It’s a heavy question. It’s a deep question. It’s… well, complicated, at best. And it might be the number-one question we locals are a bit hesitant to answer – what happens when we give away all our secrets, huh? But I digress – we’re not going to hoard the secrets over here!

No doubt, any time you can experience Universal is the best time. However, it makes sense that the resort being less crowded certainly helps to increase the enjoyment level, as lines are shorter and the theme parks themselves are easier to maneuver.

The good news is that Universal Orlando still has an ebb and flow to its days of the week and seasonal crowds – unlike an unnamed resort down the street that is just seemingly always and forever packed. Although, the two destinations and their crowd levels still tend to play off each other – for example, if Universal has a brand-new ride opening, you can expect overall park flow throughout Orlando to be heightened, and the same can be said if Walt Disney World has an event running, like Epcot’s Food and Wine Festival.

Before we get into the best times to visit, we have a few general theme-park rules to go over: getting to Universal Orlando right at opening is recommended. Take a break mid-afternoon, when parks are often at the busiest and hottest. Then head back in the early evening to explore some more, when it tends to be cooler (or – hey – at least when the sun is gone) and many are headed off to dinner or are done for the day.

Staying on-site at Universal’s hotels is also recommended to get the most out of your time, as they all invite you to enjoy Early Park Admission. (And don’t forget that the premier resorts – Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel, and Royal Pacific Resort – also offer complimentary Express Passes!)

Okay – with that out of the way, it’s time to answer the question:

What are the four best times to visit Universal Orlando?

Early to mid-January, up until spring break begins (which is usually mid-February). This time frame is great because the temperatures in Florida tend to be a bit cooler, with less humidity. The holiday crowds have packed it up and headed home, and it’s just before the spring break crowds arrive.

Most days in September (except those nights when Halloween Horror Nights occurs). September has typically been known as the best time to visit Orlando – it’s still a bit warm, but we’re usually done with our rainy season, and there’s so much going on that’s it a great month to visit. Most September days should be optimal, but just remember that HHN dates will increase crowds (and Universal Studios Florida will close early for the event).

Most weekdays in October and November (minus the week of Thanksgiving). October and November are a magical treat in Orlando because you never quite know what the weather will bring. The beginning of October tends to still be warm and humid, but towards the end of the month, the state can start to cool down, making for a more enjoyable time frame to visit. Just keep in mind that Halloween Horror Nights is in full swing throughout October and runs through the first weekend of November. And another time to steer clear of would be the week of Thanksgiving, as that can be one of the busiest times at the parks.

The weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas. There are just certain times the locals don’t go to the parks – the top three are easily going to be summer, Thanksgiving, and that mind-boggling week between Christmas and New Year’s Day. However, there is some wizarding magic to be found during the couple of weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas, when – again – Thanksgiving crowds have gone back home and Christmas crowds have yet to arrive (and kids are still in school). Temperatures can be milder around this time, as well, and there’s a bonus: Christmas decor is up!

One last note

Another general rule to adhere to: if the kids are out of school – whether that be most weekends, a one-day holiday (like Martin Luther King, Jr. Day or Memorial Day), or week-long breaks like spring break or Christmas – the parks will be busy, so keep this in mind when planning. Additionally, the same rule applies for special events like Halloween Horror Nights and Mardi Gras, although the weeks leading up to or after one of these holiday periods tend to be a bit quieter.

And don’t forget: a great place to fine tune the timing of your vacation is Orlando Informer’s Free Crowd Calendar.

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When’s your favorite time to visit Universal? Compare notes with 90,000+ other vacation-planners over in our OI Community Facebook group.

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Yes, the wonderful world of pixie dust, princesses, and pirates may cater to children, and it’s easy to see why it’s an escape only for them. But Walt Disney himself even said, “That’s the real trouble with the world – too many people grow up.” And, perhaps, that’s the biggest piece of Disney World’s magic: it’s really, truly for everyone.

So, for those who are off to Neverland or simply looking for a getaway with romantic hotels, bars, and lounges, and the opportunity to relax and dream a little bit, Walt Disney World has you covered – there’s nightlife, wildlife, and just good ol’ fashioned theme-park life.­

Here are my top three favorite places to enjoy visiting Walt Disney World as an adult:

1. Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto and Tiki Bar

Location: Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Adult category: the nightlife

I first went to Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar at California’s Disneyland Hotel and fell in love instantly. Both it and Trader’s Sam here in Orlando are inspired by the Jungle Cruise, but with the Polynesian Village location being cross-city versus cross-country for me – you could say I was just a little excited for this exotic, ancient-artifact, surprise-filled bar to enchant us in Disney World.

Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto is quite small, so you’ll want to venture over early, although keep in mind that, after 8:00 pm, the bar becomes 21 and up. Don’t expect a quiet night out here, however – the place comes to life with all its adventurous beverages, delicious appetizers, and volcanic explosions. My favorite is the Krakatoa Punch, and I’ve got the souvenir tiki glass to prove it.

2. Animal Kingdom/Animal Kingdom Lodge

Location: Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park and its associated hotel
Adult category: the wildlife

Most people envision palm trees and beaches when they think of Florida, but if you stop for a moment and look around, there is always an opportunity for the natural wildlife to pop up and leave you with a whole new appreciation for the Sunshine State. But if you’re looking to take your explorations to a whole new level, well, Disney’s Animal Kingdom has you in mind with Kilimanjaro Safari, Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail, and the Maharajah Jungle Trek – in one park, you can see everything from butterflies to baboons.

But don’t stop there – Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge offers an incredible overall experience as your home away from home with amazing, award-winning dining options (do not leave without eating breakfast at Boma – Flavors of Africa!), and, yes, in some cases, giraffes and zebras right outside your window.

3. Epcot

Location: Epcot theme park
Adult category: the theme-park life

I know most of you think our beloved acronym theme park is the “Bat signal” for the International Food & Wine Festival, or you’re even thinking, “Of course! Cue drinking around the world!” And you wouldn’t be wrong – those certainly are two of my favorite things to do at Epcot. Year round, however, there’s culture, music, fine dining, and more!

We recently took a friend to Epcot who is an avid gardener – she loved looking at all the plants throughout Walt Disney World but had never been on Living with the Land and could not contain herself when she learned of the Behind the Seeds tour at the park. Come to think of it, we didn’t even tell her about the International Flower & Garden Festival, either!

I also highly recommend the International Festival of the Arts, which is held at Epcot just after the new year and is great for any art lover or artist in your life.

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Visiting Walt Disney World as an adult can be experienced in so many ways – from the budget-friendly to a fair game of splurging. Whatever you want, and whatever you can dream up, can almost certainly come true in the most magical land of all. From camping at the Fort Wilderness Campgrounds and having drinks at Jock Lindsay’s Hangar Bar at Disney Springs to living in luxury at the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, where you can also have a one-of-a-kind dining experience at Victoria & Albert’s… the possibilities are endless.

There’s no need to stretch the limits of your imagination when visiting Walt Disney World as an adult, because the resort is meant for you, too! (Although, sprinkling a little extra pixie dust before immersing yourself in a world that dares you to make-believe, expand your creativity, take in the details, and explore the unknown – no matter your age – never hurts.)

Share all of your own favorites with thousands of other die-hard fans in our OI Community Facebook group. And then don’t forget to follow Orlando Informer on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news and tips at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando experiences.

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True to Disney’s pixie-dust priorities, DisneyQuest took you out of the life you knew and placed you directly into the magic, and it did so by way of an elevator piloted by the Genie himself! From attractions like Aladdin’s Magic Carpet Ride and Pirates of the Caribbean to classic arcade games and areas where you could be more creative, there were four zones of play: Explore, Score, Create, and Replay. The goal of DisneyQuest was to expand and bring the Disney brand to people in cities that may not have the chance to travel to one of the larger theme parks – and, for a time, it did just that. Only two of those locations panned out, however, with one being Disney Springs in Orlando and the other being the short-lived Chicago installation.

DisneyQuest was a great spot to beat Florida’s notorious heat or afternoon storms and provided a unique experience for those who love games and virtual reality. Here’s a look at five of the most memorable experiences the indoor theme park was known for as we travel down memory lane:

• Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for Buccaneer Gold: ahoy, Captain! Get ready to sail the seven seas as you lead your pirate ship and crew to destroy other vessels, sea monsters, and fortresses while you collect gold. The captain steers the ship, while up to four gunners control the cannons.
• Virtual Jungle Cruise: this attraction is based on Jungle Cruise at Magic Kingdom but allows guests to paddle an inflatable raft (with real paddles) as you make your way down a prehistoric river, dodging dinosaurs and, occasionally, getting sprayed with water.
• CyberSpace Mountain: ever wanted to design your own roller coaster? Now’s your chance! Hosted by Bill Nye the Science Guy (or, in this case, known as Bill Nye the Coaster Guy), you get to design your very own coaster, then sit in a pitch-and-roll simulator to ride it.
• Aladdin’s Magic Carpet Ride: a whole new world awaits as you wear a head-mounted display while riding a magic carpet through Agrabah in order to collect gems to find the Genie, who has been hidden away in the Cave of Wonders.
• Buzz Lightyear’s AstroBlaster: in this bumper car-style ride, Space Rangers navigate over asteroids (foam balls) that are on the floor. The asteroids are then sucked up into the cabin, where players load them into a cannon to shoot them at other cars. If you hit the right spot, the other cars spin out of control for 10 seconds.

Tickets were $39 for children and $45 for adults, and there was no need to leave, as there were two cafeteria options in the form of FoodQuest and the Wonderland Café – you could just pop up to the fourth and fifth floors, refuel, and go back to playing games. You could also come and go as you pleased, which was great if you were spending the day at Disney Springs, and whether you were looking for an all-day experience or something to do just when the weather wasn’t cooperating in Orlando. DisneyQuest was a great answer.

The VR center officially closed on July 2, 2017 to make way for the new NBA Experience, which opened to guests on August 12, 2019. The NBA Experience is a similar, very niche attraction with 13 interactive elements that offers guests an opportunity to see what it’s like to become an NBA or WNBA player.

It may not quite be what DisneyQuest was, but that indoor park had become a nostalgic reminder of days gone by with technology, equipment, and an environment that rarely, if ever, got upgraded. In truth, the Genie had been teleporting us back to the 1990s for quite a while by way of that elevator ride – and you could feel it. Which is almost always a kiss-of-death scenario for attractions and rides within the theme-park landscape – when you can feel how old they are, it’s either time for a makeover or, sadly, time to say goodbye.

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What was your favorite attraction at or memory of DisneyQuest? Tell thousands of other fans and vacation-planners in our OI Community Facebook group.

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Cue the “Pomp and Circumstance.”

In the early 1990s, my family had visited the park only once, but by the time I had hit high school (and Islands of Adventure was freshly opened), that had all changed for me. In my childhood, Universal had been the exciting, thrilling, mysterious adventure park down the street – but from the time I became a teenager on, I was ready to explore all it had to offer.

Take into account here, I wouldn’t dub myself much of a thrill seeker, as I now inch closer to 40 years of age than 20 (and gone are the days of riding roller coasters nonstop and back to back). But I am an advocate for riding each new attraction at least once, and there are only a couple I now send friends off to experience while I volunteer as tribute to hold the bags. (I should also point out that, when it comes to thrill rides and, in particular, roller coasters, there seems to be a bit of relativity here – what I might find to be “too much” might be your sweet spot, and vice versa.)

Still, it’s certain that Universal Orlando Resort knows how to make your heart race and leave you wanting more. Here are the 10 most intense rides it currently boasts at all three of its parks: Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay.

Doctor Doom’s Fearfall

Location: Marvel Super Hero Island, Islands of Adventure
Thrill factor: 5

Thrill seekers feel one of two ways about heights – you either love them or you hate ’em. Doctor Doom’s Fearfall blasts you 185 feet in the Florida sky before dropping you back down in a move that defies gravity. Love heights? You’ll easily love Fearfall! Not crazy about your feet leaving the ground? Chances are you’ll think this thrill factor is slightly above a five.

Jurassic Park River Adventure

Location: Jurassic Park, Islands of Adventure
Thrill factor: 6

So, you’ve survived being thrown 185 feet into the air, and now you’re ready for something calmer – a scenic water cruise sounds delightful! Until, of course, things go awry, and you not only find yourself in the “restricted area” of Jurassic Park but face-to-face with a T-Rex.

There’s only one way out… and it’s a pitch-black 85-foot drop that’s surely going to leave you soaked.

Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts

Location: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley, Universal Studios Florida
Thrill factor: 5

Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts has held the steadfast “favorite ride” spot in my heart since it opened five(?!) years ago. It combines coaster thrills with a little ride-film magic that tells an incredible 3D story and keeps you on the edge of your seat. Is there a drop? Yes, but, in comparison to other thrill rides at Universal Orlando, it’s fairly small at 30 feet. Those 30 feet are packed with anticipation, however, and the experience always leaves me just as excited as the first time I rode it.

Revenge of the Mummy

Location: New York, Universal Studios Florida
Thrill factor: 7

I once convinced my younger sister, who is not what you would call a “fan of roller coasters,” to ride Revenge of the Mummy by telling her it “wasn’t that bad” because it didn’t go upside down. I lied and paid the price as she bit me on my shoulder just before the largest drop of 39 feet amidst swarms of insects and a fire-filled tomb.

So, the moral of this story is don’t lie to your sister, and Revenge of the Mummy is every bit as intense as they say it is as you try to escape Imhotep’s wrath.

The Incredible Hulk Coaster

Location: Marvel Super Hero Island, Islands of Adventure
Thrill factor: 8

If “getting blasted with gamma radiation” and “racing up to 67 miles per hour” are on your theme-park to do list, then The Incredible Hulk Coaster is for you! Feel Hulk’s power surge with every unstoppable twist and zero-gravity roll as you tear through the sky. This is easily one of the most thrilling rides not only at Islands of Adventure, but on the entire planet with its many inversions and positive G-force moments.

Sit down, buckle up, and get ready to smash!

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey

Location: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, Islands of Adventure
Thrill factor: 7

It was hard for me to give this one just a seven, because Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey is one of the two rides at Universal I’ll “never do again,” but I know many who adore this attraction – and with good reason! This brilliant, first-of-its-kind experience takes you on a wild, at-times disorientating journey through Hogwarts Castle with Harry and his crew. The disorientating part is what gets me personally, as there’s just a little too much magic with the groundbreaking, state-of-the-art technology that has you soaring through the Hogwarts grounds. That being said, I feel strongly that most should ride Forbidden Journey at least once if you’re able, because there is truly nothing else out there like it.

Remember how I said thrill factors were all relative? The sister that bit me during Revenge of the Mummy loves Forbidden Journey.

Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit

Location: Hollywood, Universal Studios Florida
Thrill factor: 10

Meet the other Universal attraction I’ll “never do again” – so much so that it’s a 10 in my world. The 167-foot vertical, 90-degree lift alone was enough for me to put it in this category. If you don’t think that’s thrilling enough, however, Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit will for sure have your adrenaline pumping as it races up to speeds of 65 mph with six near-miss encounters, all while playing the music track you selected at the beginning of the ride.

If that’s not rock ‘n roll, I don’t know what is.

Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure

Location: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, Islands of Adventure
Thrill factor: 6

Anything could happen on Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure as you fly deep into the Forbidden Forest with Hagrid as your guide. You’ll move every which way (yes, even backwards) as you dodge obstacles and fierce beasts and get up close and personal with some of the wizarding world’s rarest creatures at speeds of up to 50 mph. Oh, did we mention there’s a 16-foot free-fall drop, too? (It’s [arguably] the first of its kind in the United States!)

Krakatau Aqua Coaster

Location: Krakatau, Volcano Bay
Thrill factor: 5

The flagship attraction at Volcano Bay may steal just a bit of thunder from the Krakatau volcano as it weaves around the volcano itself and comes packed with drops and serious airtime – and, unlike water slides, Krakatau Aqua Coaster can also propel you upward! This water coaster also gets bonus points because of the technology it uses – there’s no climbing to the very top of the volcano to board. It’s a unique experience and a ride that will have you raving non-stop to all your friends back home.

Honu of the Honu ika Moana

Location: River Village, Volcano Bay
Thrill factor: 7 (Honu specifically)

This ride has two multi-person slides, the “Turtle” (Honu) and the “Whale” (ika Moana). Honu is for the thrill seeker, as the walls can be quite terrifying on this side, and ika Moana is for someone looking for a calmer ride.

Honu was the first ride we did upon entering Volcano Bay back when it opened in 2017, and as we sloshed up the walls, my heart raced. Immediately, we knew this entire park was different, thanks to Honu’s many twists and turns.

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Did we miss a thrilling ride on your list? Tell us and 70,000+ other vacation planners in our OI Community Facebook group.

And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news and tips at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando experiences.

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Tipping is customary here in the United States, and in Orlando, specifically, our hospitality professionals are working hard to provide a once-in-a-lifetime experience that’ll help you and your family to escape everyday life and leave you wanting more. But, at the same time, that doesn’t mean every experience or professional requires a tip.

Here is a guide for when to provide a tip in the three main areas (transportation, hotels, and dining) you’ll experience while on vacation, as well as how much you may want to consider leaving. We also discuss other moments where you may want to consider leaving a tip throughout your stay within the Orlando area.

Transportation

You’re on your way to your dream vacation and need to get around Orlando a bit. While doing so, it’s always a good idea to have some extra cash on you to tip the folks that will help make your travels easier.

• Using a door-to-door shuttle service to get to and from the airport? A 15% tip plus $1 per bag is ideal.
• If you receive assistance through the airport by way of electric cart drivers or attendants, providing a $2-3 tip would be great.
• Taking a shuttle that is courtesy of your hotel? Typically, these drivers do not expect a tip, but $1-2 couldn’t hurt to brighten their day.
• If you valet parking during your stay, $2-5 for these attendants is appreciated.
• Taxi drivers typically receive 10-20%.

Hotels

You’ve made it to your hotel – let the relaxation begin! The hospitality teams throughout Orlando hotels (and, especially, at the on-site properties) work hard to ensure that your vacation is one you’ll be talking about for the rest of your life.

• If you’re headed to concierge to ask questions or need help in getting around, no tip is necessary. However, if concierge aids you in booking a dinner reservation, a tip of $5 would be customary. If they’re helping you to book tours or tickets, $20-25 is customary.
• Did a doorman help you by hailing a cab? $1 is a nice tip; if the doorman helps you with your luggage, $2 per bag is suggested. If a porter helped you, $2 for the first bag and $1 for each additional one is good (if you have heavier bags, you may want to increase the tip amount).
• If you ordered room service, tipping 15% of the bill is recommended.
• It’s nice to tip housekeeping staff $1-2 per day, per occupant in your room. It’s advised that you leave the tip daily rather than at the end of your stay, as you may have different staff each day.

Dining

It’s now time to refuel with a delicious meal and, perhaps, a drink or two with one of those fun little umbrellas – the true symbol of vacation! Tipping in the restaurant industry is customary in the United States, as many of those serving us make only a few dollars an hour (and rely on gratuities as a major part of their income).

• Typically, in a full-service restaurant, tipping 15-20% of a total bill is a good place to start – and remember that you are tipping based on the quality of service and not the quality of food. If you’ve received incredible service – or, perhaps, it’s around the holidays – you may want to provide a larger tip.
• If you are using a coupon or receiving a discounted meal, keep in mind that you should tip based on the full price of the meal before the discount is applied.
• For bartenders, usually $1-2 per drink is appreciated; however, again, if you’ve received incredible service, or if the drinks are more complex or offer a show element to them, you may wish to tip more.
• Regarding counter-service meals, there is usually no need to tip.

Throughout your stay

On top of the three topics mentioned above, the following are other areas you may experience on your travels where tipping is ideal:

• Restroom attendants can be tipped $1.
• Golf caddies can be tipped $10-$25.
• Pool attendants can receive $2-5 for each service they offer.
• Boat tour operators or other recreational attendants can be tipped $5-10.
• If you receive a massage or manicure or have your hair done, at least 15% of your bill is suggested.
• Pizza delivery is tipped at least $2.

What happens if you receive poor service?

At most establishments, if you feel the level of service or quality of your meal was not up to par, the best way to resolve this issue is to ask to speak with the manager. When doing so, explain to him your concerns, and even let him know why you are leaving little to no tip. This also provides the manager an opportunity to address the issue, and helps the staff know what they did that could be improved upon in the future.

Keep in mind that this is only a guide. Tipping is truly your way of showing satisfaction with a delightful experience or honoring the hard work and quality of service and care you received.

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Have further questions about the strange custom of tipping? Ask them in our OI Community Facebook group, where 70,000+ vacation planners and Orlando fans help each other out.

And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news and tips at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando experiences.

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Pizza, for many, is just a Friday night tradition. For others (myself included), it may as well be a lifestyle. To me, pizza is a powerful all-in-one food group that comforts souls, builds bridges, and feeds the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

But pizza in Orlando – how does that work? It’s true – Orlando is no Chicago or New York; in fact, we’re not even close. But while you’re visiting us here in the Sunshine State, that doesn’t mean there aren’t some great pies (that go beyond your delivery classics) that you’ve got to try!

From New York-style to deep dish and coal-fired to artisanal, there’s a little something for everyone who’s ready to unwind with pizza at the end of your Floridian day.

Tomasino’s Pizza

Style: New York-style
Website: Tomasino’s Pizza

For me, there’s only one pizzeria that even comes close to a slice from New York here in Orlando, and that’s from Tomazino’s Pizza, who prides themselves in making each customer feel like family. And that’s not just a slogan – my local Tomasino’s has wished us well on everything from birthdays to our wedding!

Come for the fresh ingredients, generous portions, and incredible Italian meals, and stay because you’re family. With locations in Lake Mary, Winter Springs, and Downtown Orlando offering gluten-free and vegan options, it may not be the closest pizza to the theme parks, but it is, by far, the one most worthy of a drive.

Giordano’s

Style: Chicago stuffed deep dish
Website: Giordano’s

Admittedly, Chicago-style pizza isn’t my thing, but let’s operate under the premise that all pizza is good.

The great thing about Giordano’s is that there is a location right in the heart of our tourist district, so it’s readily available, and they offer delivery (heck – you can even ship a pizza through Giordano’s). With their original establishments hailing from the Windy City, they offer authentic deep-dish, thin-crust pizza, along with other menu options. Just keep in mind that deep-dish pies take upwards of 45 minutes to bake.

I will admit, I do like how they bake their pepperoni under the cheese on their thin-crust pies. But as far as deep-dish goes? Jon Stewart said it best: “It’s not pizza – it’s a… casserole!”

Blaze Pizza

Style: artisanal
Website: Blaze Pizza

Blaze Pizza calls their executive chef, Bradford Kent, “The Pizza Whisperer” – and that’s kind of a title I’m jealous I don’t have.

Fully customizable, Blaze pizzas are fast fire’d, with locations around Orlando. Made-from-scratch dough and healthful, artisanal ingredients also await you on their assembly line. Yep, Blaze Pizza is kind of like the Subway of pizzas – but, y’know, much, much better because it’s pizza!

They offer gluten-free and vegan options, and their packaging is also recyclable, compostable, and/or made from reclaimed materials. Straws, lids, and cups are made from plants – so, they get bonus points for being environmentally friendly, too!

Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza

Style: coal-fired
Website: Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza

Like your pizza well done? Then Anthony’s is for you! Their coal-fired pizza offers a simple approach with the highest ingredients, fresh dough made in-house daily, and imported Italian plum tomatoes with Grande mozzarella – all on top of a crust with a bit of char.

How serious is Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza about the quality of their ingredients? Once a year, Anthony himself apparently flies in handpicked tomatoes from different farms around Italy. He blind taste-tests them all, and when he finds the perfect one, he buys the entire crop, and those tomatoes are canned just for Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza so that they can deliver incredible sauce all year long. If that’s not impressive, I don’t know what is!

Anthony’s is located conveniently throughout Central Florida, it’s absolutely delicious, and it’s definitely a nice change of pace from routine fast-food pie stops.

Pizza Bruno

Style: Neapolitan
Website: Pizza Bruno

Pizza Bruno is the only one on the list that I personally haven’t been to but have heard great things about. I think this place deserves a nod for doing something different here in Orlando, as they specialize in Neapolitan-style pizza.

These pizzas offer simple dough, fermented at cold temperatures for up to 48 hours – and when they’re ready to be cooked, it happens in about 90 seconds in temperatures upwards of 1,000 degrees in a wood-fired oven that’s fed with a kiln-dried red oak. This leaves each pie with a leopard-spotted char and unique wood-fired flavor.

While not truly in our tourist district, Pizza Bruno may be worth the drive if you’ve got a free evening and are looking for something unique.

Flippers

Style: brick oven
Website: Flippers

In 1987, three friends fresh out of college went on an epic hunt for the perfect pizza in Orlando. What they found was either overpriced or cheap delivery – and, so, Flippers was born, to offer Central Florida fresh, high-quality pizza in a fast, casual environment. There are now 15 locations throughout Orlando (and even in The Villages and St. Pete), so you’re bound to stumble across them in the theme-park district.

What they set out to deliver, Flippers seems to have accomplished. While I won’t go so far as to agree with their “pizza perfected” slogan, I will say that they are a great place when you’re looking for a quick fix and can’t get pizza off your mind.

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Where’s your favorite pizza place to grab a slice in Orlando? Tell us in our OI Community Facebook group, where 70,000+ vacation planners call home.

And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news and tips at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando experiences.

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No matter if you live where others vacation or have been appropriately tempted by Florida’s coastline vacation vibes, there may be no better way to ring in summer than to look at the best beaches near Central Florida. Orlando is prime real estate because not only are we the heartbeat of the theme-park district, but we’re also nearly smack dab in the middle of both the historic East Coast and the stunning Gulf Coast beaches. (Notoriously, you’ll always see a few of our sandy locales on the tops of some fancy “best of beaches” lists, too!)

Because there’s only one direction to travel in Florida where you won’t, at some point, run into the ocean, you have tons of options. The ones on this list, however, all make for some of the best day trips around.

East Coast beaches (about a one-hour drive time)

Florida’s East Coast beaches offer a unique mix of history, wildlife, sunrises, rocket launches, surfing, and more. Here are five of our favorites:

1. New Smyrna Beach

Lovingly known as NSB by locals, New Smyrna Beach is a hot spot for surfing, quirky shops, and delightful eats. You can also drive your car on this beach’s compacted sand! And once you’ve gotten your fill with paddle boarding and sunbathing, be sure to check out Flagler Avenue, which is sure to charm you into adoring NSB even more.

Traveling with your pup or, perhaps, just need to get your puppy fix while at the beach? Not far from New Smyrna is New Smyrna Dunes, which allows our furry friends to frolic in the slightly calmer waters. Pets must be leashed here, and it does get quite busy (with a solid little hike from your car to the water), so I recommend getting there early. This park also offers showers (for both humans and pups) and bathrooms.

2. Cocoa Beach

Ready for restaurants, bars, shopping, and live entertainment? Looking for the largest Ron Jon Surf Shop or just an awesome pier? It’s all here in one of the locals’ favorite beaches in Florida – where you can surf, parasail, paddle board, or windsurf! Rentals and lessons are readily available, and Cocoa Beach is now also open to dogs that are on a six-foot leash (between the hours of 6:00 am and 10:00 am or between 5:00 pm and 7:00 pm).

Cocoa Beach’s popularity can also make it quite crowded, pending the season you’re visiting – you may want to make this trek during the weekday so as not to compete with your fellow travelers for the perfect spot to relax.

3. Daytona Beach

The “world’s most famous beach” makes the list because you’ve likely heard about it, and it definitely has its appeal (although, for us locals, we typically prefer NSB or Cocoa). If you’re a NASCAR fan, especially, Daytona Beach is for you!

You can drive your car on the beach in Daytona or check out one of the free summer concerts that offer movies and fireworks (from May to October) over at the Bandshell. The boardwalk and fishing pier are also can’t-miss spots at this historic beach. And nearby at Ponce Inlet, you can climb to the top of Florida’s tallest lighthouse, which was built in 1835.

4. Canaveral National Seashore

Looking for the perfect beach to watch a NASA launch from the Kennedy Space Center? On a clear day, you’ll be able to spot a lift-off even in Orlando – but for an experience unlike any other (save for actually being at Kennedy Space Center grounds on launch day), Canaveral National Seashore is a great location to mix both space and sea.

57,000 acres of pristine, quiet coastline await you here, with an amazing ecosystem that includes manatees and sea turtles. It’s a great spot for swimming, catching some rays, walking or hiking, and, even, riding horses down the beach.

5. Port Canaveral

What’s better than a day at the beach? Well, how about watching the cruise ships leave port for their voyages out into the Caribbean and beyond? There’s nothing like experiencing the majestic wonders you’ll spot here (including the ships of Disney Cruise Line, Norwegian, Carnival, and Royal Caribbean) after a day of splashing in the waters of Florida’s Space Coast. Check out Jetty Park, a beach right next to the port, or Grills Seafood Deck & Tiki Bar and Fishlips Waterfront Bar & Grill – two restaurants right on the water with some of the best viewing spots. (Most ships depart around 4:00 pm, though you should check schedules to see when they may be coming or going.)

You can mostly “get it all” in Port Canaveral, too, as this is another great spot for viewing launches that are happening at the Kennedy Space Center, which is only about 15 to 20 minutes away.

Gulf Coast beaches (about a two-hour drive time)

Florida’s quirky Gulf Coast beaches offer an alluring mix of wildlife, sunsets, warmer/calmer water, the Gasparilla Pirate Festival, and more. These are our five picks here:

1. St. Pete Beach

This Art Deco award-winning beach town is a great spot to watch the sun set. Here, you’ll find the historic Don CeSar resort, world-class museums like the Dali Museum, and five stories of dining and shopping opportunities at The Pier. Nearby, boats depart to Shell Key, which is a nesting site for sea turtles and other marine life.

2. Clearwater Beach

Just named America’s number-one beach, Clearwater is definitely a renowned hot spot. Complete with shopping, dining, live entertainment, and a revitalized downtown area, Clearwater has you covered! White sand and clear, shallow waters make this beach a destination that can’t be beat for families, and it also offers all kinds of activities and wildlife opportunities. Don’t miss the Clearwater Marine Aquarium – home to Winter the Dolphin, star of the popular movie Dolphin Tale that was filmed on location right here in Clearwater. There is also a nightly sunset celebration at the Clearwater Beach Pier.

Want to help with sea-turtle conservation as a bit of philanthropy while on vacation? Check out the Sea Turtle Trackers for ways you can help!

3. Treasure Island

One of my personal favorites, and with an unmatched sunset view, Treasure Island is stunning – three miles of white, sandy beaches that are perfect for swimming, shelling, snorkeling, kayaking, and more. The “world’s longest waterfront bar” also claims Treasure Island as its home – Gators Cafe & Saloon, which has a tasting room and tiki lounge and which is accessible by boat.

Also, the Pirate Ship at John’s Pass in nearby Madeira Beach is a can’t-miss two-hour family-excursion pirate cruise that offers great music, a dance party for all, dolphin watching, a dynamic treasure hunt, and pirate stories (complete with water gun battles).

4. Fort De Soto Park

Another top Florida beach, Fort De Soto Park is the largest park in Pinellas County and is made up of five interconnected islands that are home to a variety of Florida wildlife – including more than 328 species of birds! The area is also a refuge for the loggerhead sea turtle, which nests here between April and September. It may be easier to list what you can’t do at Fort De Soto Park, but top activities include fishing, boating, nature trails, kayaking, camping, a historic fort to explore, and a popular dog beach.

Let’s focus in on that last one. The Fort De Soto dog beach offers a quarter mile where pups can splash in the waters and run freely off-leash (so long as they are under voice control). There is also a fenced-in dog park (separate fencing for small dogs and large dogs), as well as showers for your pups. All canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddle boards that are available for rent at the park are dog-friendly, as well! (It’s recommended that you bring a puppy life vest just to be on the safe side during these activities.)

5. Indian Shores

Just west of St. Petersburg, and close to Treasure Island and Clearwater Beach, Indian Shores sails at an even slower pace than most beach towns, and that is part of its draw, as fewer crowds make it ideal for sunset watching and a family-friendly ambiance. And in case amazing restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and a number of fun things to do while you’re visiting – including the Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary – just aren’t enough, the beaches here also all have showers, with bathrooms being at the main beach access point.

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Ready to take on Florida’s coastline? Don’t forget the proper gear – sunscreen, hats, water, towels, bathing suit, and even more sunscreen! It’s also not a bad idea to always check the weather and surf reports for these areas to ensure it’s optimum for when you’re visiting.

As you can see, both Florida’s East and Gulf Coasts offer plenty of options that go far beyond just sunbathing. No two beaches are truly alike, and these unique day trips are a shore thing when planning a vacation to Orlando – especially if you have an extra day to spare or need a break from the hustle and bustle of our theme parks’ non-stop pace.

Don’t see your favorite beach on our list? Tell 70,000+ other vacation planners where you think they should go in our OI Community Facebook group.

And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news and tips at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando experiences.

The post The 10 best beaches near Orlando appeared first on Orlando Informer.

From casual strolls around the parks to birthday celebrations, there is a whole lot more to Universal Orlando than just the attractions!

1. Make some new friends

Some of my favorite moments have been during random character meet and greets. From Bullwinkle spontaneously following me through Islands of Adventure to sharing a snack with Scooby-Doo or catching up with Doc Brown and finally getting to meet the live velociraptor in Jurassic Park – there’s a world of new friends waiting for you.

2. Work on your epic photography skills

Universal Orlando is a hidden gem of incredible photography moments. Yes, there will be the “standard” photos you’ll need with your family and friends to document your memories, but there are also landscapes, details, and unique angles galore! It’s a photographer’s paradise here, and whether you’re just getting started or are already a seasoned pro, you’ll find that Universal is packed with non-stop adventure and opportunity for you and your camera.

3. Do the annual events

I feel like this goes without saying, but Universal Orlando knows how to celebrate the holidays. By now, you know that Halloween Horror Nights is Universal’s premier event, complete with intricate haunted houses and scare actors that will, no doubt, have you jumping. (Anyone else counting down the days until HHN 2019?)

This spectacle of treats for the Halloween-obsessed is, for me, bigger than all the other events combined, but if scares aren’t your thing, that’s fair – Universal is also renowned for its Mardi Gras celebrations (be sure to stick around for the live musical acts) and, of course, the Universal Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s. No matter the time of year, there is truly something magical for everyone at Universal Orlando.

4. Let a wand choose you!

One of the best experiences on a recent trip was watching our friends experience Ollivander’s Wand Shop. We all watched as two young wizards had their wands choose them – a moment that will likely never stop giving me goosebumps – and were then released into the shop itself. Our buddies who were visiting from Seattle got to check out all the incredible wands that were available, and after carefully testing a few options out, had one select them! We were then off to perform some magic spells of our own through The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley and Hogsmede – where, of course, the young wizards showed us up quite a bit with their skills. It’s all about the swish and flick!

5. Sit on a park bench

This may sound odd, but one of our all-time favorite things to do at Universal is to find a park bench (usually just outside Transformers: The Ride – 3D) and watch the world go by. From excited newcomers on their very first trip to Universal Orlando to the buzz of characters on Hollywood Blvd and Diagon Alley just behind you, this seems to be the intersection of where the entire Universe collides. Plus, when you get tired, nothing beats finding a shaded bench with a cool drink in your hand to let the atmosphere of the park soak in.

6. Ride the water taxis

If you need a moment just to relax, the water taxis might be up your alley. Even on warm Florida days, they offer a retreat, with a breeze, usually, to boot. The taxis will take you from CityWalk to one of the premier or preferred on-site hotels (those would be Sapphire Falls Resort, Royal Pacific Resort, Hard Rock Hotel, and Portofino Bay Hotel), and then back again. Each leg takes about 15 minutes and is free to all day guests (and, of course, those who are staying onsite).

The water taxis run 365 days a year; however, if it is late into the evening hours, the water-taxi captains will start to check for room keys.

7. Stay on property

Obvious? Think again (especially for fellow locals!). Truth be told, I hadn’t stayed on Universal property prior to Cabana Bay Beach Resort making its grand entrance in 2014, and that inaugural stay forever changed me. That first trip was to celebrate my birthday that year, and every couple of years since I joke that Universal has “gifted” me a new property to explore that I just can’t wait to check out (Sapphire Falls in 2016, Aventura Hotel in 2018, and Endless Summer in 2019 and ’20).

I always figured I lived so close, why would I ever want to stay on property? I’m here to tell you that Early Park Admission and being just minutes from the action is entirely worth it. Not to mention, Universal has done an incredible job of theming and ensuring you’re fully transported to a land that lives in Vacation Mode. Even for this Floridian, staying on property is a treat and unloads the stress because “home” is that much closer – we always plan on a pool day, do our best to explore every nook and cranny, and love trying out the various restaurants and bars each location offers.

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You might think Universal Orlando is all about the rides, and it is! But next time you’re visiting, keep your eyes peeled for those moments where you can take a moment to go beyond the attractions. And when do you, be sure to tell us all about it in our OI Community Facebook group (there’s over 60,000 of us collected there!).

And follow Orlando Informer on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for even more updates on everything Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and other Orlando experiences.

The post 7 things to do at Universal Orlando that aren’t rides appeared first on Orlando Informer.

I have to admit, I’m guilty of the same question, and while I know the parks do their best to keep all locations just different enough to entice us on the journey to check them all off our theme-park passport, I still can’t help but be fascinated by where the similarities and differences lie.

So, on that note, let’s go ahead and tackle a particular form of this question that we still routinely receive here at OI HQ…

Does Universal Orlando have a studio tour like Universal Studios Hollywood?

First, a little bit on the world-famous Universal Studio Tour: it’s the flagship attraction over at Universal’s very first theme park, Universal Studios Hollywood (which is located in – you guessed it! – Los Angeles, California), that takes about 60 minutes to complete. Boarding that tram is a signature experience, one that takes you into a working movie studio that Steven Speilberg helped to build – the 13 city blocks located on just four acres of the historic backlot even have various film shoots taking place at any given time!

Comedian Jimmy Fallon hosts by way of video and takes you through different clips and themed encounters on your tour: you’ll experience a flash flood, Earthquake: The Big One, wreckage of the Boeing 747 from Spielberg’s War of the Worlds, and Amity Island’s most famous finned resident – along with meeting King Kong face-to-face (a confrontation which was created by Peter Jackson), checking in to the Bates Motel, getting backlot peeks of the largest motion picture and TV studio in the world, and, if all that wasn’t enough, being taken on the ride of a lifetime with the Fast & Furious family.

If you’re asking this Orlando native, the Studio Tour sounds like a wonderful, nostalgic treat of all our favorite rides from Universal Orlando’s past blended wonderfully with some attractions that we currently do have on the East Coast (indeed, both Skull Island: Reign of Kong and our version of Fast & Furious – Supercharged come directly from the Tour, and I guess you could even argue that Race through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon also owes some debt to our park’s Hollywood counterpart). I won’t lie – the description alone for the Backlot Tour makes me want to book tickets out west to go hug my favorite shark right now.

All of which may give the answer to our overarching question away, but let’s officially answer it, anyway: Universal Orlando Resort (sadly) does not have a Studio Tour experience like Universal Studios Hollywood does.

There are two buts to this, however. Universal Studios Florida did, for a short period of time, feature a mini-tram tour (called the Production Tour) that even went through a prop graveyard (called the Boneyard) on its travel through the park, although this ended all the way back in 1995. (Want to read all about it? Check out our in-depth retrospective.) And you behind-the-scenes fans aren’t completely out of luck – there are still a few ways to discover some movie magic at Universal Orlando.

Live shows at Universal Orlando

Live productions like Animal Actors on Location and the Horror Make-Up Show provide a glimpse of how animals and makeup artists work in the entertainment industry to bring stories to life. These shows are great for kids and adults alike and often leave me feeling inspired by all the work that goes into movies and television – not to mention, you might be able to meet the very famous Frank the Pug at Animal Actors!

These may be just small doses of Universal Studios Hollywood’s filmmaking focus, but I still think they’re must-dos for any visiting family, movie buffs or not.

Behind-the-scenes tours

Universal offers some excellent VIP and Behind the Scenes tours throughout the year, like the VIP Experience (which grants you a private escort throughout the parks) and Unmasking the Horror during Halloween Horror Nights (lights-on tours through the various haunted houses). Unmasking the Horror, in particular, comes highly regarded – it’s a once-in-a-lifetime daytime look at how Universal Orlando’s Art & Design team transforms the biggest names in horror into haunt experiences. But both are great ways to experience Universal Orlando in an entirely new way!

Also, a number of individual attractions feature their own guided tours, including some behind-the-scenes sections. Although these consist of Revenge of the Mummy, Skull Island, and Jimmy Fallon, my personal fave is at Men in Black: Alien Attack – called the Immigration Tour, it’s a great way to see the agents’ operations room in action, including an out-of-this-world look at where technicians Idikiukup and Bob work. You’ll likely be able to take some fun photos here and get a chance to see the tabloids and newspapers that dot the queue up close and personal. (Just talk to a team member outside any of these rides, and, if it’s a slower day at the park, someone will come out to start your tour.)

Hidden Easter eggs

There are also some great hidden Easter eggs throughout Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure that pay homage to your favorite films, television shows, and comics. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for these entertainment secrets!

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Have any more burning questions about Universal Orlando? Ask them in our OI Community on Facebook, where 50,000+ other vacation-planners will be happy to answer them!

And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news and tips at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando destinations.

What are your favorite ways to get those “behind the scenes” vibes at Universal Orlando? Let us know in the comments below!

The post Does Universal Studios Florida have a studio tour like Hollywood? appeared first on Orlando Informer.

There may be nothing that dampens (literally) your day more than the unpredictable weather of Orlando. But who says that rain has to ruin your Universal Orlando Resort experience?

Whether or not the outdoor rides are still running, you can have the time of your life – and we recently did just that as a nearly full day of rain made its way through Central Florida while friends visited us all the way from Seattle! Grab your ponchos, pals – here are some of my best tips for a rainy day at Universal.

1. Pack a poncho!

It’s always a good idea to bring a cheap poncho with you to the parks – we even have some stowed away in our car just in case. Think it’s going to be a sunny day? You never know what Florida will decide to do from moment to moment, and, hey – not everyone loves getting soaked on Jurassic Park: River Adventure!

Universal’s ponchos are around $10 a pop, whereas you can probably get one off-site for much less at a retail or grocery store. They’re easy to pack, don’t take up much space, and can be a true life saver in the event of a rainy theme-park day.

But if you do have to buy your ponchos inside Universal Orlando, here’s a hint: try to buy them at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, because they sell special ponchos with the wizarding insignia!

2. If you’re already wet, hit up the water rides

Bummer! You forgot all about the ponchos and just can’t bring yourself to drop $10 on protective plastic. Since you’re already wet, now is the best time to conquer Jurassic Park: River Adventure, Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls, and Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges, all of which are located inside Islands of Adventure.

It’s always a good idea to think about what shoes and clothes you might want to wear on days where you’ll be doing the water rides or in the event that the parks become “water parks” due to rain. Quick-drying clothes and shoes always work wonders on days like these.

There is also a wonderful “people dryer” outside of the Toon Lagoon water rides that you can pop into and, for $5, do your best to dry off after.

3. Ride Storm Force Accelatron

If people dryers aren’t your speed, we have another great idea: Storm Force Accelatron, once again at Islands of Adventure, performs the same duty for free!

On the last rainy day I visited Universal, there was basically no line, and the operator let us ride Storm Force multiple times until we were nearly dry again. The attraction is a fun distraction, with an overhang to protect you from the rain, and many people don’t take it into consideration when they are looking for things to do to stay dry and protected.

4. Take a break in Hog’s Head

During times of rain, it’s always a great opportunity to rest for a bit and try Universal’s restaurants and bars until the sun starts to shine again. It’s also a great opportunity to charge your smartphone or tablet and maybe play a game or two, including the popular Heads Up! game.

The bar at the back of The Three Broomsticks in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade serves Hog’s Head Brew to those 21 and older, and it also has both frozen and regular Butterbeer for those looking for these coveted treats. This is a particularly great place to wait out the rain, as there are plenty of places to sit and stand, and there are lots of great Harry Potter-related themed elements to check out.

Most people take the rain as a sign to head out and journey back to their hotels, and this sends them into Honeydukes to make their final purchases – so it can be quite crowded here with park-goers looking to escape the downpour or making their final purchases before going on to their next grand adventure. If you plan to wait out the rain, Hog’s Head is a much better (and warmer) place to do it!

5. Go on the indoor rides

If you are in Islands of Adventure when it starts raining and you still want to go on rides, the best idea is to quickly head over to Universal Studios Florida. Islands definitely has more outdoor rides, whereas Universal Studios has plenty of indoor options that are unlikely to close due to weather.

When you head back to Islands of Adventure later, there are still a few indoor rides you can hit, like Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man, and The Cat in the Hat.

The park also has Skull Island: Reign of Kong, which was actually designed to operate in both sunny and rainy weather with its bypass; the ride vehicle normally leaves the station and heads outside, where guests venture through the giant Skull Island doors. When it’s raining, however, this is switched over to the indoor bypass, so the attraction can still operate. Yes, your ride is a bit shorter, but you’ll still be able to experience literally every other scene.

The only downfall here is that many will have the same thought to head towards the indoor attractions, so the lines might be a bit longer.

6. Visit Ollivander’s Wand Shop

Since the queue for Ollivander’s in Hogsmeade is completely outdoors with no cover, guests are much less inclined to enter it during a rainfall. This is your chance to get in line and get inside without much of a wait at all! (You can also head over to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida and visit Ollivander’s there, as well.)

There’s something extra magical about both halves of the Wizarding World in the rain – perhaps it’s just that extra touch of authenticity, and who can pass up the chills you’ll receive when a wand chooses a young wizard or witch?

7. Ride a roller coaster

Riding a coaster in the rain takes things to the next level! The outdoor rides, especially the roller coasters, will shut down if there is any thunder or lightning in the area, but, if it’s just raining, they will usually remain operational.

This particular situation happened to me and my three friends – the day had been cloudy, but there hadn’t been any rain. We waited in line for the front row of The Incredible Hulk Coaster for a long time, and when we were finally strapped in and ready to go, they announced: “Hope everybody is ready, because the Hulk just became a water ride!” We were in the launch tube, and we could see the pouring rain at the end of the tunnel.

The way I constantly describe what followed is “glass bullets blowing up in our faces.” It was quite an experience – not necessarily one I would want to repeat, but definitely one I will never forget.

8. Download a weather/radar app

The Weather Channel and My Radar apps are two of my most-used on my iPhone as a Floridian, and it’s always great to have them handy when planning a day at the parks or waiting to see when the rain will subside. On our recent rainy day, they were great in helping us to see when the harder rain would make its way through (read: when to duck into a restaurant for lunch) and when to take the risk of walking briskly over to the next attraction. We were able to see that the rain would clear out a little after lunch, and we tossed our ponchos to the wayside after a damp morning to enjoy the rest of the evening drizzle free.

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No matter if it’s just a quick shower or a day of rain, do your best to make the most fun of a rainy theme park day. You’re here to experience Orlando, and rain is sometimes just a way of life here, so grab that poncho, pack an umbrella, and invest in some water shoes to splash around and see a whole new side of adventure at Universal.

Have your own tips for how to stay entertained during a rainy day at Universal Orlando’s theme parks? Share ’em with 50,000+ vacation planners in our OI Community on Facebook. And then be sure to follow Orlando Informer on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news and tips at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando destinations.

The post 8 rainy-day tips at Universal Orlando appeared first on Orlando Informer.

What other tucked-away details does Disney World offer? Here’s a peek at 15 of our favorite hidden and weird secrets!

Magic Kingdom

1. Stumble upon a payphone in the Main Street Hat Shop? Pick it up and listen! You may hear a conversation between some of your favorite Disney characters.

2. Liberty Square is certainly its own interesting spot to check out – especially considering that we have a few points behind this one. Imagineers really did their best to make it feel like a piece of early America. All of the “houses” have a two-digit address on the front. If you were to add 18 before these two numbers, you will find the year that the architecture style was popular.

The oak tree that acts as a centerpiece for the square is hung with 13 lanterns representing the 13 original colonies. (I highly recommend checking it out at night – it’s really pretty to see!)

As you cross the bridge from the Hub into Liberty Square, take a moment to stop and check out the rocks on either side. These weren’t taken from just anywhere – they were mined from a quarry about six miles away from where George Washington crossed the Delaware.

3. Passing by the Haunted Mansion after dark may earn you a glimpse of some of the happy haunts playing around in an upper-floor window. The light in the window isn’t always on, though, so you may have to wait around for a bit. Additionally, for you Haunted Mansion enthusiasts, the busts in the queue with the cause of death under them are a riddle asking guests to figure out who killed whom. There’s no prize for figuring out the riddle itself – just some good, ol’-fashioned (morbid) theme-park fun.

4. I think this one definitely counts in the “weird” category. While on It’s a Small World, look to your right during the Mexico sequence. The happiest cruise on Earth pays homage to the noble profession of the chicken choker… not necessarily the audio-animatronic you’d associate with the ride.

Epcot

5. Have a dream of blasting off into space? You can make that dream a reality on Epcot’s Mission: Space. After landing safely back on Earth, you can also let all your friends and family know that this attraction apparently uses more computer power than NASA’s actual space shuttles did. This fun fact feels a little out-of-this-world, but leave it to Disney to out-space NASA at their own game (at least, as far as computers go).

6. Although not necessarily a secret, the pathways of Future World are something interesting to note nonetheless. After the sun sets, tiny lights in the ground light up through fiber optics. They aren’t really noticeable until you’re standing on certain parts of the path, so look closely.

7. A little thirsty? You can sample sodas from around the world at Club Cool sponsored by Coke – it’s free! Just be careful about Beverly from Italy – we hear it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Hollywood Studios

8. Aerosmith fans, you’re in luck! There’s a different Aerosmith track in each Rock ‘n Roller Coaster limo, and if you’re one of the chosen few to ride in the “Love in an Elevator” vehicle, the lyrics change to “love in a roller coaster” at the end.

9. If The Twilight Zone is more your speed, this next one can be a bit unnerving to spot. Look to the right of the elevator just before you enter The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror’s ride vehicle – there’s an inspection certification, and the name of the inspector is Cadwallader. Twilight fanatics will recognize the name as a character from the episode “Escape Clause” who turns out to be the devil.

10. Think you or someone you know is the next Disney Imagineer? You can have lunch with one at The Hollywood Brown Derby and ask them all your questions about innovation!

Animal Kingdom

11. Think you’re seeing a lot of the number 498? You probably are, especially on highway signs around DinoLand, USA or the display truck parked inside Animal Kingdom with a “498” license plate number! 498 is a reference to Animal Kingdom’s April 1998 opening date.

12. Visiting in the middle of summer and looking for a place to cool off? Chances are everyone else has had the same idea and is in line for Kali River Rapids, but you can head on over to the Dawa Bar and find the rusty shower heads. They’re not just there for effect – they really do pump out refreshing, cold water!

13. Keep your eyes peeled for DiVine, a walking piece of shrubbery come to life, in Asia. Be ready, as she’s very easy to miss because she blends into the surrounding foliage so perfectly.

14. Ever wonder what all the prayer flags and scarves throughout the trees in Asia are for? The flags represent messages of strength, wisdom, peace, and compassion, while the scarves pay homage to loved ones who have departed.

15. As you exit Avatar Flight of Passage, don’t miss the three red hand prints! These were stamped by James Cameron, the director of the originating Avatar film, Jon Landau, the producer, and Joe Rohde, lead Imagineer for Pandora and all of Animal Kingdom.

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If there is one thing Disney has mastered most of all, it’s the little details that often mean the most and that continue to surprise us at Walt Disney World. Keep an eye out for these little sights and sounds that have been added to the parks, and, perhaps, you’ll find a few of your very own!

Did we skip over one of your favorite hidden, weird, or secret spots? Let us know at our Disney World Community Facebook group.

And also be sure to follow Orlando Informer on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news and tips at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando destinations.

The post 15 hidden and weird spots at Walt Disney World appeared first on Orlando Informer.

For our guests and general visitors to Orlando, however, this is, frequently, their first experience with many of our attractions and sites. And, rest assured, there are days when even locals and experienced theme parkers can become quickly overwhelmed with all there is to do, and how to plan the best approach.

To help with both of those instances, here are a few top questions – and our answers – about SeaWorld Orlando that we’ve received over the years.

Do I need a bathing suit?

Unless you’re going to Aquatica, SeaWorld’s waterpark, you likely do not need a bathing suit. That being said, on days where I take on the water rides at theme parks, I usually find it helpful to also wear a bathing suit under my regular clothes, as they tend to dry faster.

There are really only two water rides at SeaWorld Orlando: Journey to Atlantis and Infinity Falls. You’re unlikely to get all that wet on Atlantis, but Infinity is a completely different story – you’ll probably wind up soaked here as you journey through a lost jungle with drenching falls, roaring rapids, and churning whitewater… after you take on the world’s tallest raft-ride drop, that is!

How many pairs of clothing do you suggest for a full day at the park? We’re worried about the splash zones!

You really should need just one set of clothes for the day. If you plan on carrying a bag, it’s never a bad idea to bring a light coat for cooler months or a poncho for Florida’s notorious pop-up storms. Just check the weather before leaving on your vacation (and day to day while you’re visiting, as Florida weather can change in an instant).

Temps are usually in the upper 80s/low 90s during the day and upper 70s/low 80s at night in Orlando. The splash zones and aquatic rides mentioned above might offer some opportunity to cool off in the water, but with Florida’s usual heat and humidty combo, you will probably dry off quickly.

We’d also recommend being diligent with sunscreen while in Florida (even on cloudy days, those UV rays will find you), and don’t forget your sunglasses or a hat.

What about Crocs? Are those a good footwear choice for SeaWorld?

Crocs are just fine as long as you’ve worn them around and that they are comfortable for you. You’ll be walking all day, so it’s key that your footwear is comfortable. Lots of people wear Crocs to the parks, though, and they’re a great choice, as they dry quickly should it rain or you do find yourself in a splash zone. They also now come in a variety of styles, which help them to be a better choice for theme-park wear.

I have a professional camera – is this a good idea to bring? Or would it be a risk?

The camera question is tough, and it’s definitely a personal choice. Many people bring their DSLR cameras to the parks to capture family memories or the dynamic scenery each theme park offers. It helps if your camera is of compact size and easy to carry around; if it is heavy, it will become cumbersome and won’t make for a fun day in the parks.

That being said, SeaWorld only has a few thrill rides – everything else is animal exhibits. It really comes down to how important the photographs are for you, and if you want high-quality images of the exhibits. I wouldn’t worry too much about it being safe. Just make sure you have a good strap, and SeaWorld has lockers you can rent if you want to ditch the camera for a few hours.

A nice bonus is that many cell phones today take excellent images, so if you’re worried about carrying too much or having your gear become heavy, you may be able – depending on which phone you have – to take great photos without a camera at all.

With any trip to a theme park, you’ll want to consider what is most comfortable for you to wear or carry around all day. We recommend bringing only what you find truly essential and what won’t weigh you down throughout the day.

Good luck, and enjoy your trip to SeaWorld!

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Do you have any additional questions about SeaWorld Orlando? Feel free to ask 50,000 other vacation-planners and theme parkers in our Universal Community Facebook group.

And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news and tips at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando destinations.

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1. Water taxis

Getting around the Magic Kingdom resort area can be tough (yay, crowds!) or simply take additional time on the monorail due to having to stop at each hotel. We always take the water taxis when needing to get between Magic Kingdom and the Polynesian Village or Grand Floridian Resort, which not only seems to save us some time but which also allows for a wonderful little boat ride across the Seven Seas Lagoon. The ferries are also a great “escape route” when you’re ready to leave the park for the night after watching the fireworks, as the monorail line tends to grow faster than Pinocchio’s nose after the last mortar has been lit.

2. Magic Kingdom escape route

After a long, exciting day of magic (and heat, possible missed naps, and other theme-park regulars), the last thing you usually want to be doing at the end of the evening is standing in yet another huge line – which is usually what happens with the monorail line after the nightly fireworks. Another great way to bypass these lines is to walk from Magic Kingdom to Contemporary Resort, then hop on the monorail at the hotel to your final destination!

How do you find the walkway? Easy! As you exit the theme park, veer to your left towards the bus depot and keep walking towards that huge hotel in the distance. This small detour will take about 15 minutes to walk, and there aren’t really any signs to point you in the right direction. However, neither the length of the walk nor having to find your way is anything compared to a two-hour wait crushed in line with your fellow theme parkers.

3. Disney chooses a “family of the day” for Magic Kingdom’s opening ceremonies

This one is a little more complicated, as it’s a bit like winning the lottery. But, like the lottery, there’s little harm in trying – and, who knows, you might get lucky!

To possibly be selected for the “family of the day” rope-drop ceremony, arrive at Magic Kingdom early (need an extra magical boost to get you out of bed in the morning? Request a free wake up call from Mickey or Stitch on the hotel phone!), wear matching Disney gear, and show lots of that pixie-dusted enthusiasm! As part of being selected, you’ll get a tour of Main Street before it opens.

4. Celebratory pins

Disney is always excited to help you celebrate your biggest moments in life, and, as such, it has special pins to mark those occasions. From birthdays and engagements to anniversaries and beyond, let the world know what you’re celebrating! You can pick up a button reflecting the occasion at your resort or in the parks from Guest Services.

5. The Electrical Water Pageant

With everything going on around the Magic Kingdom resort area, the Electrical Water Pageant is easy to miss if you’re not aware of when it’s happening. Typically, it begins around 9:00 pm at Polynesian Village Resort and ends around the entrance of Magic Kingdom on the Seven Seas Lagoon around 10:35 pm. This light parade features playful sea creatures and flags that dance upon the water to different tunes. Depending on the times, there are great viewing spots around the lake.

I always loved stumbling upon this water pageant as a kid, as it felt like a special treat – and who doesn’t love a parade on water?

6. Watching the fireworks outside of Magic Kingdom?

Everyone likes to try and beat the firework crowd, and locals are no different. If you’re looking for a viewing area outside Magic Kingdom, try the Ticket and Transportation Center, to the right of the ferry launch. I also like watching from the Polynesian along the bay, up on the hills.

7. Don’t carry your merchandise around all day

If you’re staying at a Disney-owned hotel, you can have merchandise you purchase in the parks sent to your hotel so you don’t have to lug it around all day (just like at Universal Orlando Resort!). A word of caution here: it can take up to 24 hours for your merchandise to reach your resort, so if you’re checking out the next day, it’s better to have your items sent to package pickup in the front of whichever theme park you’re in. There also is a cutoff time for having your goodies sent to package pickup, however, so you’ll want to ask these questions prior to making a decision.

8. The Disney “kiss goodnight”

For a sweet send-off to an incredible day, linger about 15 minutes after Magic Kingdom closes to experience Cinderella Castle lighting up for the last time while “When You Wish Upon a Star” plays. Then, through the loudspeakers will come an announcement as the last guest exits the park: “Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, on behalf of everyone here at Magic Kingdom, we thank you for joining us today for a magic gathering of family, friends, fun, and fantasy. We hope your magical journey with us has created wonderful memories that will last a lifetime.”

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Now that you know some of the local tips, tricks, and secrets for the Magic Kingdom resort area, we’d love to hear what you might add to our list! What are some of your favorite ways to enhance your vacation at Magic Kingdom? Tell us in our WDW Community Facebook group.

And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news and tips at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando destinations.

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Know before you go: there are two Orlando Premium Outlets!

Let’s try to clear up any confusion there may be, as Orlando offers quite a few outlet options. There are two large outlet complexes: this one, near Universal Orlando, and a second one further south on Interstate 4, near Disney World.

The confusion comes from the fact that they now have very similar names: the one near Universal is called Orlando International Premium Outlets, and the one near Disney is Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets (which you can read all about in our write-up). What’s even more confusing is that both outlets are actually on International Drive – it just so happens that the Vineland Ave location got named after its cross-street.

(Another point of confusion comes from Orlando International Premium Outlets’s name – it used to be Orlando Premium Outlets International Drive, and then, before that, simply Prime Outlets [before it was bought by Premium Outlets]. This can be confusing for locals, so we feel for our friends who are visiting from out of town.)

Here’s a custom-made Google map that may help: OI Orlando shopping map (it will open in a new window). The Orlando outlets are labeled with a yellow dollar sign. Click either one and then zoom in to see exactly where it is located.

What does Orlando International Premium Outlets have?

Orlando International Premium Outlets is Florida’s largest outlet shopping destination, containing close to 200 stores that cover everything you can think of. It also has a few full-service restaurants, a food court, and a couple rides for the kids. Here is a very short list of some of the stores:

• Adidas
• Aeropostale
• Ann Taylor
• Banana Republic
• Calvin Klein
• Champion
• Columbia Sportswear
• DKNY
• Gap
• Guess
• Hurley
• Nike
• Saks Fifth Avenue
• Skechers
• Timberland
• Tommy Hilfiger
• True Religion
• Under Armour
• Victoria’s Secret
• White House | Black Market

Now, let’s see some pictures!

Orlando International Premium Outlets – photo highlights

Orlando International Premium Outlets – additional info

You can find an interactive map of the Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets here.

Trying to find the best deals? They’re listed on the outlet’s deals page.

There are a few parking options outside of the 1,500 open spaces at the Outlets if you’re driving your own car:

• Valet is $15 and can be found in front of the Nike store on the right side of the center.
• Premium paid parking is $10 and can be found by Hugo Boss.
• My Park is available in multiple areas in the center. Visit usemypark.com for more information.
• If you’re a Florida resident, you can also take advantage of their complimentary valet parking from 10:00 to 11:00 am daily! Call 407-352-9611 for more information.

If you don’t have a car, the mall is at I-Ride Trolley stop #1. (Learn more here.)

Orlando International Premium Outlets – location map

View Larger Map

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What’s your favorite store at the Vineland Premium Outlets? Let us know in our Universal Community Facebook group.

Be sure to follow Orlando Informer on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news and tips at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando destinations.

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The City Beautiful is home to some of the country’s biggest and best outlet malls, and it’s time to throw a spotlight on the Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets. This is the outlet mall closest to Disney World, and it offers a variety of unique shopping experiences.

(Would you rather be reading about the outlet mall near Universal Orlando? Follow this link: Orlando Premium Outlets International Drive: Closest outlets to Universal.)

Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets has more than 160 stores and a huge food court, and it’s within easy driving distance from Walt Disney World and SeaWorld. Some of its stores include:

• Ann Taylor
• Banana Republic
• Calvin Klein
• Coach
• DKNY
• Diesel
• Gap
• J. Crew
• Lacoste
• Lucky Brand
• Motherhood
• Nautica
• Nike
• Polo Ralph Lauren
• Sketchers
• Timberland
• Tommy Hilfiger
• True Religion

Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets is located on – yup, you guessed it! – Vineland Ave. For your GPS app of choice, the address is 8200 Vineland Ave, Orlando, FL 32821.

A word of caution if you are driving from Disney property: open up our custom-made Google map by clicking here (it will open in a new window), and then click on the “alternative route from WDW to Premium Outlets Vineland” list item. Now zoom in about three clicks.

Most people driving to and from the Vineland Premium Outlets take Highway 535 underneath I-4, then turn onto Vineland Ave. But Vineland is a narrow road, and, as a result, the traffic on that strip between 535 and the outlet mall can be a nightmare. So, as an alternative, we highly recommend that you take 535 down to World Center Drive, take a left, and follow World Center to International Drive; from there, take a left and follow International up to the other side of Vineland. This may be a little longer in terms of distance, but you won’t arrive at the mall already sick of dealing with people. Also, this route takes you right past Publix if you need to pick up a few groceries.

Now, let’s get to the pictures!

Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets – photo highlights

Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets – additional info

You can find an interactive map of the Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets here.

Trying to find the best deals? They’re listed on the outlet’s deals page.

This location offers a large variety of parking options, from valet ($15) to Florida resident and reserved parking for expectant mothers and military veterans. Learn more here.

There is also an I-Ride Trolley stop at Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets.

Try to get there early, too. The stores open at 10:00 am every single day of the week, and many people hit the outlets to scour the stores for incredible deals to take home with them as souvenirs.

(By the way, if you want to stay close-by, you should book accommodations at the Hilton Grand Vacation Club. It’s literally right next door!)

Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets – location map

View Larger Map

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What’s your favorite store at the Vineland Premium Outlets? Let us know in our WDW Community Facebook group.

Be sure to follow Orlando Informer on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news and tips at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando destinations.

The post Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets: Closest outlet mall to Disney World appeared first on Orlando Informer.

One of our favorite ways to head out for the day is the resort’s water-taxi service that brings guests from its on-site hotels (Sapphire Falls Resort, Royal Pacific Resort, Hard Rock Hotel, and Portofino Bay Hotel) to a central loading dock at CityWalk and back again.  Each of the venues has a dedicated taxi that floats along on their specific route (so no extra stop for the other hotels!).

What you need to know

Here are some basic facts for you:

• The water taxis start 30 minutes before Early Park Admission
• They run every 15 minutes until 2:30 am, 365 days a year
• Each leg of your expedition takes anywhere from five to 15 minutes
• They are free to every guest who visits Universal Orlando!

Let’s repeat that last one: Universal Orlando’s water taxis are free to every guest who visits. Day guests, that means you, too – so, what are you waiting for? Hop on to one of the water taxis and experience a bit more of the Universe. This is encouraged by Universal, as it wants you to experience its on-site resorts with the hope that you’ll book your next stay right there on property.

Do you need a reason to go to one of the on-site hotels? How about Strong Water Tavern at Sapphire Falls, Orchid Court Lounge and Sushi Bar at Royal Pacific, The Palm at Hard Rock, or Thirsty Fish at Portofino Bay? Don’t forget to check out (though not swim in, since only on-site guests are able to do so) each hotel’s incredible pool – or, in Portofino’s case, pools – and feel out each unique atmosphere before planning your next vacation.

Water taxi tips

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x0AE4sEcCow

During the very late evening hours, the water-taxi captains will begin to ask for room keys, simply to keep off any revelers who may have wandered down to the docks from the CityWalk nightclubs. Additionally, if you are looking to hop between on-site hotels, we recommend using Universal Orlando’s shuttle buses, as it usually is a quicker journey.

And here’s a good one: while the water taxis are a great service, did you know that you can easily walk from the parks and CityWalk over to any one of the on-site properties?  If you have never done this before, we strongly recommend it. The path runs adjacent to the waterway, is filled with lush landscaping, and is really an adventure in its own right. If you need a reason to add to your step count for the day, this is the path for you!

In fact – and surprisingly – it can actually take longer to wait for, board, and ride the water taxis from CityWalk to Royal Pacific or Hard Rock than it does just to walk (though if you time it perfectly, the boat is still faster). It’s about a seven-minute walk from Royal Pacific to the CityWalk entrance by Margaritaville; it’s only about a five-minute walk from Hard Rock over to the gates at Universal Studios Florida; and it’s about a 15-minute walk from either Portofino Bay or Sapphire Falls to the front gates.

From the water taxis and walkways to on-site shuttles, there’s no mistaking that Universal makes it easy for its guests to navigate and explore with ultimate convenience.

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What’s your favorite way to get around Universal Orlando? Let us know in our Universal Community Facebook group.

Be sure to follow Orlando Informer on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news and tips at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando destinations.

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The first two months of the year are some of the best times to enjoy Orlando’s theme parks with comparatively no crowds, but it’s not all a park-hopping paradise – there are some downsides to visiting during the slow season, and we’re going to spell them all out for you here.

(First, though, if you want some help determining when the slow season is, please visit the OI Crowd Calendar).

1. Shorter hours

With less people coming to the parks comes less revenue, which means, in turn, the need to cut back on labor and other operational costs – and the biggest way to accomplish this is to cut back the park hours. During slow season, both Universal Orlando Resort and SeaWorld Orlando reduce their hours, often closing as early as 6:00 pm. Walt Disney World Resort does, as well, though Epcot stays open until 9:00 pm nightly and Magic Kingdom usually closes even later than that. (It’s always a good idea to research park hours for when you’re visiting, which can again be done through our Crowd Calendar.)

On the bright side, shorter hours free up your evenings. You won’t need to run yourself ragged in order to “do it all,” and, in the evening, you can rest or enjoy a leisurely dinner – which is all but unheard of during the non-stop peak seasons.

If you are near the International Drive area, you’ll find lots of fun ways to spend a night, including Pointe Orlando, Icon Orlando 360, and Mango’s. Better yet, dedicate one of your free evenings to exploring the “real” Orlando, such as Winter Park, Restaurant Row, or historic main streets like downtown Sanford, Winter Garden, or Deland. Speaking of “real” Orlando – you may want to check out an airboat tour while you’re visiting to catch a glimpse of Florida’s wildlife and beautiful scenery. One of my favorites is over in Oviedo at the Black Hammock, where you’ll experience Central Florida’s most populated alligator lake! This is always a must-do when I have friends who visit from out of town.

2. Less entertainment

Another swooping way for the parks to cut back on costs during the slow season is to reduce their entertainment offerings, which includes character meet-and-greet opportunities as well as stage show performances. If live entertainment or meet-‘n-greets are important to you, then you will definitely want to get to know the schedule ahead of time – you’ll want to carefully plan out these experiences so you can be sure that you’ll be able to see the shows you want and get your pictures with the characters you want to meet.

3. Ride refurbishments

When an impressive piece of machinery such as a complex theme-park ride runs continuously for hours on end, eventually that machine is going to need a break and some TLC. Even though refurbishments are a normal occurrence in the theming world, the park operators know that guests will be upset about any attraction being unavailable (even the ones that aren’t on the must-do list), which is why they get scheduled during the slow season (the theme parks save on operational labor and have less guests visiting then, which means fewer disappointed people).

So to avoid any unexpected frustration for yourself, be sure to check the schedule before you book to make sure your desired ride is available at the time of your visit.

4. Longer waits for food

Believe it or not, during the slow season you can actually have a longer wait for certain items, especially when dining. Whether it’s grabbing a snack at one of the stands or sitting down for a full-service meal, it’s safe to expect a possibly longer wait. This is mostly due to cutting back the hours of kitchen and serving staff, but if you plan ahead, hopefully no one in your party will wind up hangry.

5. More private events

January and February are two busy months for groups and conventions. Having these groups around is not necessarily something that would hinder your vacation, but something to be mindful of in case certain venues are closed for private functions.

This is also something to keep in mind if staying in a hotel that has meeting and convention space (such as Sapphire Falls Resort, which is Universal’s conventioneer hotel). The easiest way to check to see if your resort has such spaces is to pull up its website – generally, “meetings/events” will be one of the categories listed along the top or side of the site.

6. Less value for Express Passes

The best part of the slow season is the reduction in crowds and, thus, wait times for the rides, which makes it difficult to justify the cost of an Express Pass during these slow periods. The good news is the cost of Express goes down fairly dramatically during this time, and if you are, indeed, short on time, it can still be a decent value.

7. Less value for staying on property (though lower rates)

The six (soon to be seven) on-site hotels each offer a well-themed environment, a place that is both relaxing and exciting. Even better, the three premier hotels also include Express Passes with your stay – perhaps the most standout benefit of staying at one of these beautiful resorts. However, when you visit during the slow season, that benefit isn’t as necessary or as helpful – which may mean this is a great time to check out the other properties you’ve had your eyes on, too!

The grounds and rooms for each resort are lovely and well appointed. Guest service can be expected throughout, and early entry into The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Volcano Bay is always a wonderful treat, no matter the time of year. Not to mention, on-property transportation is very reliable and, with shorter park hours, it helps to be nearby.

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Overall, visting during slow season is still one of the best experiences an Orlando visitor could ask for; enjoy the ability to explore Orlando at a less hurried pace and really savor the most-visited vacation destination in the world. And then be sure to tell us all about your slow-season adventures in the OI Community on Facebook.

And you can follow Orlando Informer on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news and tips at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando destinations.

The post 7 things to know about visiting theme parks during the slow season appeared first on Orlando Informer.

But there were, of course, the times that I could see a problem guest coming from halfway to Twister. They’d roll in quickly, like an afternoon Floridian thunderstorm: one second, it was sunny, and music was playing and birds were chirping; then the next second, it could only be described as a Dementor-like scenario. I’d try to pretend that I didn’t see them coming – I would’ve hidden behind a vending machine, if I could’ve – but there was simply no stopping the Terrifying Tourist.

I’d like to tell you that I’ve seen it all, from smokers taking their cigarettes into dangerous territories, to adults attempting to deceive height restrictions for their children by any means possible, to those who think “single riders” means “no, we’re a single family… so we’ll all ride together!”

I’ve heard some crazy things, been asked unbelievable questions, been yelled and screamed at as if it’s my fault that everyone decided to come to the park on Christmas Day. But even with all my own stories, I decided to ask my retired theme park buddies: what’s the worst thing a tourist can do?

And here for you now, in no particular order, I narrowed down the most terrifying characteristics of our tourists – and how you can counteract these traits to make your vacation even better (okay, and to make our jobs a little easier, too!).

The tourist who yells
Guests may raise their voices sometimes for a valid reason, sometimes for reasons far beyond our control, sometimes for no reason at all other than you’re tired and hungry and spending so much money, the kids are fighting, the lines are long, and it’s hot here. It is so hot here! We get why your volume might need to be amplified – trust me, we do. Sometimes we all just need to be heard.

But, with front-line team members, yelling never works better than speaking to us like we’re on the same side (and we are on the same side).

If you find yourself tempted to yell, take a giant, deep breath. Chances are we’re within earshot of where you’re standing and can hear you just fine. I assure you: those of us working in the theme parks really do want to assist you with whatever you need. Yelling might get you acknowledged faster, but just simply talking to us and being nice will get you a solution to your problem a heck of a lot faster.

The tourist who ruins the magic
Inevitably, there seems to always be a parent, older sibling, or grandmother who is delirious due to that whole heat thing, and after they take a photo of their adorable children with Mickey Mouse or SpongeBob, they’ll proclaim, quite loudly, “Hey! Is it really hot in that costume?”

Congratulations. You’ve effectively become a Terrifying Tourist – ruiner of all magic, destroyer of all dreams.

To many of us, the “magic” goes far beyond dress-up and Halloween. We don’t just work in theme parks for the paychecks – we work there because we actually believe in this magic. We’ve experienced it firsthand, and many of us have actually dreamed of working here – some have even traveled worldwide to do so.

They’re not costumes, it’s not just a show or a spiel; it’s a part of the experience, and, to us, that’s very real. Please don’t take that away from us and your fellow guests, and – really – don’t take that away from your children or the children around you who still believe. Just go with it – believing in the magic never hurt anyone.

The tourist who cheats, cuts in line, and thinks he is above the rules
This one is a biggie! Smoking sections exist for a reason. Height restrictions exist for a reason. Lines, wait times, lockers for bags, lap bars/seat belts, “no, sir, you can’t stand up on the in-motion ride” or swim while lightning dances all around us or “please don’t feed the wildlife – the alligators are totally real” all also exist for a reason.

The rules weren’t put into place to make your experience here in Orlando any less enjoyable, I promise you. They’re essentially in place to make everyone happy, keep your family safe, and also protect the staff and equipment you’re enjoying throughout your time here.

If you think a rule is being enforced that really is unjustified, please visit Guest Services. For the sanity of your family and those around you, don’t take it upon yourself to rewrite the rule book all by yourself.

The unprepared tourist (or the inflexible tourist)
Things change, and Orlando is no different. Wait times fluctuate minute-to-minute, day-to-day, and season-to-season. Attractions and rides that go down for refurbs or just due to technical issues can happen at any time. Weather can roll in with no notice and change everything you thought you knew was true.

I also truly hate to break it to you, but you will never find a minion outside Cinderella’s Castle, and SpongeBob will never, ever be seen anywhere close to Splash Mountain – no matter how hard you look, no matter who you ask. There’s a way to prevent these disappointments, and it’s called planning your trip.

Be prepared for everything and anything while on vacation. Have a plan, but know that that plan can – and probably will – change. Know where you’re staying. Know the parks – and the main attractions at each park. Know what rides your children might not be able to ride due to height restrictions. Have a list of “must-dos” and bring some fun activities to keep the little ones occupied in the event of long lines and some personal downtime throughout the day.

The disrespectful tourist
These are some of the worst tourists, because no matter how hard you try to make something “right” or awesome, it’s just never good enough.

I’ve been yelled at, cursed at, called all the names in the book, and I’ve seen situations that are, even, far worse. It’s sad, really, because it never has to get to that point. Most theme park team members really do just want to help make things better, hear you out, and fix whatever they can to ensure that you have the best experience possible. It’s tough to do that when you’re attacking us, though. We’re humans, too, and, more often than not, we’re just the messenger, trying to do our jobs and provide for our families.

This goes back to the first type of Terrible Tourist – just be nice! We know that vacations can be stressful and challenging and pose a ton of unknowns, but being rude and essentially biting the hand that’s trying to assist you isn’t going to help you very much, either. Chances are we’re not going to get the opportunity to show up at your office and make your day a living nightmare, so… just try not to do that to us. Then we’ll get along famously, and it’ll all be outta this world.

More terrifying tourists we need to mention
Keep an eye out for these bad habits: refusing to acknowledge the epic need for sunscreen and hydration in the form of H20 in the state of Florida, neglecting certain customs and traditions in this part of the world, and those who randomly stop in an extremely crowded park to just… stop (or stopping in a doorway, or in front of an important sign). Why are you just stopping? Theme parks are like real-world traffic scenarios, so put that blinker on and pull safely off to the side.

Looking back on my time at MIB, there were a lot of fond memories created. Our group of MIB agents certainly had it good, and it all started with the incredible guests we came across day in and day out. And though there were definitely days that challenged us, they only went to ultimately make us stronger.

We certainly get the difficulties and obstacles that might stem from being on vacation. (Hey, we go on those, too!) But that’s no reason to Jekyl-and-Hyde your own vacation persona. This is, after all, your chance to act like a kid, laugh with The Simpsons, survive a T-Rex, battle some aliens, and have the time of your life with your family and friends. You can experience a world of magic here in Orlando and be anyone you want to be – so why not be the greatest guest and coolest example for your family that you can be?

What kind of terrifying tourists have you seen – or been – at the parks? Tell us all about it in the comments below.

Planning a vacation to Orlando?
Want to skip all the work and just price out a vacation to Universal Orlando? We’ll find the best deals for you – for free (seriously.) Learn more, or check out some of the current deals:

• – Halloween Horror Nights 25 Hotel & Ticket Vacation Packages
  – Wizarding World of Harry Potter Vacation Packages
  – 2-Park Getaway at Universal Orlando

The post 5 most terrifying tourists appeared first on Orlando Informer.

While these recommendations are always well-intentioned, I worked long enough at Universal Orlando to know that there are definitely times when this guidance is a whole lot of ill-informed, downright awful advice. Let’s explore some of these tips and see if we can’t get you on the right track to Central Florida bliss.

Don’t be bad tourists.

“The best time to visit Orlando is three-and-a-half weeks after Christmas.”
The answer to the “When is the best time to visit Orlando?” question is not necessarily the same for everyone who asks it. Some people may want to brave the holiday crowds so that they can get a glimpse of Cinderella’s Castle lit up in glittery white at Magic Kingdom or meet the Grinch at Islands of Adventure, while there are certainly others who would rather not experience feeling like a sardine in a tin can the week between Christmas and New Year’s.

There are absolutely peak seasons and slower seasons within Orlando. However, if you plan accordingly and know ahead of time what you might be facing with crowds, the answer to this question is really what works best for you and your family.

“You don’t need your own camera – the parks have photographers.”
As a photographer, you’ll never find me without a camera – especially when visiting the theme parks! Naturally, you, too, will want evidence that you met Scooby-Doo or walked through the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. And, yes, one of the great things about Universal Orlando and Walt Disney World is that they both have photographers around the parks to take photos.

However, I also know folks who do their own vacation photography and wouldn’t change a thing about it. On this one, I say bring your own camera, absolutely, but also take the time to research the options offered by the parks; many agree that Universal’s Photo Connect Star Card Package is one of the best deals in town.

“You don’t have to worry about rules when you’re in a theme park.”
It’s true that you and your family are really safe within the theme parks, but this is because the rules exist. If you follow them, you shouldn’t run into much trouble at all. Instead of risking injury or disappointment, it’s so much easier to do your research, know what rides and activities may or may not be accessible to your family members, and take note of the safety precautions that are in place to protect you.

Another tip: your children should also always be supervised, whether in a park or the hotel. Just because there are employees, lifeguards, and security around doesn’t mean that something can’t happen.

“Never take your child to Orlando before the age of five.”
My parents have been taking my sisters and me to the parks since we were babies. Do I remember those first couple of trips? Absolutely not. But I can also promise you that there’s really nothing like witnessing a child’s eyes light up the first time they see all the magic Orlando has to offer. There really is something for everyone here!

Disney practically caters to the younger crowd, and Universal’s parks also have designated areas for children of all ages, not to mention the incredible sights at SeaWorld, LEGOLAND, and Central Florida’s other amazing destinations. You may even begin to see the “May is made for little ones in Orlando” ads coming soon as Orlando tries to showcase that it’s more than just rollercoasters and thrill rides – there’s a lot for the three-and-under crowd, too.

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“Schedule everything you do!” or “Just wing it!”
Orlando is really all about time management. Unfortunately, you will more than likely not be able to experience it all in just five days. I’ve been coming here since I was two, and I’ve lived here for 20 years – yet I still haven’t seen or done it all. Some people really like jam-packing their trip with non-stop activities, while others want a more relaxing vacation where there are pool days and naps included. My parents always brought us back to the room or pool around 2:00pm, where we’d stay until dinner. This gave us the chance to recharge our batteries (and therefore eliminated most tantrums and breakdowns due to exhaustion).

My advice would be to have priorities that are your personal must-dos – plan around those, and fill in the rest of the time with exciting things that might catch your eye along the way. Or to put it simply: don’t “wing it,” but don’t over-plan your trip, either.

“Just stay on I-Drive and walk to Universal.”
This, I must say, boggles my mind. I-Drive and Universal Orlando are within close proximity to one another, but “close proximity” in Florida is something of a small journey in itself, as most activities here are not within walking distance. I would never suggest anyone walk to Universal from their I-Drive hotel, because the surrounding roads are, for the most part, very congested and not very conducive to walking along with your family – not to mention that this will only extend your day by quite a bit, and require the long walk back to your room with tired kids, bags, and souvenirs from the park.

See what options your hotel might have for you to arrive safely, or consider renting a car to get around. If you’re staying on-site at a Disney or Universal hotel, they each have their own transportation systems. There are also outside bus services that will take you to the other local attractions and parks, as well.

“You can buy tickets for half off.”
This advice also scares me. You really have to do your research on where you’re finding any deals on theme park admission; there are, unfortunately, many scams in which you are sold tickets that might be expired or don’t otherwise work. Once you get to the park entrance with an invalid ticket, there is nothing the parks can do – and they surely will not refund an order you placed with a guy behind Red Lobster. It’s a sad story, but it happens.

So please do your research on this front, too, and recognize that, if a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is. That being said, there are many very trustworthy discount ticket distributors, like Undercover Tourist. I know we’re all trying to save a few dollars, so do your due diligence as the “half off” deal could potentially endanger your entire trip.

“There are so many restaurants, you’ll never need reservations.”
I’m just going to come out and say it – you absolutely, without question, need reservations when dining at Disney World or Universal Orlando. This doesn’t mean that, if you don’t have reservations, you’ll go hungry, as there are tons of great places to enjoy a meal here in Orlando. However, if you’re visiting when it’s busy, your chances of dining at Beast’s Castle, Cinderella’s Castle, Mythos, or Emeril’s without reservations are not good.

Some of Orlando’s more popular restaurants – particularly those at Walt Disney World – book up six months in advance, and very few people ever cancel those prized reservations.

So often during my time working at Men in Black: Alien Attack, I heard guests complain that their trip could have been better “if only.” I think many times people have high expectations of doing it all, or go by what worked best for someone else, and then they wind up falling short. Orlando has so much to offer if you pace yourself, have your list of must-dos properly compiled, and you know where to go for expert advice. Do these, and I don’t think there’s a way you can go wrong.

For more information about these topics, check out these pages in the OI Universal Center:

If that’s not enough, you can leave your own tips and tricks in the comments below.

Planning a vacation to Orlando?
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The post 8 pieces of bad advice you should NEVER follow appeared first on Orlando Informer.

As we’re both huge fans of a good Irish pub, we had our eyes on Finnegan’s Irish Bar & Grill in the New York section of Universal Studios for a while. I decided to go ahead and finally make reservations for us.

I quickly and easily made a reservation through the OI Universal Center’s Dining reservations page and immediately received the confirmation notice. I don’t know that we necessarily needed a reservation on this particular evening, but I can tell you that during peak season, I’ve walked by Finnegan’s to see it overflowing with people.

We arrived at Finnegan’s right at 6:45pm and were seated promptly at a centrally-located table. Nicole, our server, stopped by to great us very quickly and took our appetizer and drink orders. There was live music, which was excellent, as the musician flowed from Jason Mraz to Bob Marley tunes. A bit odd for an Irish pub, I’ll admit, as I do love Celtic-inspired music, and that would’ve helped inspire the Irish surroundings – but it was upbeat and entertaining, which is all we really require to be happy.

Our drinks and appetizer were delivered with lightning speed, along with some delicious Irish soda bread and apple butter that just so happens to be a Finnegan’s staple. I opted to try the Flight of Beers sampler, which was about $11, where I got to sample five four-ounce beer cocktails. Sean decided to go for a Margarita, which ran us $8.50.

Both were really tasty, but I think we had the most fun trying each of the specially mixed beers, and I was surprised to discover that I even enjoyed the darkest options.

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Four of the five samples were Guinness-based, then mixed with Yuengling, Smithwick’s, Blue Moon, and cider, respectively. The last was called Irish Shandy and consisted of Harp and Sprite. This one was my least favorite, as it really only tasted like flat Sprite to me, but the others were really enjoyable, and I discovered a couple that I enjoyed completely and wouldn’t mind a full glass of.

Speaking of glass – the Flight of Beers sampler comes with a souvenir Finnegan’s glass, too!

Upon the delivery of our appetizer, we noticed that the Irish Chicken Stingers ($7.99) seemed like a really small portion, but when we mentioned this to Nicole, she was happy to bring out a few more for us to munch on.

While we waited for our meal, we enjoyed the eclectically Irish atmosphere of Finnegan’s. It probably sounds ridiculous to even say, but when you step into one of the Universal Orlando restaurants, you almost forget that you’re even in a theme park, as you’re transported to another time and place. Finnegan’s also includes a separate full bar area that definitely has a more “pub”-like feel to it. This is where it seemed to be louder and had a much more outgoing vibe.

Our meals also came out quickly and were delivered by a Finnegan’s manager, who was very kind and wanted to ensure we were having a nice meal. Nicole was also great about stopping by to see how we were doing and was always happy to help when and where she could.

I ordered the Tipperary Corned Beef Sandwich ($10.99), while Sean tried the Irish Fish ‘n Chips ($13.99). We were both really happy with both meals and thought everything was fairly priced for what we received. We even had some leftover, which became a nice little treat for the following day’s lunch.

All in all, I think Finnegan’s is a great dining option while you’re visiting Universal Orlando. It’s fun, animated, and everyone we encountered was very friendly. The food was really satisfying for a full-service meal, too. I do think if you’re okay to spend a little bit more and are looking for a more authentic Irish bar in the Orlando theme park area, you might prefer to check out Raglan Road at Downtown Disney, but what I love about Finnegan’s is that it has a more laid-back feel to it, and on the night we visited, it was much quieter and kinder to our wallets.

In that regard, Finnegan’s is absolutely not to be missed, and I’m sure that we’ll definitely be visiting again!

Thank you for checking out my restaurant review. If you’d like, you can view the Finnegan’s menu and look at booking a table via the Dining reservations page in the OI Universal Center.

Been to Finnegan’s before, especially during Halloween Horror Nights? Tell us all about your experiences in the comments below.

Planning a vacation to Orlando?
Want to skip all the work and just price out a vacation to Universal Orlando? We’ll find the best deals for you – for free (seriously.) Learn more, or check out some of the current deals:

• – Halloween Horror Nights 25 Hotel & Ticket Vacation Packages
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The post Those who eat here vow to never go anywhere else appeared first on Orlando Informer.

The Yard House founders wanted to create a restaurant that would offer guests one of the largest selections of draft beers with a wildly diverse menu of American fare, while classic rock jammed from a state-of-the-art sound system. Immediately, I was hooked.

My sister and I decided to give the Orlando Yard House a try one recent afternoon for lunch. Located at I-Drive 360, lunch is served daily between 11am and 5pm.

We entered and were welcomed by two energetic and delightful hostesses who showed us to a massively-large-but-comfy booth. Our server, Ron, stopped by to introduce himself, and, although he was busy with what appeared to be a few other tables and a larger group, he was attentive and very informative. As I looked around, the staff seemed to be very happy, and the bartenders all had big smiles on their faces as they catered to those seated around the bar.

Yard House offers over 130 items, from appetizers, salads, and soups to pastas, sandwiches, burgers, pizza, and ribs. Many of these dishes are award-wining, and it’s easy to see why.

With a seemingly endless number of beer choices in front of me, I asked what Ron recommended. Luckily, the beer menu is really well-organized, beginning with lighter brews and ending, three pages later, with the darker selections. I chose the House White Ale ($6.50 for a pint), which is, of course, a Craft Beer brewed by Yard House.

This beer was really light and tasty, and I was very happy with the choice. The draft beers can also be ordered in two other sizes – shorty (starting around $3.00) and Half Yard (starting around $10.50). These prices vary and are listed beside the different beers on tap.

It should also be noted that the beers sometimes change at Yard House, but I was really happy to see that even their website is very accommodating in searching for what every location currently offers – and it even organizes them accordingly from light to dark, showcasing their “difficulty” in drinkability as it does. I’m excited to try their infamous beer cocktails next time, which are exactly what they sound like: traditional cocktails that happen to be infused with the Yard House brews.

Conveniently, they also offer “My Yard House,” which you can sign up for online and allows you to track your beers and rate your favorites. With as many beers as Yard House provides, this is a great resource for the locals who are interested in experiencing and tracking all they have to offer!

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Our meals came very quickly and were absolutely beautiful. My sister ordered a salad-soup combo with the Citrus Soy Salad and Organic Tomato Bisque, while I ordered a salad-sandwich combo that included Mixed Field Greens and a half Roast Beef Dip sandwich.

The Roast Beef Dip sandwich was really filling, and it was a fairly large “half” – I know that if I had ordered the full sandwich for lunch, and, possibly, even dinner, I never would’ve finished it in one sitting! Stefanie really enjoyed her soup and salad, as well, noting that both were very flavorful and the perfect portion size for lunchtime.

As we visited Yard House around 3pm, it was fairly quiet and a really great first visit, allowing me to take everything in. Even during lunch, you could feel the energy permeate the building, much of which centers around the island bar that was overflowing with a fleet of tap handles.

Also visible is their keg room, which houses as many as 5,000 gallons of beer at any given time. Three to five miles of individual beer lines run the course of the ceiling, which transport the beer from the keg room to the taps at a perfectly chilled temperature.

I also love that Yard House is committed to charity work and supports a program called “Round It Up, America.” Happy Hours are available and can be viewed on their website. These times also include half-off on select drinks and appetizers, which I think is really great for those looking to enjoy a night out while sticking to a budget!

I’m happy to say that the anticipation of Yard House joining the I-Drive 360 family was easily worth the wait. It’s a fantastic addition to the Orlando area for foodies, fans of beer, and, even, families, and I can’t wait to see what the next wave of I-Drive 360 additions will have in store for us.

Will you be stopping at Yard House on your next jaunt to Orlando? Have you already been there? Tell us all about it below.

And be sure to check out these other attractions at I-Drive while you’re in the area:

Top 5 I-Drive attractions

Madam Tussauds at I-Drive 360

Planning a vacation to Orlando?
Want to skip all the work and just price out a vacation to Universal Orlando? We’ll find the best deals for you – for free (seriously.) Learn more, or check out some of the current deals:

• – Halloween Horror Nights 25 Hotel & Ticket Vacation Packages
  – Wizarding World of Harry Potter Vacation Packages
  – 2-Park Getaway at Universal Orlando

The post Why you NEED to eat at Yard House appeared first on Orlando Informer.

After visiting Diagon Alley for the first time, I was inspired to pick up my personal copy of J.K. Rowling’s introductory installment of the seven-book Potter series, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (also known to many readers as Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone [explanation]). As I began rereading the initial words that magically captivated us all, I wondered how her original text had been translated into the world we know today. Which quotes and descriptions did the Universal Creative team really take to heart when designing Diagon Alley and bringing it to life?

Book in hand, I visited Diagon Alley again and peered through each window to match words with carefully crafted tableaus. We all know that Diagon Alley was – as many things are – an act of passion for Universal Creative; this isn’t just a job for them, but a true right in giving life to another artist’s imagination. Exploring Diagon Alley in this way was really enlightening as I took note of things I had previously missed.

And now I’m going to share this insight with you.

What is following are quotes from Sorcerer’s Stone, followed by pictures from Universal Studios Florida, creating an insider’s tour through the greatest theme park land ever devised. Please note that all the text below this point is comprised of excerpts from the book.

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone

They passed book shops and music stores, hamburger restaurants and cinemas, but nowhere that looked as if it could sell you a magic wand. This was just an ordinary street full of ordinary people.

“This is it,” said Hagrid, coming to a halt, “the Leaky Cauldron. It’s a famous place.”

It was a tiny, grubby-looking pub. If Hagrid hadn’t pointed it out, Harry wouldn’t have noticed it was there.

For a famous place, it was very dark and shabby.

“Three up… two across…” he muttered. “Right, stand back, Harry.”

He tapped the wall three times with the point of his umbrella.

The brick he had touched quivered – it wriggled – in the middle, a small hole appeared – it grew wider and wider – a second later they were facing an archway large enough even for Hagrid, an archway onto a cobbled street that twisted and turned out of sight.

“Welcome,” said Hagrid, “to Diagon Alley.”

He grinned at Harry’s amazement.

“Cauldrons – All Sizes – Copper, Brass, Pewter, Silver – Self-Stirring – Collapsible,” said a sign hanging over them.

Harry wished he had about eight more eyes. He turned his head in every direction as they walked up the street, trying to look at everything at once: the shops, the things outside them, the people doing their shopping.

A low, soft hooting came from a dark shop with a sign saying “Eeylops Owl Emporium – Tawny, Screech, Barn, Brown, and Snowy.”

“Look,” Harry heard one of them say, “the new Nimbus Two Thousand – fastest ever –” There were shops selling robes, shops selling telescopes, and strange silver instruments Harry had never seen before, windows stacked with barrels of bat spleens and eels’ eyes, tottering piles of spell books, quills, and rolls of parchment, potion bottles, globs of the moon…

“Gringotts,” said Hagrid.

They had reached a snowy white building that towered over the other little shops. Standing beside its burnished bronze doors, wearing a uniform of scarlet and gold was –

“Yeah, that’s a goblin,” said Hagrid quietly as they walked up the white stone steps toward him. The goblin was about a head shorter than Harry. He had a swarthy, clever face, a pointed beard, and, Harry noticed, very long fingers and feet.

Harry was rather quiet as he ate the ice cream Hagrid had bought him (chocolate and raspberry with chopped nuts).

They bought Harry’s school books in a shop called Flourish and Blotts, where the shelves were stacked to the ceiling with books as large as paving stones bound in leather; books the size of postage stamps in covers of silk; books full of peculiar symbols; and a few books with nothing in them at all.

Then they went to the Apothecary… Barrels of slimy stuff stood on the floor; jars of herbs, dried roots, and bright powders lined the walls; bundles of feathers, strings of fangs, and snarled claws hung from the ceiling.

Harry now carried a large cage that held a beautiful snowy owl…

The last shop was narrow and shabby. Peeling gold letters over the door read Ollivanders: Makers of Fine Wands since 382 B.C. A single wand lay on a faded purple cushion in the dusty window.

It was a tiny place; empty except for a single, spindly chair that Hagrid sat on to wait. Harry felt strangely as though he had entered a very strict library; he swallowed a lot of new questions that had just occurred to him and looked instead at the thousands of narrow boxes piled neatly right up to the ceiling.

“We use unicorn hairs, phoenix tail feathers, and the heartstrings of dragons. No two Ollivander wands are the same, just as no two unicorns, dragons, or phoenixes are quite the same.”

“Don’ you worry, Harry. You’ll learn fast enough. Everyone starts at the beginning at Hogwarts – you’ll be just fine. Just be yerself. I know it’s hard. Yeh’ve been singled out, an’ that’s always hard. But ye’ll have a great time at Hogwarts – I did – still do, ‘smatter of fact.”

The beginning of a phenomenon

It’s easy to be overwhelmed by the magic of Diagon Alley, as I – just like Harry – wish I had eight more pairs of eyes to take it all in, even now having been there multiple times. I feel like with every visit I find one more small detail to truly appreciate.

To learn more about every fascinating aspect of Diagon Alley, visit our Insider’s guide to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. If you’d like to start planning your trip right now, allow us to price it out and find you the best deals (and we’ll do it for free, seriously) – learn more.

The post Living Harry’s Story: “Sorcerer’s Stone” appeared first on Orlando Informer.

Was it love at first sight? I’d never venture to guess, especially in that moment. All I knew was that this kid who stood a foot over me was one of the good guys, and, somewhere along the way, we quietly clicked. Don’t read that wrong – in “quietly” I mean we barely saw each other due to the powers that be in scheduling, and, actually, for the year that I spent at Men in Black: Alien Attack, he was convinced I didn’t speak.

So the conversations that we did have consisted mostly of the sarcastic comradery and playful banter that comes with being young and flirtatious. But, at that moment, I knew there was something different about this Sean guy, and that I’d at least stick around for the laughs.

It would take seven years of friendship, a late-night party with mutual friends where we watched the sunrise, texts galore, and time spent – where else? – at the theme parks for us to realize, finally, in 2012 that there was nowhere else in the world that we belonged but with each other.

But it all started in the summer of 2005, just before the Fourth of July, at a theme park called Universal Studios Florida, in a place that made us the best of the best – Men in Black.

And we’re definitely not the only love story the theme parks here in Orlando have conjured up. Here’s a look at three more incredible tales of themed romance to keep your Valentine’s Day in full bloom.

Love story #1

Name: Tom and Shannon Croom
Location: Florida

Tom and Shannon met in 1999 at Universal Studios Florida, as well. And while “office romances” (even of the theme park kind) are a bit rebellious in nature, Tom and Shannon took it to the most rebellious of all levels – he was her entertainment coordinator, and she was a character within the parks.

But love always wins – and so, too, have Tom and Shannon. They were married at Disney’s Vero Beach Resort and honeymooned at Disneyland in California after a cross-country road trip. And, due to Tom’s work schedule, they have also been able to travel and take advantage of “nearby” theme parks, such as Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea, Disney’s California Adventure, Fuji-Q Highlands, and Universal Studios Hollywood.

After a combined 10 years of working within the parks, you’d think Tom and Shannon might be tired of their old stomping grounds, but they’ll tell you that just isn’t the case. They still frequent Universal Orlando and love that it isn’t just a vacation spot for them, but also a reflective place that offers a trip down memory lane while reinvigorating that vibe and feeling of when they first met.

To this day, the couple loves that Orlando offers an ever-evolving landscape of attractions at Disney, Universal, and SeaWorld – there’s almost always something that they haven’t done together. And if you’re wondering, the big one to date is that Tom still hasn’t had time to see the new Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley (though he admits to being hesitant to walk the sacred ground of his first home attraction, Jaws).

These two Universal lovebirds feel like the theme parks are a true home away from home that extend a familiar “escape” from the real world.

Love story #2

Name: Marc and Sandra
Location: Bermuda

Bermuda residents, Marc and Sandra didn’t meet at the parks, but these two best friends couldn’t resist the magic that is Walt Disney World. The two arrived in Orlando as buddies; it was Marc’s first trip to the Mouse House since 1983, and he said he couldn’t help but fall in love with Disney… and Sandra. They left Orlando as a couple, and the rest, as they say, is history.

The two proudly proclaim that Disney is their “happy place” and where they go to get away from it all. Knowing that Sandra always closes her eyes during the Dream Along with Mickey show in front of Cinderella Castle, Marc waited for this moment at Magic Kingdom one day. After Mickey said, “Say real loud, ‘Dreams Come True!’” Sandra’s eyes fluttered open to Marc on bended knee, asking for her hand in marriage. They would be married at Disney World, as well, and, just a few months ago, they announced that they were expecting a baby at – you guessed it – Disney World!

Every time Marc and Sandra visit Orlando, they quickly check into their hotel and race to Downtown Disney. But both will tell you that their trip doesn’t truly start until they enter Magic Kingdom. Marc says, “Without fail, every time we walk in, Sandra gets teary-eyed. We’ll slowly walk up Main Street and watch Dream along with Mickey, and, again, every time Mickey comes out on stage, Sandra’s eyes will fill up with tears. It’s amazing!”

Love story #3

Name: Simon and Gail
Location: United Kingdom (now Orlando)

Simon and Gail were visiting Orlando from the United Kingdom, and Simon knew he wanted this trip to be extra special. He contacted SeaWorld regarding a surprise proposal, and the team there began helping him plan this incredibly beautiful moment. The proposal was going to take place during the nighttime Shamu show and be projected on the big screen.

At the time, SeaWorld had a pre-show where cameras would capture families and couples having fun, biting into a tasty Shamu bar, or maybe even not paying attention! The team carefully seated Simon and Gail in a particular section so the cameras knew just who to focus on. Once the pre-show began, they had music playing and kept finding different members of the audience so that they could add speech bubbles over their heads with silly sayings.

When it came to them, the bubble above Simon’s head proclaimed, “Kiss me, you fool!” which Gail happily did. It then quickly changed to “I was just wondering…” which Gail thought was peculiar, and then “Will you marry me?!” And Simon was next to her, on bended knee, with the engagement ring in hand. Everyone cheered excitedly as Gail said yes.

Simon and Gail had lots of people greeting them on the way out of Shamu Stadium after the show, and SeaWorld kindly made them a keepsake DVD of the moment so that they could take it back to England and share it with their family and friends. Gail says, “SeaWorld made it so special for us, and we are so thankful for those memories and the fact we could share it with our friends and family once we got back home, too. At the time, SeaWorld was only doing one engagement a month or so, which made it an even more unique experience for us!”

We’re used to romance and fairytales on the silver screen thanks to the likes of the Disney Princesses and Shrek and Fiona, but did you know that these fairytale romances extend to real life in large part due to the theme parks? If they aren’t the first place where you look for love, maybe they should be after reading these amazing stories.

Share your own stories of love in Orlando in the comments below.

Planning a vacation to Orlando?
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MEN IN BLACK Alien Attack.

It nearly goes without saying that every day spent at MEN IN BLACK brought a new story or grand adventure; laughter was never very far from our group of agent’s faces. But, even to this day, two of my favorite times of year – Halloween and Christmas – were granted new life thanks to Halloween Horror Nights and, of course, Grinchmas and the Macy’s Holiday Parade. Given the respective time of year, Attraction Attendant Team Members have the opportunity to head on over to the warehouses and assist with these events. That’s how I became a Macy’s Holiday Parade balloon handler – and you can too!

On days when the Macy’s Holiday Parade takes place (this year up to and including January 4, 2014), you can meet a Universal Studios Team Member at the big teddy bear balloon in Woody Woodpecker’s KidZone, just outside of the SpongeBob StorePants, two hours before the parade starts.

The teddy bear balloon in KidZone.

This is either at 3:00pm or 6:00pm depending on the parade schedule for that particular day. Team Members will also be available in front of the Universal Studios Store, towards the main entrance of the park, before the parade begins if volunteer opportunities are still available. Keep in mind this is a first-come-first-served experience, and a few restrictions apply: you must be 48 inches or taller to participate, and you must be wearing closed-toe shoes.

It is truly a unique and exhilarating experience to be a part of such a classic American Thanksgiving & Christmas tradition as the Macy’s Holiday Parade. Some of the same balloons that appear on television in New York City each Thanksgiving are then also sent to us here at Universal Orlando, where they are showcased in our daily parade.

Happy the Hippo balloon.

Once you are selected as a volunteer, you then sign a waiver and are trained on proper balloon safety and handling procedures. Finally, you are assigned to the balloon you’ll be handling throughout the route. Each balloon has a jumpsuit color of choice and gloves that Universal provides to its Team Members and volunteers for each parade.

Every balloon also has a Balloon Lead that instructs the handlers on when to raise or lower the balloons height, and adjusts the team accordingly so that everyone stays on course. These handlers are Universal Team Members who were trained by the Macy’s staff on how to direct the other handlers and guide the balloons. Macy’s actually oversees the entire parade run, and has even brought some of the Universal Team Members up to New York for further training and to be a part of the Thanksgiving Day Parade! The Balloon Leads might also teach the handlers a trick or two to accomplish while handling the balloon, which could include making the balloon “dance” or spin.

Suit up!

Back in the warehouse, as we’d wait for the parade to begin, we selected which place on the balloon we wanted to handle, meet the guest volunteers, and take a few photos. From the warehouse, the Macy’s Holiday Parade Leads would eventually begin to line up the balloons according to how they’d appear in the parade. This can sometimes be tricky since you must clear the balloon through the warehouse doorway, so following your Balloon Lead is imperative!

Soon the music begins and, one by one, balloons, performers, and marching bands galore file out to fill the streets of Universal Studios Florida with holiday cheer. Behind all of the parade entertainment would be, of course, Santa, who offers a Christmas surprise for those sitting over by the Macy’s storefront in the New York section of the park.

Macy’s Holiday Parade.

Watching the Macy’s Holiday Parade is just one fantastic way to participate, but actually being a part of the parade and knowing that a huge chunk of the entertainment and experience is on your shoulders is a completely different adventure. The level of excitement always gets my heart racing, as the parade theme song would undoubtedly be a tune I’d hum for the rest of the evening.

I will never forget the laughter, cheers, and smiles on the guest’s faces as we sailed the Macy’s balloons through the Universal skies.

Me and my balloon.

My fellow Team Members and I always knew how to make any time together a world of fun, but the days surrounded by the holidays were ones I tend to cherish the most, even eight years later. I love that I’m able to now tell friends and family that I’ve been a part of such an iconic staple in our holiday celebrations, and that I’ve even helped navigate some of the Macy’s Parade balloons!

There were definitely trickier days, as the slightest gust of wind can make even the smallest balloon tough to manage, but nothing could overcome that holiday spirit high. As the parade would wind to an end and Santa would deliver his Christmas surprise, the balloons are brought back into the warehouses for storage — and maybe for a few more photos with our guest volunteers.

Macy’s Holiday Parade balloon handlers.

There are so many wonderful things to do at Universal Orlando, yet, during the holiday season, volunteering as a Macy’s Holiday Parade balloon handler is the one I recommend the highest! And remember, the parade will be in flight until January 4, 2014, so you still have a few days left to try it out yourself!

You can learn more about the holidays at Universal Orlando. If you’re not sure you want to be in the parade, you can find out where the best place is to watch it. Finally, to see the parade in action, enjoy this highlight video from this year:

Planning a vacation to Orlando?

Want to skip all the work and just price out a vacation to Universal Orlando? We’ll find the best deals for you – for free (seriously.) Learn more, or check out some of the current deals:

• – Halloween Horror Nights 25 Hotel & Ticket Vacation Packages
  – Wizarding World of Harry Potter Vacation Packages
  – 2-Park Getaway at Universal Orlando

The post “Let Your Heart Take Flight” as a Macy’s Holiday Parade balloon handler appeared first on Orlando Informer.

Recently, my family and I were able to take part in another Medieval Times show (which was updated in 2012) close by in Kissimmee.

We arrived for the 6:00pm performance and, upon entering the castle, received our table cards and were given our blue crowns and flags. While we waited to be seated, we explored the Great Hall, which includes a full bar and shopping center. This is a great time to take some really fun photos!

Once it was time for table call, we heard trumpets sound and were taken to our seats with the other noble guests of our knight’s allegiance in the King’s Court. Each crown’s color represents the knight for whom you will be cheering throughout the show.

The castle we entered, I should mention, was the first in North America (it opened in 1983) and comes complete with a variety of suits of armor in the lobby. Along with the castle, the Medieval Times location in Kissimmee also offers an authentic eight-cottage medieval village which is equally as entertaining. I definitely recommend taking the family here prior to the show or even after the night’s events are over.

Once seated, we were greeted by our serf (server), and the Bill of Fare – or the evening’s feast – was quickly served. The meal includes half of an oven-roasted chicken, garlic bread, tomato bisque soup, an herb-roasted potato, spare rib, and pastry of the castle for dessert. Select non-alcoholic beverages are also included, with a full service bar available for an additional fee. There is also a vegetarian option, which includes hummus, pita bread, carrot and celery sticks, a three-bean stew with fire-roasted tomato and brown rice, and fresh fruit or Italian ice for dessert. The children’s option for both is identical, which we thought was a bit much for smaller children.

The meal was really quite delicious. I am not usually one to enjoy meat on the bone, but I really enjoyed this chicken, and I loved the spare rib! The herb-roasted potato was another group favorite, and the apple pastry we received was warm, soft, and tasty, too. It was a bit odd to eat with my hands (no tableware is provided), but I understand that this is all part of the Medieval Times culture, and it really does help to transport you to that time and place. As I looked around, I could tell that kids in particular were enjoying this sans-utensil style of dining.

My sister chose the vegetarian option for her feast and felt the portions there were a bit lacking. The “fresh fruit” that she ordered for dessert was just a whole orange sliced in a peculiar way – this might be what they serve regularly, but she expected more of a fruit cup of some sort.

While you dine at Medieval Times, a tournament takes place that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Typically, while you are being greeted by your wenches and serfs, the knights are also being announced, followed by Don Carlos, the King, and his daughter, Princess Catalina, who is bound and determined to marry a man for love, not just one who has been chosen for her.

Shortly thereafter, the entertainment begins with various tricks on horseback, dancing horses, and a color guard. At this time, the Royal Falconer also appears with – what else – his falcon! The tournament includes a live flight of the royal falcon as he soars above the King’s guests, which is really quite impressive.

Once a few games are completed, the knights have to joust and battle to show that they are worthy – a thrilling up-close and personal look at the way things were done back in the day. One by one the knights fall, but the knight who wins (during our visit it was, much to our dismay, the Red Knight) chooses his Queen of Love and Beauty. This is usually a girl from the audience between the ages of three and eight. After each battle, the knights also throw beautiful roses to the women in their allegiance’s section, which, of course, makes the crowd go wild, and women swoon. These knights are rather dashing with their stunning good looks and long, flowing hair!

Suddenly, just as the winning knight is celebrating, the Herald from the North storms into the tournament grounds and challenges him. The Red Knight battled the devious villain – and was triumphant! The King then thanked us all for joining him in his court that evening.

We filed out of the tournament grounds and were guided back to the Great Hall. Many guests stuck around, perusing the souvenir options (of which there are many) and enjoying the bar or taking pictures with members of the King’s Court. Other guests, like us, opted to explore the Medieval Village just beyond the castle walls, which we found really entertaining and informative.

Unfortunately, my review wouldn’t be completely honest if I didn’t mention that our service was extremely lacking on the night of our visit. The only times we saw our serf was when he quickly dropped off food; our drinks were left unfilled after the first round, and we had to remind him multiple times of certain items our meal was to include. In terms of any “show” on his part, he just wasn’t having it.

I understand, having been in hospitality for so long, that we all have bad days and off-nights, but I’m also a huge proponent of leaving that at your car, plastering a smile on your face, and making the absolute best of it so that our guests in Orlando really do get the experience that they came for. As I looked around, other serfs and wenches seemed to really be into their show, service, and guests, so I certainly don’t want to say that this is an overall defect, as I truly believe it isn’t.

All in all, Medieval Times is a great journey back into time for families, groups of friends, and celebrating visitors. All of the kids I saw seemed to be in absolute awe of everything that was in front of them that night.

A standard evening’s fare begins at $62.95 for adults and $36.95 for kids. Children three and under, who are able to sit on a parent’s lap, are free. VIP packages and special rates are offered, as well, and can be found on the Medieval Times website.

Read more about live entertainment in and around Orlando in the OI Blog Archive, or discover even more fun activities by sharing stories in the OI Community Forums.

Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament – map

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Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament – photo gallery

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It’s been a few months since Uber first appeared on my radar, thanks to some of my friends who have been using it on business trips. They raved about the app’s sleek style, ease of use, and how much cheaper the service is than the average taxi.

As a huge fan of new apps, I immediately downloaded it and agreed it was a massively incredible concept – one that I could easily see myself using in the likes of New York or Chicago, where cabs are king but will leave you bankrupt.

Uber is a revolutionary travel app that connects riders to drivers directly through the app. Everything is literally done on your phone, from searching for, connecting with, contacting, and even paying an Uber driver. After downloading the app, I noted that Uber was sadly not in Orlando – yet.

Miraculously, on June 4, Uber took to the streets of Orlando! I must admit that I am seriously in love with innovations that help to grow our continuously-expanding city. For years, I’ve defined Orlando as a “big city” with a “general store” approach – but look around you! Very recently, our little Orlando has grown up and is on the verge of a major explosion that goes far beyond theme parks to include a Major League Soccer team, the Dr. Phillips Center for Performing Arts (opening later this fall), and Sunrail, a commuter train that will eventually connect DeLand to Poinciana by 2016.

Uber only adds to this excitement by connecting all of these areas and the in-between. Locals can use Uber for a ride to the airport or Port Canaveral, and for evenings out on the town. Guests in the Orlando area can obviously use Uber for these same exact trips, and also – of course – when traveling between the theme parks and various tourist attractions.

How it works

My boyfriend Sean and I decided to give Uber a try as locals, to see how this might help us as well as our visiting friends. We parked our car at Universal CityWalk, as we knew we’d be returning there for the evening, but we wanted to try Yard House at I-Drive 360 for dinner. It’s a touristy route, Universal to I-Drive – so perfect for our experiment!

As we parked, I pulled up the Uber app, which immediately picked up our current location and provided a list of Uber vehicles and drivers in the area, along with a time frame for pick-up. I selected the pick-up and our drop-off location before tapping on “Request uberX,” which gave me an estimate for the ride. This particular trip between CityWalk and Yard House was approximately $9.00 – 13.00.

Trip fares will vary pending original distance, traffic, weather, and other factors, but they are typically 36% cheaper than a taxi.

After hitting “Request,” a driver named Mauricio was confirmed and en route. Uber also provides a photo of the driver and his vehicle information.

We quickly realized that our chosen pick-up spot was the exact location of my car in the parking lot and not where we wanted to be picked up, so I found the “Contact Driver” section of the app, where I could communicate with our driver directly by way of phone call or message. I messaged Mauricio quickly to let him know that we would be at the Universal Orlando guest pick-up/drop-off area.

The Uber app also shows you the driver’s progress in real time, so I could see Mauricio’s vehicle approach our area but begin to circle a bit. Almost immediately, he called to let me know that he was in the area but had missed a turn and would meet us in two minutes. This was a valuable lesson in using the app as close to the exact pick-up location as possible when I don’t have a specific address.

Mauricio was polite and friendly, and he chatted with us for the duration of our ride. He was extremely excited about Uber and told us that though we were some of his first locals to use the app, the out-of-town guests over the past few weeks had really taken to Uber and loved it.

As Mauricio dropped us off, via the app I was able to pay for the journey (no tip required, seriously) and leave a positive rating and feedback. The app also provided a summary of my trip and emailed me a receipt.

Our return trip to CityWalk was also quite easy, though the driver was quieter (but sometimes that is nice after a long day, when you just want to get back to the hotel). He was still very cordial, and the ride was a safe, quick trip.

Uber also has some other fantastic features, like the ability to split your fare. From my understanding, so long as everyone has an active Uber account, you can select your friends, and the payment is split evenly to each account and billed accordingly. I loved that it is an entirely cashless transaction, as well. Everything is done directly through the Uber app, which reduces the stress and fuss of carrying cash.

You can also “Share My ETA,” which sends out a text message with a link to your route so your friends can track your progress. This is nice just in terms of safety and letting your friends and family know where you are.

I should mention that all Uber drivers use their personal vehicles. These vehicles must meet strict guidelines and seat at least four people. Safety and satisfaction are high-priority for Uber, and all US drivers therefore must meet all local regulations and pass a three-round background check, as well as ongoing reviews of the driver’s motor vehicle records throughout their time with Uber. The personal reviews left for each driver also help other users pick and choose which driver(s) they want. In addition, each ride is covered from curb to curb by Uber’s commercial liability insurance.

Each city’s fares and rates change based on demand and location; the typical rates for Orlando, however, can be found on their site, and you can always get instant quotes both online and through the app. Below are a few sample rates between popular Orlando destinations. Keep in mind that these are just estimates and are subject to change.

• Downtown Disney to Universal CityWalk: $20
• Orlando International Airport to Universal CityWalk: $30 – 40
• Orlando International Airport to Downtown Disney: $35 – 46
• Universal CityWalk to Downtown Orlando: $18 – 24
• Universal CityWalk to Orlando Premium Outlets: $7 – 10
• Downtown Disney to Orlando Premium Outlets: $23 – 30
• UCF to MCO Airport: $36
• UCF to Downtown Orlando: $26 – 35

All in all, I really loved our first Uber experience, and we’ve already determined a time or two in the future to use it again. I am sure that this will be an incredible asset to those visiting Orlando as they explore our beautiful city.

Please keep in mind that as Uber is expanding; vehicles are only available in certain areas at this time. We were told, however, that the tourist areas are usually covered consistently.

You can get the app by clicking here.

A second opinion

Howdy, folks. This is Dan. I’m going to end Casie’s great writeup covering Uber to quickly share my experience, which I can do in two tweets:

Mears taxi to downtown: $45 and had to be dispatched twice bc the first driver bailed. @Uber_Orlando back home: $25 and perfect service.

— Orlando Informer (@OrlandoInformer) June 22, 2014

It was our first ride with @Uber_Orlando and it was great. Sign up using this link and get $10.00 off your first ride http://t.co/ps3geCB3kG

— Orlando Informer (@OrlandoInformer) June 22, 2014

So, yes, I definitely recommend Uber!

By the way, are you wondering what the difference is between Uber and uberX? That confused me too, but it’s a simple explanation. Uber originally started as a company that provided its own drivers, then later expanded to include drivers who are not employees, but rather, participate as a home business (not unlike, for example, the sellers on eBay or Etsy). This newer server wa called uberX, and it’s what we’ve been talking about in this article. So, for the purposes of Orlando, where only uberX is available, you don’t have to worry about distinguishing between what’s Uber and what’s uberX.

Update

Apparently the City of Orlando isn’t happy with Uber, so we’ll leave this review up for now, but if you’re interested in the service, you might want to follow this story as it develops.

Sorry about the bad news. We literally didn’t discover this until moments after this review was published, and the “crackdown” itself just happened last night.

You can read more about vacation planning in the OI Blog Archive, or discuss your experiences with Uber in the OI Community Forums.

The post Uber’s “shared driver service” is Orlando’s slick new transportation option for saving money appeared first on Orlando Informer.

Somehow, by an intensely fierce stroke of luck and perfect timing, I was able to obtain tickets on the afternoon that they were released. They sold out within five minutes, and what I had soon learned was that they were some of the most difficult tickets to come by in Central Florida. Friends who I thought would surely be there, as they are often the faces involved in many of the city’s biggest events, were left empty-handed.

On the morning of Tuesday, June 17, my mom, sister, boyfriend, and I arrived in front of the Blue Man Group Theater at around 11:30am. We waited briefly before we were called over to receive our official Tonight Show tickets.

For those who are attending a Tonight taping in Orlando from here on out, tickets are first-come, first-serve, so those who arrive earlier get seated closer to the stage. These seats are pretty coveted for a variety of reasons – closer to the action, more possibilities of appearing on television, etc. – and as there are over 800 seats at the Tonight Show Universal Studios Florida stage, it’s not a bad idea to be as close as possible.

I believe registration is held 10am-2pm on the remaining days, but of course please confirm and follow the directions you were given by Tonight staff, as each day of taping may vary.

With three or four hours to roam before going through security, we all did our own thing for a while. During this time, I posted a few photos to my Instagram and Twitter feeds as the excitement for our taping grew, one of which was directly picked up by the Tonight Show social media team! They shared it with their IG following, and things all but exploded from there. It made for a really entertaining afternoon, and I even enjoyed getting to know a few new friends, too!

After we all met back up, we headed through security and were filed into a line. This process was quick and seamless; they even got us into the theater before the Florida skies opened up!

In the backstage area, and also in the Tonight Show soundstage, there is a strict no cellphone or camera rule. They remind you repeatedly as you enter and even through the jokes of the warm-up process. There is definitely no mistaking the warning to turn it off, put it away, and keep it there.

We finally filed into the soundstage, where I could hear audience laughter surround us. As we made it to the top of the stairway, I could see that there were about 20 large flat-screen TVs playing some “Best of Tonight Show” moments. Once we found our seats, our attention was immediately captivated by the televisions, which allowed us to relive some of our favorite moments, such as the infamous Brian Williams raps and various games that Jimmy plays with celebrities who appear on the show. No matter how many times I’ve seen these clips, they only seem to get funnier.

A few more minutes went by before Fallon’s opener, Seth Herzog, came out to warm up the crowd. He did a fabulous job and kept it interactive and funny. He even had a few of the crowd’s birthday guests take turns dancing to Beyonce’s “Single Ladies.” Without missing a beat, the audience warmly welcomed The Tonight Show’s house band, the Roots, to the stage, taking us all to an entirely new level of “pumped up!”

Steve Higgins, the Tonight announcer, was next, and he only infused us with even more energy before the opening credits began to play and Jimmy Fallon took on Universal Studios Orlando. Higgins’s voice introduced the evening’s acts: Kevin Hart, Jimmy Buffet, and our host – Jiiiiiiiiimmmy Faaaalloooooon! The crowd roared, as the set’s blue curtains gracefully swept open and out walked Jimmy.

As a kid, I grew up watching The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson with my dad, and I became enamored with Letterman, Conan, and the entire late-night comedy world. So, in that moment when those curtains swept open and one of the greatest, most talented entertainers of our generation came out on the stage, I was enraptured.

The monologue was, of course, hilarious. I loved how this entire production really captures the essence and personality of Orlando, Florida – our humor, our lifestyle, and all things Universal. The jokes and conversations are riddled with theme park humor – right through the pros and cons of doing the Tonight Show from Universal Studios Florida.

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I didn’t even need to pay attention to the “applause” signs above me because I was consistently laughing and clapping along to every joke. After the monologue, Jimmy shared a segment that had been taped the night before, featuring Orlando locals and Tonight Show staff doing a dance routine, and then welcomed comedian Kevin Hart to the stage.

Hart was every bit as funny as you would want him to be. He and Jimmy shared some really great moments, and then discussed his new movie, Think Like A Man 2, which will be in theaters this Friday. We also got to share in a “terrifying” rollercoaster adventure with Jimmy and Kevin as they rode Rip Ride Rockit, which I have since cry-laughed to nearly every time I’ve watched it.

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Following Hart, Jimmy Fallon brought Florida staple Jimmy Buffet to the stage for a brief conversation, as Buffet was the evening’s music act. Buffet gifted Fallon a pair of his very own flip-flops (our state shoe, no doubt!).

After Buffet left the stage, Fallon wrapped fairly quickly and set us loose on Universal Studios Florida, where we could explore the park for a bit as the taping for Buffet’s performance wouldn’t begin until 8:45pm. Shortly thereafter, we were able to catch Buffet during his sound check.

After the sun set for the evening, the crowd gathered again at the stage just under Rip Ride Rock It, and within minutes we were being re-introduced to Buffet and the Roots. Jimmy spoke with the audience briefly, this time saying that it was okay to quickly grab a few photos – but then to please put the phones and cameras away so that we could all just “enjoy the moment together.” I really dig moves like this in a high-tech world because, let’s face it, with a camera to your face – it really does take you out of that experience.

Buffet performed three songs and was joined by Fallon during the last, who thanked everyone, genuinely, for coming out and spending the day with The Tonight Show.

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All in all, I was really impressed with how quickly and efficiently everything appeared to run during the Tonight taping. I’ve been to other tapings before that have had many takes and a great deal of repetition, but there was none of that during The Tonight Show. Everything was easy, exciting, and entertaining.

I also really love hearing stories from those who’ve had the opportunity to meet Fallon while he’s here in Orlando where they tell me how truly awesome he is. Jimmy seems humble that he’s been gifted this opportunity to lead an iconic American program. He has reinvigorated this legendary show and brought new life and charisma that’s reminiscent of the late, great Johnny Carson.

And, most of all, I love that The Tonight Show came to Orlando! It was such a wild experience – one I would gladly and openly do again in a heart beat.

You can view the entire episode by clicking here. To chat with our community about everything that’s happening this week at Universal, join us in the OI Forums.

The post As if you were there: The Tonight Show at Universal Orlando with special guest Jimmy Buffett appeared first on Orlando Informer.

Recently, however, we caught wind of Universal’s Cinematic Spectacular Dining Experience and thought it would be a great way to not only try Lombard’s, but to also add an additional little flair to an evening at Universal.

Lombard’s specializes in seafood dishes, but it also offers a wide variety of entrees, including ravioli and even stir-fry. There is a children’s menu available, as well as wine, beer, and specialty cocktails. I’m happy to report that prices outside of the Cinematic Spectacular Dining Experience are really affordable for a sit-down, in-park restaurant; they range between $5 – $8 for an appetizer and $10 – $16 for an entree. Alcoholic beverages are about $7 – $10.

For our appetizers, we ordered the Shrimp Cocktail and Fried Calamari, along with a frozen margarita and Bay Breeze. I have to admit that after a hot afternoon in the Florida sun, I really wanted a nice crisp beer, but Lombard’s beer selection fell flat for my taste. I think it would be really great to see them add some San Francisco craft beers or even other beers found locally in Florida that pair nicely with seafood to enhance not only their options for beer drinkers, but also boost the San Fran theming. Perhaps it’s just me, but I absolutely enjoy finding new options, and, as a cardinal rule to my traveling, I’ll always go with the option that I can’t get back at home.

Our appetizers and drinks were delivered quickly, along with a basket of sourdough bread, and, from there, we ordered Fish and Fries and the San Francisco Stir-fry as our entrees. While both appetizers were really tasty, our favorite was the Shrimp Cocktail. The Fried Calamari was good, but we prefer smaller pieces of calamari and a crunchier bite to our batter. The Shrimp Cocktail was cold, crisp, and very fresh-tasting. Both of our drinks were great, too!

We really enjoyed our entrees, as we noted that the Fish and Fries were a slight step above those served at Finnegan’s, and the San Francisco Stir-fry was amazing! I really enjoyed the zing of the teriyaki sauce that glazed the grilled chicken, and the Lo Mein noodles, vegetables, and shrimp and pork spring roll were all really exceptional.

All in all, I was impressed with the food at Lombard’s. I wasn’t quite sure what we should expect, but it was a pleasantly different experience while dining inside the park. I was really happy that it was a quick meal, too, but not one where we felt rushed. This is really important for those days where you’re in the park, want to have a sit-down meal, and don’t want to spend hours doing so.

By the time we finished our meal, it was just a few minutes after they had opened the patio seating for those taking part in the Cinematic Spectacular Dining Experience. Our server was kind enough to reserve us a table, where she had already delivered two Cokes and mugs for our coffee.

We chose a few dessert options – while all were very tasty, the pumpkin tart was my favorite – grabbed a couple of coffees, and were able to relax for about 20 minutes before the Cinematic Spectacular began.

We had great seats, and a view that is nearly unmatched. At one point during the Cinematic Spectacular, I walked around to the front of the patio, where I had a panoramic view of the Universal Studios Lagoon. With all the lights, fireworks, screens showcasing Universal’s history in movie magic, and water displays, it was truly one of the most intensely beautiful locations to view the “Cinematic Spectacular.”

The dessert bar and VIP seating for the Cinematic Spectacular Dining Experience are, hands down, what made this experience entirely worth it to us. The meal was incredible, but something you can enjoy nearly any time while visiting Universal Studios Florida. The dessert bar and VIP seating are the special treat – the cherry on top, if you will – for this uniquely special dining adventure.

The Cinematic Spectacular Dining Experience is a premium add-on that requires reservations 24 hours in advance and is $44.99 for adults and $12.99 for children. What you get for the price is the meal at Lombard’s that includes an appetizer, entree, and non-alcoholic beverage of your choice, followed by VIP seating for “Universal’s Cinematic Spectacular: 100 Years of Movie Memories,” and, as you saw, a dessert bar complete with nearly any dessert imaginable, along with coffee and tea. Alcoholic beverages are an additional charge.

No discounts are given for Annual Passholders, or even for Team Members, for that matter. The Dining Experience is not offered every night, so it is a good idea to confirm when booking that you have a night where it is scheduled to take place.

The package can be purchased via Universal’s online ticket store by clicking here, then look for Cinematic Spectacular Dining. Note that you must call 407-224-7554 to reserve your table after you’ve made the purchase.

I would wholeheartedly recommend Lombard’s and the Cinematic Spectacular Dining Experience to anyone who is looking for a unique dining experience within the theme parks.

To read more about the great dining options in Universal Studios Florida – and all the rest of Orlando – be sure to check out the OI Blog archive (which includes my recent review of Finnegan’s). Or you can discuss it all with like-minded enthusiasts in the OI Community Forums.

Lombard’s Seafood Grille – map

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Cinematic Spectacular Dining Experience at USF – photo gallery

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Cabana Bay Beach Resort, operated by Loews Hotels, is Universal Orlando’s newest on-site property. It’s designed to not only transport you back to a completely different time and place, but to also be much kinder to your wallet.

Cabana Bay opened on March 31, 2014, and, currently, only phase one is complete. Once all is said and done, it will include two massive pools, a lazy river, bowling alley, fitness center, and multiple fire pits. (The second phase, which will include the much-anticipated lazy river, is scheduled to open June 16.)

Driving up to Cabana Bay’s main entryway is something I will never forget. I immediately felt as if we had stepped into the 1950s.

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A Cabana Bay Team Member welcomed us, and, after check-in, we walked up to our suite to find a retro-themed room with two queen-sized beds and a pull-out couch in the living area.

The rooms are vibrant and authentic, right down to the alarm clock on the nightstand, and the suites also come with a kitchenette that provides a good-sized in-room refrigerator and microwave. Sleeping six, the rooms are homey and spacious – perfect for families, couples, and even a group of friends looking for a Universal getaway. There is also a partition between the bedroom and living space.

We immediately began exploring the property, and, with every turn, I found something new to love. We first headed back to the lobby, where palm trees towered over us as vintage furniture, a bar, and the check-in desks await new arrivals. The oldies tunes are carried throughout the resort, and we all found ourselves dancing and singing along. There is also an on-site Universal store here with a variety of souvenirs.

We wandered back beyond the lobby to find a Starbucks and then hit the Bayliner Diner, which is a cafeteria-style dining option with many delicious selections. From breakfast to dinner, we were never disappointed with what we chose, and the prices were really fair. We couldn’t pass up the opportunity for photos with the classic cars out front, so that was definitely next, followed by a trip to Galaxy Bowl and the Jack LaLanne Physical Fitness Studio!

Galaxy Bowl seems a little pricey at $19 per person for the hour ($15 for the lane, $4 for shoes), but, then again, even “regular” bowling to me seems pricey. I predict that once Cabana Bay full opens in about a month, Galaxy Bowl will be packed, especially on rainy days and when guests need a break from theme-parkin’. There is also an arcade next door.

The Jack LaLanne Physical Fitness Studio includes state-of-the-art equipment that even allows you to choose where you’d like to work out – biking by the Eiffel Tower, running through New Zealand, and climbing in the Rocky Mountains are all options. A friend noted that it was very clean, towels were easy to find, there were lockers and showers available, and antibacterial wipes were provided for the machines.

We then took a pathway that led us down to the pool area. Cabana Bay’s zero-entry pool is a force to be reckoned with, as it includes a slide, enclosed kids’ splash area, sand beach, and the Atomic Tonic bar. Every drink our group had throughout the weekend was more delicious than the next, and every bartender we encountered quickly became a new friend.

As our group sat here surrounded by Cabana Bay’s signature “Castaway,” “Thunderbird,” and “Starlight” signs and classic oldies tunes, I no longer felt like I was in Orlando at all. The hotel made me feel as if I were on a remote ’50s island, completely removed from my day-to-day life, and entirely transported to this place called “vacation” I hear so much about.

That night, we headed over to Pat O’Brien’s in CityWalk and took the Cabana Bay bus, which was a quick and easy ride. The next morning, we took the same bus to start our day at Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida with, again, no real trouble. It wasn’t until later in the afternoon, when we started to notice the literal swarms of teenaged groups taking over USF, that we started to have problems.

These middle- and high-school groups were here to celebrate their graduation, which is a huge accomplishment, but they come by the busload, and those buses clog up the surrounding roadways – especially the one to and from Cabana Bay. As the bus system is really Cabana Bay’s only supposedly quick means of transportation, this became a nightmare end to our nearly perfect day.

After waiting in line for nearly an hour for the bus, and not getting a straight answer as to what our next best option might be, our positive demeanors quickly faded. As a group of six adults and two kids, we didn’t want to risk walking if it was unsafe. Finally, a Team Member assured us that sidewalks were provided, and we decided to make the trek back on foot.

The main walkway to and from Cabana Bay is not completed, and I hope it will eventually provide a much more pleasant way to get to CityWalk should the bus not be a viable option. After talking with Cabana Bay’s Team Members, they noted that they do get a lot of complaints about both the walk and the Gradventure activities. (The final Grad Bash/Gradventure date was May 16, so we won’t have to worry about this for another year.)

All in all, we were really pleased with our stay at Cabana Bay Beach Resort, even with a few minor hiccups. We all absolutely raved about the decor and attention to detail that has gone into making it what it is – and we are still talking about the pool, Atomic Tonic, and what a great experience it was for everyone in our group, who ranged from ages two to 32. My parents also stopped by to check it out, and you could see the twinkle in their eyes as they experienced Cabana Bay and the retro vibes it provides.

We’re already discussing the possibility of a future trip to Cabana Bay, perhaps around the kickoff of our annual Halloween Horror Night festivities, and we can’t wait to experience the lazy river!

To learn more about this hotel, visit our guide to Cabana Bay Beach Resort in the OI Universal Center. If you have questions, we have answers in the OI Forums. Otherwise, you can read more about all the hotels in and around Orlando in the OI Blog archive.

Cabana Bay Beach Resort – map

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However, I had the opportunity to visit Fogo de Chao recently to sample their brand-new bar menu, called Bar Fogo. The hostesses and manager who introduced me to my bartender for the evening, Lester, greeted me warmly. Lester was extremely knowledgeable, so I knew I was in good hands as he walked me through a few of his favorite bar selections.

I chose their signature cocktail, the Caipirinha, which is the national cocktail of Brazil and contains silver Cachaça, fresh limes, and cane sugar. My friend Lauren chose the Strawberry Caipirinha. Both drinks were absolutely delicious. I was afraid they might be too sweet for my palate, but it was really quite refreshing!

Lester also took the time to tell us about Fogo de Chao’s Cachaça, which is specially made just for the restaurant. Fogo de Chao Brazilian Rum and Malbec are also present on the menu and are made exclusively for the restaurant. Cachaça, from what Lester told us, is similar to rum, but it is made from sugarcane juice, whereas rum is typically made from molasses.

At this time, our first selection came out, which was the Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail ($19.00) – and they are not kidding when they say these shrimp are jumbo! Six extremely large, fresh, and tasty shrimp were presented to us in a beautiful display.

We continued with the Grilled Spiced Shrimp Skewers ($14.00) that had a passion fruit sauce, and Grilled Beef Tenderloin Skewers ($15.00) that had a chimichurri salsa. Fogo de Chao is known for their beef, so it may not come as a surprise that the Beef Skewers were one of my absolute favorite dishes of the evening; they were perfectly prepared, tender, and juicy.

Next out was the Charcuterie Board ($14.00) with assorted cheeses, prosciutto, salami, figs, and crostini. This was another favorite of mine! I chose to combine the Brie, fig, and meats into two separate combinations, and both were flavor-packed. The Warm Hearts of Palm and Spinach Dip ($9.00) was savory and delightful, while the Picanha Sirloin Sliders ($9.00) were as mouth-watering as one can imagine. The Polenta Fries ($7.00) also came out at this time and were crispy and light. I loved the malagueta aioli they were paired with, as well. Last, but certainly not least, we sampled Fogo de Chao’s newest offering, the Mango Chilean Sea Bass, which will absolutely please any and all fans of fish.

We also had the opportunity to meet Fogo de Chao’s customer service manager, Rodolfo Melo, who was kind enough to deliver many of the evening’s dishes. Rodolfo was extremely pleasant and took the time to inform us of what ingredients each dish was beautifully crafted with, while answering any questions we had about the ingredients and flavors. You can truly tell that the staff at Fogo de Chao is passionate about the quality of food and unique experience they are serving to their guests!

During our meal, we decided to sample another selection from the drink menu. Both Lauren and I simply could not refuse the Superfruit Lemonade that was staring at us from the menu page. Lester quickly concocted these drinks into a beautiful blend of VeeV Acai Spirit, Grand Marnier, fresh strawberries, blueberries, and lemons. It was another supremely refreshing beverage – a perfect treat for any hot summer day here in Florida. Specialty Drink prices seemed to average about $10-12.

Our entire experience at Fogo de Chao was beyond exceptional. It was genuinely a night of thinking you had found a favorite dish, only to be introduced to a brand-new favorite with the very next delivery. We were well taken care of as the staff was very attentive, friendly, and informative, and they were excellent representatives of the hospitality industry – we were always greeted with bright smiles and engaging conversation from everyone we encountered. The dishes that we sampled were out of this world, and I would not hesitate in recommending this restaurant to anyone. The new Bar Fogo menu is perfect for those who want something quick in small-plated appetizer form, but who also seek flavorful, extraordinary dishes that go far above the regular bar scene.

I really was not sure what to expect as I walked into Fogo de Chao, but I left as a true fan of theirs and can’t wait to experience their full table service one evening in the future.

Thank you for checking out my restaurant review. If you’d like, you can view Fogo de Chao’s menu clicking here. If you’d like to keep reading, you can check out the OI Blog archive for restaurants or for I-Drive.

Fogo de Chao – map

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Fogo de Chao – photo gallery

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Then, while we were walking around Universal CityWalk a few months ago, I noticed RHPS was playing at the AMC Cineplex. I had never really seen the entire movie, so I was intrigued… and wondered what a movie that was nearly 30-years-old was still doing in the theaters. That is when I found out about the Rich Weirdoes.

The Rich Weirdoes are a shadow cast-acting troupe that – as you may have guessed – acts out the entire movie while it is playing, and rumor has it that they are one of Orlando’s best-kept secrets.

Finally, last Saturday we ventured over to the Cineplex, not knowing entirely what to expect. The Rich Weirdoes perform RHPS every second and fourth weekend of the month at Universal CityWalk’s movie theater, on Fridays and Saturdays. Showtimes begin at midnight, and tickets are $11. If you happen to be a Universal Team Member or Annual Passholder, you can score a discount!

They warn you at nearly every chance you’ll give them that this is not a show for families, children (in fact, you must be 18+ to attend without a parent), the easily-offended, and even, sometimes, the not-so-easily offended… because when they say they get offensive, they mean it.

There are curse words, nudity, more curse words, sexual situations, sexual jokes, and sexual comments that go far beyond innuendo. The evening involves the throwing of rice, a virgin initiation for audience members who have never attended a shadow cast of RHPS, and so many call-out lines that you’ll never possibly be able to catch them all – and you’ll want to pay attention to them as much as possible, as many are Orlando- and pop culture-based. These call-out lines are just a taste of Rocky lore, as I’ve heard there are books filled to the brim with them, and they are always ever-changing.

For our experience, the night began as we entered to find our seats while Rich Weirdoes cast members mingled with the audience. They playfully tease, toy, and all-out flirt with every- and anyone who walks in. Something to keep in mind: race, creed, size, sexual orientation, gender, and so much more just don’t matter when you’re a member of this audience. There truly are no limits here.

The pre-show includes cast interactions, introductions, and rules on what props can and cannot be used, while another member roams the audience, seeking the virgins and marking their foreheads with a “V” in red lipstick. After this, the virgins were asked to come up towards the front of the theater, where six were selected to participate in a game, with the winners being given RHPS prop bags.

These prop bags are pretty fun and are sold by a cast member before the show begins. They cost $5 for one or $8 for two and also include a list of when to use these props during the performance. The Rich Weirdoes also sell t-shirts, $15 for one and $25 for two. Both the prop bag and t-shirt sales help the Weirdoes with the costs of production and costuming, so it’s a great way to help support them!

From beginning to end, the show is interactive, hilarious, and entertaining. The minutes fly by, song after song and call-out after hysterical call-out. I loved that we decided to buy a prop bag, which only provided more laughs and entertainment throughout the night as I juggled the props, trying to figure out what was next before realizing that it was whatever item was getting tossed at me. Whereas in a traditional movie experience you’re supposed to be quiet, reserved, and practically invisible so as not to disturb another patron’s movie viewing, it’s the complete opposite here.

If you are a true Rocky Horror fan, then this is totally an experience that you cannot afford to miss! If you’ve never seen the movie, I’d suggest checking it out prior to going to the interactive show just so you know what’s going on and potentially what to expect. If you’re easily offended, not into cursing or nudity or the outlandish antics – then sit this one out. It is really as easy as that. This show is exactly what they say it is, so there are no surprises on that front.

I had a phenomenal time getting to let loose and openly Time Warp, sing, and toss some rice at complete strangers. I thought the cast was extremely dedicated and really passionate about their performances, and I loved how it is all about just owning who you are, having a blast, and not worrying about stereotypes or “knowing all the words” – it’s absolutely just about being there. I would definitely recommend these shows to friends who could handle them and look forward to returning myself for another Rocky Horror Picture Show performance.

Next time, I think I would like to go out for one of their infamous themed nights (where the cast members dress as their characters, but perhaps as a zombie or pirate version of those characters) and, of course, bring a large group of friends along with us, which I think would only enhance the overall RHPS festivities.

Other points to note: The Rock Horror Picture Show has the potential to sell out, so it’s advised to purchase tickets in advance or get there early – especially around Halloween. Also, while they certainly encourage you to dress to the liking of your favorite RHPS character – or nearly as crazy as you’d like – it’s important to note CityWalk’s strict dress code, so be sure to cover up if you’re planning to fly your freak flag.

In general, perhaps you should check out the Rich Weirdoes’ website to ensure you’ve got everything figured out before heading over. Oh – the Rich Weirdoes also welcome new members, so if being a part of a Rocky Horror shadow cast is on your bucket list, now’s your chance to become involved!

Check out more articles on Orlando’s nightlife and live entertainment offerings, or you can read up some more on Universal CityWalk.

The Rocky Horror Picture Show at Universal CityWalk – photo gallery

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I’ve called Orlando home for the past 20 years. During that time I’ve learned how completely bizarre it is to have “Let it Snow” stuck in your head while the only glistening we’re experiencing is that of perspiration. This snow thing ain’t gonna happen. But, perhaps we don’t need snow to awaken our Christmas Spirit – no, boys and girls – perhaps all we need is a little legendary Candlelight.

My boyfriend Sean and I started a Christmas tradition of our very own last year in going to Disney’s Candlelight Processional at Epcot. We returned again this year in what we’re affectionately calling our “Annual NPH Date Night.” You see, we’re pretty huge Neil Patrick Harris fans. We just LOVE this guy. Besides being Doogie Howser, M.D. and the infamous Barney Stinson from How I Met Your Mother fame, he’s hosted the Tony and Emmy Awards, and he is currently preparing to appear on Broadway in 2014. Neil Patrick Harris is genuinely one of Hollywood’s most talented stars.

The Candlelight Processional, in short, is a nightly event held at the America Gardens Theatre in Epcot, which consists of a 50 piece orchestra, full choir including The Voices of Liberty, and – of course – a celebrity guest host who narrates The Christmas Story as the musicians infuse classic Christmas songs into the story of Jesus’ birth. From Candlelight alum favorites like Gary Sinise and Whoopi Goldberg, to 2013 first timers like Ashley Judd and Sigourney Weaver, it’s truly a tough decision when it comes on choosing who to go and see. But for Sean and me, it’s easy: NPH is our ticket to officially welcoming in Christmas.

Candlelight Processionals are held nightly from now until December 30, 2013. This event is limited in seating, first-come-first-served, and extremely popular – I cannot stress that enough! So be sure to get there as early as possible. There is no “too early” for this event, as the line will literally wrap around the World Showcase, especially if the celebrity is a fan favorite of Candlelight goers.

You also have the option to take part in the Candlelight Dinner Package, which is in addition to your regular park admission. The Candlelight Dinner Package includes guaranteed seating for the Processional, lunch or dinner, and VIP seating for the Illuminations fireworks show; prices vary depending on which restaurant you select. Advanced reservations are highly recommended for the dinner package — learn more. Candlelight show times are usually 5:00pm, 6:45pm, and 8:15pm.

What I love most about Neil Patrick Harris’ appearance every year is his absolute appreciation for the talent that surrounds him. Throughout the Processional, I can get lost in the gorgeous vocals, and I find myself somewhere in the resonating tones of the orchestra. How do these two come together perfectly for an intensely moving Christmas moment? Well, it’s an experience not meant for words, and one of those things in life where you just have to feel it.

NPH brings a genuine, heartfelt telling of The Christmas Story. He sings along with the choir at the right moments, dances to the rhythm created by the outstanding orchestra, and brings humor during other appropriate times throughout the Processional. He is a simply gracious host, one who knows that the moment is so much more than just his being a celebrity. I can tell he honestly love being a part of Candlelight every year, and that it’s as much of a tradition for him as it is for all of us.

I’m having a blast narrating the Candlelight Processional here at #Epcot. Amazing orchestra, gorgeous voices, awesome crowds. Love Disney!— Neil Patrick Harris (@ActuallyNPH) December 3, 2013

During our visit last week, as the Processional came to a close and Neil exited the stage – followed by the choir and orchestra – I found myself just completely at peace. For a moment, all was right in the world. Maybe it was the clarinets and French horns, perhaps it was the vocal melodies, or that ever present Disney magic, or maybe it was because another Annual NPH Date Night was in the books for us. Another year come and gone.

I reached for Sean’s hand. No, there wasn’t even a remote chill in our southern air and there was definitely no snow – but I smiled anyway. I had to. Now, boys and girls, it’s – wait for it – Christmas in Florida!

To see the full list of celebrity narrators and get additional show details, visit the official site for Epcot’s Candlelight Processional. Or, to learn more on our blog, check out all our blog posts filed under the holidays, Epcot, or Walt Disney World.

2013 Candlelight Processional to Epcot – photo gallery

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Editor’s note: This is the first blog post from our newest OI contributor, Casie (not to be confused with Kasie). We welcome her to the team and look forward to showcasing her work on our site!

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