The fluorescent fun will take place on select evenings from Friday, May 28 to Monday, September 6 and will be included with general admission to the theme park. A range of family-friendly offerings – from a children’s rock show to an energetic dance floor – will be available, encouraging guests of all ages to partake in the party. And to add to the excitement, two totally new experiences will be debuting this year, alongside fan-favorites brought back by popular demand.

Dive into all of the delightful details:

Electric Current

Kick off the evening with lively music and show off your finest dance moves at Electric Current, an all-new party that takes place each night of the event at The Waterfront. A live DJ will turn up the energy with popular hits for everyone to enjoy, and luminous lights will have you feeling like you’re at a rave beneath the waves.

Rescue Tails

This never-before-seen educational show features a variety of SeaWorld’s rescued wildlife, allowing visitors to meet exotic birds, reptiles, and, even, primates. Discover the stories behind each of these critters and learn about SeaWorld’s commitment to animal care on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays at Seaport Theater (on Electric Ocean dates).

Elmo Rocks

When Elmo’s favorite rock band cancels their concert, the little red monster takes it upon himself to create his own! Join some of your Sesame Street favorites – including Cookie Monster, Zoe, Abby Cadabby, Bert, Ernie, and, of course, Elmo – as they audition and rehearse their way to rock-‘n-roll stardom. This family-friendly adventure gives the little ones an opportunity to participate in Elmo’s journey and dance along, taking place every Electric Ocean night at Nautilus Theater.

Club Sea Glow

When the sun goes down and the stars come out, the party awakens at Bayside Stadium! Glowing dancers and entrancing acts will take the stage as a DJ spins dance-music hits to keep the energy flowing. This neon-lit nautical blast will have you moving and grooving until the night’s grand finale fireworks take place.

Ignite

Commemorate the end of an incredible day and night with central Florida’s only full-length theme-park nighttime fireworks, where the sky comes alive with the majestic and vibrant essence of the sea. This brilliant display of lights, lasers, dancing fountains, and booming fireworks can be viewed from all around the park, but may be best viewed from Bayside Stadium.

Don’t want to miss out on this electrifying experience? You can purchase your SeaWorld Orlando tickets here.

Which Electric Ocean offerings are you most excited about? Share your thoughts of and plans for SeaWorld’s popular annual event with other die-hard vacation-planners in our newly formed SeaWorld Community on Facebook.

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

The post SeaWorld Orlando’s Electric Ocean returns for summer 2021 appeared first on Orlando Informer.

While this unannounced, food-based venture does not have an official name or event associated with it, there appears to be a tropical summer theme that connects each location. Of course, as theme-park foodies who embrace every opportunity to indulge in something new at the parks, our team promptly arrived on Saturday to try (almost) every item these seasonal menus have to offer – and our taste buds were not disappointed.

Join us as we share our opinions on every dish and drink we encountered on our summery sampling adventure!

Review and photos of new summer bites and beverages from Battery Park venue

This food and beverage venue is located on the lagoon, across from Transformers: The Ride – 3D.

Elotes Asados

Price: traditional – $5.79; cilantro butter – $5.29
Our rating: 9/10

This small dish is bursting with great flavor! Corn on the cob is delicious on its own, but the traditional-style toppings – which include cotija, chili powder, and vegan jalapeño mayo – take this snack to the next level. For those of us who prefer their food to be on the plainer side, the cilantro-butter option served as a simpler-yet-equally-enjoyable alternative.

Equites Asados

Price: $5.99
Our rating: 8/10

This item is essentially the same thing as the Elotes Asados – the ingredients are identical but served in a cup! While street corn tastes just as yummy either way, we personally preferred it straight off the cob. However, if you are not a fan of messy eating, the Esquites Asados may be the better choice for you.

Carnitas Arepa

Price: $9.29
Our rating: 8/10

Of all three arepas available, the carnitas was our favorite! The tender, simmered pork paired beautifully with the avocado and mayo-ketchup sauce that was generously slathered on top.

Beef Picadillo Arepa

Price: $9.29
Our rating: 7/10

This arepa was a close second to the carnitas, packing more of a savory kick and contrasting nicely with the corn-meal shell. If you (and your taste buds) tend to lean more towards beef than pork, then this is the arepa for you.

Queso Arepa

Price: $8.29
Our rating: 4/10

We found this arepa to have a steep drop in boldness compared to the other two – composed of just shredded cheese, cilantro, and mayo-ketchup, it doesn’t have much to stand out from the slightly bland corn meal. Although lacking in flavor for us, it may be more enjoyable for sensitive eaters, or those who prefer a milder dish.

Coxinha

Price: $5.49
Our rating: 10/10

We absolutely loved these scrumptious little bites! A seemingly simple combo of flash-fried potato and chicken proved to be one of our top items of the day. Although we wished they were served with a complementary dipping sauce, we still found these to be an awesome snack that satisfied the whole team.

Mangonada

Price: non-alcoholic – $7.00; with a Monte Alban tequila floater – $12.50
Our rating: 7/10

This fruity, frozen beverage took us out of the theme parks and straight to the tropics. The mango and lime pair refreshingly with chamoy and chili salt, making for an interesting combination of sweet and savory – and, even, a little spicy. As a unique bonus, when you purchase a Mangonada with the tequila floater, it’s served with a tamarind candy straw!

Chispas de Fuego

Price: $13.50
Our rating: 5/10

Although this cocktail has a gorgeous and colorful presentation, it received mixed reviews from our team. We found the tequila and spiced Tajín to be strong in comparison to the mango-lime colada, making for a somewhat salty and tart flavor. If you have a liking for drinks with a sharp and sour edge, you might want to give it a try!

Lime-Falernum Agua Fresca

Price: $6.00
Our rating: 8/10

This light and breezy lime-based drink pairs perfectly with a blazing summer day – it’s not too sugary or sour, and it includes the tiniest touch of ginger for a very smooth and easy-to-sip flavor. (Note: each of us thought that this beverage tasted remarkably similar to “SweeTARTS” candy!)

Tamarind Agua Fresca

Price: $6.00
Our rating: 10/10

While we had very neutral expectations for this drink going in, it turned out to be our surprise favorite! The earthy sweetness balances a hint of sour, creating a very unique and rejuvenating flavor. We recommend it to anyone looking to try something refreshing and different.

Review and photos of new summer bites and beverages from San Francisco food truck

This food truck is located in the San Francisco area of the park (across from the Fast & Furious – Supercharged gift shop).

Pressed Cuban Sandwich

Price: $14.99
Our rating: 9/10

We were excited to see this item revived from Mardi Gras, as it was one of our top picks from International Flavors of Carnaval. Once again, we were impressed by the mouthwatering combination of meat, mustard, and pickles wedged between warm Cuban bread slices. Much to our delight, we found this sandwich to be almost double the size of the Mardi Gras portion – which means double the yum!

Beef Empanadas

Price: $12.99
Our rating: 6/10

This dish is yet another crowd-pleaser carried over from Mardi Gras. While tasty, these empanadas are pretty par for the course – they don’t quite stand out as anything special. However, the cucumber and tomato salad served alongside them makes for a nice pairing.

Dogfish Head SeaQuench Ale Session Sour

Price: $10.00
Our rating: 8/10

Unlike Mardi Gras, these summer food and beverage offerings don’t include the same variety of unique wines and beers to try – which is why we were pleased to come across this less-common sour ale. This crisp blend of lime and sea salt gave us nothing but beachy vibes, as though we were sipping summer straight out of a can!

Review and photos of new summer bites from Lombard’s Landing food truck

This food truck is also located in the San Francisco area of the park, between Richter’s Burger Co. and Lombard’s Seafood Grille.

3 Cheese Classic Melt

Price: $9.99
Our rating: 7/10

While conventionally yummy and buttered to perfection, this melt was no more than a very well-made grilled cheese sandwich. We found it to be fairly standard on its own but particularly delish when dipped in the cream of tomato soup.

Smoky Brisket Melt

Price: $11.99
Our rating: 8/10

Hello, flavor! This sandwich is similar in composition to the 3 Cheese Classic Melt but is packed with bold BBQ brisket. We agreed that the addition of savory meat really brought this cheesy creation to life.

Vegan Melt

Price: $10.99
Our rating: 7/10

The vegetarians on our team were thrilled to see this menu option and had mostly good things to say about it! The highlights of this sandwich were its flawlessly charred bread and palatable pesto dressing. The vegan cheese, however, could have benefitted from a cheesier, meltier texture.

White Cheddar Mac ‘n’ Cheese

Price: $9.99 full portion, $5.99 side portion
Our rating: 6/10

This dish is exactly what you’d expect it to be – creamy, cheesy, and generally satisfying. If anything, it came up a bit short in the flavor department. A sharper cheese or extra dash of seasoning could have improved this mac, but we still enjoyed it overall.

Carnitas Mac ‘n’ Cheese

Price: $11.99
Our rating: 9/10

BBQ-drenched pork and green onions were exactly what this dish needed! We loved the pairing of both texture and flavor between the meat and macaroni, and will be sure to return to this flavorful favorite again.

Cream of Tomato Soup

Price: $5.99
Our rating: 5/10

This small cup of soup isn’t quite remarkable on its own; however, it is an excellent side item for dipping melts into, or as a tasty complement to your bowl of mac.

Review and photos of new summer bites from World Expo food booth

This food booth is located in the World Expo area of the park, on the Bridge near Men in Black Alien Attack and The Simpsons Ride.

Tripleta

Price: $14.99
Our rating: 10/10

We were huge fans of this Puerto Rican platter! It is filled to the brim with flavor, boasting several types of sliced meat atop delicious, kneaded bread. What really makes this sandwich special, however, are the crispy potato crisps sprinkled generously upon it – these create an amazing, crunchy contrast to the otherwise soft components within.

Yucca Fritta

Price: $5.99
Our rating: 8/10

Although less interesting than its tripleta counterpart, this fried finger-food still holds its own as a pleasant and popular snack. The addition of garlic and onion mojo, along with the yummy sauce it is served with, really help to bring it up a notch in terms of taste.

All things considered – and tasted – we greatly enjoyed Universal’s summer selection of bites and beverages, and we appreciate these extra yummy ways to celebrate the bright, sunny, and fun-filled days ahead. We hope to see even more seasonal offerings pop up in the future!

Which dishes and drinks are you most excited to try? Share your foodie bucket list with 120,000+ theme-park lovers in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook – and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to feast on the latest announcements and updates.

Do you have a question about the information on this page, would like to provide feedback, or did you spot an inaccuracy? Join us in our Orlando Informer Community Facebook group, and let’s talk about it!

The post REVIEW: New summer bites and beverages at Universal Studios Florida appeared first on Orlando Informer.

Our expectations were high – as in, 155-foot top-hat high – and, somehow, they were still exceeded by the ferociously fast launches and unreal amounts of airtime we experienced. It’s safe to say we felt the rush of the hunt… and then some! But, before we flesh out all of the most thrilling details of our wild ride, let’s start with an element of the attraction that we were greatly impressed by first: the queue.

Soon after stepping through the torch-bearing arches of the ride’s entrance, it became obvious that Universal spared no expense when it came to theming. Grandiose, sweeping music straight from the Jurassic World soundtrack greeted us upon our approach and was soon punctuated by the jarring sounds of velociraptors as we made our way down the opening hallway and into the first room.

This initial indoor space was alight with flashing neon strips that crowned the ceiling and pulsed in shades of purple, red, and blue. Posing as a bold centerpiece were four steel raptors, each with claws out and jaws agape, protruding outward from a model of the coaster’s signature plunge. A smoothly voiced announcement occasionally welcomed us into the raptor paddock, and large, mounted televisions displayed the VelociCoaster logo. Here, the tone is set for the rest of the ride experience – futuristic, fierce, and most cleverly designed.

Winding around a blue-and-red lit corner, we entered one of the highlights of the queue: the launch viewing room. Here, multiple windows lined the wall, allowing us a glimpse at the tunnel in which the first launch takes place. We were then able to catch the coaster zooming by, chased by a familiar raptor pack that appeared on the windows shortly after.

Upon entering the next space – titled “Raptor Training Room 1” – we were met with videos of the infamous Dr. Wu (the scientist behind Jurassic World’s dinosaur creations), who briefed us on the backstory of the raptor paddock and basic safety information about the ride. Behind metal cages set up on either side of the hallway were various books and artifacts that reference the Jurassic Park universe, including the works of Ian Malcolm and Dr. Grant.

The following area boasted what is arguably the most impressive feature of the entire queue – startlingly realistic, life-sized raptor heads, restrained by steel, muzzle-like contraptions. These dinos are just about as close as you can get to experiencing the real thing; their highly detailed, scaly skin flutters as they breathe excitedly, eyes darting around the room, periodically shoving against their metal constraints.

The anticipation only continued to build as we arrived at our next stop: the lockers. As with many elements of this attraction, these lockers are sleek and innovative. They are a double-sided model that we have never seen at Universal Orlando Resort before, in which you insert your items on one side before boarding, and then open them on the opposite side to retrieve your belongings upon exiting. This set-up works to alleviate the congestion that is typically seen at locker stations for popular attractions, and we found it simple and easy to navigate.

From here, we hopped up two sets of stairs into a spacious chamber where we were spoken to by two of the most iconic characters from the Jurassic World series, Claire Dearing (Bryce Dallas Howard) and raptor alpha himself, Owen Grady (Chris Pratt). Claire politely prepared us for our experience while a skeptical Owen expressed concern over the idea of mixing coasters and live dinosaurs, creating an atmosphere of impending danger.

Finally, we approached the loading dock – a gorgeously modern platform that offers floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the raptor paddock. We filed into our assigned rows and ushered ourselves into our seats as soon as the gates opened. The safety restraints came down over our heads from behind us and lowered snugly atop our laps.

(Note: these lap bars, while very comfortable, safe, and secure, are the only constraint that “hold you in” through the multiple inversions throughout the ride, making for intensified feelings of both freedom and vulnerability. Immediately, we noticed that not even the tallest person in our party could touch the ground with their feet, which heightened the sense of exposure and thrill even more.)

We knew we were in for a one-of-a-kind experience as the coaster turned the corner and prepared for the opening launch. Feisty velociraptors shuffled impatiently on either side of us, and our ride vehicle rolled slightly backwards into position. Cued by the voice of Owen Grady himself, an electrically charged sound began building around us – and then, with a deep, booming culmination of bass and raptor screeches, the chase was on!

We’re not exaggerating when we say the first launch is mindblowingly fast. Immediately, we were blasted up into a steep bank, which continued into speedy swoops, dips, and twists around the paddock. Everything happened at such a quick pace that the ride appeared to go by in snapshots – a flash of raptors here, a near-miss with rocks and waterfalls there. All it can be described as is an insane rush of pure fun.

Upon the final turn in the enclosure, the coaster straightened out into yet another launch tunnel, and red lights indicated that it was time to break out of the paddock. This launch marked a pivotal moment in both the coaster’s story and design; the first half of the coaster winds through the foliage and rockwork of the paddock, while the second half thrusts riders up and away from danger and into a series of untamed inversions over the lagoon.

For us, the top hat was everything we hoped it would be – and more. A dizzyingly powerful launch sent us high above the ground, and for just a second or two at the peak, we were presented with an incredible view of Islands of Adventure. This moment on top of the world quickly plummeted into invigorating chaos, sending us straight into a 100-foot zero-gravity inverted stall – in layman’s terms, a very long time hanging upside down.

From here on out, this rapidly paced adventure had our faces beaming, our voices screaming, and (some of) our hands thrown up in the air. One particular twist over a hill sent us floating straight out of our seats, and we loved every second of the airtime.

The last leg of the coaster presents what we concluded to be our favorite part of the ride overall: the “mosasaurus roll” just feet above the water. While many of our expectations were focused on the thrill of the top hat (which did not disappoint), we collectively decided that this unique spiral is quite possibly the most intense and interesting piece of track that we encountered.

Pulling into the unloading area ignited a celebration among both riders and team members, and it seemed as though not a single guest left this coaster unimpressed. Our general consensus was that Jurassic World VelociCoaster takes first place as the most thrilling ride at Universal Orlando – and, for some of us, our new favorite coaster of all time.

Between beautifully immersive theming, fantastic coaster design, and an unforgettable sense of exhilaration, we are proud to say we’ve officially joined the raptor pack, and we cannot wait to experience it all again and again.

Our ride took place during the Jurassic World VelociCoaster Passholder Preview, which is valid at select times from May 2-5 and requires a reservation in advance.  The attraction officially opens on June 10th. Additional technical rehearsals are possible between now and the opening date but are not guaranteed.

Have you had the chance to experience Jurassic World VelociCoaster? If not, which parts are you most looking forward to? Share your thoughts with 120,000+ other Universal fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook.

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.

The post REVIEW: Jurassic World VelociCoaster appeared first on Orlando Informer.

Follow along with us below as we highlight some of our favorite sights, bites, and beverages from this year’s event! (And then be sure to get your tickets to all the fun here.)

Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival 2021: the atmosphere

A majority of the Food & Wine Festival’s happenings take place in one corner of Busch Gardens Tampa (near Bird Gardens and the Festival Field), which creates a very convenient setup for hopping from venue to venue without walking long distances in between. We particularly enjoyed the ambience at the heart of the festival, located through the arches pictured above, which emulated a tranquil garden. Elegant violin music drifted through the air, and leafy garland strung with cooking utensils zigzagged above us.

Many of the food and beverage venues we encountered had some sort of light theming – one that particularly caught our eye was the Giraffe Bar, which served up a few speciality cocktails, wine, and beer. Each cabin was individually inspired by cuisine from a geographical location, a sponsored brand, or a specific genre of food. We enjoyed this deviation from the typical “every booth is a different country” setup that is prevalent among most theme-park food festivals today.

Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival 2021: the food

We were notably impressed with the variety of dishes Busch Gardens had to offer this year. A few homestyle classics, such as the Fried Chicken & Biscuit Slider and the Boujee Bacon, returned for the season, while 22 new culinary creations – like the Hummus & Parmesan Garlic Fries and the Drunken Shrimp Tostada – made their debut.

Out of the many mouth-watering foods we sampled, the Lollipop Chicken Drum from the Southern Kitchen cabin was one that really stood out. These savory cuts of chicken were coated in a sticky honey-whiskey glaze, which brought a touch of sweetness to an otherwise fiery dish. We were blown away by just how much heat and flavor these little bites brought us – a must-have for spicy food-lovers.

Another honorable mention is the Korean BBQ Pork Ribs from the Hog Heaven booth, which are slow-roasted and fall-off-the-bone tender, glazed with tangy BBQ sauce, and topped with daikon slaw. As someone who is not a huge fan of pork or slaw, I enjoyed this dish a lot more than I assumed I would and would recommend it to anyone looking to treat their taste buds with something different.

Of course, we had to indulge in a few desserts along the way, of which the choices were many. We saw more than a few creative twists on classic treats, such as the Kahlua and Cream Strawberry Waffle Cone Sundae and Drunken Bread Pudding. There was also a surprising variety of cupcakes, doughnuts, and milkshakes this year, which turned the festival into a sweet-tooth’s personal heaven.

Our favorite indulgence was the Señorita Sangria cupcake from Sweet Sips, which boasted decadently thick icing and carefully placed fruit atop a fruity, vanilla cake base. “Yummy” would be an understatement.

Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival 2021: the drinks

Alongside this year’s plentiful plates were over 50 different wines, beers, and seltzers to sample, ranging from small, local brands to originations from across the globe. Those of us who enjoy a refreshing cocktail rejoiced at the 20+ hand-crafted mixologist recipes available, including innovative concoctions like the Frozen Hawaiian Pineapple Express or the Puffin Punch, which comes in a pouch that you can wear around your neck.

Our top-rated mixed drink of the day was the Iron Gwazi Gimlet from Coaster Cocktails (which has awesomely named libations, by the way). This ruby-red refresher – featuring Hendrick’s Gin, pomegranate juice, and a splash of pineapple – was pleasantly tart and fruity without being overly sweet, and quite easy to sip on.

Don’t worry – we didn’t forget about the “wine” part of the Food & Wine Festival! Bottles were abundant and carefully selected from all over the world. Some of the finest varieties could be found at the Napa Nook and Vino, Vidi, Vici booths, which specialized in wines from Italy and California, respectively.

The sample that stole our heart was the Proud Pour “Save the Bees” Pinot Noir, a beautifully balanced red that was rich with cranberry and black-cherry notes. To make it even more special, this wine comes with the added benefit of helping 3,600 native bee species across the country. Each bottle goes towards saving their habitats and replanting wildflowers on local farms!

We also made sure to explore the vast beer offerings around the festival, many of which were from local breweries. Everything from dark, chocolatey porters to fruity blonde ales could be found. One of our top picks was the Graffiti Orange from the Giraffe Bar, a creamsicle wheat beer with a vanilla base and a fruity twist. Its crisp flavor and subtle tang made it a real crowd-pleaser.

Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival 2021: the entertainment

Scrumptious food and beverages weren’t the only highlights of this event – the live entertainment, including stilt walkers and music from local bands, made for the perfect backdrop to our tasting experience. Although we didn’t attend on a concert date (concerts take place every Saturday on the Festival Field Stage), we were still able to enjoy all-day performances by various music artists at the Coke Canopy.

The biggest surprise of the day ended up being the tall, leafy performers we found in a grassy area near the Living Fountain. These unusual-looking figures slowly took on various shapes and poses to the sound of ethereal music, creating a strangely mesmerizing performance. They served as yet another unexpected and unique contribution to the great experience we had overall.

Do you plan on joining in on the foodie fun at Busch Gardens? Which menu items from this year’s Food & Wine Festival have your mouth watering? First secure your tickets, and then share your must-have dishes and drinks with 150,000+ other theme-park lovers in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook.

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

The post Review: Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s Food & Wine Festival 2021 appeared first on Orlando Informer.

Just as a brief reminder, Universal had originally announced the temporary shutdown back on October 2, due to the ongoing consequences of COVID-19 on the tourism industry. (Don’t forget that, just a few weeks beforehand, Disney had made the same announcement regarding its two water parks, Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach; since then, the Mouse House has said that it’s going to reopen the latter on Sunday, March 7.)

Want to know what Volcano Bay was like on its first day of reopening in 2021? Join us as we embark on a watery (or, shall we say, Waturi?) adventure through the rides, food, drinks, and interactive surprises that this park once again has to offer.

Universal’s Volcano Bay reopening: the atmosphere

To make the most of our day, we took advantage of Early Park Admission and arrived before the park opened at 10:00 am. Boarding the bus to take us to Volcano Bay was a simple and well-organized process – like before, each party is assigned a section of seats, and plexiglass sheets separate each row. Every team member we encountered upon entry was full of energy and enthusiasm, welcoming us with bright smiles and cheerful voices. It seemed as though they were just as excited to be back as we were!

Safety guidelines, such as face coverings in non-water areas and social distancing, were politely implemented along the way. Even our TapuTapus got in on the squeaky-clean action by sending us reminders every now and then to wash our hands.

As we ventured into the park and around the corner to Krakatau’s scenic reveal (as pictured above), we were met with the familiar vibrance and liveliness that Volcano Bay is known for – it was as if the park never took a day off. With carefree, tropical music floating through the air, warm sunshine beaming down on crystal blue water, and a majestic view of the volcano ahead, we knew we were about to have an awesome day.

Universal’s Volcano Bay reopening: the rides

If you couldn’t already tell from the photo above, we had an absolute blast making our way through the park’s many attractions. A few of the most exciting rides we conquered were Honu ika Moana, Ohyah & Ohno Drop Slides, and – my personal favorite – Krakatau Aqua Coaster. What better way to wake yourself up than dropping, twisting, and splashing your way through a plethora of tropical thrill rides?

As always, these attractions upheld Universal’s current safety standards, requiring social distancing in queues and the sanitization of rafts between each use (except for Krakatau Aqua Coaster, which requires hand sanitization before boarding).

Of course, adrenaline-boosters weren’t the only thing we were after. One of Volcano Bay’s moods is pure relaxation, and we found a leisurely escape in Kopiko Wai Winding River. The variety of both thrill and chill rides was perfect for those of us who craved adventure and serenity during our time among the Waturi.

Utilizing our TapuTapus ensured that we never waited too long for any attraction, as it held our spot in Virtual Lines and alerted us when we could go ahead and hop on our next ride. This way, we were able to enjoy our favorite amusements with plenty of time to spare for another one of the Bay’s major highlights: the food.

Universal’s Volcano Bay reopening: the food

One of the things we missed the most about Volcano Bay was its delicious food and beverage offerings. In my opinion, it has the highest-quality food of any water park around, and our most recent meal there only further confirmed my beliefs.

We decided to have our lunch at Kohola Reef Restaurant & Social Club. Here, we used mobile ordering through the Official Universal Orlando App to order the Island Chicken Salad and the Quinoa Edamame Burger Platter (pictured above). Both meals received a 10/10 satisfaction rating from our team!

For dessert, we felt the urge to splurge a little and go for a Chocolate Lava Cake, which adorably resembles a tiny volcano oozing raspberry syrup. We love it when treats are as a yummy as they are photogenic!

Speaking of photogenic, we couldn’t fully celebrate our first day back without indulging in Volcano Bay’s most Instagram-worthy delicacy: the Waturi Fusion from Koka Poroka Ice Cream Kona. This colorful cone is layered with sweet swirls of orange, blue raspberry, strawberry, and banana, making it a treat for both your taste buds and your vacation pics.

Universal’s Volcano Bay reopening: the drinks

If you’re 21+ and looking to enhance your island-getaway state of mind, I’d highly recommend swinging by Dancing Dragons Boat Bar for some of the tastiest – and prettiest! – selection of drinks you can find at Volcano Bay. This was our next stop after lunch and dessert, where we were greeted by an energetic bar staff and gorgeous views of Waturi Beach.

We were in the mood for something fruity and refreshing, so we ended up ordering a Blue Hawaiian (Malibu, fresh pineapple juice, and Blue Curacao) and a Wai-Waitermelon (Three Olives Vodka, watermelon syrup, fresh raspberries, and watermelon). Each signature drink comes in a souvenir cup and is typically garnished with fruit or a flower.

Current safety guidelines did not allow us to sit at the bar; however, tables were available nearby, and we decided to find a spot on the beach and catch some rays while sipping away.

(Note: if you’re interested in a more private location to retreat to, cabana rentals are still available.)

Universal’s Volcano Bay reopening: the interactive experiences

To finish off the day, we decided to journey into the heart of the volcano to pay a visit to our old friend, Vol, the spirit of Krakatau. This chatty, ancient being was thrilled to welcome us back, springing to life with fountains, mist, and mystical lighting as soon as we walked in. Our conversation included an exchange of names and a few intriguing tales of the Waturi. I may have dodged a few streams of water shot at me, but it was all in good fun.

TapuTu Play points can still be discovered and interacted with throughout the park, and we found great amusement in stumbling across points that activated water jets, dazzling light displays, and a few other humorous surprises. Trekking about the lush scenery in search of these hidden gems was the perfect way to conclude an all-around awesome day.

It’s safe to say that our whole team considered Volcano Bay’s 2021 reopening to be a huge success. Between exhilarating rides, gorgeous views, and mouth-watering food and drinks, we already can’t wait to plan our next Waturi staycation.

Which of Volcano Bay’s offerings have you missed the most? Which are you most excited to try for the first time? Share and discuss your thoughts with 120,000+ other theme-park fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook.

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.

The post Our first day back to Universal’s Volcano Bay appeared first on Orlando Informer.

Naturally, as both food-lovers and Mardi Gras enthusiasts, we arrived bright and early on the first day of the event and made it our mission to try almost everything there. To say it was a foodie’s dream-come-true would be an understatement. Now, you can follow along as we share our thoughts on each bite and beverage that we encountered on our tasting adventure around the globe.

Review and photos of New Orleans food and drinks at Mardi Gras 2021: International Flavors of Carnaval

The New Orleans booths at Mardi Gras 2021 have two locations: Music Plaza (in Production Central, near Hollywood Rip Ride Rocket) and Battery Park (on the lagoon, across from Transformers: The Ride – 3D).

Jambalaya

Price: $5.99
Our rating: 8/10

A flavorful combination of mixed rice, andouille sausage, and bright red crawfish makes for a dish that is almost as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds. We all agreed that the shrimp was the tastiest part!

Etoufee

Price: $5.49
Our rating: 6/10

This item was exactly what you’d expect out of a traditional New Orleans etoufee. The creamy sauce paired pleasantly with the white rice and andouille sausage, making for a satisfying-yet-pretty-standard dish.

Muffaletta Sandwich

Price: $13.49
Our rating: 9/10

We loved this sandwich! The blend of Big Easy-style charcuterie inside was full of flavor, and the bun was toasted to perfection. The chips were also surprisingly scrumptious – we only wish it came with more.

Shrimp Gumbo

Price: $5.49
Our rating: 6/10

While checking all the boxes for a typical shrimp gumbo, this one didn’t quite stand out to us among some of the bolder-tasting options. It was a yummy-yet-simple sample of classic New Orleans cuisine.

Crawfish & Shrimp Boil

Price: $12.99
Our rating: 8/10

This beautifully presented platter gave us every staple of the ideal bayou boil – tasty crawfish, buttery corn, and soft potatoes, all sprinkled with Cajun goodness. For us seafood-lovers, this menu option was mouthwatering; however, we wouldn’t recommend it for anyone who is not a big fan of shellfish, as the flavor is very strong.

Beignets

Price: $5.99
Our rating: 10/10

We give these littles bites of heaven a top score because they are no less than perfection. Something about that decadent powdered sugar atop pillowy, fried dough just keeps us coming back for more. A must-have NOLA treat!

Bloody Mary

Price: $7.00 (9 oz.), $18.00 (24 oz.)
Our rating: 9/10

If you enjoy a good Bloody Mary, you’ll be more than satisfied with one of these bad boys. The larger size includes some crazy Cajun toppings, such as bacon and shrimp! You can also choose between “Wild” and “Mild,” which is with or without spice, respectively. We prefer our Bloody Marys to be spicy, so we ordered the “Wild” version – and were impressed with the kick!

Tropical Storm Punch

Price: $6.00
Our rating: 7/10

This sweet and fruity cocktail packed just enough punch to taste the rum, but not so much that it was overbearing. The passionfruit taste was more prominent than any other flavor, and we found it quite easy to drink.

King Cake Milk Punch

Price: $6.00
Our rating: 8/10

Lightly topped with green and purple sprinkles, this cute little drink offered a very interesting flavor that is hard to put into words. Milky and somewhat sweet with a twist that is comparable to eggnog, it can only be described as sipping on spiked King Cake. Definitely an interesting concoction that is worth a try!

Abita Purple Haze

Price: $5.00
Our rating: 9/10

This may have been our favorite beer of the day! With a light and refreshing taste, it was super easy to sip on and paired nicely with the Cajun-dusted foods we were sampling alongside it. The touch of raspberry is what made it exceptionally delicious – if you’re a fan of fruity beers, you’ll definitely want to try this one.

Review and photos of Bahamas food and drinks at Mardi Gras 2021: International Flavors of Carnaval

The Bahamas booths at Mardi Gras 2021 are located in the World Expo area of the park (near Fear Factor Live and Men in Black Alien Attack).

Jerk Chicken

Price: $7.99
Our rating: 8/10

Warning: this dish is hot! The chicken itself was quite standard, complemented by the sweetness of pineapple chunks. Of course, the scotch bonnet salsa (made from a type of chili pepper) is what sets it on fire. Some members of our team found it a bit too spicy for their taste, but heat-lovers will want to try it.

Jerk Jackfruit

Price: $7.49
Our rating: 8/10

This plate was essentially the vegetarian version of the jerk chicken, and the jackfruit did not disappoint as a substitute. Again, this dish packed some heat – if you’re sensitive to spicy foods, you might want to skip it.

Review and photos of Belgium food and drinks at Mardi Gras 2021: International Flavors of Carnaval

The Belgium booth at Mardi Gras 2021 is located in the Woody Woodpecker’s KidZone area of the park (near Animal Actors on Location).

Belgium Liege Waffles

Price: $4.49
Our rating: 7/10

These waffles were exactly as sweet and sugary as they look. They weren’t quite as soft or fluffy as we imagined they might be, but they made for a yummy treat, nonetheless.

Brussels Frites with Roasted Garlic Veganaise

Price: $3.99
Our rating: 4/10

Although pleasantly crispy and an interesting vegan option, we felt that this snack was a tiny bit plain for our taste.

Lindemans Strawberry Lambic

Price: $9.00
Our rating: 9/10

The fruity-beer lovers among us rejoiced at the taste of this gem! We enjoyed the sweet strawberry twist on an otherwise tart ale. If you enjoy sours, this one is worth a try.

Review and photos of Brazil food and drinks at Mardi Gras 2021: International Flavors of Carnaval

The Brazil booth at Mardi Gras 2021 is located in Woody Woodpecker’s KidZone (near Animal Actors on Location).

Brigadeiros

Price: $4.49
Our rating: 10/10

Not only were these little treats presented beautifully (one of them is encrusted in candy jewels!), but they also tasted divine. We loved the sprinkled outer texture combined with the creamy fudge inside. Chocolate-lovers will not want to miss out.

Strawberry Pineapple Caipirinha Punch

Price: $7.00
Our rating: 9/10

Although a little on the sweet side, our team described this fruity cocktail as tropical paradise in a cup. The blended flavors of pineapple and strawberry made for a succulent sipping experience.

Review and photos of Canada food and drinks at Mardi Gras 2021: International Flavors of Carnaval

The Canada booth at Mardi Gras 2021 is located in Woody Woodpecker’s KidZone (near E.T. Adventure and SpongeBob StorePants).

Beef Short Rib Poutine

Price: $7.99
Our rating: 8/10

Fans of brisket will enjoy the savory flavors that this dish brings. While we felt that the fries were on the soggy side, the scrumptious cheese curds made up for it!

Maple Doughnut

Price: $6.49
Our rating: 5/10

This pastry was not exactly what we expected – it doesn’t take on the form or taste of a traditional donut. And while we enjoyed the light and flaky consistency of it, we found the maple flavor to be a bit lacking.

Sugar Shack Springtime Punch

Price: $5.00
Our rating: 8/10

We found this beverage to be a unique and enjoyable pairing of sweet flavors. Even those of us who aren’t fans of whiskey rated this drink as one of their favorites! The pear juice overrides the other components to make for a smooth and refreshing mix.

Review and photos of Colombia food and drinks at Mardi Gras 2021: International Flavors of Carnaval

The Colombia booth at Mardi Gras 2021 is located in a food truck in the New York area of the park (across from the extended queue for Transformers: The Ride – 3D).

Carnitas Arepas

Price: $9.25
Our rating: 8/10

There is plenty of flavor to be found in these arepas, and the addition of avocado was the perfect finishing touch. For our tastes, the corn meal cake was a little dry, but it didn’t take away from the overall tastiness of the dish.

Coco Loco

Price: $5.00
Our rating: 10/10

We loved this little tropical drink! The energetic flavor of lime blended wonderfully with the sweetness of coconut, and the tequila and rum made for a nice kick. A few sips of this one had us longing for blue water and palm trees.

Review and photos of Cuba food and drinks at Mardi Gras 2021: International Flavors of Carnaval

The Cuba booth at Mardi Gras 2021 is located in a food truck in the San Francisco area of the park (across from the Fast & Furious – Supercharged gift shop).

Cuban Sandwich

Price: $13.49
Our rating: 9/10

Although a little smaller than expected, this dish delivered big flavor. We appreciated the side of plantain chips, and our favorite feature of the sandwich was the tasty Cuban bread.

Cuban Flan

Price: $4.49
Our rating: 6/10

This cute dessert had an attractive presentation, and a sweet-yet-understated flavor. While we enjoyed the caramel glaze, we found the flan itself to be nothing out of the ordinary.

Cuban Coffee

Price: $3.49
Our rating: 7/10

Don’t be fooled by the tiny serving size – this little drink is packed with caffeine! We thought this beverage offered an unexpectedly sugary flavor, along with a notable burst of energy.

Review and photos of France food and drinks at Mardi Gras 2021: International Flavors of Carnaval

The France booth at Mardi Gras 2021 is located in the Hollywood area of the park (across from Mel’s Drive-In and Cafe La Bamba).

Poached Pear Crème Brulee Crepe

Price: $8.99
Our rating: 3/10

Although we absolutely love Universal’s iconic crepes, we can’t say we were huge fans of this seasonal addition. While the pear chunks and vanilla cream paired very nicely, the smoky flavor of the crepe itself seemed to clash with its sweet filling. If you enjoy trying adventurous combinations, however, you might take more of a liking to this item.

Review and photos of Germany food and drinks at Mardi Gras 2021: International Flavors of Carnaval

The Germany booth at Mardi Gras 2021 is located in San Francisco, just before The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley.

Vegan Bratwurst with Beer-braised Onions

Price: $8.99
Our rating: 9/10

Now this is a vegan option that everyone should try! We loved this twist on traditional German cuisine and felt that the beer-braised onions and spicy mustard really brought it to life.

Bavarian Pretzel

Price: $8.49
Our rating: 7/10

This pretzel was a nice snack to complement the rest of our German samplings. Although pleasantly different from typical theme-park fare, it did’t particularly stand out as a must-try. That being said, the spicy mustard cheese sauce got two thumbs up!

Pork Schnitzel Slider

Price: $8.49
Our rating: 8/10

The presentation of this item is fabulous, and it received generally good reviews from our team. While the pork cutlet is slightly plain in flavor, the pretzel bun and gruyere cheese are nice touches.

Aecht Schlenkerla Marzen Rauchbier

Price: $7.00
Our rating: 9/10

We found this lager to be creamy, with a strong and full flavor, while – at the same time – not being too heavy. It’s great for those who enjoy bold and dark beers; however, it may not appeal to those who prefer a crisper taste.

Review and photos of Italy food and drinks at Mardi Gras 2021: International Flavors of Carnaval

The Italy booth at Mardi Gras 2021 is located in the New York area of the park (across from Louie’s Italian Restaurant).

Arancini

Price: $5.99
Our ranking: 10/10

We thought this dish was totally mouthwatering and something that we would definitely want to order again. It encompasses everything we love about Italian food, including the cheese, the sauce, and the delicious truffle flavor. The crispy outside was a delicious contrast to the creamy inside.

Fantinel

Price: $6.00
Our rating: 8/10

This prosecco gave off a fruity essence, bubbling with apple and pear aromas. With hints of minerals and a medium finish, we found it to be a solid sparkling wine overall.

Review and photos of Puerto Rico food and drinks at Mardi Gras 2021: International Flavors of Carnaval

The Puerto Rico booth at Mardi Gras 2021 is located in San Francisco (across from the Fast & Furious – Supercharged gift shop).

Pernil & Mofongo

Price: $5.99
Our rating: 7/10

This traditional Puerto Rican dish proved to be flavorful but not especially memorable. We thought the smashed plantains added a pleasant hint of sweetness to the otherwise savory taste, though.

Picadillo Empanada

Price: $6.99
Our rating: 9/10

There’s nothing we love more than a good empanada, and this one delivered! The pastry dough was perfectly flaky, and the beef inside was bursting with bold flavor.

Quesito

Price: $3.99
Our rating: 10/10

We had high expectations for this pastry, and we were not disappointed. The exotic combination of guava and cream cheese makes for an irresistibly delightful treat.

Piña Verde

Price: $7.00
Our rating: 7/10

This twist on the classic piña colada was pleasantly fruity and sweet, with a touch of herbal spice. We did find it enjoyable to sip on, but it wasn’t one of our top picks of the day.

Review and photos of Spain food and drinks at Mardi Gras 2021: International Flavors of Carnaval

The Spain booth at Mardi Gras 2021 is located in Hollywood (across from Mel’s Drive-In, on the patio of Cafe La Bamba).

Paella Mixta

Price: $5.99
Our rating: 8/10

We were pleasantly surprised at the tastiness of this dish. The rice was full of flavor, and the seafood was of higher quality than what you’d expect from typical theme-park offerings.

Charcuterie

Price: $6.99
Our rating: 9/10

We have some serious cheese-lovers on our team, and this selection was up to par with their standards! The cheeses seemed to outshine the meats, but the addition of grapes, crackers, and olives made for fun and palate-pleasing combinations.

Leche Frita

Price: $5.49
Our rating: 6/10

We didn’t know how we’d feel about this treat, but it proved to be more enjoyable than originally assumed. This fried, cinnamon-dusted creation tasted quite similar to a churro in our opinion; however, we thought it could have benefited from a bit more flavor all around.

Pinord “La Dama” Cava

Price: $5.00
Our rating: 8/10

This sparkling wine had hints of apples and pears with light floral notes. Slightly sweet and light-bodied, this selection will satisfy those who prefer a crisp wine.

Don Olegurio Albarino

Price: $7.00
Our rating: 7/10

We found this white wine to be more on the dry side, and it paired delightfully with the seafood paella. It had flavors of flowers, fruits, and minerals that were pleasant but not standout.

Hacienda de Arinzano Rosé

Price: $7.00
Our rating: 7/10

With notes of strawberries and citrus, this rosé had a creamy mouth-feel with a somewhat peppery finish. While rosé isn’t our team’s cup of tea (wine?), we recommend it those who are bigger fans of rosy flavors.

Hazaña Viñas Viejas Rioja

Price: $7.00
Our rating: 9/10

This was our favorite of the four wines Spain had to offer! This classic red blend was served chilled and had a deliciously full-bodied taste swirling with fruity and earthy aromas. Although rich, it was smooth on the palate.

Review and photos of Trinidad & Tobago food and drinks at Mardi Gras 2021: International Flavors of Carnaval

The Trinidad & Tobago booth at Mardi Gras 2021 is located in the New York area of the park (across from the Mardi Gras Tribute Store).

Pholourie

Price: $5.99
Our rating: 6/10

We found these simple, fried spheres to be a bit bland on their own. However, the spicy tamarind chutney definitely brought them up a notch and made for a yummy pairing.

Pineapple Trini Chow

Price: $4.29
Our rating: 9/10

We weren’t sure what to expect out of these grilled pineapple skewers, but they ended up delivering a surprisingly delicious taste experience. This dish was juicy, full of flavor, and had just the right touch of spice.

Queen’s Park Swizzle

Price: $7.00
Our rating: 2/10

While we adored the gorgeous presentation of this drink, we weren’t huge fans of the taste – the Angostura bitters are quite strong, which outshine the otherwise limey flavor. If you’re a fan of cinnamon, however, you may have a different opinion!

All in all, we had a fantastic experience at Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval, and it’s safe to say that our day concluded with full bellies and smiling faces. We can’t wait to go back and indulge in our favorites again and again!

Are you ready to embark on your own tasting journey around the world? Which bites and beverages are you most excited to try? Be sure to share your foodie bucket list in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook – and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to feast on the latest announcements and updates.

Do you have a question about the information on this page, would like to provide feedback, or did you spot an inaccuracy? Join us in our Orlando Informer Community Facebook group, and let’s talk about it!

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More interested in beverages than bites? You’re in luck! Alongside this year’s delectable dishes will be over 50 different wines, beers, and seltzers to try, from local brews and vineyards to the top picks from across the globe. Or, if a refreshing cocktail is more your style, you’ll have 20+ hand-crafted mixologist recipes to choose from, such as the Falcon’s Fury Lemon Drop with Milagro Tequila or Cutwater frozen margarita popsicles.

Of course, we can’t forget to mention some of the dreamy desserts you’ll be able to find. Have you ever tasted a maple bacon cinnamon roll? How about a sangria cupcake? Or bourbon bread pudding? If not, now is your chance! These creative twists on classic treats are the perfect way to complement your tasting adventure through the park.

Just in case your stomach isn’t growling yet, we have a few of our most-anticipated menu highlights to show you below:

Chicken Biscuit with Bourbon Blackberry Jam

Lobster White Cheddar KRAFT Mac ‘n Cheese

Five-spice Duck Lettuce Wraps with Asian Pear Coleslaw and Plum Sauce Drizzle

Oh, and one more thing – you’ll be able to enjoy your favorite food and wine samples to the beat of live music! Concerts, which are included with theme-park admission, will take place at the Festival Field on select dates in March and April. While acts are yet to be announced, nationally recognized bands are expected to make an appearance. Additionally, guests can experience local bands and artists at the Coke Canopy stage beginning February 20, where open-air, socially distanced seating is available.

Which dishes and drinks are you most excited to devour? Be sure to share your foodie bucket list in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook – and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to feast on the latest announcements and updates.

The post Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s Food and Wine Festival Returns for 2021 appeared first on Orlando Informer.

If you can find some time between coaster flips and Butterbeer sips on your next visit to Orlando, do your wallet a favor and check out some of these prime bargain shopping locations. The money you save might just pay for your next trip!

Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets

Looking for luxury at a lower price? Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets is where all of your designer dreams can come true – without breaking the bank. Boasting fashion-forward brands such as Gucci, Versace, Prada, and Jimmy Choo at up to 65% off, this upscale shopping destination is understandably popular among vacationers and locals alike. However, you’ll find more than a few deluxe shops here; Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets offers over 160 brands to explore, as well as 23 casual dining options (read more about all that here!).

Visiting Orlando for a Disney vacation? You’re in luck – this shopping paradise is located close to Walt Disney World Resort and includes Disney’s Character Warehouse, a great place to save money on Disney apparel, merchandise, and collectible items.

Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores

One of the City Beautiful’s very first outlet malls, Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores serves as an established and reliable spot for those in search of serious savings. While not as large as some of the neighboring outlets, this location still hosts 50 shops and several full- and quick-service dining venues. This mall is great for shoppers who are more interested in deep discounts than designer brands, offering up to 75% off on popular names that include Nike, Old Navy, American Eagle, and Tommy Hilfiger.

Located only minutes away from Disney World and offering a free “shopping shuttle” service, Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores is an ideal place for tourists to enjoy guilt-free shopping and find amazing deals on Orlando souvenirs – especially in the mall’s Theme Park Outlet.

Orlando International Premium Outlets

As the largest shopping destination in all of Florida, Orlando International Premium Outlets has what it takes to satisfy even the choosiest of shoppers. From athletic-apparel favorites such as Under Armour and Adidas, to high-end designer names like Saks Off Fifth and Kate Spade New York, this massive outlet mall hosts over 180 stores and 25+ dining options. The best part? The deals, of course! The everyday discounts of 25% to 65% make this bargain experience a must-do, whether you’re out for holiday shopping or a personal indulgence.

While located just three miles away from Universal Orlando Resort, fans of the Mouse should note that this mall also includes Disney’s Character Warehouse, making it a perfect shopping destination for Universal- and Disney-goers alike.

(You can get even more info on these premium outlets here.)

Orlando Outlet Marketplace

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the enormity of Orlando International Premium Outlets, worry not – right next-door is Orlando Outlet Marketplace, a smaller shopping setting that offers the same giant discounts on top-choice brands. With 40 stores (including Guess, Calvin Klein, and Reebok), this center is suited for those seeking a laid-back and casual shopping experience. Everyday deals will take 25% to 65% off of your purchases, putting this outlet mall on par with the others when it comes to savings.

You may want to note that Orlando Outlet Marketplace focuses more on apparel and merchandise than food, so dining options are quite limited; however, its convenient location on International Drive will put you in close proximity to over 100 restaurants in the area.

What are your favorite places to bargain shop in Orlando? Let us – and 110,000+ other Universal fans – know in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook.

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 attractions.

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Universal Orlando Resort

Although our beloved Halloween Horror Nights was cancelled this year, the Halloween spirit is still alive and well at Universal Orlando Resort. You can get your spook on in either theme park this year, as there are now activities and attractions for all ages offered in both.

Haunted houses: for the first time ever, two haunted houses – Universal Monsters: The Bride of Frankenstein Lives and Revenge of the Tooth Fairy – are now open daily until November 1 and included with regular park admission. These frights are on par with a typical Halloween Horror Nights house (since that’s what they started out life as), so if you are easily scared… beware!

HHN Tribute Store: the Halloween Horror Nights Tribute Store is back and bigger than ever, featuring four highly themed rooms and a plethora of menacing merchandise and treats. The atmosphere of the store is an experience in itself and worth a walkthrough for any Halloween enthusiast.

Skeleton Bar: located in Cafe La Bamba, this new installment offers seasonal, HHN-inspired food and beverages. Similar to the Tribute Store, the immersiveness of this venue alone makes it a must-see.

Food trucks: two Halloween-themed food trucks can also be found in Universal Studios Florida, serving favorites such as Twisted Taters and new treats like the Franken Fried Chicken and Funnel Brains.

Scarecrow Stalk: this new fall activity invites you to hunt down 13 creepy (and awesomely designed) scarecrows, each located in a different Universal Studios Florida gift shop. Receive a stamp for each one you find and redeem a bag of candy!

Trick-or-treating: as yet another first for Universal, trick-or-treating stations have been set up in various locations across Islands of Adventure. Catering towards the younger crowd, this activity is clear of fear and only offered to children aged 13 or younger.

Costumes: both kids and adults are welcome to wear costumes to Universal Orlando through November 1, breaking the company’s strict no-dressing-up streak of years past.

(You can find our complete guide to Halloween 2020 at Universal Orlando Resort here, and our guide to its seasonal food and drinks here.)

SeaWorld Orlando

SeaWorld has gone all-out with family-friendly fall fun at this year’s SeaWorld Spooktacular. This event is free of frights and geared towards younger children, offering plenty of less-spooky, more-silly Halloween festivities for families to enjoy together.

Trick-or-treat trail: kiddos can follow the map and make a stop at each candy station for safe and socially distanced trick-or-treating. Reusable trick-or-treating bags are available for purchase at the head of the trail, where a DJ can also be found spinning Halloween hits.

Halloween maze: this outdoor pumpkin patch-themed maze is a simple and spaced-out attraction for families to walk through.

Halloween mermaid meet: friendly mermaids, decked out for the holiday, can be found for photo ops along the trick-or-treat trail.

Count von Count’s Spooktacular Breakfast: a zany breakfast experience featuring several Sesame Street characters and hosted by the Count himself, this activity is sold separately and priced at $32.99 for adults and $16.99 for children.

Cookie Decorating with Cookie Monster: families can decorate cookies together and take fun photos with Cookie Monster during this yummy, Halloween-y experience. The cost is $14.99 for all participants, regardless of age.

Flicks & Frights: this never-before-offered drive-in movie experience allows you to watch Halloween classics under the stars without having to leave your car. You can catch it every Saturday in October, with a price tag of $40 per vehicle.

Walt Disney World Resort

Despite the cancellation of Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, there are still ways to celebrate the spooky season at Walt Disney World Resort this year. From your favorite costumed characters to elaborately themed treats, these fall festivities will be just enough to satisfy your inner Jack Skellington.

Halloween entertainment at Magic Kingdom: from September 15 through October 31, Magic Kingdom is boasting its iconic fall decor and sending character cavalcades with an eerie bent down the streets, allowing guests to spot such luminaries as Mickey and friends in their Halloween gear.

The Dapper Dans also return as the Cadaver Dans — their ghostly alter egos — with a haunting cappella performance.

Costumes: as usual, costumes are welcomed for both children and adults at Magic Kingdom this Halloween season.

Fall treats: a large selection of autumn treats and beverages can be found throughout the Disney World theme parks, resorts, and Disney Springs. A few of our favorites include Constance’s for Better or for Worse Wedding Cake (sold at Magic Kingdom), the Poor Unfortunate Souls Float (Magic Kingdom), the Scar Cupcake (Animal Kingdom), and the Poison Candied Apple (Hollywood Studios).

Some highly coveted Halloween merchandise has also appeared along with these seasonal offerings, such as the Oogie Boogie Premium Popcorn Bucket and the Madame Leota Sipper (both available at Magic Kingdom). 

Minnie’s Halloween Dine: located in Hollywood & Vine at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, this family-friendly character dining experience includes spooky decor, music, and – of course – your favorite Disney friends, Halloween-ized.

Fall at Disney Springs: while there are no special entertainment offerings this fall at Disney Springs, you should note that there are many seasonal treats and beverages to be found throughout the numerous venues here, along with some photo-worthy fall decorations and holiday-appropriate Disney merch.

Busch Gardens Tampa

Howl-O-Scream is still very much happening this year at Busch Gardens Tampa (on weekends, in fact, from September 25 through November 1). The most significant difference from previous events, however, is that there are no haunted houses for 2020 – but there are fearsome scare zones, featured entertainment, and seasonal menu offerings, which will certainly help curb your Halloween appetite.

Scare zones: ten fright-filled, open-air scare zones can be found throughout the park this year, including four new ones: Lycan Landing, The Shortcut, The Junkyard, and The Escape. (Yes, this is to compensate for the lack of houses.)

Fiends: this show, located in a socially distanced outdoor entertainment venue, stars Dr. Freakenstein and his unsightly crew in a hilariously horrifying musical adventure.

Día de Los Muertos: you find several speciality food items in this themed zone, including tacos, tamales, and margaritas.

Speciality drinks: scare-inspired signature cocktails and syringe shots can be found in multiple venues across the park. Cheers to your fears!

Are you planning to experience any of these Central Florida Halloween happenings? Or, if you’ve already done them, what did you think? Discuss it all with 150,000+ other fall die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook.

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

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The early bird gets the worm

If you want to snag one of those rare and magical shots without crowds, our advice to is to arrive at the parks as early as possible. Take advantage of Early Park Admission, if you can, and get your speed-walk on. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is particularly photogenic when absent of its usual flow of guests, and the early-morning sun typically makes for crisp and vibrant lighting.

Shoot for the stars

You can find a variety of characters making appearances around each park, providing awesome photo opportunities for fans and newcomers alike. It’s not every day you get to snap a pic with Captain America or Beetlejuice, and these superstars are more than happy to strike the perfect pose and help you create unique vacation memories. You’ll also find several outdoor shows around the parks, such as Marilyn Monroe and the Diamond Bellas and the Triwizard Spirit Rally, that also make for exciting, in-motion shots.

Embrace the foodie within

Universal Orlando is home to some insanely photogenic food and beverage selections – and if Instagram rejoices over anything, it’s food pics. Some of our favorite treats to catch on camera are The Big Pink from Lard Lad Donuts, any milkshake from The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen, Waturi Fusion ice cream from Koka Poroka, Who Hash from Green Eggs and Ham Cafe, the Ocean Attack from Chez Alcatraz, Burgooshi from The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar, and – of course – Butterbeer in any of its forms.

Capture the action

Some of the coolest shots you can snag are of the rides in action. There are several attraction-viewing areas perfect for capturing all of the drops, flips, twists, and turns your Instagram feed needs. If your phone/camera has shutter mode, this would be a great time to utilize it – the splashdowns of water rides also make for spectacular action shots (bonus points if all of the riders’ hands are up!).

Some of our favorite attractions to photograph are Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls, The Incredible Hulk Coaster, Jurassic Park River Adventure, Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges, and Doctor Doom’s Fearfall.

Background check

Whether you’re going for a selfie or a scenic panorama, a good backdrop can be the difference between 10 likes and 110 likes. The architecture of the parks provides some awesome backgrounds for your photos, from city facades to mystical grottos – try to include these in the frame! You can also capture particularly lovely views overlooking the central bodies of water in each theme park, which provide great backdrops for family/group photos and skyline pics. If you plan on staying until dark, sunset shots are always an easy way to make your followers green with vacation envy.

Our favorite photo spots around Universal Orlando

Still wondering where the best photo ops are around Universal Orlando Resort? Worry not – for those of you seeking specific suggestions, keep reading for a list of our favorite places to wield those theme-park photography skills.

Let’s start at the theme park that started it all for Universal, Universal Studios Florida:

The Universal Studios arches

The vintage cars in front of Mel’s Drive-In

The fire-breathing dragon in Diagon Alley

The character statues around Springfield, USA

The Jaws tribute behind Chez Alcatraz

The phone booth in London

Now, let’s head over to Islands of Adventure:

The Toon Lagoon thought bubbles

The Truffula Trees in Seuss Landing

Raptor Encounter

In front of Hogwarts Castle

The waterfalls at Mythos

Don’t forget CityWalk, which has a few photogenic gems of its own:

The Quiet Flight wave

The Voodoo Doughnut throne

The Universal globe

Finally, let’s head out to the very edge of Universal Orlando property and hit up Volcano Bay, the tropical paradise:

Krakatau

Ohyah & Ohno Drop Slides

The waterfall path through Krakatau

Vol, Spirit of Krakatau

What are your best tips for taking pictures at Universal Orlando Resort? Do you have any favorite photo spots that we didn’t include on our list? Let us – and 150,000+ other Universal fans – know in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook.

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

The post How to take Instagram-worthy photos at Universal Orlando Resort appeared first on Orlando Informer.

A preview of the houses took place for Premier Passholders on September 18, and – as dedicated HHN enthusiasts – we were there at the scene of the scares to take it all in. Not only was this a unique Halloween event to experience at Universal Orlando Resort due to its occurring during regular park hours, but even the frights themselves differed from those of the past thanks to newly enhanced safety features. From pulsed parties to plexiglass sheets, we’ll dive into the details of what changed and what remained terrifyingly familiar.

If anything stayed the same, it was the frighteningly impressive level of detail and quality that we have come to expect from these mazes each year. What’s scarier, you may wonder – deranged dental demons or vengeful newlywed zombies? We can’t wait to spill our guts on what we saw, heard, and screamed at this year, so let’s get started!

Revenge of the Tooth Fairy

Taking a page from Scary Tales: Deadly Ever After, this haunted house turns a lighthearted children’s fantasy into a brutal, bloody nightmare. Revenge of the Tooth Fairy wields gruesome creatures and depictions of dental torture that could make a root canal look like a Swedish massage.

This haunt is certainly the more darkly themed and creepier of the two. The set design is impressive and unique from the start, quickly immersing you in a childlike storybook atmosphere with very sinister intentions. A strong throughline is established via both visual and audio narration before you even enter the house, and it echoes hauntingly through the various rooms as you wind through narrow halls and violent scenes.

Even though Tooth Fairy brings a more frightening experience than its neighbor, we found the scares themselves, while intense, to be somewhat on the generic side; you won’t discover any groundbreaking stunts or illusions, but you’ll still be caught off guard by traditional jumpscares. The “wow” moments are more in the innovative opening set and detailed makeup effects. If you can focus through your fear, take a good look at the mouths of the Tooth Fairy’s victims – you may never want to floss again. Likewise, the mix of children and gore add to the disturbing tone and kept us on edge the whole time. This maze did not seem to blend its protective plexiglass sheets into its set as smoothly as The Bride of Frankenstein Lives, which could sometimes take away from the otherwise-unnerving environment.

Overall, the unsettling imagery paired with the consistent scares made Revenge of the Tooth Fairy more thrilling than its rival house, and it was deemed the favorite among the majority of our team.

Universal Monsters: The Bride of Frankenstein Lives

Derived from the success of Halloween Horror Nights 2019’s Universal Monsters, this maze focuses on a less-utilized character, the Bride of Frankenstein. She’s alive! And she’s furious.

After a powerful and cinematic opening facade, you may soon notice that the Bride is presented in a different style than you’ve ever seen her before. Dropping her classic look, this woeful wife goes full mad-scientist and takes on an original and chilling new persona; only her iconic, blood-curdling screams remain the same. While the change in appearance is interesting, it may take you a scare or two to actually recognize the Monster’s mate in her crazy new getup.

We found the storyline of this haunted house to be a bit less structured in comparison to Tooth Fairy’s, as there is a lot of action scattered between the Bride and her torturous experiments on vampires and other unsightly beasts. Though this haunt may not be the most fearsome in nature, we were impressed with how it found creative ways to blend current safety enhancements with the elaborate theming. The set of The Bride of Frankenstein Lives is designed to appear broad and grand, in contrast to Tooth Fairy’s tighter, more intimate feel – stony walls, crypts, and candles present an eerily ethereal ambience that, at points, reminded us of last year’s Graveyard Games. A couple of imaginative and multi-layered scenes are to be discovered along the way, utilizing tricky lighting and timing. Universal Monsters fans will want to keep an eye out for a few familiar faces, some of which are easy to miss in the electrifying chaos.

While we found this house to be less intense, Bride of Frankenstein boasts clever and beautiful design, and it truly captures the spirit (and smell!) of our dearly departed HHN.

Enhanced safety features

As we mentioned before, these haunted houses – while maintaining the iconic Horror Nights feel – present a slightly different experience from those of previous years. Universal was faced with the unexpected challenge of creating frightening, close-quartered encounters while continuing to uphold current safety standards, and we feel as though they’ve done a great job. Let’s take a closer look at which modifications were put in place and how the mazes were affected (and, in some cases, enhanced) by them.

The most notable change is the addition of clear plastic sheets throughout the houses, which serve as a shield between you and the scareactors. The main downside of these barriers is that they are typically only placed in areas where scareactors will appear, which reveal where they are located and, in some instances, spoil the scare. These sheets also mean that (understandably) actors are not able to be in extremely close proximity to you, as they have been in previous years; no more extra-personal, “in your face” scares. Despite this, we found the scareactors can still be surprisingly startling from behind the plastic, and we appreciated when the barriers were mixed into the set design so as to not reveal the scare ahead.

One of the updated safety features that we felt improved the experience was the pulsing and distancing of groups through the mazes; the conga line-esque movement of guests in previous years often made for a less personal and more predictable walkthrough of the haunts. With distanced parties, the scariness is ramped up, and the experience becomes much more intimate and intimidating.

Another result of new safety procedures that we enjoyed was a much slower pacing through the houses. Rather than being encouraged to move through quickly, this relaxed pace allows you more time to absorb all of the horrifying detail around you and catch every scene and scare. It also makes your overall time spent in the haunted house feel longer and more worth the wait. However, this speed can occasionally include being paused at certain intervals by team members who are holding glowing wands, which ensures spacing between parties – and which can, at times, take away from the immersion.

Some of the more standard changes include mandatory hand sanitizing upon entry of each house (as has been implemented for rides, as well) and face-covering requirements for both guests and most scareactors. We did not feel as though this majorly affected our experience, as many of the scareactors’ masks tied into their costumes, anyway.

Though certainly different from the haunts of prior years, both houses are still full of the sets, sights, smells, and scares from Universal that we have come to know and love each Halloween season.

How do you feel about the taste of Halloween horror Universal has bestowed upon us this year? Which freakish entity would you be more willing to face? Discuss it all with 100,000+ other Halloween die-hard fans 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 Review: Revenge of the Tooth Fairy and Universal Monsters: The Bride of Frankenstein Lives at Universal Orlando Resort appeared first on Orlando Informer.

To honor the past, Universal hides references to retired icons throughout the attractions that have replaced them. While some are well-known by fans and easier to spot, others require a sharp eye and the knowledge of what once was.

Let’s explore these lost attractions and nine of the cleverly hidden tributes paid to them throughout Universal Orlando’s two theme parks.

9. Jaws

The attraction: known as a classic among guests, Jaws was a boat ride that brought you face-to-face with the monster shark himself. The looming addition of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley led to the attraction’s demise in 2012.

The tribute: there are actually several homages to Jaws that can be found all around the former location of Amity, including:

• An “Amity Island Lobster Co.” sign on a building in San Francisco
• An “Amity Shipfitters and Riggers” sign on a window of the San Francisco Pastry Company
• An album in a record shop window (in London) titled “Here’s to Swimmin’ with Bow Legged Women” by The Quint Trio
• Shark jaws in the display window of Mr. Mulpepper’s Apothecary in Diagon Alley, as well as in Knockturn Alley‘s Borgin and Burkes
• Shrunken heads in Knockturn Alley singing “Show Me the Way to Go Home,” an iconic part of Jaws (1975)

8. Earthquake: The Big One/Disaster! A Major Motion Picture Ride – Starring You!

The attraction: Earthquake: The Big One was a dark ride that used various special effects to demonstrate the filming of Earthquake (1974). It was later updated to Disaster! A Major Motion Picture Ride – Starring You!, which kept a similar ride experience but changed the storyline to shooting a disaster film with park guests. Disaster was shuttered in 2015 in order to make way for Fast & Furious – Supercharged.

The tribute: look for a jacket slung over a chair with the “Disaster Studios” logo embroidered on it in Supercharged’s queue. Additionally, there are three power switches later on in the line: the first is switched off and has the letters “EQ” on it (for “Earthquake”); the second is also switched off, with “D!” written on it (for “Disaster!”); and the third one is switched on, and has “FF” on it (for “Fast & Furious”).

7. Dueling Dragons/Dragon Challenge

The attraction: Dueling Dragons was composed of two inverted roller coasters that were intertwined in a battle of fire and ice. In 2010, the ride was renamed to Dragon Challenge and rethemed for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade. It was closed in 2017 in order for the Forbidden Forest – and Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure – to be planted in its place.

The tribute: there is a distressed painting of the fire and ice dragons, accompanied by the words “Dueling Club,” on a wall inside the queue for Hagrid’s Motorbike Adventure. Look for this as you enter the line’s indoor section.

6. Twister… Ride It Out

The attraction: upon opening in 1998, Twister… Ride It Out provided guests with the unique opportunity to watch as a tornado formed right before their eyes, with special effects that included wind, rain, and flying cows. Due to the addition of Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon, the show closed in 2015.

The tribute: in the display windows outside of Race Through New York, an advertisement for Twister Cola is pinned onto a corkboard. Furthermore, the blue shirt that Bill Paxton wore in Ride It Out’s pre-show is hung on the wall.

5. Beetlejuice’s Graveyard Revue

The attraction: Beetlejuice’s Graveyard Revue was a musical stage show that featured the notorious Beetlejuice and his crew of classic monsters, set to an energetic rock-‘n-roll theme. It closed in 2016, several months after the next-door Disaster, which both cleared space for Fast & Furious – Supercharged.

The tribute: in Fast & Furious’s queue, you can spot a Beetlejuice figurine, a bowling pin with the face of a monster, a Frankenstein poster, and a toolbox displaying the words, “This car runs on Beetlejuice.”

4. Kongfrontation

The attraction: Kongfrontation was a dark ride that took guests through a havoc-wreaked Manhattan, providing close encounters with the great King Kong himself. Revenge of the Mummy replaced this ride following its closure in 2002.

The tribute: two items reference Kongfrontation in Revenge of the Mummy’s treasure room scene: a three-foot-tall golden statue of Kong resides on the left side of the room, while an oversized banana sits on the right.

3. Jimmy Neutron’s Nicktoon Blast

The attraction: Jimmy Neutron’s Nicktoon Blast was a simulator ride that rocketed guests through various settings of Nickelodeon’s “golden age” cartoons. Despicable Me Minion Mayhem replaced it after its 2011 demise.

The tribute: in Minion Mayhem, during the Anti-Gravity Recycling Room scene, you can spot Jimmy Neutron’s rocket (the Mark III) in the background. You can see it again in the ride’s gift shop, Super Silly Stuff, towards the ceiling.

2. Ghostbusters Spooktacular

The attraction: Ghostbusters Spooktacular was an indoor special effects show based on the Ghostbusters movies where guests could watch the films’ stars take down paranormal nuisances on stage. Twister… Ride It Out took its place after its closure in 1996.

The tribute: on the outside of the former Ghostbusters Spooktacular building (now home to Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon), the firehouse facade that represented the Ghostbusters’ headquarters still remains. On one of the windows here is a more specific reference: an ad for a paranormal travel agent.

1. Back to the Future: The Ride

The attraction: inspired by the popular film trilogy, Back to the Future: The Ride was a simulator attraction in which guests boarded their own DeLorean to stop Biff’s joyride through time. The Simpsons Ride ultimately replaced this nostalgic favorite after it closed in 2007.

The tribute: televisions play a reel of clips from The Simpsons in the outer queue for The Simpsons Ride. Within these scenes is an original bit that has Doc Brown (voiced by Christopher Lloyd himself) revealing how the Institute of Future Technology became Krustyland. For Back to the Future fans, this homage is both a blast from the past and, well, mildly depressing.

Although these retired attractions are missed dearly, fans can take comfort in knowing that a piece of them still lives on in the parks today. Do you know of any other hidden homages at Universal Orlando Resort? Tell 100,000+ other Universal fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook.

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