8 Ways to Save on Your Orlando Vacation

Orlando, Florida is synonymous with family fun. Home to some of the best theme parks in the world, Orlando offers exciting thrills, close encounters with your favorite cartoon characters and amazing ways to spend your summer days with your family. This summer season money is tight for many families and some are struggling to ensure their families can still have an unforgettable, deserved vacation. Look no further than Orlando, Florida for the one-stop, do-it-all destination you and your family have been searching for. Even though budgets are tight and gas prices are high, Central Florida is a vacation destination offering discounts and cheap things to do in Orlando making it easy for any family to enjoy some summer fun.

Here are 8 ways to save on your Orlando Vacation:

1) Purchase a Go Orlando Card for discounts on over 50 Orlando attractions, including Cypress Gardens, Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum, Kennedy Space Center, Wonderworks and more. Do as much as you like each day for one low, affordable price. The Go Orlando Card is easy to use....simply present the card. Visit as many attractions as you want in a day! Admission to all listed attractions is included with the card. It comes in 1, 2, 3, 5 & 7 day increments and is activated the first time you use it. Days do not have to be used consecutively, and you can take up to 2 weeks to use it.

2) Discover our Orlando Direct Deals page on ReserveOrlando.com. There are great deals on Orlando tickets and discounts for Orlando attractions. A few of the discounted Orlando activities include Pirate’s Dinner Adventure, Sleuths Mystery Dinner Show, Spirit of the Swamp Airboat Tours, Wet ‘n Wild and Arabian Nights Dinner Show to name a few.

3) Orlando vacation packages are another great way to save in Orlando. On ReserveOrlando.com there are packages available featuring Universal Studios, Disney World, Gatorland, Cypress Gardens and Wet ‘n Wild. They are a great way to save money and still have fun!

4) Your won’t find Cheap Disney Tickets anywhere, but you’ll certainly find the best Discount Disney Tickets and Park Hopper Passes on ReserveOrlando.com. There are special deals offering free days at Disney World or you can get a great low price ticket for a 1-3 day pass. The deals are available, are you?

5) Universal Studios Orlando discounts are also available on ReserveOrlando.com. We are proud to offer the some of the best discount Universal Studios tickets around, with deals the whole family will enjoy. Our prices are way lower than gate prices, and offerings include a 2 park unlimited admission pass and a CityWalk Party Pass ticket.

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.

Information courtesy of Christian Newswire

Image courtesy of Rock the Universe

Disney World's Hollywood Studios Party Central

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.

This year, The Studios is getting:

*The only major Disney World ride to open this year, Toy Story Midway Mania.

*The resort's only major new show, American Idol Experience.

*Two new parades, Block Party Bash and the revised High School Musical 2: School's Out rally.

"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.

Information & Image courtesy of Orlando Sentinel

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

Entertainment
Mystik NRG ~ Monday – Friday
Chain Reaction ~ Saturday & Sundays

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

"New" is the Magic Word for Orlando Theme Parks

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.

Information courtesy of South Florida Sun-Sentinel

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."


Information courtesy of Orlando Sentinel

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.

Information courtesy of United Press International

Orlando Arts and Culture Scene Thriving

Think ''Orlando,'' and what comes to mind?

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.

Information courtesy of Miami Herald

Orlando Offers Tons of Fun for Adults

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.


Information courtesy of Orlando Visitors Bureau

Visit Orlando for Fun in the Sun

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 Orlando that 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 World is 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.

While visiting the area, there are many entertaining Orlando dinner shows to see. Sleuths Mystery Dinner Show and Pirate’s Dinner Adventure are popular among guests, and are always a hit with kids. Other attractions in Orlando worth a visit include Wonderworks, Gatorland, Magical Midway and don’t forget to take a ride on Boggy Creek Airboat rides.

Orlando Lodging offers guests a multitude of options. SunLake Resort, Blue Tree Resort, Radisson Resort, Runaway Beach Resort, Mike Ditka Resort, Days Inn Maingate, Floridays Orlando, and the Galleria Palms hotel are just a few of the properties available.

Visit Orlando today! You’ll be glad you did!

New Coaster Coming to Universal Orlando Resort

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.

Information courtesy of AmericaJR

March Events in Orlando

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.

Everyone is Invited to Orlando's Spring Break

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 Kissimmee and 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.

Information courtesy of Orlando CVB

Orlando's Theme Parks Unveil New Attractions

Orlando, Florida's theme parks roll 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 Bay is 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 Park will 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 Resort has 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!"

Information courtesy of South Florida Sun-Sentinel

Mardi Gras at Universal Orlando begins February 2

Universal Studios Florida becomes 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 Blind and 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.

Information courtesy of Universal Orlando