car show at the St. Cloud Civic Center. For more info: 407-892-3671. Free admission.
• October 11, 2008 Viva Osceola At Kissimmee's Lakefront Park, this Latin festival known for it's cultural musicians and artists also features a large selection of Spanish cuisine. For more info: 407-847-3174. Free admission.
• October 09 - 12, 2008 Southern Women's Show Held at the Orange County Convention Center. Take a day off to recharge and refresh. Tips and ideas for cooking, healthy living, savvy shopping and current fashion. Admission charge.
• October 13, 2008 Taste of Altamonte Annual event held at Cranes Roost Park in Uptown Altamonte. Samplings from some on Altamonte's best restaurants. One price includes food, music and entertainment. For more info: 407-262-2773. Admission charge.
• October 16 - 19, 2008 Biketoberfest During Biketoberfest, thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts head to Daytona Beach for this international award-winning motorcycle festival. For more info: 386-255-0415.
• October 17, 2008 Ghost Stories at Leu Gardens Bring a blanket or chair and hear some spooky stories under the start. Food and treats will be available for purchase. For more info: 407-246-2620. Admission charge.
• October 17, 2008 Cinema in the Park Free family movies on the third Friday of each month at Centennial Park in Sanford. Bring the family and a blanket or chairs for the 7:30pm showing of this month’s movie. For more info: 407-302-5815. Free admission.
• October 17, 2008 Mount Dora At Nite Celebrate the third Friday of each month with live entertainment, great food and shopping in Downtown Mount Dora. For more info: 352-383-5451. Free admission.
• October 17, 2008 Cocktails & the Cosmos Enjoy a night of relaxation and entertainment as the Orlando Science Center celebrates the premiere of its newest addition to the Dr. Phillips Cinedome, Grand Canyon. Relax on the SunTrust terrace with specialty drinks, food, and charming company all within a casual and friendly atmosphere. For more info: 407-514-2000. Admission Charge.
• October 20, 2008 Storytelling at Leu Gardens Stories at 3 times for different aged children on the third Monday of the month. For more info: 407-246-2620. Free admission.
• October 24, 2008 Harbor Nights Wine Tasting & Jazz Universal Orlando's Portofino Bay Hotel is host to a wine tasting and jazz event that captures the spirit of the Mediterranean. The event includes select wines, food samples, live jazz and hand-rolled cigars at the hotel's Harbor Piazza. For more info: 407-503-1200. Admission charge.
• October 25 - 26, 2008 Mount Dora Annual Craft Fair Nationally ranked juried event attracts over 250,000 visitors and over 350 of the best crafters in the county. For more info: 352-735-1191. Free admission.
• October 30, 2008 Velvet Sessions Rock & Roll Happy Hour held the last Thursday of the month. Cover charge varies according to the month's theme.
• October 31, 2008 Halloween Universal Orlando Resort is celebrating with Halloween Horror Nights, while Disney World gears activities towards family with Mickey’s Not- So Scary Halloween Party. SeaWorld is hosting Halloween Spooktacular, a family-friendly event combing Halloween and Sea Creatures.
Treat Yourself to Universal Orlando's Character Breakfast
Breakfast is not just the most important meal of the day — now it’s the most fun. Start off your morning at Universal Orlando Resort with a delicious and entertaining breakfast with some of your favorite characters. Bring the whole family and dine with such popular characters as Spider-Man and The Cat in the Hat at Universal’s Islands of Adventure’s Confisco Grille each Thursday through Sunday morning from park opening until 10:30 a.m.
The hearty buffet breakfast features a delicious assortment of items created by Universal’s award-winning chefs, including scrambled eggs, French toast, sausage, biscuits and gravy, potatoes, bacon, fresh fruit and assorted breakfast pastries (items subject to change). The breakfast is $17.95 for adults and $11.95 for children, plus tax and gratuity. Theme park admission is separate. For reservations, call 407-224-4012.
There’s no better way to begin your day of excitement at Universal Orlando than by meeting some of your favorite heroes for breakfast at Islands of Adventure. It’s fun for the whole family. Universal’s Islands of Adventure is just one of two amazing theme parks at Universal Orlando Resort. It’s located right next door to Universal Studios, and adjacent to the Universal CityWalk entertainment complex, which sits between the entrances to both parks.
Halloween is a time when kids can dress as their favorite cartoon character, trick or treat endlessly and stuff themselves with mammoth amounts of candy. But, Halloween is also a time when adults can embrace the scarier side of life, like haunted houses, ghosts and goblins and scream-inducing events. Universal Resort in Orlando, Florida welcomes the holiday of Halloween more so than any other Orlando Theme Park, transforming into a fright-fest of park created for only the bravest of the brave.
From September 26 through November 1, on select nights, Universal Orlando Resort will celebrate its 18th Annual Halloween Horror Nights. This year, the theme for Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights Orlando is Urban Legends, and Bloody Mary herself is serving as the scare-inducing host of this bone-chilling event. Promising to bring the most frightening urban legends to life, Universal Resort is the place to be for Halloween. There are more scare zones, scare actors, the most haunted houses ever and all new fear-filled live shows.
The transformation of Universal Resort into a horrifying Halloween haunt requires a lot of work on behalf of the park staff, but for Halloween revelers who love nothing more than to be scared out of their mind this time of year, there is no better place to be. From the nightmarish labyrinths of haunted houses to the mutants and monsters crawling the street, this Orlando Theme Park takes the horror of Halloween to an all new level. In fact, the event is so impressive in its scope it was voted “The Country’s Best Halloween Event” by Amusement Today.
Universal Orlando Resort Halloween Horror Night Packages are available for those who seek the terror of Halloween. With option one, guest can choose to attend just the Halloween Horror Nights event. Option two offers guests the chance to spend the day at the park enjoying Universal Studios or Universal’s Islands of Adventure while capping of their night admission to the Halloween Horror Night event. Both packages are a great deal, and provide a great way for revelers to enjoy this October holiday.
Universal Orlando Resort will be overtaken by Bloody Mary, Zombies and Monsters for Halloween Horror Nights on these select dates:
September 26-27
October 2-5, 9-12, 16-19, 22-26, 29-31
November 1
Prepare yourself for blood-curdling scares, spine-chilling screams and an event you won’t soon forget…because it will haunt your dreams!
Universal Orlando, Disney World win Awards from Amusement Today
SeaWorld Orlando, Universal Orlando's Halloween Horror Nights and Epcot's "Illuminations" were the word's best marine life park, Halloween event and outdoor night show this past year, according to Amusement Today.
All three won at least one of the magazine and website's 25 Golden Ticket Awards, presented in an annual awards ceremony held Wednesday in Kissimmee. The awards were based on international surveys of the magazine's database of experienced and well-traveled amusement park fans, and the surveys were weighted to balance geographic regions.
Cedar Point in Sandusky, Ohio, and Schlitterbahn Water Park in New Braunfels, Texas, both repeated as overall-champions, as Best Amusement Park and Best Water Park. SeaWorld Orlando also was a repeat winner overall-champ, as Best Marine Life Park.
That was the only award SeaWorld Orlando garnered in the 2008 Golden Tickets, the 11th annual. And the Best Outdoor Night Show Golden Ticket given to Epcot for "Illuminations: Reflections of the Earth" was the only Golden Ticket given Walt Disney World.
Universal Orlando, however, cleaned up among specific attractions. Besides the Golden Ticket for Halloween Horror Nights Universal also won for Dudley Do-Right's Ripsaw Falls at Islands of Adventure, named Best Water Ride; The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man, also at Islands, named Best Dark Ride; and Revenge of the Mummy at Universal Studios, named Best Indoor Roller Coaster.
Ay Carumba! The Simpsons Ride at Universal Orlando is Fun!
The new Simpsons Ride at Universal Orlando Resort has become a popular ride in a time span of less than 3 months. In fact, the ride is so popular it broke Universal’s previous ride record and had 1 million riders in just two months. With so much hype surrounding the new attraction, from both fans and critics alike, I had to go see for myself if the ride was truly a “Cowabunga Dude!” or “Eat My Shorts” experience.
After discovering Krustyland, the base of operations for the new ride, I quickly (or as quick as one can without a Universal Express pass) got a place in line and waited. And waited. And waited some more. Yes, there was a tremendous line for The Simpsons Ride, but this is the general case with any new attraction, so I wasn’t that surprised. Plus, they had flat screen televisions displayed throughout the winding line area so a glimpse of Simpson humor was never too far from the eyes. In addition, there were also fans placed throughout the line area which made the Orlando July heat a little more bearable. By the time I got close to the simulator room, my anticipation was high and I still had nothing but a vague idea of what the ride was actually going to be. Everyone at the park was clamoring to ride it, even more said how great it was, but no one could really explain the ride. After I rode it, I realized why.
Once I reached the end of the line, or the beginning, depending on your perspective, my fellow passengers and I were taken to “simulator” rooms. After entering the room, you climb into an 8 passenger roller-coaster style cart and are safely strapped in. Then, the real fun begins! The virtual reality aspect of the ride truly hits a home run, as I was right there with Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa and Maggie as they ventured through the fictional theme park of Krustyland. The effect is created by state-of-the-art digital projectors that cover an 80 ft. diameter dome surface with an image four times the standard High Definition found in most home theaters, and twice what you’d experience in a normal digital theater. The cart you are seated in moves, shakes, tilts and turns in accordance with the onscreen movements, producing an innovative and surprising thrill I have not experienced at any other attraction. The way the unique elements of the ride combine is the magic, if you will, that makes The Simpsons Ride popular, and undoubtedly, why it will remain popular.
Orlando Vacation Packages Offer Family Fun at a Discount
ReserveDirect provides some of the best ways to save money on your Orlando, Florida vacation. Their website, ReserveOrlando.com, is home to some of the best Orlando discounts out there and is a reliable, secure and convenient way to reserve your Orlando vacation. Orlando Vacation Packages are also available on ReserveOrlando.com, and are an easy way to outline your time in Orlando.
The Orlando Vacation Packages we offer are completely customizable and can be tailored to fit your dream Orlando adventure or to fit a vacationer on a budget. Our Disney World Resort packages, for example, allow guests to choose if they would like to visit the park for a few days or an extended period of up to ten days. Plus, you get the choice of Park Hopper, Waterpark Fun and More! and No Expiration options if you would like to upgrade. Tuscana Resort, WorldQuest and Mona Lisa Suite Hotel are the three main properties featured with our Disney World packages, but other preferred lodging options are available.
Universal Resort Orlando is also an Orlando visitor favorite, and is a wonderful way to spend your time in Central Florida. Tuscana Resort, WorldQuest and Mona Lisa are featured on these packages as well, and the same great options are available as well. With our Universal Resort Orlando packages you have your choice of ticket type including One Day, Two Day and Two Park Unlimited Tickets options. Then, select the number of nights that fits your vacation. It’s just that easy! Other hotel options are available.
Universal Resort's The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Still a Mystery
A ride, shop and eatery reportedly are being refurbished and will reopen as part of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter attraction at Universal Orlando.
The Orlando Sentinel reported the theme park's Flying Unicorn children's roller coaster, the Enchanted Oak Tavern restaurant, the Dragon's Keep store and the Alchemy Bar have all been closed down and are being refurbished to incorporate themes from the wildly popular series of Harry Potter books and films.
Licensed by author J.K. Rowling and Warner Bros. Entertainment, the Potter attractions area is expected to open in late 2009 or early 2010.
The 20-acre area will include rides, shops, restaurants and theme-park versions of Hogwarts Castle and Hogsmeade Village, the Sentinel said.
Universal declined to give away too many details about its plans.
"It's too soon to talk about specifics," spokesman Tom Schroder told the newspaper.
Information courtesy of United Press International
Universal Orlando has announced that its new 'The Simpsons Ride' has already reached the 1 million rider mark -- making the ride the fastest to hit the mark in the resort's history.
The ride had its millionth rider on the night of July 14. Since it opened on May 15 this year, it took just two months for the attraction to hit the seven figure rider mark.
'The Simpsons Ride' replaced the old 'Back to the Future: The Ride', which was at the resort for nearly 16 years. In the ride, patrons are shown characters and adventures from the popular TV show and taken to 'Krustyland' built by Krusty the Clown. However, riders must be on their toes as Sideshow Bob is loose from prison to get revenge on Krusty and the Simpson family.
Dion Fenderson, who was on vacation from Detroit with his wife and two sons, was the millionth rider.
Grueling-hot summertime visits to theme parks can be alleviated with turns on one of their water-thrill rides. Take a whirl through this Orlando guide to H2O zones and discover which ones are worth getting soaked to the bone.
Water, water, everywhere: Its surrounding environment is incredibly green and gorgeous -- with the exception of the ruins left by illegal loggers, which are impressive in their own way. Ride is divided just enough from park for an immersive experience. Serious drawback: visit too brief. Vessel: Round raft, seats 12, seat belts strap in two people apiece. (Height requirement: 38 inches)
Splashdown lowdown: Hills are straightaway fun, contrasting with the tranquil flat stretches.
Saturation point: A drenching, equivalent to a bucket of water poured over you.
Water, water everywhere: Ride runs through classic cartoon settings with sound effects and sight gags. Early drops don't get riders as wet as the following splash that comes over the sides and into laps.
Vessel: Log-flume style, seating five, single-file with lap bars -- which upsets fans who want more hang time. It's a snug fit, a challenge for the hippy and leggy. (Height requirement: 44 inches)
Splashdown lowdown: Dramatic drop looks just as steep from inside the log as it does from the sidelines. Brace yourself for a bounce at the end.
Saturation point: You'll probably get good and wet, but if you escape reasonably dry, beware of onlookers who will pay 25 cents to fire a water cannon at your smug, dry self.
Water, water everywhere: Comprehensive theme successfully places guests in the movie setting. The soundtrack helps at start and finish. Dinosaurs craftily distract from impending drop.
Vessel: Boat with five rows of five seats and pull-down bar. (Height requirement: 42 inches)
Splashdown lowdown: Ride ends with a bang and a giant splash. Depending on your seat and the weight distribution, you might not get soaked. Heavier cargo (yeah, I'm talking about you) equals bigger waves.
Saturation point: Ranges from damp to dunked, especially in the face. A better guarantee is the splash zone that runs alongside the finale.
Water, water everywhere: Surprisingly steep ride with churning, side-to-side action and several opportunities for overhead waterings. Nice velocity in flat stretches.
Water, water everywhere: Although signage indicates a "high-seas adventure," it's more like "it's a small world" with puffins, polar bears and trolls.
Vessel: Viking ship of four rows, no restraints, no height requirement.
Splashdown lowdown: Although the ship briefly peeks outside the ride before diving into scream-filled darkness, it's not nearly as harrowing as it sounds.
Saturation point: Relax. You're more likely to get wet from heartfelt tears in the five-minute film that follows.
More than 75,000 votes have been cast and it is time to announce the winners in the 2008 Theme Park Insider Awards.
These awards are selected by you, ThemeParkInsider.com's readers, in year-long ratingsof the thousands of rides, shows, restaurants and hotels listed on the site. They represent the best of the best in the theme park industry, and stand among many close runners-up in providing outstanding value for a family theme park vacation.
Walt Disney World's Animal Kingdom Lodge reclaims this honor for the third time. "Every part of the hotel from the room, to the view, to the food, and the cast members made this resort one of a kind," one Theme Park Insider reader wrote.
All "on-property" hotels at theme park resorts worldwide are eligible for the Best Theme Park Hotel Award. In addition to the Animal Kingdom Lodge, Theme Park Insider readers highly rated two other hotels that stand among the Top Three Best Theme Park Hotels in the World:
The park that started the worldwide theme park craze reclaims its crown, winning Theme Park Insider readers' top award for 2008. Disney's always had the most loyal fans in the theme park business, but even casual fans are falling back in love with this park, thanks to recent renovations and fresh attractions. With Pirates of the Caribbean and the Indiana Jones Adventure, Disneyland had two of the top four rides in the country in Theme Park Insider's recent "Best Ride in America" tournament, and qualified more attractions for that tournament than any other single theme park in the world.
In addition to Disneyland, Theme Park Insider readers honored two other parks as among Top Three Best Theme Parks in the World:
Orlando's Universal Resort Winner of Best New Attraction, Best Restaurant
More than 75,000 votes have been cast and it is time to announce the winners in the 2008 Theme Park Insider Awards.
These awards are selected by you, ThemeParkInsider.com's readers, in year-long ratings of the thousands of rides, shows, restaurants and hotels listed on the site. They represent the best of the best in the theme park industry, and stand among many close runners-up in providing outstanding value for a family theme park vacation.
So let's get to it, starting with the one award that changes every year:
These twin rides debuted on consecutive days in May and wowed fans with their mix of irreverent humor and physical thrills. Theme Park Insider readers said that The Simpsons Ride is "hilarious, thrilling, and visually astounding" and that even "the waiting is enjoyable."
Mark Woodbury, President, Universal Creative, Universal Parks & Resorts said of the honor, "The Simpsons Ride represents what Universal does best - which is to take pop culture's blockbuster entertainment concepts and bring them to life in wildly entertaining theme park experiences. We appreciate the recognition and share it with our partners at Fox Licensing and Gracie Films, who helped us create a truly authentic Simpsons experience."
Attractions that opened to the public in theme and amusement parks worldwide between June 1, 2007 and May 31, 2008 were eligible for the Best New Attraction award. In addition to The Simpsons Ride, Theme Park Insider readers highly two other rides that stand among the Top Three Best New Attractions of the Year:
For the sixth consecutive year, Mythos wins Theme Park Insider's honor as the world's best theme park restaurant. Readers lauded Mythos for "great prices, great food and great service" as well as "wonderful atmosphere."
Ric Florell, Senior Vice President/General Manager, Resort Revenue Operations at Universal Orlando said of the honor, "With Mythos, our team set out to create an entirely new level of theme park dining experience. It was to be an experience that blended extraordinary food with extraordinary atmosphere. The continued recognition Mythos receives shows we have been - and continue to be - successful. We're grateful for the recognition. More importantly, our team is grateful for the opportunity to continue to thrill our guests."
All table-service restaurants located within the gates of theme and amusement parks are eligible for the Best Theme Park Restaurant award. In addition to Mythos, Theme Park Insider readers highly rated two other restaurants that stand among the Top Three Best Theme Park Restaurants in the World:
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.
7) Get a Central Florida Play Pass. This 7-day pass features unlimited admission to seven unique and out of the ordinary attractions and museums, including Cypress Gardens, Fantasy of Flight and Bok Tower Gardens. The pass is flexible, you can come and go as much as you like at each location, plus it’s a great value for families!
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!
Universal Studios Orlando Features Thrills, Chills & Spills
Universal Studios Orlando is a massive 400+ acre vacation destination with thrilling rides, production studios, film sets, a water park and onsite luxury hotels. Located within the Universal Orlando Resort area, this Florida attraction features four exciting entertainment experiences in one location and includes over 40 exciting rides and 3-D shows based on pop culture's most compelling films and television shows.
Universal as a company has been known for terror for many years, and with its emphasis on Universal’s legendary film catalog, Universal Studios Orlando does not disappoint. Thrill seekers will love the action and adventure lurking around every corner and the many rides and attractions that make them feel like they are living out some of their favorite scenes. A 'Ride the Movies' concept links all the attractions found throughout Universal Studios’ four distinct areas listed below:
1. Universal Studios Orlando has six themed sections in a Hollywood back lot area where guests can enjoy attractions based on some Hollywood favorites. The Production Central area features the attractions “Shrek 4-D” and “Jimmy Neutron’s Nicktoon Blast” while the New York area features the “Revenge Of The Mummy - the Ride” roller coaster. The Hollywood area is where live action stunts and special effects come together in “Terminator 2: 3-D” and the San Francisco/Amity area is where guests can participate in live shows like “Fear Factor Live”. World Expo features the interactive ride, “Men In Black Alien Attack” while the Woody Woodpecker’s KidZone allows guests to board flying bikes and cross the sky in the “E.T. Adventure”.
2. Islands of Adventure offers a journey through five islands where attractions feature favorite comic books, cartoon heroes and children’s stories. High tech thrills include the “Incredible Hulk” and “Dueling Dragons” coasters along with the “Jurassic Park River Adventure”. During the Jurassic adventure, guests board boats and try to escape from the Raptor Containment Area full of animatronic dinosaurs and end up shooting down an eight-story drop into a pool below. For the younger ones, attractions include "The Adventures Of Spider-Man” at Marvel Superhero Island and “The Cat In The Hat” ride at Seuss Landing.
3. Universal Studios City Walk is a 30–acre entertainment complex offers live music, famous name restaurants and nightclubs, unique shopping and a 20 screen AMC Universal Cineplex. Conveniently located at the entrance to both theme parks, it also contains world-class film and television production facilities.
4. Wet 'n Wild Water Park features a variety of tube rides like the “Bomb Bay” and "Der Stuka" extreme speed slides and "The Storm" water coaster. Multi-person tube rides include the “Brain Wash” funnel ride, the “Disco H2O” raft adventure, the "Surge" and the "Bubba Tub". Other raft rides include the "The Flyer" and "The Blast" toboggan rides and the new "Black Hole:The Next Generation". The water park also has plenty of kid-friendly attractions like the "Bubble Up" inflatable bouncer and the tipping bucket, shallows and slides of the “Kids Park."
Universal Studios Orlando combines family fun with film themes and puts guests right into the center of all the action with wild rides, live shows and sneak peeks behind-the-scenes. With more vacation adventure than you could ever imagine, your next family vacation to Florida should definitely include several fun-filled days and nights at Universal Studios Orlando.
Information courtesy of Family Theme Park Vacations
Universal Orlando's Rock the Universe 2008 Showcases Music and Thrills
It's a weekend full of faith against a backdrop of theme park excitement as Universal Orlando Resort unleashes Rock the Universe 2008 on September 5th and 6th. Tickets are on sale now for guests to enjoy more than a dozen mega-talented artists who will transform Universal Studios Florida into the ultimate destination for Christian music and unforgettable thrills.
Throughout the two-day event, guests will have the opportunity to see live performances by today's hottest Christian rock bands and artists, witness moving testimonies from celebrity guest speakers and experience thrilling rides and attractions.
Rock the Universe 2008 features a powerful lineup of music ranging from contemporary Christian and hip-hop to punk. On Friday, September 5th, the event features Grammy-nominated alternative rock band Switchfoot, pop/punk rock group Relient K, contemporary Christian band Newsboys, hard-rock group Skillet, hip-hop groups Grits and Group 1 Crew and up-and-coming artist New Method. On Saturday, September 6th, internationally-acclaimed group Third Day, singer/songwriter Jeremy Camp, Grammy Award-winning band Jars of Clay, pop-punk group Stellar Kart and rock bands Leeland, This Beautiful Republic and Special D will take center stage at the event.
In addition to music, attendees of Rock the Universe 2008 will hear the life-changing testimonies of celebrity guest speakers AJ Styles and Brian "Head" Welch. Styles is one of TNA's best high-flying pro wrestlers, and Welch is the former lead guitarist of the popular rock group Korn. Thrill-seekers attending the event will also have the opportunity to enjoy immersive theme park rides and attractions at Universal Studios, including the all-new Simpsons Ride, Revenge of the Mummy – The Ride and Shrek 4-D.
Tickets are on sale now for Rock the Universe 2008. For additional information or to purchase tickets, visit www.rocktheuniverse.com or call 1-866-RTU-INFO.
Universal Orlando Resort has created some of the world's most innovative theme park attractions based on pop culture's most compelling films and stories. The resort includes two exciting theme parks – Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure; Universal CityWalk, a 30-acre entertainment complex; and three magnificently themed on-site hotels – the Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel and the Loews Royal Pacific Resort.
Disney's Hollywood Studios is becoming party central at Walt Disney World.
As it undergoes a change in theme during its 20th year, "The Studios," as the theme park is nicknamed, is adding performance venues and drawing events away from the resort's other three parks, becoming the site for most official Disney parties aimed at teens and young adults.
That party mission went largely unspoken last August, when Disney announced a slew of theme, attraction, entertainment and name changes for what had always been the giant resort's third-most-popular park, known until then as Disney-MGM Studios.
Yet Hollywood Studios -- which already possessed the most concert and show venues in Disney World, not to mention several attractions popular among youth, such as Tower of Terror -- now has a broader entertainment theme and is getting even more venues. It also is quietly grabbing a larger share of the after-hours party crowd.
Epcot appeals to older revelers with its shopping, dining, wines and flowers, and oldies acts such as Herman's Hermits. Magic Kingdom's parties offer visitors an array of princesses and pirates, as well as Mickey and Minnie Mouse.
Hollywood Studios is ready for those who want to rock.
"Now, with the new venues coming on board . . . and with our major attractions, that kind of resonates with these age groups, with the teens coming in," said Rilous Carter, Disney World vice president for Disney's Hollywood Studios.
Already home to three major annual bashes -- including this month's Star Wars Weekends -- and a number of annual after-hours private parties, The Studios also is taking over Disney World's annual high school "grad nights" and its annual "Night of Joy" Christian music festivals. Both grad nights and Night of Joy had until now taken place in Magic Kingdom. Disney's eighth-grade grad nights made the move to The Studios this year from Animal Kingdom. Last year, The Studios grabbed the High School Musical Pep Rally from Magic Kingdom.
"We think this is probably a better fit for these age groups," Carter said. "Magic Kingdom is a great venue -- they've loved it over the years. But this gives it [a youth-oriented event] more concert venues to stage musical shows or dance floors.
For most of its history, The Studios has been a solid third in popularity behind Magic Kingdom and Epcot in terms of general-admission attendance. But last year it narrowly missed being overtaken by Disney's Animal Kingdom, the resort's newest theme park, where attendance has been growing at faster rates in recent years.
"I think this is our year," said Carter, the park's chief executive.
In addition, a new indoor concert venue to be called the Premiere Theater is being fashioned from an unused open-air theater. The air-conditioned venue will soon be joined by the American Idol Experience theater and two other stadiums that can each hold thousands of people. Large temporary stages and dance floors are also easily erected in front of the park's Rock 'n' Roller Coaster and its giant Sorcerer's Hat.
Ronald Logan, a former Disney park-entertainment executive who now is an associate professor at the University of Central Florida's Rosen College of Hospitality Management, said Disney World designs its show venues to be available for alternative uses, provided those uses fit the surrounding park's overall theme. With the added venues and other changes, The Studios is now much more flexible in that regard, he said.
"There has been a broadening of the whole mission and theme, where you can address anything you want," Logan said.
Still, unlike Universal Studios' signature events -- Mardi Gras and Halloween Horror Nights -- after-hours events in Disney's Hollywood Studios might never feature such edgy entertainment as Kid Rock or the Bill & Ted shows. Not the official events, anyway. But like all theme parks, Hollywood Studios is available for rent, and under private control, the various show facilities could take on a different tone.
Orlando's CityWalk Entertainment Calendar for June 2008
Orlando CityWalk is an eclectic collection of themed restaurants, nightclubs, specialty shops and a 20-screen movie theatre. Universal CityWalk is Orlando’s hottest spot for entertainment, boasting the biggest names in live music, dining, dancing, movies and more.
Special Events at CityWalk
Hart & Huntington Tattoo Company – One Year Anniversary Celebration All month long Enjoy special savings and treats all month long at the world-famous Hart & Huntington tattoo shop! -10% off all merchandise, Monday – Friday, 12 – 6pm -Free temporary tattoo for kids (1 per child, while supplies last) -$50 off tattoos for Florida Residents with ID
S.O.B. Fridays at Pat O’Brien’s Orlando – Shrimp, Oysters and Beer Every Friday in June ~ 7PM – 9PM Kick back and enjoy great food and beer specials at Orlando’s favorite New Orleans-style watering hole.
Hospitality Night throughout CityWalk Thursday Nights ~ 10PM – Close Beer, cocktail, food and non-alcoholic drink specials Club hop non-stop with live music and entertainment at all venues Free admission and free parking Some venues require ages 21 or older (valid photo ID required) Industry ID or paycheck stub required for discounts
Restaurants and Clubs at CityWalk
Bob Marley – A Tribute to Freedom Legendary Thursdays ~ 8PM – Close 1/2 price select appetizers and Red Stripe Beer specials
CityWalk Promenade Orange Avenue plays on Fridays, Saturdays and other select dates
the groove XL at the groove – SKYY’s Jet Set Fridays Signature martinis, bottle service, SKYY drink specials and more Hosted by WXXL 106.7 FM
Teen Nights at the groove Wednesdays ~ June 4, 11, 18, 25; 8PM – 12AM Mondays ~ June 9, 16, 23, 30; 8PM – 12AM
Come listen to live DJs spin all of today’s hits, and experience state-of-the-art sound, lighting and video Ages 15 – 19 welcome. Bring your school ID or driver’s license for admission.
Entertainment : DJs nightly
Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville Locals Night – Thursdays Enjoy drink specials, live rock entertainment and a chance to win prizes Guests receive free admission with a Florida ID or a college ID after 10PM
Entertainment Blue Stone Circle ~ Tuesday – Saturday Fred Ramos Band ~ Sunday – Monday Lone Palm-DJ Bo Wilson ~ Thursday – Sunday Patio ~ Live music nightly
Latin Quarter Ladies Night with Rumba 100.3FM – Thursdays Reggaeton/freestyle dance party from 10PM – 2AM Ladies drink free (select beverages) from 10PM – 12AM
Entertainment Alejandro Kartal ~ Monday – Saturday George Dimitrov ~ Sundays
NASCAR Sports Grille Featuring the following sporting events: – “RACE Night” on Thursdays. Ask about the RACE VIP Card for drink, food and game specials from 7PM to close
NBA City All sports, all the time Happy Hour daily ~ 4PM – 7PM
Pat O’Brien’s Orlando Dueling Piano Bar – Live music nightly 2 for Tuesdays ~ 4PM – 10PM, select beer specials
Red Coconut Club Nightly Happy Hour Sunday – Thursday, 8PM – 10PM; Friday and Saturday, 6PM – 9PM $5 Martinis and complimentary valet parking
Ladies Night every Thursday ~ 8PM – Close Ladies receive complimentary admission, valet parking and $3 martinis all evening
In Crowd Hospitality Sundays ~ Sundays at 10PM Free admission for members of the hospitality industry all evening Drink specials starting at $2 with your ID or hospitality pay stub
Entertainment Shifty Eyed Dog ~ Thursday – Saturday DJs nightly
Universal Cineplex 20, an AMC Theatre The Incredible Hulk – June 13, 2008 Wanted – June 27, 2008
Central Florida theme parks' new attractions — unveiled each year to welcome summer visitors — are like a red carpet rolled out for fun. For 2008, highlights include a whole new water park, a new wildlife area at another park, and a prize giveaway and a new interactive attraction at yet another.
SeaWorld Orlando's new water park, Aquatica, is on International Drive, across the street from SeaWorld. The 59-acre playground is themed to the South Seas islands with crystal rivers, grottoes, waterfalls, rich greenery, flowers and exotic fauna, including macaws and kookaburras. Aquatica offers animal encounters, serene and extreme water experiences, high-speed thrills and a white sand beach. Water — 3.3 million gallons of it — flows freely in lagoons, rivers and racing rides.
Attractions include two wave pools lined by wide sandy beaches, Adventure River with rapids, Lazy River with a grotto filled with thousands of fish and an underwater view of the Commerson's dolphins' habitat, a double raft ride, and an eight-lane racer with a 300-foot slide and tunnels. The park's signature ride has 300 feet of clear tubes that send visitors speeding through a lagoon filled with black and white Commerson's dolphins. Other park amenities include a children's area, family play area, and personal cabanas.
Walt Disney World Resort has extended its Year of a Million Dreams through 2008, with new Disney Dreams Giveaway prizes awarded at random. These include New Year's Eve in the Cinderella Castle Suite; Disney's Bahamas private island for a day; a hot-air balloon ride over Epcot; a behind-the-scenes peek at Disney Imagineering; and the chance to serve as grand marshal leading the parks' parades in France, California, Hong Kong and Florida. Another prize is multiple yearly Disney vacations, including a Bahamian voyage on Disney Cruise Line, a tour to China or Australia or other destinations from Adventures By Disney, and trips to Disneyland and Disney World. The winner of this prize — he or she can take up to three guests — will take one trip a year through Sept. 30, 2012.
Also new at Disney World, Disney's Hollywood Studios, formerly Disney-MGM, has a whole set of attractions this year. Arguably the most exciting of these is the interactive competition of Toy Story Mania! opening May 31. Inspired by Disney-Pixar's Toy Story films, visitors to the attraction begin by donning 3-D glasses, boarding the ride and zipping into a series of midway-style games hosted by many Toy Story characters including Woody, Hamm and Rex. Inside Andy's Toy Box, visitors try to rack up the most points by using spring-action shooters to launch darts at balloons, eggs at barnyard targets and rings at aliens.
Other new attractions at Disney's Hollywood Studios include Block Party Bash, an interactive parade debuting in spring with Disney-Pixar film characters including The Incredibles, Monsters, Inc., A Bug's Life and Toy Story 2. Playhouse Disney Live on Stage! reopened in February with a new cast of characters including favorite stars from Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Little Einsteins and Handy Manny. High School Musical 2: School's Out! comes to life in the park's streets on a traveling stage, and the Meet and Greet character setting in the park's Animation Courtyard welcomes Handy Manny, in addition to regulars Jo Jo and Goliath, and the Little Einsteins.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has a new wildlife area: Jungala. The new observation area allows visitors multiple ways to see such animals as orangutans and white tigers in a jungle setting. Located in the park's Congo area, Jungala has waterways, a waterfall, and village and jungle environments. Jungala also includes a family fun section with rides and exploration areas, some of the latter being three stories high and overlooking the wildlife. In addition to close-up viewing of wildlife, Jungala offers interaction with animals and features street entertainment.
While theme park fans all over the country await the debut in 2009 of the Harry Potter environment within Universal's Islands of Adventure Park, Universal Studios unveils Disaster! A Major Motion Picture Ride… Starring You. This attraction, which replaces Earthquake, combines the drama of Earthquake with new celebrity talent, new ride elements, interactive components and a new storyline.
Also at Universal Orlando is a new simulator ride based on The Simpsons. It replaces the park's Back To The Future ride.
Cypress Gardens Adventure Park has announced a series of concerts and special events for spring and summer. Among the special family-friendly happenings is Kidzpalooza now through June 22, with dozens of interactive activities, shows, concerts and parties. Kids can get messy in the park's super-sloppy game show Gunk'd. Other special events include Celebrate America, June 27-Aug. 3, with daytime entertainment, exhibits and shows and evening live music, street performers and a nightly laser show. Wild Encounters (Aug. 8-10, 12-17, and 22-24) features close-up opportunities with animals and educational events such as keeper talks, animal experts and celebrities from Animal Planet, as well as backstage tours not regularly offered.
Orlando Theme Parks Add New Elements for Repeat Fun
High above International Drive, Wet 'n Wild patrons prepare to slide down the water park's newly revamped Black Hole attraction. Along its 500-foot plummet, they might encounter strobes, lasers, a shimmering water wall and sudden changes in temperature before splashing down.
But even if those riders immediately return to the top, they're not likely to have the same experience. That's because the ride's special effects now occur in random sequences, one of the newest techniques used by theme parks and attractions to lure customers back for a second -- or third -- round.
"Theme parks have figured out that the real money is in the repeat visitors -- getting people to come back and do the ride again and again," said Robert Niles, editor of Theme Park Insider, a Web site devoted to theme parks. "The way to do that is either create something that's just so incredible and amazing that people can't ever get enough of it -- or change it around so that it's different next time," he said.
The forerunner of the ever-changing rides is the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror at Disney's Hollywood Studios. Built in 1994, it entered multiple-personality mode five years ago when random sequencing was introduced to its 13-story plunges.Variable factors include ride time, drop length and air time. Since then, advances in technology have encouraged theme-park companies to create more attractions with user options and fluid features.
At the Wet 'n Wild ride -- now called The Black Hole: The Next Generation -- riders select one of two slides, each with different effects and sequences. Technology developed since Black Hole debuted 10 years ago can help keep it fresh, said David Wright, director of marketing for the park. "We have the ability to continually program the lights and the effects," he said. "We could change the sequencing [again]."
Toy Story Mania, a computerized shooting-gallery-style attraction now in previews at Disney's Hollywood Studios, was designed with repeat business in mind, said Imagineer Chrissie Allen, a producer for the ride.In the new 3-D ride, players launch virtual objects (darts, baseballs, cream pies) toward targets that appear on screens. It makes guests feel as though they've been shrunk to toy size to play five pint-sized arcade games.
The scoring system appears, but a video-game staple known as Easter eggs -- hidden or secret bonus targets -- can catapult a player's score. "You'll discover things each time you play," Allen said. "It gives you a higher level of challenge each time you come back and play. We have team members who haven't found all of them yet, and they've been riding hundreds of times," she said. "We think that's going to be a really big selling point for the ride."
"The way we amuse ourselves is in flux", said Niles of Theme Park Insider. "The consumer-entertainment model has changed over the past generation from passive entertainment such as movies and TV to more active entertainment like video games and the Web," he said. "So it makes sense that the theme-park industry would react to that and start introducing rides that incorporate a little bit more active technology."
Universal Studios will tap into the trend of personalized entertainment with a roller coaster set to open next spring. Hollywood Rip, Ride, Rockit will feature traditional hills and spills but also permit riders to pick their own soundtracks and create music videos of the experience. They'll be able to download those videos for use on their personal Web sites.
"It really came from the trend in youth culture of being able to customize their world -- whether it's music selections to what they watch on television to what they carry around with them for entertainment," said Mark Woodbury, president of Universal Creative for Universal Parks & Resorts. "It's important, in our thinking, to be able to transform the ride experience to that next generation, really the YouTube generation," he said.
"Technology will improve. There's a reason why [video game] Grand Theft Auto IV looks, feels, acts and behaves much differently from Pong or Breakout or early-generation video games," Niles said. "You're going to see the same type of development within the theme-park industry," he said. "I don't know if it will happen quite as impressively, quite as quickly as it did with video games. But you're definitely going to see growth and change."
New Simpsons Ride Officially Opens at Universal Orlando
"The Simpsons Ride," based on the long-running animated television series, officially opened Thursday at the Universal Orlando Resort in Florida.
The attraction features original animation starring cast members Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith, Hank Azaria and guest star Kelsey Grammer. Universal said riders are swept into Krustyland, Krusty the clown's new theme park, just as maniacal Sideshow Bob escapes from prison and takes control of the park to exact his revenge on Krusty and the Simpson family.
"Hand-picked by Krusty to be the first to ride his newest attraction, you are thrust into the middle of the action," the theme park said.
"I take with all due sense of mission and humility the opportunity to spray water and spritz baby powder at Universal patrons," "Simpsons" executive producer James L. Brooks said in a statement.
"For 20 years I've been dreaming about this, and here it is -- a wild, thrilling Simpsons Ride put together by a huge number of talented artists and amusement-park maniacs," added "Simpsons" creator Matt Groening. "We have created the ultimate Simpsons experience," said Mark Woodbury, president of Universal Creative.
The muscle of the mighty Mouse, a sprawling Disney presence that draws millions each year? The screams of kids on the roller coasters at the Universal Orlando Resort?
Since Walt Disney World opened almost 40 years ago, theme parks have transformed this area from a city surrounded by citrus groves and small communities to a booming tourist magnet. But the prosperity has also brought a less widely publicized boom: a thriving arts and culture scene.
Among Orlando's cultural riches are a professional opera company, ballet and orchestra; a Shakespeare theater company that presents everything from classics to new work; the oldest, open-to-any-group fringe theater festival in the United States; art museums that house masterpieces, folk art, modern works and a dazzling collection of pieces by stained-glass master Louis Comfort Tiffany; small theaters whose eclectic productions draw adventurous audiences to works by Bertolt Brecht and Samuel Beckett.
And on the drawing board for the fall of 2012 is another key indicator of the arts community's growth: a $425-million, three-theater downtown performing arts center.
''The growth of the arts here has been meteoric over the past 40 years,'' says Jim Helsinger, artistic director of the Orlando Shakespeare Theater, which moved into its three-theater complex in the city's museum-and-arts-focused Loch Haven Park in 2001. "In just the past 13 years, we've seen a brand-new art museum, science museum and history center and a new home for the Orlando Repertory Theatre. The opera, ballet and philharmonic are all thriving and just waiting on the new performing arts center.
"The perception needs to catch up to the reality. We have excellent arts organizations to [serve] the people who live here.''
In 1989, the aggregate budgets of Orlando's arts and culture groups were just over $10 million; almost two decades later, the figure is about $40 million. Margot Knight, president of United Arts of Central Florida -- a kind of United Way for arts and culture groups -- says that funding is about half that of the similarly sized Charlotte, N.C., metropolitan area. But she argues that the Orlando area, with its relatively young arts-and-culture community, has ''the quality and breadth to match'' Charlotte's companies and museums.
That budget disparity means that Orlando's groups and institutions have to do more with less. Terry Olson, who has been involved in Orlando arts since he relocated from Minneapolis 26 years ago and serves as director of Orange County's Arts and Cultural Affairs office, says that burnout among the area's arts leaders is one of the biggest challenges.
''We're highly productive,'' Olson says. ``Many people work 70 hours a week and then some.''
One of those multi-tasking arts leaders is Alan Bruun. Bruun works as an associate creative director for Disney and is also artistic director of the downtown-based Mad Cow Theatre Company. His motto: ``I'll sleep when I'm dead.''
Bruun began freelancing for Disney in 1998, the year after he and three associates founded Mad Cow. He went full-time with Disney 4 ½ years ago and now spends his days on Disney work, his nights and weekends at Mad Cow, which has two performance spaces and a gallery. Bruun says that Disney, far from being concerned about his split work life and long hours, has been supportive.
"When I came to work here, I said, 'I run a theater.' And they said, 'Good,' '' Bruun recalls.
"They provide year-round employment for talented people, which is unique in a city our size. They allow actors, directors, stage managers and designers to make a living. Mad Cow becomes an outlet for those talented individuals in a much different setting. Disney could be the 800-pound gorilla if it wanted to be, but whenever possible, concessions will be made [for outside work], because Disney deems it valuable.''
Disney spokesperson Andrea Finger confirms the company's philosophy: "At the heart of our business, we are a creative-content company with deep roots in entertainment, brought to life by our talented, artistic cast members. We're proud to do our part -- together with great community partners -- to support Central Florida's vibrant arts community.''
Rather than twitching at the mention of the Orlando area's tourist-magnet theme parks, most arts leaders praise Disney and Universal for their flexibility in letting employees work with arts groups or serve on boards, as well as for their financial contributions to Orlando arts and culture.
Beth Marshall, producing artistic director of Orlando's popular theatrical Fringe Festival, acknowledges that with its internationally known theme parks, Orlando is often seen as ''a city ruled by a Mouse.'' But as the theme parks have expanded, so has the region's arts-and-culture scene.
''We could create it to be whatever the heck we wanted to be,'' Marshall says. "All of us are the cultural pioneers here.''
At many arts events, the audience skews younger than it typically does in South Florida. Patrick Flick, director of new play development at Orlando Shakespeare and the man in charge of the company's annual PlayFest new works festival, points out that the median age in Orlando is just under 33 (vs. 38.7 for Miami and Fort Lauderdale) and says that the area's colleges help account for the youthfulness of the audience.
Orlando's arts groups sometimes collaborate or simply help support each other's programming. Orlando Shakespeare and the family-oriented Orlando Repertory Theatre host the Fringe Festival, which this year will present 436 performances by 67 groups May 15-May 26 at the two theaters and outdoors in Loch Haven Park.
That 45-acre park, ringed by a trio of lakes, is Orlando's cultural haven. It is home to two theater companies, two art museums and the city's science center. Frank Holt, executive director of the Mennello Museum of American Art there, says that the park "gives us all a focus, instead of being scattered.''
''It's definitely a symbiotic relationship that we are fortunate to have,'' says Marena Grant Morrisey, executive director of the Orlando Museum of Art, which was founded in 1924 and currently houses an exhibition of Norman Rockwell paintings. "We do a lot of joint ticketing and cross-promotion.''
The Orlando Ballet, the Orlando Opera and the Orlando Philharmonic, which currently juggle their seasons (along with touring Broadway productions) at the Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre (a facility that United Arts' Knight calls "acoustically and experientially poor and too in-demand''), will necessarily grow when they become anchors for the new Dr. P. Phillips Orlando Performing Arts Center.
With a 2,800-seat theater, a 1,800-seat multiform theater and a 300-seat theater, the facility designed by architect Barton Myers and theater designer Richard Pilbrow will boost art and audiences, the groups' leaders say.
Davis Gaines, whose many Broadway credits include the title role in The Phantom of the Opera, agrees. Gaines is an Orlando native who is giving back to his hometown by serving on the DPAC board; next season, he'll also sing the title role in a concert version of Sweeney Todd with the Orlando Philharmonic. He calls the Bob Carr, where he has performed many times, ''outdated and obsolete,'' and says the new performing arts center represents a "huge opportunity for children here to grow up with the arts, dance, music, ballet and theater.''
Orlando Opera president James Ireland says his company has been hampered in its choices and its ability to hire artists, directors and designers by the Carr's limitations. The performing arts center, he's certain, will make a critical difference.
''We load in on a Monday, and our first rehearsal is Monday night,'' Ireland says. "It's like instant mashed potatoes. We don't have enough time onstage to light it, rehearse with the actors. The [orchestra] pit isn't big enough. We can't do certain operas.''
David Schillhammer, executive director of the Orlando Philharmonic, calls the new performing arts center a ''decades-long dream'' that has already raised awareness of the orchestra and the fact that Orlando has ''a vibrant arts community'' -- at least, it upped awareness among Orlando-area residents.
Bruce Marks, once a star dancer with the American Ballet Theatre and formerly artistic director of Ballet West and the Boston Ballet, became the Orlando Ballet's artistic director after the death of Fernando Bujones. He knows that grand performing arts palaces bring, with their greater artistic possibilities, greater costs. But arts-enthused Orlando -- ''the only city in Florida with a professional symphony, ballet and opera,'' Marks says -- seems poised to keep the growth going.
While a fun-filled holiday at Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort or SeaWorld Orlando might top many a child’s wish list, a full slate of action-packed and entertaining rides, shows and experiences mean that grown-ups will have an unforgettable time in Orlando – with or without the kids.
At the Walt Disney World Resort, your choices are limitless. Brave the triple threat of the Disney mountain range at the Magic Kingdom – Space Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Splash Mountain. You’ll be glued to your seat at Disney-MGM Studios as cars come dangerously close to disaster in Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show. Take a high-speed thrill ride on Rock ‘n Roller Coaster featuring Aerosmith or an ill-fated lift ride on The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror. For a peaceful experience in the outdoors, take in the Maharajah Jungle Trek or the Pangani Forest Expedition Trail at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park. To add a little spice to your day, look for exotic animals on the Kilimanjaro Safaris, twist and turn on the Kali River Rapids, travel back in time to go face-to-face with a dinosaur or scale the heights of Expedition Everest to encounter the mythical yeti during a thrilling roller coaster ride. And, Disney film favorites come to life in stage presentations featuring the stars of “Finding Nemo” and “The Lion King.”
A day spent at Epcot is all about discovery. Discover the how, what and why of the world we live in through explorations of the oceans, space, earth and even the human mind in Future World. Out-of this world experiences include Soarin’ over the redwood forests of California on a hang glider or heading for Mars on Mission: Space. Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and tastes of the eleven nations represented in the World Showcase. Time your visit accordingly and you could be in for an extra treat. The Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival, held in May, and the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival, held each autumn, are visitor favorites with plenty of fun for everyone.
Universal Orlando Resort offers two distinct theme park experiences, of particular appeal to adults. You are invited to live the movies at Universal Studios Florida where you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into scenes from your favorite films and television shows. From Hollywood classics like “Jaws” and “I Love Lucy” to today’s blockbusters like “The Mummy” and “Shrek,” you couldn’t find a better place to be part of the action.
The Trainer-for-the-Day program at Gatorland allows visitors the opportunity to get as close as they want to huge alligators or crocodiles. This fun-for-the-whole-family (kids 12 years or older) and older) experience is not for the weak at heart. It will be your job to work along side the Gatorland staff as they feed, train and interact with rare and amazing gators and crocs. Plan on getting a little dirty, and by all means, make sure and bring your camera.
At Universal’s Islands of Adventure, you are invited to explore five themed islands – each one filled with unique thrills. Roam with the dinosaurs in Jurassic Park, laugh along with the cartoon characters that inhabit Toon Lagoon or explore the whimsical world of Dr. Seuss, the creator of “The Cat in the Hat,” at Seuss Island. Thrill seekers will feel right at home as they battle evil villains alongside Spider-Man and spiral out of control on The Incredible Hulk Coaster on Marvel Super Hero Island. Before you can catch your breath, you will be engaged in a battle between two fierce dragons – Fire and Ice – as you twist, turn and come within inches of making contact with the other coaster on the Dueling Dragons roller coaster in The Lost Continent.
In recent years, SeaWorld Orlando has introduced two new shows that spark the imagination of guests of all ages. Introduced this spring, “Believe” showcases the park’s killer whales in a beautifully choreographed story of a child’s belief in his dreams that will have you revisiting your childhood hopes and aspirations. Not to be outdone, the park’s dolphins and false killer whales are the stars of “Blue Horizons." A breakthrough theatrical spectacular featuring aerialists and world-class divers, it tells the story of a young girl’s adventure in a place where the sea meets the sky. Get your adrenalin flowing with a water-coaster ride to the lost city of Atlantis or a heart-racing encounter with Kraken, the roller coaster named for a mythological sea monster. As night falls, the excitement builds at Orlando’s theme parks with special nighttime shows, fireworks spectaculars and themed parades. It’s a show you won’t want to miss.
You may also want to treat yourself to some unique theme park experiences that hold special appeal for adult visitors. Take a break from quick-service meals and enjoy a fine dining experience inside the theme parks. Or learn how the parks make the magic that you experience every day as a guest on a special VIP or Behind-The-Scenes tour. And, an amazing animal encounter is sure to create holiday memories you will be talking about for years to come.
There are many reasons to visit Orlando, Florida. Home of the most famous mouse in the world, many people know of the fun that awaits them in Orlando. However, there are many things to do in Orlandothat are unexpected gems. In fact, Orlando is a versatile array of activities and luxuries that comprise a vacation destination in which families, couples and friends can relax and enjoy everything about Florida.
When visitors come to Orlando, Disney Worldis generally a must see. Their exciting theme parks, uniquely designed to provide Disney experiences, bring out the kid in all of us. Universal Orlando Resort is also a must see, especially for those that love roller coasters and nightlife. There are many rides and activities within Universal, suitable for those of all ages. As the weather warms up, people flock to Wet ‘n Wild Orlando, where the waves and thrills are enough to whet anyone’s appetite. Cypress Gardens, a family favorite embracing traditional fun, is also a nice addition to any vacation.
Adrenaline pumping and music thumping, you find yourself heading straight toward the sky. Suddenly, you are doing 65 mph, 17 stories over Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida. Gasping with excitement, you rock out to a song you picked before strapping in. And, it’s all on video. Once the adventure is over, you edit the video to send to your friends.
This is true high-tech, customizable, multi-sensory entertainment. Scheduled to open in spring 2009, Hollywood Rip, Ride, Rockit will stake its claim as the most technologically advanced roller coaster in the world. The Universal Creative team is combining audio and special effects engineering, sophisticated on- and off-board video and one-of-a-kind guest personalization to create a roller coaster experience unlike any other.
“This is the perfect intersection of the digital age and theme park entertainment,” said Mark Woodbury, President of Creative for Universal Parks & Resorts. “Hollywood Rip, Ride, Rockit blends roller coaster intensity and guest interaction in a way where no two experiences will be the same.”
Hollywood Rip, Ride, Rockit touts six near-miss moments and first-ever thrills including a record-breaking loop. Ride vehicles feature the brightest and most innovative color changing LEDs in the world. High-energy visual displays fill the queue line. With up to four ride vehicles on the tracks at any given time, and with concert lighting and special effects mixed in, Hollywood Rip, Ride, Rockit will be a true high-intensity, multi-sensory experience that is unmatched. Guests can customize their ride experience by choosing what song will play while they’re on the roller coaster. LED boards in the queue lines will display song options from five genres (classic rock, rap, country, pop and soundtracks). Once on-board, guests can choose their song or let the coaster’s digital sound system choose for them. When the ride is over, guests will be able to customize footage from their experience and compile it into a take-home music video.
Hollywood Rip, Ride, Rockit will be located near the Jimmy Neutron attraction traveling the southern perimeter of the Universal Studios theme park, over to the CityWalk lagoon and back.
Information and Image courtesy of Universal Studios
Universal Studios prepares to launch new Simpsons Ride
Universal Studios is replacing its Back to the Future ride with the new Simpsons ride, based on the popular animated TV series and motion picture, at both its theme parks in Hollywood and in Orlando. The new ride will open at both parks this spring.
Specific details about the new attraction are being kept secret however we know it will be a simulator ride using 80 foot IMAX screens to give the rider a virtual-reality trip through a cartoon theme park called Krustyland built by Krusty the Clown. Guests will go on a wild tour with the Simpsons family in an effort to save Bart from Sideshow Bob.
A press release from Universal Studios on April 24, 2007 stated: "Guests will be rocketed along with the Simpson family on a hysterical, almost unimaginable adventure. They'll experience a side of Springfield previously unexplored as they enjoy the new ride's interpretation of thrill rides, dark rides and 'live' shows that make up a new fantasy amusement park dreamed up by the show's cantankerous Krusty the Clown."
The ride will be located at both Universal theme parks -- in Hollywood, California and in Orlando, Florida. In preparation for the renovation, the Florida version of Back to the Future closed on March 30, 2007. In addition, the Hollywood version closed on September 3, 2007. "The ride is designed to duplicate the Simpsons home-viewing experience, only at high speed and with lots of screaming," said Matt Groening in a press release.
Gift shops were opened at both parks in October 2007 in support of the new ride. The shops carry the name "Kwik-E-Mart" as they appear in the TV show. The stores sell memorabilia from the show including edibles such as fruit snacks, energy drinks and much more.
"Universal takes the most popular characters in blockbuster movies and hit TV shows and creates fun, exhilarating entertainment experiences," said Tom Williams, Chairman and CEO of Universal Parks & Resorts. "With its unique sense of humor and enormous popularity, The Simpsons is a perfect complement to our brand of entertainment."
In Hollywood, construction for the new ride began last September. The old Back to the Future ride was demolished then. Painting for the Simpsons ride started in January. It is nearing completion at this moment. Workers are making the final touches on the ride to get it open for theme park visitors. The opening date is slated for May 24, 2008.
In Orlando, the construction started earlier in May 2007 after the announcement of the new ride. In February of this year, concrete was laid for the Simpsons ride. By March, a Krusty the Clown head was already finished. The Orlando version of the ride could open as early as the end of this month.
Visitors to Universal Studios will have something new to look forward to later this Spring...a new ride featuring Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa and Maggie. All of your favorite Simpsons characters are coming together for this new attraction at Universal Studios.
2008 Mardi Gras at Universal Studios Universal Orlando Through April 19, 2008 Let the good times roll at Mardi Gras 2008! Universal Studios boasts the largest Mardi Gras celebration outside of New Orleans – complete with a live concert series that features a diversity of musical stars, colorful parades full of floats, plenty of beads to collect, elaborately costumed characters and delectable “Big Easy” cuisine such as jambalaya and shrimp gumbo. Mardi Gras 2008 at Universal Studios began on Saturday, February 2, 2008 and runs for 12 Saturday nights through April 19, 2008. Topping the entertainment list for Mardi Gras 2008 are such musical superstars as country singer Gretchen Wilson, rockers Third Eye Blind and Heart, rap artist L.L. Cool J and old-school crooners such as Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons, Smokey Robinson and Kool & The Gang.
2008 Bike Week Various Sites, Daytona Beach, Florida February 29 – March 9, 2008 The “World’s Largest Motorcycle Event” attracts more than 500,000 bike enthusiasts from all over the world for a raucous 10 days of motorcycle shows, exhibits, live concerts, races at the Daytona International Speedway and, last but certainly not least, hardcore partying on Main and Beach streets. Admission is charged to certain events.
2008 Arnold Palmer Invitational Bay Hill Club & Lodge 9000 Bay Hill Boulevard, Orlando, Florida March 1 – March 16, 200 The Arnold Palmer Invitational (formerly known as the Bay Hill Invitational) draws the world’s top professional golfers on the PGA Tour. The event traces its history back to 1966 when it began as the Florida Citrus Open Invitational. Tiger Woods, who lives in nearby Windermere, captured an unprecedented four consecutive Bay Hill championships from 2000 to 2003. Admission is charged. The 2008 Arnold Palmer Invitational takes place from March 12-18 at the 7,137-yard, par-70 course at Bay Hill Club & Lodge in Orlando with a purse of $5.8 million ($1,044,000 to the champion).
2008 Central Florida Home & Garden Show Orange County Convention Center Center, Orlando, Florida March 7-9, 2008 The Central Florida region’s largest consumer home and garden showcase features more than 475 exhibits that will help you through every step of your home improvement projects. Whether you are looking for decorating ideas, remodeling plans or landscaping tips, you’ll find expert advice here. Admission is charged.
2008 Epcot® International Flower & Garden Festival Epcot, Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista, Florida March 19 – June 1, 2008 View colorful displays of roses, wildflowers, topiary displays of your favorite Disney characters and world-class horticultural displays at the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival, which has expanded to 75 days for 2008. The floral festival – which includes a live Flower Power Concert Series, gardening seminars, workshops, demonstrations and children’s activities – is included with regular admission to Epcot.
2008 Florida Film Festival Enzian Theater, 1300 South Orlando Avenue, Maitland, Florida March 28 – April 6, 2008 Move aside, Sundance! For film buffs, the 10-day Florida Film Festival is the showcase for the best in American independent and foreign films, documentaries, narrative films, midnight movies, regional and family films, and animation. Sponsored by Enzian Theater, the Florida Film Festival has become one of the most respected regional film festivals in the United States. Festival events include Spotlight Films, International Showcase, Special Screenings, American Independent Competition, Midnight Movies, Student Works, Forums and Celebrations. Past attendees have included Oliver Stone, Gabriel Byrne, Christopher Walken, Dennis Hopper, Steve Buscemi and William H. Macy. Admission is charged.
2008 Central Florida Fair Central Florida Fairgrounds, 4603 West Colonial Drive, Orlando, Florida April 17-27, 2008 Since 1887, the 11-day Central Florida Fair has celebrated the best in regional arts and crafts, live music and dance, food, livestock shows, thrilling carnival rides, fascinating interactive exhibits and much more! The Wade Shows Midway boasts 100 rides and attractions. Admission is charged.
Spring Break may be a time-honored tradition for college students, but in Orlando, it’s becoming an event for the entire household. During Orlando’s Family Spring Break® in 2008, families can take a break from busy work and school schedules to reconnect and recharge without needing to venture a long way from home. New attractions near Kissimmeeand in Orlando are opening just in time for Orlando’s 6th annual Family Spring Break.
Family Attractions
Aquatica – SeaWorld’s Waterpark, blending up close animal experiences with thrilling rides and whimsical underwater adventures.
A uniquely hilarious journey through Springfield with the Simpson family on Universal Studios Florida’s new ride, The Simpsons, based on FOX’s blockbuster series and the longest running sitcom on television.
“Block Party Bash,” an interactive parade featuring over 20 Disney•Pixar characters and the latest “Playhouse Disney-Live on Stage” show, featuring characters from “Mickey Mouse Clubhouse,” “Little Einsteins,” “Handy Manny” and more at new to open at Disney’s Hollywood Studios (formerly MGM Studios).
Jungala at Busch Gardens Africa, a four-acre attraction set in a lush landscape, featuring exciting signature rides, a family climbing area and exotic animal interactions.
The continuation of Disney’s Year of a Million Dreams campaign, where special dreams from free ice cream to a night in Cinderella’s Castle Suite are awarded to guests.
Family Events
Throughout the spring, Orlando is also packed with annual festivals, sports and special events that are perfect for families.
Visitors can take in a local community celebration where they can devour endless samples of pies April 19-20 at the Great American Pie Festival in Celebration.
The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens presents “Hippity Hop Adventure” March 22-23, when kids receive a free bunny tail, win prizes, enjoy face painting and more as they discover clues along an adventure trail leading them to the Easter Bunny.
A classic children’s book comes to life when the Orlando Shakespeare Theatre presents “If You Give a Mouse a Cookie” February 23 – March 16.
An interactive song and dance extravaganza connecting the clues with Steve, Blue, Goldilocks and many other favorite storybook characters in “Blue's Clues Live! The Most Spectacular Place” presented by the Orlando Repertory Theater happens March 7-30.
Baseball fans can enjoy a sneak preview of the upcoming Major League Baseball season at The Ballpark at Disney’s Wide World of Sports® Complex February 27 – March 29 during the Atlanta Braves spring training season.
As the NBA playoff battle heats up, spend an evening filled with fast-paced NBA hoopla as The Orlando Magic battle in 14 home games throughout the months of March and April at the Amway Arena.
Orlando, Florida's theme parksroll out new attractions each year just in time to welcome summer visitors. This year, the highlights include a new wildlife area, a prize give-away, and an interactive attraction at the area theme parks.
Here's a park-by-park line-up of the novelties visitors will find, beginning in spring:
Busch Gardens Tampa Bayis opening a new wildlife area, Jungala, this spring. Jungala's observation area will allow visitors to get a bird's-eye view of animals, such as orangutans and white tigers. Located in the park's Congo area, Jungala also will have waterways, a waterfall and village.
Cypress Gardens Adventure Parkwill have a series of concerts and special events for spring and summer. Kidzpalooza will run from May 16 to June 22, with dozens of interactive activities, shows, concerts and parties. Kids can get messy in the park's super-sloppy game show, Gunk'd. Other music events at Cypress Gardens include Celebrate America, June 27 to Aug. 3, with daytime and night-time entertainment, exhibits and laser shows. Wild Encounters (Aug. 8-10, 12-17, and 22-24) will feature close animal encounters, backstage access and educational events with animal keepers, experts and Animal Planet celebrities.
SeaWorld Orlando's new water park, Aquatica, opens this spring, on International Drive, across the street from SeaWorld. This park is a 59-acre paradise for water lovers with crystal rivers, grottoes, waterfalls, rich greenery, flowers and exotic fauna including macaws and kookabooras under the South Seas theme. Aquatica offers up-close animal encounters, serene and extreme water experiences, high speed thrills and a white sand beach. There are also two wave pools lined by wide, sandy beaches, lagoons, rivers and 300 feet of clear tubes that send guest racing through a lagoon filled with black and white Commerson's dolphins. Other park amenities include a children's area, family play area, and personal cabanas.
Universal Orlando Resort will present Disaster! A Major Motion Picture ride, which will feature celebrity talent, new ride elements and a new storyline. This new ride, expected to open in late spring, relaces Earthquake. The Simpsons ride is expected to open in spring, replacing the Back to the Future ride.
Walt Disney World Resorthas extended its Year of a Million Dreams, with new Disney Dreams Giveaway prizes awarded at random. Prizes include access that money can't buy, such as a pass to spend New Year's Eve in the Cinderella Castle Suite; a trip to Disney's private island in the Bahamas for a day; a hot-air balloon ride over Epcot; a behind-the-scenes peek at Disney Imagineering; and the opportunity to serve as grand marshall leading the parks' parades in France, California, Hong Kong and Florida.
Also new this year is Disney's Hollywood Studios, formerly Disney-MGM. The Studios will host an interactive competition of "Toy Story Mania!" opening this summer. Riders will don 3-D glasses, board vehicles and zip into a series of midway-style games hosted by Toy Story characters Woody, Hamm and Rex. Inside Andy's Toy Box, visitors can try to rack up points by using spring-action shooters to launch darts at balloons, eggs at barnyard targets and rings at aliens. Other new attractions at Disney's Hollywood Studios include Block Party Bash, an interactive parade debuting in spring with Disney- Pixar film characters from The Incredibles, Monsters, Inc., A Bug's Life and Toy Story 2. "Playhouse Disney Live on Stage!" re-opened in February with a new cast of characters including favorite stars from Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, the Little Einsteins and Handy Manny. There is also a traveling stage show for tweens: "High School Musical 2: School's Out!"
Universal Studios Floridabecomes the "Big Easy" this Mardi Gras season, throwing America's biggest street party this side of New Orleans and featuring a lineup of hit musical acts with a collective 260 million albums sold. Topping the list of fabulous hit-makers are country star Gretchen Wilson, rockers Third Eye Blindand Heart; rap impresario L.L. Cool J and old-school crooners Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons, Smokey Robinson and Kool & The Gang.
Mardi Gras 2008 at Universal Orlando begins February 2 and runs for twelve Saturday nights through April 19. Each Saturday night features some of America's most popular musical talent with a diverse mix of awards and achievements. One performer has the second-highest rated show in VH1 history. One performer has received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. And one performer's music is the inspiration for a current, multi-Tony Award-winning Broadway musical.
Party-goers of all ages will enjoy the biggest Mardi Gras celebration outside of New Orleans featuring an elaborate parade, hundreds of costumed characters, tons of souvenir beads, Cajun cuisine, and live performances by top-name talent. In addition, New Orleans-style bands will showcase their hottest music in the "French Quarter."
"Mardi Gras at Universal Studios is about providing our guests with a street party that captures the spirit of the "Big Easy," said Jim Timon, senior vice president of entertainment, Universal Orlando Resort. "This year's concert series features incredible musicians who appeal to a wide audience. Their music paired with our authentic parade and, of course, tons of beads will create an unbeatable party atmosphere in the streets of Universal Studios."
The centerpiece of Mardi Gras is the parade featuring 13 vibrant floats winding around the "French Quarter Courtyard," a replica of New Orleans' French quarter - the heart of Mardi Gras. These authentic floats are designed by "Mr. Mardi Gras," Blaine Kern, whose company, Blaine Kern Artists, Inc., has built Mardi Gras floats since 1932. New this year, the parade will bring exotic places to life with floats and performers designed to emulate Babylon, Atlantis, Camelot and more.
The celebration would not be complete without the taste of traditional Cajun and Creole cuisine such as jambalaya, gumbo and beignets, which are sure to tempt the palate of Mardi Gras revelers. Along with mouth-watering food, guests can sip on flavorful drinks made famous in New Orleans.
After the parade, guests will be entertained by some of today's hottest internationally-known musicians during the Mardi Gras Concert Series.
Universal Studios Mardi Gras 2008 Concert
February February 2 - Bret Michaels of Poison February 9 - Go-Go's February 16 - Sara Evans Febrary 23 - Third Eye Blind
March
March 1 - Gretchen Wilson March 8 - Smokey Robinson March 15 - Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons March 22 - Kool & The Gang March 29 - Heart
April
April 5 - TBA April 12 - LL Cool J April 19 - TBA
The Mardi Gras ticket, valid after 5 p.m. at Universal Studios, is applicable any one Saturday night from February 2 through April 19 and can be purchased for $46.95 plus tax. Florida and Georgia residents can save $10 off a Mardi Gras valid after 5 p.m. ticket with a specially-marked Coca-Cola product or cup from participating Wendy's locations.
Florida residents can also save $30 off a 2-Park Annual Power Pass (regularly-priced $129.95 plus tax). The Power Pass offers admission to both Universal Studios Florida and Universal's Islands of Adventure for one year with minimal blackout dates and includes admission to all 12 nights of Mardi Gras.
Universal CityWalk will host the official after-party of the Mardi Gras celebration, with guests receiving free admission into select clubs until 2 a.m. by presenting their Mardi Gras tickets. For an additional $15, guests can purchase a VIP upgrade ticket to the official Mardi Gras after-party which includes complimentary appetizers, drink specials and souvenir beads.
In 2008, Orlandowill see a rise in new attractions and changes at Orlando's major theme parks. SeaWorld Orlandowill unveil a brand new water park, Aquatica, in March. Universal Orlando Resort will showcase America's favorite television cartoon family, "The Simpsons," in a simulator ride this spring. And, fresh attractions and shows abound at newly renamed Disney's Hollywood Studios(formerly Disney-MGM Studios). The park kicks off its celebration with Toy Story Mania!, a 3-D ride; "Block Party Bash," an interactive Disney parade; and "Playhouse Disney-Live on Stage!," introducing a whole new cast. More new Orlando attractions will be announced during the coming year.
Gatorland broke ground on a $4 million complex, which will add 19,000 square feet (1,765 square meters) of retail, meeting and office space to the attraction. The new area features an open-air admission pavilion that incorporates the historic gator-mouth entrance, a meeting facility and a shopping area. The complex is projected to open in summer 2008. The attraction is fully operational during construction.
The Holy Land Experiencehas eliminated its $5 parking fee in light of increased attendance numbers and the park's desire to bring in more visitors. Tickets for the attraction are $35 for adults and $23 for children ages 6-12.
Scenic Lake Tourshas added a new nature tour to its offerings. The two-hour tour includes a short scenic boat tour and nature walk on Makinson's Island nature trail, where hikers can view eagle nests, owls, mountain goats, raccoons and wild pigs. Admission is $50 for adults and $30 for children.
Terror in Orlandoopened on International Drive. The haunted attraction offers two unique horror experiences, Mayhem Manor and 3-D Funhouse, with plenty of scares for everyone. The manor showcases the bizarre experiments of Dr. Morphius Mayhem, while the funhouse features the sinister world of Kilmor the Clown. The attraction is open daily with seasonal hours. Admission is $12 for adults and $8 for children ages 12 and under.
Titanic – The Experience, has relocated to the Orlando Science Center, and will be featured through the end of 2008. The attraction first opened in 1999, when it was located on International Drive. It showcases a variety of artifacts associated with the famous ship, as well as sets that include an exact replica of the ship's grand staircase. Admission to the exhibition is included in regular science center pricing, which is $14.95 for adults and $9.95 for children ages 3-11.
Universal Studios Florida unveiled plans for a new ride, which will be based on FOX's blockbuster hit series, "The Simpsons." Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa and Maggie Simpson–stars of TV's longest running series–will ride along with guests in the new attraction, which takes them on a hysterical, almost unimaginable adventure. The ride will open spring 2008.
Universal Orlando Resort replaced its Earthquake attraction with an all-new ride, Disaster! A Major Motion Picture Ride...Starring You, which opened in late 2007. The new ride offers guests an experience combining the best, most dramatic elements of Earthquake with a new story line, blockbuster celebrity talent, ride elements, digital technologies and interactive components.
Disney-MGM Studios theme park has been renamed Disney's Hollywood Studios. The new name, which reflects how the park has grown from representing the golden age of movies to a celebration of the new entertainment that today's Hollywood has to offer, debuted in January 2008. The park will unveil the following attractions in 2008:
Toy Story Mania! involves an interactive "Toy Story" competition inspired by the film. 3-D glasses put guests in the middle of the action as they board vehicles and zip into a world of exciting midway-style games hosted by their favorite characters. The ride is set to open in summer 2008.
"Block Party Bash" encourages guests to play, party and dance at the new interactive Disney parade, which opens in spring 2008.
"Playhouse Disney-Live on Stage!" introduces a whole new cast of friends engaging children in singing, clapping and dancing. The new show opens in February 2008.
Epcot opened a new gallery exhibition, "National Treasures." Three dozen artifacts from American history are on display in the American Heritage Gallery of the American Adventure pavilion, including items from Mark Twain, Benjamin Franklin and George Washington Carver. Most of the items are on loan from museums and private collections and will be rotated over time. The exhibition is not permanent, but there is currently no planned end date.
Walt Disney Parks and Resorts has announced that its theme parks will extend their popular "Year of a Million Dreams" promotion through the end of 2008. The program is highlighted by daily prize giveaways like FASTPASS tickets, free concessions or a stay in the Cinderella Castle suite. So far, more than 846,000 dreams have been awarded to guests at Walt Disney World and Disneyland.
Information courtesy of Orlando/Orange County Convention & Visitors Bureau
A 150-year-old magician's trick has gone high-tech to help make Christopher Walken the star of Universal Studios' newest attraction.
Universal recently overhauled its former Earthquake! ride to create a newly themed version called Disaster! -- highlighted by the first large-scale, permanent use of an illusion called "musion."
The technique borrows a 19th-century magician's trick known in the trade as "Pepper's ghost," then adds 21st-century technology to deliver the virtual image of Walken, the Academy Award-winning actor of such movies as The Deer Hunter, Wedding Crashers and Hairspray.
As a result, at Disaster! A Major Motion Picture Ride . . . Starring You!, the audience watches a projection of Walken -- portraying a fictional movie director named Frank Kincaid -- run onto the stage, talk to them, walk in front of, and behind, real furniture on the stage, and interact with a live actor there.
Slated for a Jan. 17 grand opening, the attraction has been open sporadically for previews during the past couple of weeks, drawing consistent, widespread wonder from employees and visitors alike, said Universal's Jeff Smith, project manager for Disaster!
"When I see them in the room, and see Frank Kincaid walk onto the stage, they say, 'What am I seeing here?' " Smith said. "And there is a sense of amazement."
Pepper's ghost has been a favorite illusion among magicians since British illusionist John Pepper showcased it in the 1860s. The technique employs a large, disguised window set diagonally across a stage. Under "normal" lighting, the window is fully transparent showing only what is on the stage behind it. But when objects are lighted in a hidden room off to the side, the glass reflects those objects. To the audience, the actual stage objects and the reflections appear together.
With musion, the Pepper's-ghost images are projected onto the window using high-powered, high-definition, video projectors, explained James Rock, one of the directors of the British company Musion Systems Ltd., which sells the technology in Europe and the United States. Instead of being made of glass, today's musion window is made from a sheet of micro-thin, transparent foil developed by German engineer Uwe Maass, which allows for additional illusion tricks.
Until now, Musion Systems has sold the technology mainly for events such as trade shows and corporate meetings. Among notable public displays, Musion was used to put an Al Gore projection on stage at the 2007 Live Earth concert in Tokyo, and Madonna and the Gorillaz band characters on stage at the 2006 Grammy Awards in Los Angeles.
The illusion often is mistaken by viewers and in media reports as a hologram. Yet, "technically, it's not accurate," Rock said. "What you're looking at is always a two-dimensional projection. . . . We call it a 'holographic effect.' "
Video projections are nothing new for the Pepper's ghost trick. They've been used for decades in theme park attractions such as the Haunted Mansion at Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom. Walt Disney Imagineering also recently debuted its own 21st-century version, a technique similar to musion, for illusions in The Seas with Nemo & Friends ride at Epcot.
The musion set at Universal's Disaster! is the largest permanent installation in the world, and the first his company has put in a theme park, Rock said. Yet the musion portion of Universal's ride is used merely as the set-up for the rest of the 15-minute attraction, not part of the main event.
"It could become a whole ride," Rock said. "I think it probably won't be very long before there is a full musion . . . ride."
Under Disaster!'s story line, Walken's character, Kincaid, is a director of schlock disaster movies such as Apocageddon, and he is casting a few "extras" for his next movie, Mutha Nature, staring Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson. Visitors enter under the pretext that they all are wannabe actors, there to try and get picked for a few bit roles. The musion effect allows Kincaid to explain his movie and needs to the audience.
Then the audience moves on to the next room, where some visitors participate in various film shoots involving special effects, while everyone else watches. Much of the rest of the attraction is little changed from the old Earthquake! experience, still featuring a subway ride into a California temblor, compete with collapsing structures, crashing vehicles, fire and flood. Universal's Smith said he knew the musion segment would be a hit during development last summer, when some involved in the production sometimes forgot what they were watching.
"More than once I found myself talking to somebody who wasn't there, even having seen it over and over" Smith said. "I felt we had a winner."
The train crested the mountain, then tipped downward, rushing like a roller coaster. And, as if they were on a roller coaster, many of the children seated inside raised their arms, and some squealed.
Of course, they were all sitting in a room, inside a building at SeaWorld Orlando, rocking up and down, back and forth or side to side, yet going nowhere while watching a movie. They were experiencing SeaWorld's newest attraction, the Polar Express Experience, taking a wild but simulated train ride to Santa Town.
As recently as mid-November, riders in that same room were taking a much different ride, a simulated helicopter flight over the edge of a cliff somewhere in the Arctic. And a couple of weeks from now, the helicopter ride will be back.
SeaWorld has developed what many in the industry have been expecting to see in a major theme park for some time: a quick-change conversion package for a high-tech simulator ride. All it took was acquiring the rights to a theme-park version of the movie The Polar Express, investing more than 100 hours in engineering and computer programming and building sets based on the film.
"I'm not going to say it's easy, but we have a phenomenal team, from the art direction to the programming of the ride to the visuals," said Michael Fletcher, SeaWorld's vice president for entertainment.
Other theme-park companies have swapped out simulator-ride films and changed themes before; Universal Studios is doing that now with its old Back to the Future: The Ride attraction, to create a new ride based on The Simpsons TV show. And there is always industry talk of new possibilities, such as whether Walt Disney Worldwould replace at least part of its Star Tours simulated spaceship ride with a new Star Wars-based pod-racer experience.
But SeaWorld's changeover is different because it's temporary and was swiftly executed. In a matter of weeks, the park switched off its regular attraction and replaced it with what its new general manager, Dan Brown, calls a new holiday-season centerpiece.
"I'm intrigued by the idea," said Kevin Coons of Gary Goddard Entertainment, a California-based attractions-design firm that helped develop simulator rides such as The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man at Universal Orlando's Islands of Adventure. "I think it's a smart way to go."
A new simulator ride would cost tens of millions of dollars to build. A new software package that creates a new experience -- converting an arctic helicopter flight into a polar train ride, for example -- costs a small fraction of that amount."If it is successful, you'll see an expansion of that sort of concept to other attractions," said Dennis Speigel, president of International Theme Park Services in Cincinnati.
The Polar Express Experience didn't start out as a ride. Working with Warner Bros. Pictures and Shangri-La Entertainment, which produced The Polar Express movie, California-based attractions company Iwerks Entertainment had created a short version of the 2004 animated feature for possible use as Christmas-season entertainment in theme parks.
Meanwhile, Busch Entertainment Corp., which operates SeaWorld, was looking for a new holiday attraction. Mike Frueh, Iwerks' vice president and general manager, said he and others at Iwerks were not thinking of the film as the basis of a simulator ride until Busch suggested Wild Arctic as a platform.
"The Busch team, they're visionaries and they're quite creative," Frueh said. "We've had a long relationship with Busch in different roles, and had mentioned the film to them. It kind of evolved from there."
SeaWorld's Fletcher said the film was an obvious choice for the ride. Engineers took Iwerk's film and used hand controls similar to video-game joysticks to program new movements into the Wild Arctic simulators to accompany small sections of the film. Once the motions were synchronized with the film's movements, the package was fine-tuned on a computer to create a seamless ride.
"When you're working on a project like this, it's always a joy to work with an idea that is a perfect fit," Fletcher said.
New Festivals & Events set for Spring Break Orlando 2008
Orlando is blooming with New Adventures and Special Events For Family Spring Break 2008, with events such as Florida Strawberry Festival.
Spring Break may be a time-honored tradition for college students, but in Orlando it's becoming an event for the entire household. During Orlando's Family Spring Break® in 2008 families can enjoy the perfect atmosphere to take a break from busy work and school schedules to reconnect and recharge. From major new attractions and special events to family-friendly cultural activities, Orlando offers families varied experiences sure to please even the most opinionated family member.
New attractions opening just in time for Orlando's 6th annual Family Spring Break include: Aquatica, SeaWorld Orlando's Water Park, blending up close animal experiences with thrilling rides and whimsical underwater adventures, offering journeys from serene to extreme; a uniquely hilarious journey through Springfield with the Simpson family when Universal Studios Florida opens its new ride, The Simpsonsbased on FOX's blockbuster series and the longest running sitcom on television; "Block Party Bash," an interactive parade featuring over 20 Disney•Pixar characters and the latest "Playhouse Disney-Live on Stage" show, featuring characters from "Mickey Mouse Clubhouse," "Little Einsteins," "Handy Manny" and more at new to open at Disney's Hollywood Studios(formerly MGM Studios); Jungala at Busch Gardens Africa, a 4-acre attraction set in a lush landscape, featuring exciting signature rides, a family climbing area and exotic animal interactions; and the continuation of Disney's Year of a Million Dreamscampaign, where special dreams from free ice cream to a night in Cinderella's Castle Suite are awarded to guests.
Throughout the spring, Orlando is also packed with annual festivals and special events that are perfect for families. Enjoy the Annual Central Florida Fair at the Central Florida Fairground, April 17-27, where the carnival like midway is packed with games and rides for the whole family. Devour endless samples of pies April 19-20 at the Great American Pie Festivalin Celebration. Festivities include cooking demonstrations, children's pie making, pie-eating contests and the Never-Ending Pie Buffet. The Florida Strawberry Festivalin Plant City, February 28 - March 9, celebrates the fabric of American life through ethnic traditions, contests, and top-name entertainment, together with an abundance of juicy strawberries. The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardenspresents "Hippity Hop Adventure" March 22-23, when kids receive a free bunny tail, win prizes, enjoy face painting and more as they discover clues along an adventure trail leading them to the Easter Bunny.
Orlando's cultural scene has plenty of offerings to enlighten and entertain the whole family. A classic children's book comes to life when the Orlando Shakespeare Theatrepresents "If You Give a Mouse a Cookie" February 23 – March 16. Embark in an interactive song and dance extravaganza by connecting the clues with Steve, Blue, Goldilocks and many other favorite storybook characters in "Blue's Clues Live! The Most Spectacular Place" presented by the Orlando Repertory Theater March 7-30. Engage young travelers in the enchanted land of make believe and happily ever after when the Orlando Balletpresents "Fairy Tale Princes and Princesses" March 15. The event, part of the Family Series, provides the ballet experience in less than an hour and offers behind-the-scenes interactions including learning how a tutu is made and a ballerina meet-and-greet.
Baseball fans can enjoy a sneak preview of the upcoming Major League Baseball season at The Ballpark at Disney's Wide World of Sports® ComplexFebruary 27 – March 29 during the Atlanta Braves spring training season. As the NBA playoff battle heats up, spend an evening filled with fast-paced NBA hoopla as The Orlando Magicbattle in 14 home games throughout the months of March and April at the Amway Arena. Enjoy themed events, including Kid's Day, and nightly giveaways like youth jersey's or get up close and personal as a Magic Ballkid or Jr. Magic Dancer.
Orlando's Family Spring Break provides the catalyst for families to spend quality time together and grow individually and as a family.
Information courtesy of Orlando Travel & Visitors Bureau
The 2007 "Grinchmas" holiday show at Universal Orlando's Islands of Adventure returns this year after a one-year absence and will feature a new musical, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, in honor of the 50th anniversary of the Dr. Seuss book, resort officials announced Monday. Grinchmas began as a festival in 2000 and grew into a featured show, but the resort canceled it before the 2006 holiday season. Though the resort has featured the green Dr. Seuss character in holiday season advertising for weeks, Universal withheld details until November 12, when it declared the show was returning "by popular demand." The new Grinch musical will feature seven new songs on a new stage in Seuss Landing.
Say a farewell to the old and welcome in the new with a number of festivities throughout Orlando on Dec. 31.
Here are just some of this year's highlights:
New Year's Eve Extravaganzas in Orlando – Orlando has festivities galore including the Pleasure Island Pirates Partyat Downtown Disneyon Dec. 31. The bash features live music, a street dance and a countdown to midnight. Event hours are from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. Revelers will dine on skewered shrimp, smoked salmon, seared beef medallions and other delicacies. A champagne toast and fireworks display at midnight are included in the $99 admission charge.
At the Disney World Theme Parks, Epcot celebrates the New Year "around the world" with DJs and evening dance parties throughout World Showcase and a special presentation of the park's lasers and fireworks show, "IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth."
Disney-MGM Studiosoffers multiple presentations of "Fantasmic!" a Disney movies and music spectacular, and a special "Light! Camera! Happy New Year!" fireworks display plus a DJ dance party around the Sorcerer's Hat Stage.
The Magic Kingdomfeatures special presentations of its "SpectroMagic" light parade, multiple nighttime fireworks displays, including the "Fantasy in the Sky" fireworks at midnight, one of the biggest displays of the year, according to a Disney spokesman. The theme park events are included in regular park admission.
SeaWorld Orlandothrows a big New Year's Eve party with live music, a DJ dance party and fireworks on Dec. 31. The countdown to 2008 begins at The Waterfront section of the park, where visitors find entertainment, shopping and dining venues. At the stroke of midnight, the skies are lit up with fireworks. The festivities are included in regular park admission.
At Universal Orlando, the big bash is at Universal CityWalk, a 30-acre entertainment complex with nightclubs, restaurants and shops. On Dec. 31, the evening will feature live performances by such national acts as B52's and Foreigner, a gourmet buffet, champagne toast and live entertainment at CityWalk's nightclubs. Admission is $119.
It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas in Orlando, Floridatheme parks with towering trees, poinsettias, millions of lights, even snow flurries filling every available nook and cranny.This is the "magical" Florida kind for which you don't need to pack a coat, gloves and boots.
Each year, the theme parks are transformed into three-dimensional holiday cards and the Christmas ornaments are supplemented by more parades, carolers, themed shows and other spectacles than would fit in Santa's big red, bottomless gift bag.
This is what's on tap for this holiday season:
Walt Disney World, Orlando-- A 70-foot-high Christmas tree adorned with Victorian-style ornaments is the focal point on Main Street at the Magic Kingdom, along with miles and miles of garland, profusions of poinsettias and twinkling lights galore. New this year is the Castle Light Show, with countless white lights illuminating Cinderella Castle.
A Castle light-up ceremony with Cinderella, Mickey, Minnie and the gang is presented each evening. A must-see event at the Magic Kingdomis Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party, presented on select nights from Nov. 12 to Dec. 21. The party features holiday-themed entertainment with Disney characters; the Mickey's Once Upon A Christmastime Parade with floats, dancing reindeer and Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus, among others, plus the Holiday Wishes –Celebrate the Spirit of the Season fireworks display, and yes, Florida "snow flurries."
"We come every year," said Vickie Paynor, a visitor from Chicago who came to the party with her family last year. "It's become a tradition –the kids love the parade and we feel like we're in another world."
Tickets for Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party are $47.95 for adults and $40.95 for children 3-9 years old (under 3 years old are admitted free). The party is generally sold-out by the evening of the event, so advance purchase is a good idea.
Disney-MGM(this park will be called Disney Hollywood Studios beginning Jan. 1) offers the Osborne Family Spectacle of Lights from Nov. 12 to January 6.
The light show, in the Studios' Backlot section, boasts millions of lights, animated light displays and "snow flurries." The Hollywood Holly-Day Parade is presented every day. It, and the Osborne Family Spectacle of Lights, is included in park admission.
For a bit of international flavor, Epcot presents "Holidays Around the World" from Nov. 23 to Dec. 30. This event presents Christmas legends of various countries including Los Tres Reyes Magos (The Three Magi) in the Mexico pavilion and Pere Noel in the French pavilion.
The park is decorated to the nines with towering trees, poinsettias and lights including a synchronized light show, "The Lights of Winter," illuminates a canopy adjoining the World Showcase breezeway and every evening there is a Christmas tree lighting ceremony with Mickey and friends featuring music and storytelling.
A special event in Epcot is the nightly Candlelight Processional –featuring celebrity narrators, a massed choir and orchestra. It is featured nightly at the America Gardens Theatre and it's included in admission to Epcot.
At the Animal Kingdom Park, Mickey and his gang celebrate the season with Mickey's Jingle Jungle Parade presented from Nov. 12 to Jan. 6. At Camp Minnie-Mickey visitors can meet and greet the Disney characters dressed in their holiday finery and enjoy caroling at Santa Goofy's Holiday Village, which is decorated with Christmas trees and features live entertainment.
Sea World Orlando-- "Seasons greetings" always begins with "Sea" they might say at Sea World. The park presents "Christmas at Sea World" each year, celebrating the holiday season with decorations, carolers, and shows –Sea World's trained sea lions, seals and other marine creatures perform--and the forecast calls for "snow flurries." Presented from Nov. 24 to Dec. 25, the festivities are included in the admission price: $64.95 for adults; $53.95 for children.
Universal Orlando Resort -- Arguably, the nation's most famous holiday parade, Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York, comes to Universal Studios in December packing its giant balloons, floats, marching bands and Santa Claus too, of course. Each evening Santa himself presides over a ceremony to light up the park's towering tree. Festivities are included in park admission.
At Universal'sIslands of Adventure, the mean Grinch is the star of the "Grinchmas" celebration, inspired in "Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas". During December, the park's Seuss Landing section is transformed for the holidays and visitors can visit the Grinch in his lair and enjoy themed shows. "Grinchmas" is included in park admission.
Cypress Gardens, Winter Haven -- This park offers the nostalgic "Old Fashioned Christmas" from Nov. 16 to Dec. 30. The centerpiece of the celebration is an 80-foot-high Christmas tree that will be lit up for the first time during a ceremony at 6:30 p.m. on Nov. 16. Other holiday adornments include millions of lights, poinsettias and garlands.
The "Jingle Street Parade" is a procession of holiday characters, Christmas music and lights "The Miracle of Christmas," re-tells the Christmas legend with music. Another spectacle, "A Holiday Homecoming" is a wartime romance that tugs at the heartstrings of anyone who has had to be separated from loved ones during the holidays.
Other festivities include visits from Santa Claus and an exhibit, "Santa Through History" that shows how Santa Claus has changed through the years. A must-see is "Frosty Follies," an ice skating show with holiday music. "Old Fashioned Christmas" is included in admission to Cypress Gardens.
Busch Gardens, Tampa Bay -- This park, themed to the Continent of Africa, is decorated for the holidays with poinsettias, Christmas trees and other ornaments and presents holiday-themed shows. The festivities are included in park admission.
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 Offerings
Arabian 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 Theatre
The 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 Shopping
Old 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 Townturns 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 onlinethroughout 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 Events
Historic 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 Sanctuaryis 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 Resortruns 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 Worldincludes 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
There are more attractions than you can count in Orlando, Florida. Disney World, Universal Studios Orlando Resort and Sea Worldare popular favorites but there are other great attractions that are must-sees. You can check out the best-of-the-best of Orlando's other attractions right here.
Busch GardensIt may be an hour or so away, but it's well worth it. Busch Gardens is one of the best spots for roller coaster enthusiasts in all of Florida and beyond. Sporting some of the biggest, fastest coasters around, Busch Gardens is a high-impact place for a day trip. Among the choices: Shiekra, the largest, fastest coaster in the Southeast U.S., Kumba, a 110 feet plunge into a diving loop making for a "roar" of a ride and Montu, an egyptian themed coaster with an inverse diving loop and a 60-foot vertical loop.
Cirque du Soleil's La NoubaLocated at Downtown Disney, Cirque du Soleil's La Nouba performs just about every day for audiences from around the world. Cirque du Soleil's reputation is known worldwide, and this show certainly doesn't disappoint. A breathtaking combination of dance, music, gymnastics and art, La Nouba is a show you've got to see to believe.
Cypress GardensFlorida's first theme park was Cypress Gardens. Originally founded in 1936 and reopened in 2004, the park combines classic rides and attractions with a family-friendly atmosphere. Cypress Gardens also puts on a number of concerts every year featuring famous stars of yesteryear and some of today's best country music performers.
Daytona International SpeedwayTaking a day trip to Daytona Beachmight be something you want to do on your Orlando visit. But in addition to the beaches in Daytona, there's a little place called the Daytona International Speedway. The Speedway, the historic home of stock car racing, offers daily tours. Also, you can visit Daytona USA, an interactive attraction with a NASCAR theme.
Gatorland The famous entrance to Gatorland is deeply entrenched in the minds of Central Floridians. As you walk into the alligator's mouth, you'll enter an amazing world where you can learn all about one of Florida's most amazing animals, the alligator. See alligator feedings or get up-close and personal at a number of exhibits that let you get closer than you might like to Florida's famous gators.
The Holy Land ExperienceEnter into a biblical world of wonder at the Holy Land Experience. See films and presentations that present the history of the biblical world and marvel at the painstakingly recreated architecture that gives Holy Land its signature look. You can also visit the Scriptorium, an vast archive of biblical books and materials.
Kennedy Space Center The home of America's space program, Kennedy Space Center is a truly amazing place to visit. From exhibits showcasing America's space-travel history to a bus ride past the launch pads that NASA uses today, you can see some very special things at the Space Center. You can also stock up on astronaut ice-cream, a souvenir favorite.
Orlando Science Center One of the largest space observatories in the state sits atop the Orlando Science Center. When there's something special in the night sky, this is the place to go to see it. Inside, you can check out a number of amazing exhibits that will enlighten and entertain. Learn about electricity, physics and biology, all in one awesome place.
Pleasure IslandFor adults only, Pleasure Island is a great spot for nightlife. Located adjacent to Downtown Disney, the island features a number of diverse nightclubs and elegant eateries to fill your night with excitement. You can also catch live music. On New Year's Eve, this is the place to be.
Ripley's Believe it or Not Weird wonders abound at Ripley's Believe it or Not. Ripley made his life's work the collection of the strangest, most obscure artifacts he could find, and now many are on display, including shrunken heads and Rolls Royce made completely out of match sticks. Believe it or not!
A getaway to Orlando, FLis a great way to celebrate the Labor Day Holiday. Orlando offers a great combination of exciting shows, attractions and unique adventures. There are also fantastic places to stay in Orlando, including luxury and family friendly resorts. The warm weather in Orlando creates several more options for visitors, including golf, zoos, parks and gardens
Attractions in Orlandorange from the bigger than life attractions, such as Disney World Theme Park, to unique attractions, like Gatorland. There are numerous things to do in Orlando, and many of them have to do with embracing the kid we all have inside of us. At Disney World, visitors can visit four distinctly different theme parks, including the Animal Kingdom,Magic Kingdom, Epcot and Disney-MGM Studios. During the Labor Day Holiday, Disney will be celebrating with a Pirate and Princess Party as well as with theTom Joyner Family Reunion Special. Another great attraction is Cypress Gardens. This nostalgic theme park embraces the beauty of yesteryear along with the thrill rides of today. Their park will have Gretchen Wilson as a guest performer Sunday, September 2nd. Universal Orlando Resort is a great place for families. Universal Studios, Universal’s Island of Adventure and Universal CityWalk offer a myriad of activities for those of all ages.
A quick trip to Orlando, Florida can revive any weary worker. This Labor Day Holiday, treat yourself to the Orlando Experience. You’ll be glad you did!
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Universal Orlando Resorts embrace the holiday spirit as both of their parks feature holiday fun for everyone. The holiday festivities begin December 5th and end January 1st.
e sure to put you in the mood for summer fun.
Universal Orlando Resort
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