There are plenty of spots near Orlando where you and your little ones can enjoy unforgettable fun. From exciting rides to engaging shows and adorable animal encounters, there’s something for the whole family to love!

After all, a happy toddler means a happy family, right?

Top Picks for Toddler-Friendly Theme Parks in Florida

1. Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort (Orlando, FL)

When you think about which Disney theme park is best for toddlers, it’s got to be Magic Kingdom Park. It’s a must-visit, offering endless enchantment and memory-making moments.

Start your day in Fantasyland, where little ones can explore fun rides like “it’s a small world”, Peter Pan’s Flight, and The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh. Our toddler also loves The Haunted Mansion (Liberty Square), Jungle Cruise (Adventureland), and Country Bear Musical Jamboree (Frontierland).

Beyond the rides, toddlers will love meeting their favorite Disney characters and watching the magical parades and castle performances.

Let your little adventurer roam freely on Tom Sawyer Island. They’ll love exploring, burn off energy, and enjoy a bit of independence. With any luck, they’ll tire out and be ready for a nap—giving you the perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy attractions like The Hall of Presidents or our family’s favorite, Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress.

Pro Tip: Grab a spot on Main Street, U.S.A. early for the parades, and bring noise-canceling headphones for toddlers sensitive to loud sounds during the fireworks.

Height Requirements: Magic Kingdom Park has over 20 attractions with no height requirements, including Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin, The Magic Carpets of Aladdin, and Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room. Additional rides with a requirement under 3.5’ include Tomorrowland Speedway (32’’), The Barnstormer (35’’), Seven Dwarfs Mine Train (38”), Big Thunder Mountain Railroad (40”), and Tiana’s Bayou Adventure (40”).

2. Sesame Street Land at SeaWorld Orlando (Orlando, FL)

SeaWorld Orlando offers an exciting mix of marine life encounters, gentle rides, and engaging shows to captivate your toddlers. 

In Sesame Street Land, you’ll step into the world of Sesame Street, where little ones can ring Bert and Ernie’s doorbell, knock on Oscar’s trash can, or dance alongside a colorful, music-filled parade with Elmo and Big Bird. With gentle rides like Elmo’s Choo Choo Train and the Sunny Day Carousel, plus an exciting splash pad and fun-filled play zone, this area is a toddler’s dream come true.

Don’t Miss: The rest of the park! Beyond Sesame Street Land, SeaWorld Orlando has plenty for tots, including family shows, flamingo paddle boats, and up-close animal encounters, like feeding sea lions or meeting dolphins! The mix of rides, marine experiences, and shows will ensure everyone has a great time!

Height Requirements: Most attractions in Sesame Street Land have no height requirement, although an adult must accompany children below certain heights. For Super Grover’s Box Car Derby, kids must be at least 38 inches tall.

3. Seuss Landing at Universal Islands of Adventure (Orlando, FL)

Enter the whimsical world of Dr. Seuss at Seuss Landing in Universal Islands of Adventure, where bright colors, quirky designs, and fun rides await. Toddlers will giggle through One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish and enjoy a gentle spin on The Cat in the Hat.

For free play and exploration, the If I Ran the Zoo area offers slides, water features, and interactive play zones filled with Seussian creatures, including Mr. Gump’s famous seven hump Wump. It’s the perfect space for little ones to let their imaginations run wild, and it’s one of my little guy’s favorites!

Pro Tip: Stop by for storytime with Dr. Seuss characters during Oh! The Stories You’ll Hear—it’s an engaging break for little legs, and parents will enjoy the nostalgia of these classic tales.

Height Requirements: To ride The High in the Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride and The Cat in the Hat, children must be at least 36 inches tall. If your child meets this height requirement, they can also enjoy Skull Island: Reign of Kong and Flight of the Hippogriff while visiting Universal Islands of Adventure.

4. DreamWorks Land at Universal Studios Florida (Orlando, FL)

Recently opened and perfect for younger kids, DreamWorks Land immerses toddlers in their favorite animated worlds. With many opportunities for character meet-and-greets, it’s a can’t-miss destination for families with little ones.

Toddlers can dance with Trolls during a high-energy party or explore Shrek’s swamp with sensory-friendly play zones. Po’s Kung Fu Training Camp offers interactive games perfect for little adventurers.

The vibrant atmosphere and playful activities ensure kids stay entertained while parents enjoy the immersive settings. And by immersive settings, I mean a “Shrek-zel” – a Shrek-shaped pretzel with green cheese for dipping. You won’t regret it!

Must-Try Treat: The whimsical Troll Ice Cream, topped with edible glitter and sprinkles, is a hit with toddlers and parents.

Can’t Miss Attraction: While you’re there, be sure to catch the Animal Actors on Location! show just around the corner from DreamWorks Land. It’s one of the most entertaining family-friendly shows around!

Height Requirements: Trolls Trollercoaster requires riders to be at least 36 inches tall. Right outside of the Dreamworks area, children at least 34 inches tall can ride the classic E.T. Adventure.

5. EPCOT at Walt Disney World Resort (Orlando, FL)

You might think EPCOT is for adults, but toddlers love rides and attractions like Frozen Ever After, Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, and the new water-splashing walk-through area, Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana. 

After exiting Spaceship Earth, families can explore Project Tomorrow: Inventing the Wonders of the Future, an interactive area filled with hands-on exhibits and activities that engage young minds. Over at ImageWorks, near the Journey Into Imagination with Figment ride, toddlers can unleash their creativity with engaging sensory and play experiences.

Little ones also love the SeaBase Aquarium, where they can watch colorful marine life up close and learn about ocean ecosystems in a fun, immersive environment.

The wide-open spaces make it easy for toddlers to roam and burn off energy. For parents, the international food options provide a chance to sample flavors from around the world while keeping the whole family happy.

Pro Tip: Visit during the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival for colorful displays and family-friendly activities, including Butterfly Landing, located near the Imagination Pavilion, with a variety of butterflies in different stages of their life cycle. It’s really awesome to see!

Height Requirements: You might be surprised to learn nearly every attraction at EPCOT has no height requirement. Some of my family’s favorites are Journey Into Imagination With Figment, Spaceship Earth, Living with the Land, and Turtle Talk With Crush.

Notable Mentions

• KidsTown at the Orlando Science Center (Orlando, FL): A toddler-friendly haven with interactive exhibits like water play stations, building blocks, and a kid-sized town for imaginative play. 
• Central Florida Zoo (Sanford, FL): A tranquil escape with a petting zoo and shaded paths.
• ICON Park (Orlando, FL): Perfect for a stroller-friendly outing with fun attractions like The Wheel, SeaLife Orlando Aquarium, and the Museum of Illusions Orlando.
• Crayola Experience Orlando (Orlando, FL): Unleash your toddler’s creativity with hands-on art projects in an endless rainbow of colors.

Keeping Theme Park Days Stress-Free With Little Ones

There’s something for toddlers at any theme park you visit. You might think because they won’t be riding the big coasters, they’ll be bored, but I’ve found that’s definitely not the case! Just being out and about, running around, and seeing all the fun and excitement is a blast for kids.

With a little planning, you can make things easier and avoid those dreaded toddler meltdowns. 

Here’s how to make your trips go smoothly:

• Strollers: Bring your own, reserve online, or rent on-site. They’re lifesavers for tired toddlers (and carrying bags, cups, popcorn buckets, and more!).
• Pack Smart: Bring plenty of snacks, sunscreen, and refillable water bottles. Don’t forget a change of clothes and swim diapers for splash areas.
• Tickets: Kids under three get free entry to most parks—no ticket required!
• Food Policy: Baby food and formula are normally allowed; check with Park Security with any questions.
• Facilities: Most parks will have nursing facilities, family bathrooms, changing tables, and sometimes even quiet, low-stimulation areas if you or your child needs a break from the excitement. Find these areas on maps online or in the parks.
• Travel Cribs/High Chairs: If staying on-site, most resorts will have complimentary travel cribs and possibly high chairs, but be sure to check with the hotel in advance.
• Stay Cool: Florida’s heat is no joke! Dress toddlers in light clothing, apply sunscreen frequently, and make hydration a priority. Fun frozen treats like Dole Whip or Butterbeer can be a refreshing bonus, but water is key.
• Consider Staying On-Site: If your budget allows, staying at a resort close to the parks is a game-changer. On-site accommodations often include perks like early park entry, shuttle service, and toddler-friendly amenities such as zero-entry pools and splash pads. Plus, midday breaks for naps or outfit changes are much more manageable.

Central Florida is bursting with options for family fun, and toddlers are sure to have a blast while visiting these parks. From thrilling rides at Magic Kingdom Park to marine encounters at SeaWorld Orlando, there’s something for everyone. So pack those snacks, grab your stroller, and get ready to create sunshine-filled memories with your little ones!

Snag discounted theme park admission here, and be sure to follow Orlando Informer on Threads,  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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Universal Orlando Resort

Universal Orlando is going big this New Year’s Eve! On December 31, Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure will stay open until 1 a.m., while CityWalk’s festivities continue until 2 a.m.

From DJs spinning crowd favorites to live performances and epic midnight countdowns, the energy is nothing short of electric. A Midnight Celebration will occur once the clock strikes midnight at the Promenade & Plaza. And as the clock winds down on the holiday season, make your way to the Green and Red Coconut Club. With cozy alpine decor and festive drinks, it’s the ultimate way to toast goodbye to 2024. 

For a more elevated experience, check out the specially ticketed New Year’s Eve parties at Universal Orlando Resort hotels, including Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel, Loews Sapphire Falls Resort, and more. 

Walt Disney World Resort

Walt Disney World is gearing up for an unforgettable New Year’s celebration with late-night hours and specialty fireworks. 

Magic Kingdom will stay open until midnight on both December 30 and 31, featuring its beloved “Fantasy in the Sky” fireworks display performed twice each evening at 6:30 p.m. and 11:50 p.m. Dance parties in Frontierland and Tomorrowland will keep the energy high with DJs leading music and countdowns for New Year’s Eve excitement. 

Over at EPCOT, the party takes on its unique festivities. While the park closes at 9:30 p.m. on December 30, the celebration continues until 1 a.m. on December 31. Guests can enjoy the regular fireworks “Luminous: The Symphony of Us” at 6:30 p.m. and the specialty fireworks “Cheers to the New Year: A Sparkling Celebration” at 11:54 p.m. 

SeaWorld Orlando

SeaWorld Orlando is marking the arrival of 2025 with a New Year’s Eve celebration that combines the lingering charm of its Christmas festivities with the new year’s excitement. Guests can enjoy dazzling holiday lights, seasonal entertainment, and marine life exhibits before the night concludes with a stunning fireworks display visible throughout the park. 

The festivities include DJ Dance Party Zones at Wild Arctic, Sharks Plaza, the Waterfront, and Sesame Street Land, where guests can groove to a mix of lively tunes. Champagne pop-up bars will also be available for celebratory toasts all night long. Families can join the fun at Sesame Street Land with a special New Year’s Eve Countdown featuring Count von Count and friends. 

More New Year’s Eve Festivities in Orlando

Orlando’s charm extends far beyond its famous attractions. Here are a few options outside the theme park world to close out 2024 in style: 

• Boxi Park in Lake Nona will have family-friendly activities from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. for $10 admission. The price increases to $35 at 9 p.m. when the open-air container park transforms into a 21+ nightclub with a DJ. There will also be a digital ball drop and champagne toast at midnight. 

• Howl at the Moon dueling piano bar will start saying goodbye to 2024 at 7 p.m. Musicians will entertain throughout the night with top hits, party classics, and audience song requests. Pricing ranges between $75 and $150 per guest. 

• ICEBAR Orlando on International Drive will host the Ice Masquerade: A New Year’s Celebration starting at 7 p.m. Enjoy a night of icy elegance featuring specialty cocktails, a midnight buffet, a live DJ, ice sculptures, and more. Pricing ranges from $50 to $150 per guest. 

• New Year’s Eve at Old Town is ending 2024 with a bang at this New Year’s Eve Celebration presented by Old Town and the adjacent Fun Spot in Kissimmee. The free festivities, running from 10 a.m. to midnight, include live music entertainment and fireworks launched from Old Town’s rooftops. 

From thrilling theme parks to festive local celebrations, Orlando is the perfect place to start your 2025 in style. Wherever you choose to celebrate, one thing is sure — there’s no place like Orlando to welcome the new year. 

Snag discounted theme park admission here and be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  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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SeaWorld Orlando: Family Halloween Activities in Central Florida

Halloween Spooktacular at SeaWorld is a yearly celebration that takes place on select dates from now until November 3 and occurs between 12 PM and 5 PM. The event features a harvest maze, scarecrow dance parties, mermaid meet-and-greets, and story time for the little ones in the pumpkin garden. As part of SeaWorld’s Halloween celebrations, guests are welcome to dress in their favorite costumes with a few minor exceptions. Please keep in mind that costume masks and hoods aren’t allowed for those ages 13 and older, and face painting is only permitted if done by park artists.

Spooktacular is included with park admission to SeaWorld Orlando, but anyone wanting to make their memories extra special has plenty of options at an additional cost. Treat lovers can participate in the candy trail, made up of parkwide trick-or-treat stations, by purchasing a reusable SeaWorld trick-or-treat bag from many of the park’s merchandise locations, such as the SeaWorld Store. Additionally, the treasure hunters in the family can earn a special prize by completing The Spooktacular Scavenger Hunt Map, which can be bought at Coconut Bay Traders.

Our favorite of the add-on options is the Shamu and Crew Spooktacular Breakfast. The buffet-style meal takes place at Seafire Grill and features Shamu and his friends decked out in their Halloween attire along with great menu items like two choices of scrambled eggs (that’s regular and Western omelet style for those keeping notes), sausage gravy, biscuits, French toast sticks, and more. It’s important to know that this is specific to Saturdays and Sundays, meaning space may be limited. Those interested will want to reserve their spot ASAP!

Busch Gardens: Top Family Halloween Fun in Central Florida

Halloween Harvest at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is a family-friendly festival that takes place from now until October 27 (plus Halloween Day!). The event captures the spirit of Fall in rich, seasonal colors, features a plethora of pumpkins, and Kandy’s Sweetacular Celebration. This weekend-only event is hosted by Kandy, a witch-in-training who loves sweets and conjures up fun, kid-friendly activities between 12 PM and 4 PM every Saturday and Sunday at the Festival Walkway.

As part of Kandy’s seasonal magic, guests can find many things happening throughout Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. Kandy’s World is a show where Kandy shares her story of loving candy and becoming a real witch — which may coincidentally involve the time she accidentally turned her friends into frogs. There’s also Kandy’s Sweetacular Celebration Costume Parade, where every kid gets a moment to shine in a vibrant parade of costumes, and Taffy Twist’s Black Cat Dance Party, where guests can groove and show off their moves in a bubble-filled, high-energy dance party.

Sesame Street friends are also joining the Halloween excitement with even more dance parties, storytimes, scavenger hunts, and a special radio show hosted by the one and only Count von Count!

Orlando Informer offers discounted admission to some of the best family Halloween activities in Central Florida, such as SeaWorld Orlando and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, as well as Howl-O-Scream for older kids. Click here to access savings!

Other Family-Friendly Halloween Events

Halloween fun isn’t limited to the major theme parks—Central Florida communities are getting in on the action, too, offering plenty of family-friendly events! Fall festivals happen at many local establishments. One of our favorites is over in Clermont at Southern Hills Farms. The 9th Annual Fall Festival runs Thursdays through Sundays until November 17, offering an incredible selection of things to do. Included in the admission price—$22 on weekdays and $25 on weekends—are a petting zoo, face painting, wagon rides, a 5-acre corn maze, yard games, and a dedicated kid zone. For additional fees, families can explore a u-pick pumpkin patch, stroll through sunflower and zinnia fields, and enjoy a food truck garden, a beer shed, and a market offering farm-made goods.

Those staying in the International Drive area have an excellent option at the Sea Life Aquarium at Icon Park. Now through November 3, the establishment takes the entire family on a seven-seas tour of pirate history in their Pirates of the Haunted Seas experience. Guests can learn about pirate lore, discover the incredible sea creatures at Sea Life, and snag some candy loot at their education stations. Sea Life’s Pirates of the Haunted Seas event takes place Fridays through Sundays in October, as well as from October 29 to November 1. The event is included with admission, which ranges from $29.99 to $39.99 plus tax.

Just minutes from International Drive, Harry P. Leu Gardens is hosting its Happy Frights experience daily until October 31. As part of the event, the entirety of Harry P. Leu Gardens is redone in a seasonal makeover with sections ranging from a murky, mysterious swamp to a crazy clown carnival. While strolling the gardens, guests can experience a hedge maze, a hip-hop dance party with aliens, live music, and eight trick-or-treat stations. Adult admission is $28.00 and includes entry to the experience, one alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverage served in a commemorative LED cup, plus the option between a commemorative bucket of popcorn (with one free refill) or a Phat Ash Bakes chocolate chip cookie, along with onsite parking for one car. Children ages 3 to 11 are $26.25, which includes entry, one non-alcoholic beverage, and the choice of a commemorative bucket of popcorn (with one free refill) or a Phat Ash Bakes chocolate chip cookie. It also includes one selection from a variety of merchandise items, excluding the event’s Shoulder Bat.

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Therapy dogs are known to lower blood pressure, reduce heart rates, and ease anxiety—factors that can significantly affect travelers navigating airport stresses. That’s why, several times a week, MCO Paw Pilots, a group of certified therapy dogs, visit Orlando International Airport to offer comfort and joy during these challenging moments.

The MCO Paw Pilots program includes 16 teams, each consisting of a volunteer handler and their therapy dog, certified through the Alliance of Therapy Dogs. After gaining a year of experience, the dogs undergo an interview process with MCO to ensure they’re ready to unleash their skills on the traveling public.

If you spot one in action, don’t hesitate to ask their handler for a business card—it’s a great way to learn more about your new furry friend!

While the MCO Paw Pilots don’t have a set schedule, you can check Orlando International Airport’s social media for the latest information on when you can meet them.

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We witnessed the first day of dress rehearsals on July 3, which gave us a glimpse into the full scope of this entertainment offering. We’re excited to share it with you!

Experience the parade for yourself by taking advantage of discounted Universal Orlando Resort park admission, which is available through Orlando Informer here.

Exploring the Universal Mega Movie Parade Floats

The Universal Mega Movie Parade kicks off with a float crowned by the Universal logo. Below, an LED screen dazzles onlookers, showcasing the Mega Movie Parade logo and flashing scenes from the upcoming cinematic floats. 

Next, a beloved classic zooms into the spotlight – Back to the Future! This float immediately captures the crowd’s attention, led by performers on futuristic one-wheel skateboards reminiscent of Marty’s hoverboard. Even though we’re just getting started with the parade, I have to admit this might be one of my personal favorites. It’s not just that it features Doc Brown and Marty McFly; it’s the meticulous attention to detail. The float boasts iconic elements from the franchise, such as the time circuit clock and the Hill Valley Courthouse. A personal highlight for me is the clever signage of the Twin Pines Mall and the Lone Pine Mall, capturing the essence of the film’s playful take on time travel.

Transitioning to a hit from a more recent era, the Sing float rolls into the spotlight, fully equipped with a stage for its star performers – Gunter, Rosita, and Johnny. Above them, Buster Moon makes an appearance, perched atop a moon, while Miss Crawly brings up the rear of the float.

Say “bello” to the Minions float, a tribute to Minions throughout history. This vibrant float features three Minions in disco attire, boogieing down to classic tunes, surrounded by other Minions dressed as icons through the ages, and participating in famous historical moments. Performers on rollerblades add to the fun, swirling around the float. Highlights include a Minion Napoleon taking charge, the pyramids being constructed upside-down, and, of course, everyone’s favorite ruler, King Bob.

Next, the parade honors Kung Fu Panda with a float featuring the famous Dragon Warrior, Po, alongside Tigress, positioned in front of Mr. Ping’s Noodle Cart. Leading the way are performers showcasing their kung fu moves, adding martial arts flair to the procession as they pave the path for this float.

Then, it’s Hug Time! The Caterbus, also a star on the new Trolls Trollercoaster, makes its way through the parade. On top, Poppy, Branch, and Guy Diamond ride along. This section of the parade is a vibrant celebration you won’t want to miss, complete with dancers and stilt walkers adding to the festive atmosphere.

Who you gonna call? It’s Ghostbusters time! This eagerly awaited float features the colossal 16-foot Stay Puft Marshmallow Man, a spectacle that’s been teased since the Mega Movie Parade’s announcement. It certainly lives up to the hype, towering over the Temple of Gozer with its namesake menacingly positioned at the front. Fear not—our heroes from the Ghostbusters franchise are here to save the day, both aboard the float and walking alongside in the parade. And keep your eyes peeled for Slimer, who might just be lurking around!

Next up is the timeless classic, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial. The excitement begins with performers on bikes leading the way, showcasing their tricks. Capturing one of the film’s most iconic moments, the float recreates the scene of flying through the sky on bicycles, with our heroes Elliott and E.T. at the forefront. The rest of the float is enveloped in lush foliage, concealing E.T.’s spaceship within.

The JAWS segment of the parade makes a splash with a marching band leading the procession, their banner proclaiming “Welcome Amity 4th of July Celebration.” Pay close attention to the band members’ hats, which subtly feature the outline of Bruce’s fin. Front and center on the float is the ferocious shark himself, Bruce, capturing a dramatic moment where the boat that Quint stands on is torn in half with the waves frozen in a dramatic crest around him.

We’ve reached the grand finale of the parade, and it’s a spectacular conclusion indeed. This segment, which is dedicated to Jurassic Park and Jurassic World, is massive and has two dedicated floats. The first, although smaller, showcases a gyrosphere, setting the stage for the thrilling sights to come. Following it is perhaps the most showstopping float of the entire parade: a massive Tyrannosaurus rex towering over a crushed Jurassic Park jeep. This dinosaur not only moves but also roars, with lifelike details like saliva dangling from its jaws. 

More to Experience at Universal Studios Florida

Universal Studios Florida has added several new additions to its lineup in just the past month. In the realm of entertainment, don’t miss Cinesational: A Symphonic Spectacular, a nighttime spectacular featuring a combination of drones, fireworks, and water effects. This show is available on select nights until August 25.

The brand-new DreamWorks Land is now open at Universal Studios Florida and features a host of exciting offerings. Among them is the Trolls Trollercoaster, a family-friendly roller coaster. Additionally, there’s the DreamWorks Imagination Celebration, an indoor show that brings together multiple DreamWorks Animation films. The area also includes several play areas and more for guests to explore!

Experience the Universal Mega Movie Parade firsthand and create unforgettable memories at Universal Orlando Resort with discounted theme park tickets from Orlando Informer!

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On top of our world-class theme parks, we also have exciting, unique water parks and experiences. Aquatica Orlando and Universal Volcano Bay offer their distinctive takes on tropical escapes, while visitors can also embark on excursions to destinations like the Kennedy Space Center and Clearwater Beach. Furthermore, Florida’s picturesque beaches and refreshing springs are a short drive away. We’ll touch on those momentarily. For now, let’s do a little housekeeping.

Before those of you who may have skimmed this already and raised the ever-inquisitive eyebrow at us – we know what you’re thinking: “Where are the theme parks?” Don’t worry, they’re always on our list. Even if it’s not stated outright, Orlando’s infamous trio of theme parks, Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, and SeaWorld Orlando, are always our top recommendations for anything. Yet, this vibrant city also boasts an array of non-theme park destinations that promise to elevate your week-long break to unforgettable heights.

Now then, let’s get into the meat of why Orlando should be your next destination for Spring Break!

Swim through Spring Break at Orlando’s water parks

Orlando is home to amazing water parks like Universal Volcano Bay and Aquatica Orlando, where you can bask in the sun or speed down a water slide to rinse the day away.

One of this writer’s fondest memories was when he first braved Aquatica’s Reef Plunge. It was both his first time on a water slide of that caliber and an exhilarating experience as he zoomed past colorful tropical sealife and the park’s own Commerson’s dolphins. Imagine the bragging rights you’ll have when you go back to school with that vacation to write an essay about!

For anyone who wants a truly unique water park like no other, Volcano Bay is just that. Universal’s water theme park is situated at the foot of Krakatau, the park’s colorful volcano centerpiece. Upon entering the park, prepare to be captivated by the stunning vista of Krakatau, a sight you’ll definitely want to capture with your camera.

Volcano Bay stands out as the sole water park to feature the unique TapuTapu virtual queue technology, allowing you to explore other areas of the park while you wait. It’s also home to the Krakatau Aqua Coaster, the only magnetically propelled water coaster in Orlando.

Splash into the local beaches and natural springs

While Orlando might be a city by definition, that doesn’t mean there aren’t natural Florida habitats just minutes away. Within a 30 to 40-minute drive sit three natural springs of interest. Wekiwa Springs stands as a popular favorite, yet its bustling nature paves the way to explore many serene alternatives. To that, countless others like Blue Springs, Rainbow Springs, and Kelly Park Rock Springs are great options that exist not far from Orlando. These are the perfect “true Florida” spin on the mainstream beach options. Much like their sandy siblings, this Floridian can say that there’s nothing like laying down a towel and complimenting a hot summer day with a dip into the cool waters of Florida’s natural springs.

Speaking of the beaches, some of Florida’s best lie a few mere miles outside Orlando. Although Cocoa Beach and Daytona Beach are the most famous, they’re not quite at the top of our list here. The Indiatlantic Beach is just a little further past Cocoa and Daytona and is equally worthy of your time. Cocoa Beach’s popularity is a testament to its appeal, drawing visitors from far and wide. Its vibrant atmosphere is perfect for those who love a bustling beach scene. For those seeking a quieter spot still close by, Jetty Park Beach and Pier offers a delightful alternative. Jetty Park is located in the Cape Canaveral portion of Cocoa Beach and has a $15 entry fee which you can pay for ahead of time or at the park’s gate. Rest assured that the fee goes toward the property’s cleanliness and upkeep, which is a small price for the proper experience you’re looking for.

Take an excursion while you’re in Orlando

There are also plenty of other options to maximize your Spring Break while you’re in Orlando. Not far from our fair city lie other destinations like amazing coastal beaches and exhilarating airboat exhibitions. The options are endless, with worthwhile destinations like the Kennedy Space Center, Clearwater Beach, and even single-day trips to Miami, all accessible from Central Florida.

As a South Florida-born frequenter of Clearwater Beach, I can attest to its exceptional ability to create lasting memories. Whenever we go to Clearwater, my wife and I make it a point to experience the Sea Screamer speedboat. It’s always a great time as the boat captains and hosts take you around the outskirts of Clearwater’s ritzier neighborhoods and share a bit of the beach city’s history. If you’re lucky, there may even be some fancy-flippered friends racing the boat while flying through the currents at top speeds!

Ready to start planning? Share your thoughts with 160,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook and purchase your general discounted theme park admission here.  And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads, 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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Before the gates officially creek open for this event, we received a shriek peek into what awaits this Halloween season at Gatorland. 

The Creepy Creature Carnival

Come one, come all! Step right up to enter this world of monsters and myths. Do not fear, these creatures are here not to scare but to host an array of Halloween midway games. 

Unleash your inner mad scientist at Dr. Frankenstein’s Franken-Factory where you will wield a mallet to send the monster’s brain flying into the air in hopes that it will land in the creation’s noggin. Next, sink your fangs into Coffin Cornhole. Aim the bags of garlic straight for the heart of the casket with undead accuracy. 

Have your camera ready for fantastical photo ops with a werewolf peddling delicious treats, a mummy crafting unique hairstyles, and Frankenstein’s Bride basking in the sun. Strike a pose as you now have undeniable, photographic proof of your legendary encounter.

Frightful Frontier

Strap on your chaps and spurs, partner, as you take a gander through this ghost town that was once filled with the echoes of saloon chatter and cowboy boots. A seemingly one-horse town has been claimed by cowboys who have gone to meet their maker… and returned. The past and the paranormal merge when you come face-to-face with the restless spirits of the Old West who will have you quaking in your boots. You won’t want to miss this showdown, where the living and departed share the same dusty trail. 

Cryptid Express

All aboard the Cryptid Express! This train is your ticket to the uncharted territories of the unknown. As this locomotive chugs along its track, curious passengers will revel in the wonders of hidden beasts, like the Florida Skunk Ape, Moth Man, Chupacabra, and more!

Swamp Ghost’s Monster Museum

This once hustling and bustling all hallows eve exhibition has been seemingly replaced by something far more sinister – Spirited Shop-o-ween Super Duper Store. The gallery once filled with relics from the past have been lost to a wide selection of conveniently packaged Halloween costumes like “Crazy Cat Lady” and “‘Super’ Skunk Ape.” 

We had just been selected to begin our training at this retail establishment when our orientation was interrupted by a creature who materialized from the great beyond. We followed this otherworldly guide into the depths of what once appeared to be a storage room, only to discover an entire exhibit showcasing the history of Halloween. 

As this walkthrough unravels the tales of this haunted holiday, onlookers are met at a crossroads. Here, you can push forward into the depths of a haunted house experience or choose to end your journey. Due to the nature of this specific experience, younger guests and those seeking a scare-free escape will be led to an exit prior to the scares that ensue further into Swamp Ghost’s Monster Museum. 

Halloween Costumes

Guests of all ages are welcome to don their family-friendly All Hallows best during their time at Gatorland. In fact, the kids can show off their attire during the Children’s Costume Parade, taking center stage at the Upclose Arena at 1:30 PM. In the true spirit of the holiday, all participants will receive candy! 

From the youngest trick-or-treaters to seasoned Halloween enthusiasts, Gators, Ghosts & Goblins is sure to bewitch guests with an entire realm of daytime, wholesome fun at Gatorland this October. Hurry and snag your discounted Gatorland admission through Orlando Informer before this event vanishes like a ghost in the night!

Follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  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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While we marvel at the modern wonders of Central Florida, lest we forget about the beginnings of the sunshine state. To honor the roots of one of the top tourist destinations in the United States, The Wheel at ICON Park has rolled out a new, interactive offering – The Great Florida Road Trip.

This family-friendly activity has you following the travels of the Flamingoes – feathered folk trekking through midcentury Florida’s classic attractions via station wagon. With your Photomatic Camera in hand, you’ll help these long-legged tourists capture memories for their scrapbook during your ride on The Wheel. Aim your camera at the various postcards on the roof of the wheelhouse, which are dedicated to Florida landmarks. Whoever in your capsule snaps the most photos during the ride wins a $5 gift card for the “In the Game Arcade” inside the wheelhouse.

“It’s really about pride in our state, in our city, and our industry,” Christopher Jaskiewicz, President and CEO of ICON Park stated during the April 26 opening. “It’s a very popular state – people are moving here, and people are visiting here. Sometimes the rich history of our state, our city, and our industry can get a little bit forgotten.” Jaskiewicz went on to say, “We want to pay respect to Florida’s natural beauty, arts, industry, sports history, and it’s over 100 years of successful attractions.”

To partake in this avian adventure, you can purchase a VIP Wheel Experience ticket that includes a spin on The Wheel, The Great Florida Road Trip camera game, a souvenir photo, and additional food and beverage discounts for $24.99 per person.

The post FIRST LOOK: ICON Park Unveils NEW Photo-Worthy Offering appeared first on Orlando Informer.

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Overview

Does the idea of a barrel roll make your stomach turn? No need to worry about missing out at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay! We have created a list of the best things to do that will keep you fairly grounded and have a day filled with fun!

Jump to

• Animal Exhibits
• Tours & Safaris
• Concerts
• Festivals and Events
• Non-Coaster Attractions

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is home to some of the best roller coasters in the country and is one of the hottest vacation destinations in Central Florida. However, even if roller coasters are not your thing, this theme park still has so much to offer. There are plenty of activities and thrills to check out.

Animal Exhibits

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay does not just have rides; it also has spectacular animal exhibits. From sloths to penguins, and tigers to gorillas, there are plenty of animals throughout the park to see. Take advantage of the gorgeous Florida weather and check out the array of different species that call Busch Gardens home.

Insider Tours and Safaris

Want to get a close-up look at some of your favorite animals? Take one of the many insider tours and safaris Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has to offer. These experiences allow for a personal encounter for an additional fee. One of the most popular animal experiences at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is the Serengeti Safari. Passengers get to hop on an open-air vehicle and come along for a thirty-minute safari through the Serengeti Plain exhibit. There is even an opportunity to hand-feed some of the giraffes.

In the span of 30 minutes, you can get a behind-the-scenes tour regarding the care of the animal of your choosing. From elephants to hippos, there are many options to choose from for your tour. Want to see what it is like to be an animal keeper at Busch Gardens? They have that opportunity as well! This four-hour, backstage tour allows you to get up close with multiple different animals and talk with some of the animal care specialists that work on site. Keep in mind that this tour comes with an additional fee on top of admission. Be sure to check out the Busch Gardens Tampa website for availability and prices for each of these exciting experiences.

Concerts

Did you know you could catch a concert while visiting Busch Gardens Tampa Bay? You sure can, and access to these musical performances is included in the price of admission. So far this year, artists including Maddie & Tae, Dustin Lynch, and Flo Rida are scheduled to perform during the Food and Wine Festival, occurring from March 11 through May 7. Be sure to check if any acts are slated during your visit.

Festivals and Events

Throughout the course of the year, there is, more often than not, a festival, celebration, or event going on at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. One of the first happenings of the year is the Mardi Gras celebration, running from January 14 to March 5. Guests during this time will be able to experience delicious Cajun foods and festive performances. Immediately following the Mardi Gras celebration, the annual Food and Wine Festival kick off on March 10 and continues until May 21. Guests will have the opportunity to chow down on some delicious snacks, try out some cocktails or beers (for those 21 and up), and even enjoy some concerts. The fun continues later on in the year with the annual Busch Gardens Bier Fest that will take place from July 21 through September 4.    

One of the most well-known events that Busch Gardens puts on is Howl-O-Scream. Autumn is not complete without a visit to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay for Halloween. Whether you get startled in the haunted mazes or by the many actors scattered throughout the park, you are sure to have a scary good time. Not really into the Halloween horror? No problem! Busch Gardens Tampa Bay also offers Spooktacular, a family-friendly way to enjoy the occasion. Both of these events take place on select dates between September 8 and October 31.

Ready for the holidays already? Busch Gardens celebrates the holiday season with their yearly Christmas Town extravaganza. Guests are able to watch some festive shows and divulge into sweet treats while taking in the cheery atmosphere. This special offering runs November 13 to December 31.  

Did you know that Orlando Informer offers discounted admission to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and their Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Howl-O-Scream events? Check out here for more information!

Non-Coaster Rides

Not into roller coasters but still want to experience some thrills? You are in luck! Busch Gardens Tampa has plenty of non-roller coaster offerings and even a brand-new attraction coming Spring 2023.

Needing a way to cool down during a hot Busch Gardens day? Hop on the Stanley Falls Flume ride or enter into a raft on the Congo River Rapids. Both are fun and sure to get you soaked.

There are also some more relaxing rides to check out. The Serengeti Express is a tranquil train ride that takes riders through the Serengeti exhibit to get close to the grazing animals. The Skyride is another calm experience that brings riders into the air and provides beautiful views of the park.

A new non-coaster thrill is just around the corner! Serengeti Flyer will soon be opening this coming Spring. This swing-like attraction will take riders higher and higher with each pass and eventually gets up to 135 feet at 68 mph. This will give amazing views of the Serengeti Plain below and incredible thrills to the passengers on board. You can read our initial announcement here.

No matter the level of thrill you are looking for, Busch Gardens Tampa has something to offer everyone.

Ready for a Busch Gardens Tampa Vacation? Discounted admission can be purchased from Orlando Informer here. Be sure to follow Orlando Informer on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest Central Florida Theme Park news and tips.

The post Top Things to do at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay for Non-Roller Coaster Riders appeared first on Orlando Informer.

Natural Florida

One thing you might hear locals talk about is “Real Florida.” Before theme parks started popping up in the 70s and 80s, the attractions in Central Florida were primarily natural springs, museums, and historical sites. Luckily, those things are all still here! Some of the most beautiful scenery in the state can be found in right here in Central Florida. Blue Spring State Park is one such example. In the summer, you can pack a picnic and beat the heat while swimming in the cool, clear, 70-degree water of the springs. In the winter months, go visit the manatees who seek out the relatively warm (for them) water when the St. John’s river gets too cold for the sea cows. If swimming isn’t your thing, the park has a number of hiking trails, and you can also rent kayaks and canoes to explore on your own. 

As idyllic as it is, Blue Spring isn’t the only park available if you want to discover natural Florida. Orlando boasts several botanical gardens including Leu Gardens and Mead Gardens. Both are located near the heart of Orlando and often host a variety of events (like concerts and movies) on the lush and beautiful grounds, which are often themed to a seasonal motif (such as fairies or dinosaurs), that will keep you coming back month after month. 

Space Coast

Looking for something out of this world? Visit Central Florida’s Space Coast. Cape Canaveral is home to the Kennedy Space Center and frequently operates as a launch site for NASA and SpaceX. While you’re there, take the tour and learn about NASA’s history all the way from the moon landings, to the Space Shuttle program, and beyond. 

The Kennedy Space Center frequently hosts events where you can meet an actual astronaut and witness a rocket launch. Guests can also occasionally participate in special events like the 3k Space Race, a running event that takes participants through just under two miles of the scenic visitor complex.

Cultural Attractions

If you want to experience some culture while in “The City Beautiful,” we have you covered. Orlando is home to a number of museums and experiences, including the Orlando Museum of Art, the Orange County Regional History Center, and the Orlando Science Center.

The Orlando Museum of Art (OMA) was founded in 1924 committed to the mission to “interpret and present art for a diverse public audience; to positively affect people’s lives with inclusive, innovative, and inspiring educational programming which will endure as a cultural legacy in Central Florida; and to stimulate creativity, passion, and intellectual curiosity by connecting people from all backgrounds and experiences with compelling art and new ideas.” If you’re here during the Orlando Fringe Festival (the longest running Fringe Festival in the country) every spring, the OMA is also home to one of the theatres where you can see some of the shows performed during the festival. So take in a show and then visit the museum as well! 

The Orange County Regional History Center, located in the heart of downtown Orlando, is a draw for the whole family. It houses four floors of various exhibits that explore Central Florida’s years of history. The center also hosts various traveling exhibits and has ongoing programs both online and in-person so you can learn more about Central Florida. 

Out of all these venues, the Orlando Science Center is the best place to take little kids. If you have children between the ages of 3 and 10, there’s not much place better to go than here. Located in downtown Orlando, the Science Center offers a number of hands-on, tactile play areas and spaces for children to explore and learn about Central Florida and its history. From a dinosaur fossil excavation pit to a room-sized jungle gym, the Science Center will keep your little ones busy and engaged on all four floors.

Speaking of downtown Orlando, it is now home to the finally completed Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. The brand-new Steinmetz Hall has already hosted some amazing performers. In just the first week of its opening, Steinmetz Hall welcomed the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Orlando’s own Bach Festival Choir, and award-winning artist Jennifer Hudson. I was lucky enough to attend the Bach Festival Choir performance and will tell you this acoustically perfect space does not disappoint. There is not a bad seat in the house, and whatever show you see will be enhanced by this gorgeous and finely tuned space. See what shows are coming to town here.

Food

No matter what kind of food you love, Orlando is the town for you. From the Asian-fusion options in the Mills 50 district to the fine dining available in Dr. Phillips, you can’t go wrong in this town. Orlando is home to award-winning chefs, restaurants, and chains. Winter Park, a stylish section of town located in the northern part of Orlando, is home to the very popular Bosphorous Turkish Restaurant, Blu on the Avenue (which features American cuisine and seafood), and The Glass Knife, a contemporary bakery featuring incredible desserts for any occasion.

And if you’re here for Magical Dining Month, you’re in for a special treat. Beginning in August, many of Orlando’s amazing restaurants will serve up a three-course prix-fixe menu for $37, and a portion of the proceeds to go charity. Wonderful food, good prices, and helping good causes…what’s not to love? The best news? Magical Dining “Month” lasts five weeks.

Sports

Orlando is home to a number of sports teams. The Orlando Magic NBA team, the Orlando City Lions and Orlando Pride soccer teams, and the Orlando Solar Bears hockey team all call Orlando home. The Magic and the Solar Bears play at the Amway Center, which also hosts concerts and other events throughout the year. The Lions and Pride play at Exploria Stadium, also located in the heart of downtown Orlando. While there isn’t an NFL team in Orlando, if football is your sport of choice, you can make the short drive to Tampa and see a Tampa Bay Buccaneers game at Raymond James Stadium, complete with its own pirate ship.

Touristy Stuff

Hey, there’s no shame in doing touristy stuff while you’re in town too. Even if you don’t go to the theme parks, you can head over to “I-Drive” (International Drive) to enjoy restaurants and fun attractions like Ripley’s Believe it or Not!, Madame Tussauds, or the SEA Life Orlando Aquarium. 

If the weather is nice, you can’t beat a fun game of mini-golf at the Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf, or if you like other types of games, Dave and Buster’s has you covered. A relatively new attraction near I-Drive is Andretti’s Indoor Karting & Games. 

Pointe Orlando, also on I-Drive, is a great spot for good eats, unique shopping, and entertainment (including a seven-story IMAX movie theater where you can view the latest blockbuster film). 

There is so much more that Orlando has to offer than just our world-class theme parks. This article truly only gives a small sampling, but hopefully next time you’re in Orlando, you’ll explore some of the surrounding areas and enjoy what we locals get to enjoy on a regular basis!

Finally, 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.

The post The Best Things To Do in Orlando Besides Theme Parks appeared first on Orlando Informer.

And, now, the company is doing the same with its flagship Orlando park.

Howl-O-Scream first began 23 years ago at Busch Gardens Williamsburg and has slowly spread throughout the rest of SeaWorld’s nationwide portfolio of theme parks. Now, with its arrival at SeaWorld Orlando, the annual event is not only completing its national expansion (well, minus the various water parks and the kid-centric Sesame Place, of course), it’s also helping to provide the most robust seasonal landscape for Central Floridians in quite some time.

And this diversity certainly holds for youngsters as well as adults. Just like at the San Diego location, Orlando will continue to throw its children-friendly Spooktacular during the day, offering a trick-or-treat trail, character meet-‘n-greets, and shows. Then, come nighttime, the adult-oriented Howl-O-Scream will kick into gear, serving up haunted houses and scare zones with a PG-13 emphasis on violence, blood, and gore. Given this neat division between times of the day and audiences, the two experiences are almost perfectly complementary – in California, the park is even divided geographically between the two, with its eastern side given over to the former and the western half being devoted to the latter.

Given that the company has already said that its new West Cost Howl-O-Scream will be largely informed by the success of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s rendition (which dates back to 1999, almost to the event’s very beginnings), one can safely assume that this will also be the case in Orlando – especially given how SeaWorld described it:

Evade angry haunts as they rampage through scare zones. Seek shelter indoors, only to find you’ve entered a house of horrors. Deepen the thrill with a nighttime coaster ride. Quench your thirst for fear at a fiendishly interactive bar. Feel the monstrous electricity of a live show.

(Speaking of Tampa’s event, the one thing we know about it so far is that haunted houses will return – a big announcement, since last year’s outing saw them be completely cut.)

Howl-O-Scream at SeaWorld Orlando will run for 27 nights, from September 10 to October 31, 2021.

Are you excited for SeaWorld’s Halloween expansion? Discuss Howl-O-Rama – or Spooktacular! – 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 and tips at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando destinations.

The post Howl-O-Scream coming to SeaWorld Orlando this Halloween appeared first on Orlando Informer.

Here’s what you need to know in the world of Central Florida theme-park news for the week of May 17-23, 2021.

1. Universal surprised us this week by announcing a whole new attraction that’ll be coming to its resort this year. Called DreamWorks Destination, it’ll be a “first-of-its-kind interactive character experience,” which will see various familiar faces from the Shrek, Madagascar, Kung Fu Panda, and, of course, Trolls properties posing for photos and dancing with guests. Look for it in the old show building that used to house A Day in the Park with Barney for over a quarter of a century – a location which has already seen the start of its transformation into the new experience, replete with three selfie backdrops themed to one DreamWorks franchise or another. (Indeed, it’s also seen the start of technical rehearsals, which began just yesterday.)

DreamWorks Destination’s opening sometime this spring will complement the June 10 arrival of Jurassic World VelociCoaster nicely – one massive coaster for the adults and a fun character meet-‘n-greet for the kids. It’s making 2021 a rather exciting year for Universal Orlando Resort overall.

Read more here.

2. SeaWorld Orlando is also shaping up to have a notable year, and it really picks up this summer. That’s when its award-winning nighttime event, Electric Ocean, comes roaring back – expect to find DJ-led dance parties, a Sesame Street-powered rock show, wildlife meet-‘n-greets, and Central Florida’s only full-length theme-park nighttime fireworks, among other experiences. The park will switch to extended operating hours for the seasonal shindig, which will allow all those neon lights to bathe everything in a fluorescent glow for even longer.

Electric Ocean runs from Friday, May 28 to Monday, September 6.

Find the full details here, and purchase your SeaWorld Orlando tickets here.

3. On the same day that SeaWorld let us know about its Orlando park’s exciting summer, it also did so for its Tampa location. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay will similarly throw a large party for the season, unleashing a whole host of new goodies: live music and open-air DJ block parties, additional food venues (including the second-story Giraffe Bar, which will afford some pretty beautiful views), a cirque-esque stage show, a crazy nighttime spectacular, and a cookout-inspired menu (which incorporates a “walkable” version of grilling favorites and, most intriguingly, some glow-in-the-dark cocktails).

The new summer program, along with Busch Gardens’s extended hours, begins on Friday, May 28.

Find the full details here, and secure your Busch Gardens Tampa tickets here.

4. Disney, meanwhile, is gearing up for another type of big festivity this year. Walt Disney World’s 50th anniversary will arrive this fall, and to ring it in, the company will unfurl its World’s Most Magical Celebration, an event which will last for the next 18 months – and which now will also include newly designed name tags for all of the resort’s many cast members. Printed with the same kind of iridescent (or “EARidescent,” as Disney would say) colors as Mickey and Minnie’s specially designed costumes for the big party, it also brandishes holographic foil and, for the employees’ names, the very same blue as can be seen on the turrets of Cinderella Castle.

They do look spiffy, if we say so ourselves, and we’re happy to see that The World’s Most Magical Celebration’s theming will run all throughout Disney World, even down to the smallest detail. Expect to see the name tags roll out more or less when the anniversary bash itself kicks off later this year.

5. Universal’s final hotel got its reopening date! Last week, we talked about how Aventura Hotel was the only property at Universal Orlando to not be on the docket as the whole resort inches ever more closely to normal, pre-pandemic operations; well, this week, the company rectified that omission. Expect the prime-value venue to be open for business again on Wednesday, June 16, following Sapphire Falls Resort’s reopening this past week (on May 18) and Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites’s on May 26.

See the news here, and then see everything there is to know about Aventura here.

6. Have you ever done a date night at Universal Orlando and let Rock, Paper, Scissors dictate what you did? Orlando Informer’s owner, Taylor, did exactly that, and he filmed the fallout – er, fun activities.

Watch his latest video here.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for all the latest info. And then be sure to discuss everything with 125,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook.

The post Universal’s newest attraction, SeaWorld’s epic summer, and Disney World’s 50th anniversary: Your weekly theme-park recap (May 17-23, 2021) appeared first on Orlando Informer.

There is a whole umbrella of new experiences coming to Busch Gardens Tampa, and one can’t help but notice the recurring usage of the words “ignite,” “spark,” and “electrifying” all throughout their descriptions – language which isn’t too dissimilar from SeaWorld Orlando’s own summer initiative, actually, which also got revealed today. The descriptors are meant to convey a certain level of energy and a visual motif both, and it would seem that the company is – so far, at least – successful on both fronts.

Everything starts with the so-called Pre-Party on the Festival Pathway, which inundates the titular Festival Pathway with glowing lights that are strung throughout the trees. When combined with the live music that will be performed here, Busch Gardens promises that this “stunning visual journey […] will spark the spirit of summer in everyone.” And going hand-in-hand with this music will be DJ Block Parties, transforming the area into a giant dance party come nightfall. The company wants you to think of this as a type of pre-game, a warm-up to the big event that is to come later in the night.

Before we get there, however, we first need to eat. Luckily, Busch Gardens has us more than covered here – a new summer seasonal menu, inspired by backyard cookouts, is also set to descend during this period. Look for both old and new locations to pop up throughout the park, including the first-ever Giraffe Bar, which will be located on the second floor of Serengeti Overlook and which seems to be the perfect spot to take in the sunset and all those strung lights. Even better than the views, however, will be the food itself: the company will serve up snacks, desserts, a “walkable take” on grilled classics, and, of course, libations. (Speaking of which, one of the most intriguing new items at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay this summer is a brand-new range of glow-in-the-dark cocktails, which sound like they just may become the de facto accessory to have for the nightly proceedings, helping guests to ignite their inner sparks.)

There’s one last feature to check out before we can send out the summer night in style. Called Cirque Electric, it’s an exclusive production, designed specifically for Busch Gardens, that will combine acrobatic stunts with a “fascinating act on wheels that cannot be missed.” It will debut on May 28 at the Stanleyville Theater, and amongst all this talk of death-defying feats of balance and strength, it sounds as if it will be one of the highlights of the theme park’s new seasonal proceedings.

Finally, we arrive at the crux of the summer fun-filled evening: an epic- and unique-sounding nighttime show that is the biggest in Busch Garden Tampa’s history. Spark! A Nighttime Spectacular will boast an “explosive” amount of fireworks and other pyrotechnics, along with a whole host of supplemental special effects, ranging from pulsating lasers to water elements. Expect this to run every weekend, and a few other select dates, at 9:15 pm.

Guests will be able to experience all this – along with a slew of returning favorites, including the Turn It Up! Ice-skating show and open-air block parties – for over 100 nights this summer, which come replete with extended hours. But in order to go, you’ll first need to secure your tickets – and we can help you with discounted admission right here.

Which new summer offering are you most excited for? Compare your electrifying thoughts 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 Busch Gardens Tampa gets its biggest-ever nighttime spectacular for summer 2021 appeared first on Orlando Informer.

Enter vacation homes. In Orlando, they come in a variety of sizes, budgets, and locations. There is a good amount of vacation homes near Walt Disney World, as well as a few near Universal Orlando and SeaWorld. Let’s review all these, including their features and other important information you need to know.

Location of vacation homes in Orlando

Orlando is more than the City Beautiful itself. The name “Orlando” is used to describe not just the city’s metro area, but also nearby cities and districts that connect to and embrace the tourism complex. In fact, most of the attractions area does not exist within the Orlando city limits but, rather, within Orange County, Osceola County, Lake Buena Vista, and other nearby municipalities.

Vacation homes in Central Florida are spread out amongst these different areas. Davenport, Winter Haven, Kissimmee, and St. Cloud have some vacation homes and communities that were established back when Disney World first came to life in 1971. More recently, with the advent of third-party short-term rental sites, like VRBO and Airbnb, many people living around the theme-park district have dedicated some or all of their homes to such rentals. This gives vacationers more choices than ever before.

With that said, though, you should be forewarned that options for vacation homes near Universal Orlando Resort and SeaWorld Orlando can be slim. Look for houses in the Conroy, Kirkman, John Young Parkway, and Williamsburg areas if you wish to be close to these two dynamic destinations. Disney options, meanwhile, are more plentiful; not only is Walt Disney World itself the largest of the theme-park resorts, it’s also located the furthest away from metro Orlando, which makes the homes in this part of Central Florida less likely to be used by full-time residents. Look to Kissimmee, St. Cloud, Davenport, Winter Haven, and Winter Garden to find the biggest variety. (Just know you’ll be about 15 to 20 minutes from Disney World and 30 minutes or more from the other attractions.)

Vacation-home resorts in Orlando

Besides independently owned vacation homes in Orlando, there are a significant number of resorts that offer vacation-home rentals. This gets around the challenge that many individual vacation homes face: the lack of amenities. Staying at one of these many resorts around Central Florida provides the convenience and space of a vacation home with the perks of a resort.

One of the latest on the block is Margaritaville Resort Orlando, which, as you might imagine, is full of tropical vibes. There is a shopping, dining, and entertainment complex at the front of the resort, as well as a water park. A luxury hotel anchors the property, while a colorful neighborhood of vacation cottages resides on streets like Fins Up Circle and Key Lime Loop.

Reunion Resort & Golf Club is a little further out, but it’s still relatively convenient to Disney. This resort is very focused on golf, which makes for a relaxing setting. There are perks such as theme-park shuttles and a water park that is included in your rental. Reunion is a really good example of a place marrying spacious vacation homes with resort-style perks.

Other, smaller resorts are still worth a look, too. Calypso Cay in Kissimmee does not have any shuttle to Walt Disney World, but it does have its own adventure park. This play area comes with its own zip line, rock wall, Extreme Air Jumper, mini-golf, dining, and more. And also in Kissimmee is Solara Resort, which has a community and resort-style pool (which isn’t to mention that most vacation homes come equipped with their own private pool, as well).

Many timeshare resorts in the area, such as Silver Lake, Westgate, and Orange, have large vacation home-style accommodations but in condo-like settings. Some offer theme-park shuttles and other services. Just be sure to read through the fine print before booking, as most require attendance to a timeshare sales presentation in order to book a vacation home without being a member of the resort.

Lastly, vacation homes that are not part of a large resort are often booked through a management company. You’ll also need to carefully review each company’s terms and policies, including cancelations and security deposits, to avoid any surprises.

Orlando vacation home features and amenities

While you may miss a few resort features by choosing a vacation home instead of a hotel in Orlando, you’ll make up for it in other features. Practically all vacations homes in Orlando have, at the very least, the basics of home – you can expect a washer and dryer, a fully functioning kitchen, living space, and, even, your own pool.

One of the best things about vacation homes in Orlando is that many of them offer themed rooms, some of which even include bedrooms and playrooms based on Star Wars, Harry Potter, Disney characters, and much more. Be sure to scope out all the photos and descriptions of each listing to see what special features are offered.

Even in a one- or two-bedroom vacation home, you will still find plenty of room for rest and relaxation, plus getting a little breathing room between family members. TV watching and videogame playing, along with a game of pool or foosball, are generally all options – there’s usually lots of recreational space. And its hard to beat a quiet afternoon nap when on vacation!

And from a practical standpoint, renting a vacation home means you will have a full kitchen and dining space during your trip, allowing you to save money by doing your own cooking (and, additionally, to take care of your family’s special dietary needs). Most kitchens are fully equipped and offer plenty of cooking and serving ware. And even if you’d rather not do a lot of cooking, you can easily heat up any leftovers you may procure during your vacation.

Things to know before you book a vacation home

Usually, there is a maximum number of guests allowed in your vacation home. These limits are based on fire-code regulations.

Double-check pet restrictions, along with such procedures as when you will check in and get access to the home you’ve booked, and any housekeeping options. Cancellation policies generally require much more notice than a hotel does, so familiarize yourself with these, too, before completing your booking.

Some properties have restrictions when it comes to deliveries. If you want any groceries or other items sent to your vacation home, confirm the procedures with the resort or property manager.

Some vacation homes are condominiums and do not have a private pool, while others feature community pools in addition to private ones. If you’re interested in using the community pool, be sure to verify its seasons and hours.

Whether you’re traveling as part of a large family group or for a couple’s getaway, a vacation home is something to consider. There’s no shortage of options in Orlando, and surely you’ll enjoy the extra space!

Share your previous experiences renting out these homes with 125,000+ other Orlando enthusiasts in our Orlando Informer 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.

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Here’s what you need to know in the world of Central Florida theme-park news for the week of Mar. 1-7, 2021.

1. This has, unquestionably, been the week of Universal Orlando news, and it has to start with this exciting announcement: Halloween Horror Nights is coming back this fall! (Yes, Universal may have already announced this last year, but – in this day and age – we don’t take anything for granted.)

The first intellectual-property-based haunted house for 2021 is none other than Beetlejuice, that ghost with the most, who not only has had a very long-lived presence at the resort since its earliest days, but who also made an appearance with his maze during Halloween weekend last year. The experience was such a fun one, we’re happy to see the repeat performance.

We have so much Beetlejuice for you, you’ll be spinning on the sands of Saturn. Read the 2021 announcement here, our full accounting of the character’s history here, and the original, 2020 haunt reveal here. (You can also read our Halloween Horror Nights guide here, which has info about the only other house to be revealed thus far.)

2. What’s even bigger than the return of Horror Nights? The return of construction on Universal Orlando’s newest theme park. Epic Universe was originally announced in August 2019, had its plug temporarily pulled in July 2020 (thanks to COVID-19, of course), and, just this week, has seen the restart of its behind-the-scenes development. It’ll take Universal a few months to get everything back up to full speed, but then it’ll be off to the races, with construction crews working in order to open sometime around 2025.

(The new park, lest you have forgotten over the course of the past half-year, will be home to Florida’s version of Super Nintendo World and, it would seem, several restaurants, shops, and, even, hotels.)

Find the full info in both our write-up here and our Twitter thread here.

3. Given all this excitement, it seemed like a great time to reach out and interact even more with our community. In case you haven’t already heard, Orlando Informer’s owner, Taylor Strickland, recently gave out his phone number to make lots of new texting buddies, and we used the momentous Universal news this week to give away a Mario Kart popcorn bucket from Universal Studios Japan’s Super Nintendo World (if you did send him a message, that is). While that particular opportunity is over, we’re pretty sure that crazy Taylor cat has other sly surprises up his sleeve for the future.

Feeling chatty? You can send him a text here.

4. Meanwhile, over at Walt Disney World, Disney had a pretty nifty reveal of its own to make. A newly reimagined room from Polynesian Village Resort debuted, and it’s nothing short of stunning – the colors, designs, and little Easter eggs all hail from the 2016 film Moana, and they work seamlessly with all the new furnishings, fixtures, and details that can be found elsewhere in the luxurious room. You’ll be able to check everything out for yourself beginning in late July.

Peruse the gorgeous photos here.

5. We’re still not all the way through all the theme-park magic that happened this week in Central Florida. To round it out, we’ll need to head back to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, where the popular Food & Wine Festival is going on – and where we fell in love with some great new bites and sips. The Lollipop Chicken Drum, the Iron Gwazi Gimlet, and the Drunk Bread Pudding were all to die for, and this doesn’t even begin to mention all the unique entertainment that the event has on-hand.

Run down everything the festival has to offer with us right here (warning: you will get hungry).

If you’re looking to visit Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, you can purchase tickets here.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for all the latest info. And then be sure to discuss everything with 120,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook.

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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.

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1. This has, unquestionably, been the week of the Jurassic World VelociCoaster. So many developments were dropped on us the past seven days, in fact, that we don’t even know where to begin!

• The last construction wall came down, revealing the beautiful raptor paddock inside the attraction (article and pics, livestream)
• Our first glimpse of the ride testing against all that beautiful theming (pics, video)
• VelociCoaster merchandise arriving at Jurassic Park (article and pics)
• Its entrance flame effects being tested (pics)
• The coaster already appearing on Universal’s single attraction passes (pics)
• Its fancy new attraction sign going up in Islands of Adventure (pics)
• We even got a glimpse of the new garbage cans in the VelociCoaster area (Universal spared no expense) (pics)
• Our livestream look at the coaster and its pretty new sign (video)

2. Another really big news item coming out of Universal Orlando Resort this past week was the announcement of a brand-new “premier shopping experience” arriving soon in CityWalk. The dinning and shopping district’s Universal Studios Store is moving to a new location right next to Voodoo Doughnut, and while we don’t have much concrete info to go by just yet, we can absolutely say that the new shop’s façade is grand and impressive. (We can also say – if the concept art is any indication – that the new venue may sport a dedicated Nintendo section.)

As for the older Universal Studios Store, it’s already being transformed into something of a Tribute Store to Universal Orlando itself, featuring many retro items to buy and vintage props to peruse (such as photos of and memorabilia from the classic attractions Back to the Future: The Ride, Kongfrontation, Jaws, and Alfred Hitchcock: The Art of Making Movies).

Find more information – and photographs – here.

3. Let’s not forget about Disney! One of the Orlando Informer team’s favorite annual events at the resort, EPCOT’s International Flower & Garden Festival, is right around the corner, and to celebrate the March 3 kick-off, the Mouse House unveiled the complete menus for all of the festival’s various food kitchens.

Dive into the deliciousness here.

4. Here’s something that you didn’t see coming: Merlin Entertainments, the owner and operator of LEGOLAND Florida Resort, announced a brand-new theme park. That the little LEGO corner of the Sunshine State would be getting an expansion, or that the new gate would be dedicated to young children, isn’t the surprising part of the development, though – it’s its chosen theme of Peppa Pig, one of the most popular television series for preschoolers. Expect to find a collection of rides, shows, playgrounds, and water areas (replete with puddles to splash in, of course) once the new park opens in 2022.

See the concept art here.

5. It’s time to check in on Universal’s recently departed. Earlier this month, both Blue Man Group (in CityWalk) and A Day in the Park with Barney (over at Universal Studios Florida) were announced to not be returning (the duo was shut down previously, mostly due to COVID-19) – and, already, the company is erasing their presences from its resort.

You can see what Blue Man currently looks like here and Barney, here.

6. We need to hit up Universal Orlando one last time before we duck out for the week: just yesterday, the resort’s Volcano Bay water park reopened after a nearly-four-month closure! We had a great day soaking up the sun and all the thrills.

See what (re)opening day was like here.

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Orlando is an unsung culinary hub, and I know I’m not alone in the constant search for decent coffee shops at wherever I may be. To that end, I’ve provided a few of my local favorites conveniently located in the Universal Orlando Resort area that I thought I’d share with you – for the sake of the community, of course!

1. CFS Coffee

4774 S Kirkman Rd, Orlando, FL 32811

CFS Coffee was started in Colombia in 2010 and made its way here to Orlando not long ago. They specialize in premium Colombian coffee – unsurprisingly – and are located a short distance away from Universal Orlando. (Although this is their flagship location, there are five other cafes throughout Orlando, which includes a secondary spot in the Doctor Phillips area, at the intersection of Sand Lake Road and Turkey Lake Road.) The shop itself is very quaint and cozy, and its welcoming nature is reflected by the staff’s exceptional service. The average cup will run you about $5 (not including tax), which – although their servings lean more towards being “properly portioned” – is about what you’ll pay at just about any run-of-the-mill bean brewer.

CFS’s drink menu has a variety of traditional coffee and tea brews, as well as a few signature recipes, but they’re able to put something together if you can’t find anything you like on the menu. According to the clerk I spoke with, their most popular coffee is the Dulce de Leche Cappuccino. This blend of condensed milk and Colombian coffee has a wonderfully smooth, roasted flavor that warmed me on the cold afternoon of my visit and provided a great perk of energy. Along with their hot and cold beverages, they also have a decent food menu that includes all-day breakfast, various patacones and arepas, and, even, healthier offerings of sandwiches and smoothies. Surely, there’s enough that can meet just about any appetite.

2. Holy Grain Coffee Shop

 6735 Conroy Rd STE 109, Orlando, FL 32835

Holy Grain Coffee Shop is a Brazilian-owned joint just near CFS. The cafe itself is small, but if you’re looking for a quiet spot to sip a cappuccino while studying or perusing the internet, I’d put them on your radar. Their aesthetic is trendy and quaint, and on top of their excellently brewed coffee, the service here is always exceptional, with affordable prices. The house favorite is the Brazilian Capuccino, which uses a bold, notably earthy coffee, but the powdered chocolate they top it with rounds the flavor out nicely. If you’re in the mood for something a little more adventurous, the Lavender Vanilla Frappe is the one I’d tune you into – it’s a safe journey of vanilla familiarity teamed with a distinctive floral flare that’s sure to be a hit.

Back in 2016, Holy Grain was actually one of those locations converted to a Luke’s Diner pop-up during Netflix’s promotion of their revival of Gilmore Girls. I’ve never been a big fan of the show, but this is my favorite fact about the shop, as it shows one of the many ways they engage their clientele while also joining in on celebrating fandom. If you’re like me and missed out, don’t fret! Their event page allows you to relive some of the fun of the event, along with other past activities that were held at their establishment.

3. Achilles Art Cafe

2869 Wilshire Dr #103, Orlando, FL 32835

Nestled in a small plaza that’s tucked away in the Metro West area, Achilles Art Cafe is signaled only by two signs that simply state “Coffee Shop.” As most people know, this curious preface is how some of the best stories start, so if you’re wondering whether you should enter – enter you shall! Upon crossing its threshold, you’ll find that this place is anything but ordinary. This shop balances the aesthetics of the modern coffee cafe with a strong, Euro-Bohemian flare, as evidenced by the store’s furniture, dishware, and walls, which are lined with contributions from local artists.

If you’re browsing through the menu and are unsure of what you want, my top suggestions would be the Coconut Macaroon Latte or the Cookies and Cream Frappe. If you want something more akin to your Starbucks fare, I’d go for their take on the White Mocha Latte. It’s comparable to its corporate-brand counterpart and, I dare say, better, as it leans more towards a great latte rather than dessert in a cup. Their coffee, meanwhile, is spot-on and absolutely warrants a visit, but it’s not just about your caffeine needs at Achilles – they have a full array of amazing-yet-reasonably-priced sandwiches, appetizers, and other food offerings that make this a great spot for lunch or a date with that special someone.

4. Coffee Shop of Horrors

17415 7th St Ste A, Montverde, FL 34756

I’ll just get this out of the way – Coffee Shop of Horrors is located in Montverde, Florida, which is about 30 minutes from Orlando. Having said that, however, they come with my highest recommendation. I’ve been a fan of theirs long before their current brick-and-mortar status, as they have an excellent array of coffee, tea, and candy that is all themed to the horror movie genre. The shop’s ever-growing bean inventory spans four regions, including some flavored options as well as specialty roasts that were created by teaming with local celebrities and artisans. My favorite is the Reanimator morning blend – a smooth, light roast that offers plenty of caffeine to keep me perked for a few hours. I’d also suggest their Beetlejuice-themed Banana-Nut Blend, which is a collaborated concoction with local entertainment and fabrication experts, CosFX Studios. During the fall and holiday season, I’ve also been known to go for The Quickening – a warming blend of whiskey and butterscotch-flavored Colombian beans that’ll put you right in the spirit.

The cafe does their best to post their daily to-go menu on social media, but I’d suggest purchasing a bag to take with you, as it can be selective otherwise. I’ve done this in the past, and Coffee Shop of Horrors was more than happy to not only brew me a cup to enjoy on my drive, but also custom-grind my bag of beans to my exact coffee maker type. Your average price is about $5 for a cup to go, depending on size, and the typical eight-ounce bag of whole beans will run you about $9.99. If the commute seems too far, fear not – you can choose from the entire catalogue online, which they can ship to you. That way, you can enjoy a cup of local Orlando coffee while planning your next trip back!

What are your favorite coffee shops in the City Beautiful? Share your thoughts (and mugs) with 100,000+ 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.

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Here’s what you need to know in the world of Central Florida theme-park news for the week of Feb. 1-7, 2021.

1. Super Nintendo World may not be open yet – and, in fact, it still doesn’t even have a (new) opening date lined up yet – but we’ve begun posting our thoughts on and impressions of the new theme-park land located at Universal Studios Japan. We already have our (very!) in-depth thoughts up on the three new attractions of Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge, Yoshi’s Adventure, and Bowser, Jr. Shadow Showdown; expect to see even more on the immersive area’s various experiences in the coming days and weeks.

You can find our attraction reviews here and some of our photos and videos on Twitter starting here.

2. It’s always hard to say goodbye, but we had to do that twice this week at Universal Orlando. First, on Monday, word arrived that the 14-year-old Blue Man Group production at CityWalk was gone; Universal followed that up three days later with confirmation that the 26-year-old A Day in the Park with Barney, situated over at Universal Studios Florida, was similarly nixed. Neither show had been running for the past several months, thanks in part or in whole to the continuing complications of operating a resort in the midst of a global pandemic.

Say goodbye to Blue Man here and to Barney here; both write-ups contain histories of the attractions, individually, and their respective intellectual properties, more generally.

3. Here’s something to cheer you up, however: Mardi Gras at Universal has officially arrived! Reworked for COVID-19, the food kiosks are no longer clustered in the New York backlot and are now, rather, dispersed all throughout the park – along with parade floats and street performers.

We have tons of content for you to savor: take a tour of the very best Tribute Store yet here, see what’s new gastronomically at the park, the hotels, and CityWalk here, and live vicariously through us as we traverse Universal Studios Florida on the first day of Mardi Gras on Twitter starting here.

4. But that isn’t all that was happening in the world of Universal Orlando news: Volcano Bay’s reopening was announced for Saturday, February 27! The water theme park was initially closed on November 2, 2020 due to the reduced crowds during the coronavirus pandemic (which isn’t to mention the reduced temperatures of the season), and, at the time, Universal promised that it would welcome guests back to the home of the Waturi people by March 1. This latest announcement is, obviously, fully in keeping with that timeframe.

Read all about Volcano Bay’s closure here and celebrate the good news of its reopening here.

5. Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras wasn’t the only party to heat up the winter in Central Florida this week – SeaWorld got in on the celebratory action by kicking off its Seven Seas Food Festival at SeaWorld Orlando, with the Food and Wine Festival over at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay getting announced for February 20. Both annual events feature more culinary options – that includes dishes and tasty drinks, of course – than ever before, and both also will have a steady stream of notable concerts to eat and imbibe to.

Find out what there is to know about the Seven Seas Food Festival here and the Food and Wine Festival here.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for all the latest info. And then be sure to discuss everything with 110,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook.

The post Super Nintendo World arrives in Japan, Universal attractions close in Orlando, and Mardi Gras is here: Your weekly theme-park recap (Feb. 1-7, 2021) appeared first on Orlando Informer.

Here’s what you need to know in the world of Central Florida theme-park news for the week of Jan. 4-10, 2020.

1. This weekend, Disney kicked off the new year – and its 2021 annual-event calendar – with its Taste of EPCOT International Festival of the Arts. The fifth year of this visually and gastronomically dazzling shindig may be a tad on the streamlined side, thanks to the still-raging coronavirus pandemic, but that doesn’t prevent the Mouse House from unleashing a tasty and satisfying lineup.

We walk you through the notables of the menu here (you have to see the Painter’s Palate from the World Showplace food studio).

2. Speaking of food, we got to see a lot more of Nintendo’s take on it. Super Nintendo World is opening up over in Japan in less than a month now, and Universal keeps showing us more and more details of the land – including some of the most intriguing, appealing dishes you’ll ever hope to try. The Green Shell Calzone, located at Yoshi’s Snack Island, looks exactly like its name implies (and is filled with yakisoba goodness), and you can light up the Mushroom Kingdom night with either a Mario Kart or Starman blinking popcorn bucket from Pit Stop Popcorn.

See all of that, plus even more new tidbits (such as some new info on the character meet-‘n-greets), here.

3. In previous updates, we’ve focused on all the progress that’s been made on Jurassic World VelociCoaster’s track; today, we want to single out something a little different – its ride vehicles.

Universal released five beautiful, glorious close-ups of the coaster trains, with some more hints of the attraction’s theming behind (and above) them. In the grand scheme of things, it’s not much, but it’s definitely enough to get our hearts racing and our blood pumping. Summer can’t come soon enough!

Feast on the pics for yourself here.

4. EPCOT isn’t the only park featuring a party to help ring in 2021 – Busch Gardens Tampa will host a newly expanded Mardi Gras event, running on select dates (and weekends) from January 16 through February 16. Beads will be thrown by socially distanced New Orleans street performers, and a sampler lanyard will allow guests to feast on a whole bevy of dishes and drinks, from beignets to Hurricanes.

5. The beginning of the year is also the traditional time for another hallowed theme-park practice: refurbishments. Shutting down an attraction for an extended period to perform some necessary maintenance, or to slap on a new coat of paint, is easiest when the crowds are lowest, and Universal is taking full advantage of the slow season: Revenge of the Mummy is already closed until January 15, Jurassic Park River Adventure will follow on the 11th (through the 29th), and three others land at the end of the month and the beginning of the next.

For a full listing – and for a general overview of the day-to-day operations at Universal Orlando Resort – click here.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for all the latest info. And then be sure to discuss everything with 110,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook.

The post EPCOT festivals, Nintendo World food, and a VelociCoaster sneak peek: Your weekly theme-park recap (Jan. 4-10, 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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We hope you had a good Thanksgiving! Here’s what you need to know in the world of Orlando theme-park news for the week of November 23-30, 2020.

1. We’ve seen the future of theme parks, and it’s called Super Nintendo World. At a Japanese news conference, Universal and Nintendo showed off the queue and ride vehicle of Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge, revealed some of its seriously-cutting-edge ride experience, provided the backstory of Yoshi’s Adventure, and unveiled the first concept art of an interactive boss battle (which can be unlocked by collecting virtual items with your optional [and premium] Power Up Band). We can’t wait for it all to come to Universal Orlando Resort, whenever that may now be.

Have your breath taken away here.

2. Hello, VelociCoaster! We’ve been watching the construction of Jurassic World VelociCoaster with bated breath ever since January 2019, when construction walls mysteriously appeared overnight – and, now, we get to see what the roller coaster looks like with some of those walls coming down, including our very first glimpse of a brand-new, Jurassic World-themed merchandise kiosk. (To say we’re excited, even at this limited sneak peek, is an understatement!)

You can see for yourself here.

3. International flights might be intermittent right now, thanks to the still-raging COVID-19 pandemic, but we’re hopeful for a more-or-less return to normal next year – and, to prepare for that eventuality, we have a handy, dandy new guide to help all of our overseas friends navigate their way through Orlando International Airport.

Find out everything you need to know here.

4. And once you get here, you’ll need a place to stay, right? Even for domestic visitors to Universal Orlando Resort, there’s an array of options to consider, most especially with the Universal Partner Hotels (those are the Universal-approved, third-party venues that still offer some nifty theme-park benefits). We walk you through our four favorites, running down both the pros and the cons of each.

See that list here.

5. Now that Thanksgiving is over, it’s time to look ahead to the end of the year – and that means gearing up for New Year’s Eve, a holiday which is typically celebrated in style at Universal Orlando. Yes, 2020 has put something of a (necessary) damper on the proceedings, but there’s still much to do at the resort, most especially at the hotels.

Discover what Hard Rock Hotel, Royal Pacific Resort, Cabana Bay Beach Resort, and Surfside Inn and Suites have in store for you here.

And just a brief programming note before we go: we’re going to be away for the next two weeks due to some goings-on at Universal Orlando Resort that make it the busiest (and most fun!) time of the year for the Orlando Informer team. We’ll catch you the week of December 13th – until then, stay safe and enjoy the warm atmosphere that only the holidays can provide.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for all the latest info. And then be sure to discuss everything with 110,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook.

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If you’re not sure where to begin when it comes to Customs and Immigration, documentation, or baggage claim, that’s completely understandable – but worry no longer! I’m here to serve as your international guide, ushering you through the arrival process from the moment you step off the plane and take your first steps in sunny Florida.

Let’s jump right in!

Arriving from outside the United States

You’ve managed what seemed impossible: everyone has checked in, no one has lost a bag, a child, or his temper, and you’ve landed safely in Florida. It’s time to hit Universal Orlando Resort!

Well, it’s almost time. First, you need to clear US Customs & Immigration, so head right to the Customs and Border Protection checkpoint. There, you’ll pass through a biometric scanner and receive an electronic I-94 form. This document keeps track of your arrival and departure to and from America, proving that you entered lawfully and showing the date by which you must leave the country. You’ll also get a stamp on your passport – how fun!

The Customs and Border Protection officer who issues your I-94 and stamps your passport should inform you about how to access the electronic form; if not, you can always do so by using the CBP online system. (I would recommend printing a copy of the form for your records.) Overall, the process is quite straightforward, so don’t stress about it!

What if I have an American passport?

In that case, I have good news for you: you don’t need an I-94! Simply hop in the checkpoint’s queue for those with US passports.

If you’re interested in saving even more time, you may want to look into a Trusted Traveler Program. There are a few options to choose from, including Global Entry, which costs $100 and lasts for five years. This program includes TSA PreCheck, which will help you save more time still at airport security.

You can browse all of the options at the DHS website, where you’ll also find a handy survey to help determine which one best fits your needs.

Time to collect your baggage

Congratulations – you’re in! Next up, it’s time to collect your baggage and officially clear Customs. To do so, simply grab your baggage from the carousel and present it, along with your Customs Declaration Form, to an officer. They may check your document and search your luggage, but don’t sweat it – if you comply with all of their requests, you should have no trouble at all.

Once you’ve cleared Customs & Immigration, you can either keep your luggage with you as you travel to the Main Terminal, or you can have it transported there for you. If you choose to have it transported, your baggage will be delivered to either Side A or Side B, depending on the terminal that your plane arrived in. This information should be announced to you while you’re still on the plane, but don’t worry if you forget; there are screens located conveniently throughout the airport that will display your flight number and baggage carousel location.

All you have to do now is hop on the Automated People Mover (your first attraction of the vacation) and enjoy the ride to the Main Terminal! It’s a short trip – just over a minute long – so be sure to take it all in, including the personal welcome from our beloved mayor, Buddy Dyer. If you chose to keep your luggage with you, you’re ready to depart from the airport. If you had it transported, follow the signage and announcements to Baggage Claim A or B to pick up your belongings, and you’ll be good to go!

Bonus tips for navigating Orlando International Airport

Luckily, Orlando International Airport isn’t too difficult to navigate. Still, these additional tips will help you shave a little more time off your arrival process— and, by extension, buy you more time in the theme parks:

1. Sit closer to the front of the airplane, if possible. The closer you are to the front of the plane, the faster you can exit and make your way to the Customs and Border Protection checkpoint.
2. In the same vein, be prepared to disembark from the plane. There are almost certainly other passengers onboard that will be headed to the Customs and Border Protection checkpoint with you, so make sure you’re off the plane as quickly as you can to minimize the chances of waiting in a long line. (In other words, you should avoid having to repack your entire life into your carry-on luggage, if possible!)
3. If you are flying from Europe, see if you can route through the Dublin or Shannon Airports in Ireland. These airports are home to Customs and Border Protection Preclearance facilities, meaning you can clear Customs before arriving in the United States. This will allow you to be treated as a domestic passenger upon arrival, thereby saving you a lot of time!

Congratulations – you’ve officially arrived. Now, it’s time for the fun to begin!

Are you a regular international visitor to the Orlando theme parks? Share your travel tips with 150,000+ other fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook.

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Here’s what you need to know in the world of Orlando theme-park news for the week of November 9-15, 2020.

1. The holidays are here at Universal Orlando! Christmas arrived in full force this weekend, unleashing a whole host of new experiences, sweets, and decorations – but the biggest item on this list, for sure, is the first-ever Holiday Tribute Store. Four rooms (themed to a German Christmas market, the Grinch, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and the now-legendary Earl the Squirrel) combine a wide swath of treats and merchandise with some incredible sights and sounds.

Get the scoop here, and then take a festive walk-through with us here.

2. There’s so much yuletide goodness to cover, we’ve been working around the clock this whole past week to keep our Christmas guides up-to-date. Get the rundown on what new food and drink items are available, where all of the Holiday Tree Hunt locations are, and what’s replacing the cancelled Holiday Parade Featuring Macy’s.

Get fully informed here.

3. We got an even bigger, better look at Florida’s most intense roller coaster this past week. Called Iron Gwazi, it’s a hyper hybrid coaster, it’s located at Busch Gardens Tampa, and it’s been dark for most of this year, thanks to the park closures and restrictions caused by the still-ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Unfamiliar with what a hybrid coaster is? That’s all right – all you really need to know is that it’s the tallest one on the continent, and that it’s the fastest and steepest in the entire world. And now you can see what, exactly, it’ll be like to ride it thanks to a brand-new POV video.

See for yourself – if you dare! – here.

4. You deserve to kick back with a few good drinks after surviving yet another week, and Loews Hotels & Co. is here to help with that reward. In fact, the company has offered up a whole new nationwide program, helping to bring its various regional cocktails home to guests everywhere.

In the case of Universal Orlando, that means two delectable libations from the likes of Portofino Bay Hotel and Royal Pacific Resort. Get the recipes here.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for all the latest info. And then be sure to discuss everything with 110,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook.

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After originally being revealed by SeaWorld in September 2019 for a debut sometime in the spring of 2020, the roller coaster went dark alongside Busch Gardens Tampa, its mother park, when it closed on March 16 due to the coronavirus pandemic. And the timing couldn’t have been worse – the hyper hybrid coaster had just started testing on March 9 and was, of course, forced to stop when the theme park did (“testing,” in this case, meaning that empty ride vehicles were cycled through the track as trial runs). After spending some time deliberating on what to do, Busch Gardens management eventually opted to push the grand opening back by a full year, to spring ’21, when they hoped a (more or less) normal vacation season would be gearing back up.

(Busch Gardens Tampa, unfortunately, wasn’t the only location in SeaWorld Entertainment’s theme-park portfolio to have its headlining attraction for that year be delayed – Ice Breaker at SeaWorld Orlando, Pantheon at Busch Gardens Williamsburg, and Emperor at SeaWorld San Diego were also bumped to ‘21.)

All of which leads us to today. After recommencing testing on the formidable Iron Gwazi’s track back in August, fans have today been gifted something far bigger and far more exciting: the first-ever point-of-view video of the entire ride experience – and it really is something to be seen.

Just as a reminder – and just in case that POV wasn’t clear enough – Iron Gwazi will be, when it opens in the spring, the tallest hybrid coaster on the continent and the fastest and steepest both in the entire world. (Need a refresher on the terms “hyper” and “hybrid,” as well? No problem – hyper refers to the fact that it will be over 200 feet tall [a rarity in Florida], while hybrid means that it’ll be constituted of both wooden and steel components. Hybrids are something of a new trend in the coaster industry, and they’re certainly one of the most fun.)

Iron Gwazi debuts at Busch Gardens Tampa in spring 2021.

Are you excited to hop on Florida’s most intense coaster? Share your enthusiasm with 150,000+ other Central Florida 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 theme park’s annual Christmas Town event, which is included with normal admission, will kick off for a special preview weekend on Saturday and Sunday, November 14 and 15 – look for some holiday light displays and “select entertainment elements” to be up and running. Then everything goes into full swing – and normal daily operation – starting on Friday, November 20, running all the way through Sunday, January 3.

There are a few other new additions for this year, as well: Spark the Night, a fireworks show, will be held at the Festival field, allowing guests to socially distance while watching “festive bursts of Christmas color” overhead. Then there’s the food-and-drink menu that was personally helmed by a chef and mixologist, the latter of which includes such all-new cocktails as the Winter Wonderland Hot Toddy (made with winter cider, honey whiskey, and a chai infusion) and Spiked Hot Coca (gingerbread crumbles, caramel, and whipped cream). The food portion, meanwhile, brandishes a Christmas Town Sampler Lanyard, which – not unlike Universal Orlando Resort’s Mardi Gras celebration – allows guests to sample a number of bites for one flat price (starting at $34.95 for a five-punch lanyard).

The returning portions of Christmas Town, meanwhile, consist of the millions of twinkling Christmas lights, holiday shopping (with some exclusive merchandise for 2020 thrown into the mix), the Holly Jolly Express train ride, and a trio of shows: Christmas on Ice (the long-running ice-skating production), Elmo’s Christmas Wish (a sing-and-dance-along), and Three Kings Journey (a musical retelling of the traditional story), which have all been moved to outdoor venues to allow for social distancing.

Speaking of social distancing, all of the traditional meet-‘n-greet opportunities have been made contact-less and remote – Santa Claus and his elves, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and Clarice, an assortment of Sesame Street characters (decked out in their yuletide best, of course), and a panoply of Christmas Town personalities, including the Sugar Plum Princess, Ice Princess, Poinsettia Princess, and some “jolly” snowmen.

It’s important to note here that not every holiday feature will be available on every date, so be sure to check Busch Gardens’s website before you make your plans – and park reservations, which, yes, are still required for entry. Indeed, all of the now-standard safety protocols will still be intact for the annual event, such as enhanced sanitation, temperature checks, and reduced capacity.

Christmas Town runs from November 20, 2020 through January 3, 2021 at Busch Gardens Tampa.

Have you been to Busch Gardens Tampa’s Christmas celebration before? How does it stack up to the other theme parks’ events? Tell 150,000+ other Central Florida die-hards 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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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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If you’re on a Walt Disney World vacation, enjoying Universal Orlando, or exploring the local area, these are the best places to find a burger in the City Beautiful.

The best burgers at Walt Disney World

If you’re enjoying Magic Kingdom, both Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn Cafe and Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe are popular spots for a quick meal. The burgers here are not mind-blowing, but the toppings bar at each location allows you to fully customize your sandwich. (We should note that, for the foreseeable future, toppings bars are removed at all locations due to COVID-19, but you can still customize your order on Disney’s mobile app).

A satisfying plant-based burger can be found at Regal Eagle Smokehouse at EPCOT – the BBQ Jackfruit Burger with plant-based mayo is a hearty such option. If you’re at Animal Kingdom – and if you like to experiment – head to Satu’li Canteen inside Pandora – The World of Avatar. Here, you can find one of the most creative takes on a cheeseburger in all of Orlando: the Steamed Cheeseburger Pods, which are a flavorful twist and worth ordering.

For upscale gourmet burgers, consider the Welsh Pub Burger at EPCOT’s Rose & Crown British Pub or the OMG Burger at Disney Springs’s Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant. Both are sinful, with savory toppings like beer cheese and caramelized onions and leeks.

Don’t overlook Walt Disney World Resort’s hotels, several of which feature some fantastic options. One of my favorite dining spots in all of Disney World is Geyser Point Bar & Grill at Wilderness Lodge Resort; this lakeside open-air lounge-style restaurant is relaxing and serves a delicious Bison Cheeseburger, which boasts a lean and flavorful bison patty that’s topped with bacon, crispy onion straws, marionberry sauce, lettuce, tomato, and garlic aioili. And then there’s Ale & Compass Restaurant at Yacht Club Resort, where you can savor the rich flavors of the Bacon and Vermont Cheddar Burger – as the name implies, smoky bacon and sharp Vermont chedder top this sandwich, as do caramelized onions and herb mayo.

The best burgers at Universal Orlando

Among the excitement of thrill rides and immersive experiences, there are great dining choices to be had at Universal Orlando Resort. Inside Universal Studios Florida, you can eat your way through Fast Food Boulevard at Springfield: Home of the Simpsons, where you will – naturally – find Krusty Burger. The burgers here are some of my favorite Universal eats because of the secret and cheddar-cheese sauces they use. Plus, they pair perfectly with a Duff draft beer!

Also inside the theme park is Finnegan’s Bar & Grill, a beloved Irish pub-style restaurant that’s a popular place among fans of Universal Orlando. The Webb Burger is a creative dish – a half-pound beef patty is topped with corned beef, Swiss cheese, and an onion-and-potato webb. It’ll make you raise a glass and say, “Sláinte!”

Over at Islands of Adventure is a burger that adventurous eaters are sure to love. You can devour the Mythos Signature Lamb Burger at – where else? – Mythos, an iconic restaurant with a mythical Greco-Roman theme. It’s hard for me to resist a lamb burger, and this one is no exception – the patty itself is hand-packed, giving it a hearty, fresh flavor, and the grilled onions and feta-olive aioli on it take it over the top.

Finally, at CityWalk there are plenty of great burgers to enjoy – in fact, the very best burgers at all of Universal Orlando can be found at The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen. There are four gourmet choices to savor, and it is hard to pick a favorite: bacon lovers will gravitate to the May Contain Bacon Burger or the Cheddar Bacon Burger; cheese lovers will dig the Pub It Up Burger, with its cheddar cheese and colby andouille queso (plus the grain mustard on a pretzel bun); and, finally, the Tour de France is Universal’s most indulgent burger, with bibb lettuce, roasted tomatoes, a sunny-side-up egg, avocado, crispy onions, French Brie, and a half-pound beef patty, all on toasted brioche.

The newest restaurant at Universal Orlando, Bigfire, offers a savory Bison Burger. And I’d be remiss if I didn’t include the home of cheeseburgers in paradise, Jimmy Buffett’s Margartaville – few things make me happier than sitting outside and listening to Jimmy Buffett music while munching on a cheeseburger and sipping a cold Landshark draft beer.

Best local restaurants for burgers in Orlando

Take a break from the Orlando theme parks and check out the best local spots for a burger.

Near Universal Orlando Resort, you can explore Restaurant Row, along Sand Lake Road. You’ll find The Whiskey here, which many locals consider to serve the very best burgers in the entire city – it’s impossible to select a favorite, but if you want something you can’t get anywhere else, consider getting The Salty Pear, with its whiskey onions, bourbon poached pear, and a dollop of creamy brie. There’s also Teak Neighborhood Grill, another local favorite which houses some of the most creative burgers in all of the Orlando area; options range from the super spicy Wholey HELL to The Waffle Burger, which replaces the traditional bun with two homemade waffles!

On International Drive, you can indulge in Twisted Stuffed Burgers at Hash House a Go Go. These big burgers can have a variety of toppings on them, with stuffing in-between two beef patties. Tin Roof lets you enjoy awesome live music while chowing down on such tasty morsels as the Southern Burger, with its bacon jam and smoked cheddar cheese.

Not too far from Universal Orlando, on Kirkman Road, is Junior Columbian Burger. This small and super-casual burger joint offers a big variety of sandwiches, plus a few Columbian street-food items. For something different, go for the Chicken Burger, Turkey Burger, or the Burger Dog, which is a burger topped with a hot dog and crispy potato sticks.

A local burger-bar chain, Graffiti Junktion has multiple locations in the area. No matter which you choose, you’ll be greeted by colorful, graffiti-covered walls, a full bar, and a casual experience. The burgers range from classic to extravagant, and there’s even an Impossible Burger selection, too. The Iron City burger is popular and is topped with shaved ham, fried eggs, American cheese, and sauteed onions.

The final best place is a family favorite of mine that I have been going to for nearly 30 years. Colorado’s Prime Steak is quite a drive from the Orlando attractions area, but if you’re flying into Sanford International Airport, it is just 10 minutes away. A really good burger deserves really good French fries, and no place does fries better in the City Beautiful than Colorado’s Prime. As soon as you enter the dining room, you’ll see a board that is updated daily to highlight where the potatoes used to make the fries were grown. The burgers are simple, but the patties are made with ground sirloin.

A great trip to Orlando deserves a great hamburger, and this is just a sampling of the best of the best. Do you have a favorite burger place in the area? Let 100,000+ other theme-park 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 destinations.

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You’ve seen that Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resorts are welcoming back guests. Due to the ever-present coronavirus, though, the theme parks and resorts have made considerable adjustments that will impact your visit. Here are some tips for visiting the parks during the age of the COVID-19 pandemic.

1. Review park guidelines

Understanding how the theme parks are currently operating is essential. We have articles on the changes that both Universal and Disney have put in place – take time to read them, as well as the resorts’ official sites. They will help you set your expectations; you won’t be caught off guard as to why, for example, FastPass+ isn’t available. And these guidelines will help inform you of what you need to pack/purchase beforehand.

After looking over the guidelines, you may feel differently about visiting with your family. That’s fine and understandable! The parks will always be there waiting for you. 

2. Advance tickets/reservations

You’ve heard us say this before, but it’s vital now – purchase your park tickets before you arrive. Having your passes in hand means one less line you’ll have to wait in.

For Disney World, there is the extra step of having to obtain a Disney Parks Pass reservation. Remember, you need to purchase your tickets before making a reservation, and understand that the day you want to visit may not have any reservations left. (Also, for now, there is no park hopping at Disney World – keep that in mind as you plan.)

3. Mask up

Masks or face shields are required for your visit to either Disney or Universal. Take a look at the resorts’ guidelines for specific mask/age requirements. But, put basically, masks must be secured under the chin with loops or ties – no gaiters or bandannas. If you’re spending multiple days in the parks, we recommend wearing a new mask each day or washing them between visits. Think of it like this: each day you will wear a new shirt, new mask, and new pair of underwear!

Before you head to the theme parks, find one or two masks that are comfortable and give them a test run. Give extra consideration for kiddos that aren’t used to wearing them. Have a family conversation as to why it’s important that they use them in the parks. 

4. Mobile ready

OMG – you can purchase your pink spirit jersey with your phone! In order to reduce contact, the parks are heavily encouraging paying with a mobile device. Before you arrive, set up payments in Google Pay or Apple Pay and familiarize yourself with how it works. (Note: paying for coffee with your watch is legit life changing).

While you’re at it, download the official apps for Disney World and Universal Orlando. The parks have reduced paper map availability, and the apps also give you wait times and mobile food ordering – as well as pinpointing the location of the nearest restroom (huge win for parents). You also need the My Disney Experience app to make your Park Pass reservation, so that’s another reason to completely rely on your phone for any and all interaction. 

5. Consider your transportation

Disney’s transportation has been adjusted to allow for appropriate social distancing. Those changes can impact your visit.  Buses, boats, Disney Skyliner, and monorails are operating with reduced capacity – you may be waiting for a few buses to “fill up” before getting on. Currently, there are no parking lot trams available at any of the four Disney theme parks. That can be a 10 to 15 minute walk – in the Florida sun – to the main entrance.

If these things worry you, consider renting/traveling in your own car – a mask-free and air-conditioned vehicle can come in handy after a day in the parks.  

6. Other supplies

There are a few other “must haves” to pack on your trip. First off, there are masks – you can bring your own, but know that all of the parks are selling them, too. Personal bottles of hand sanitizer will be very useful, as well. You may take your mask off on some water rides (check the specific attraction), so keep a plastic bag handy to place them in.  Also, consider bringing a personal touchless thermometer with you and keep it in your hotel room. If you find someone in your party is running a 100.4-degree temperature, she will not be allowed in the park – better to figure that out before you make it to the turnstiles.

7. Note relaxation stations

It’s Florida – you need to get out of this confounded mask for five minutes or you’ll go insane! Both Universal and Disney have set up relaxation stations. These are shaded areas where you may take off your face covering and chill for a few moments (just make sure you’re six feet away from other parties). Check the park app or ask a team member to find the nearest location.

8. Manage your expectations

As you’ve no doubt heard, we are living in challenging times. A theme park is a place for escape and reassurance – seeing social-distancing markers is a real-word intrusion on the park-going experience. The companies are adjusting to this “new normal” to keep guests and employees safe while still providing the fun and enjoyment we seek at these resorts. 

Create a new mindset – and set of expectations – before you arrive at Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resorts. This won’t be like your last visit; it will be strange to have your temperature checked, wear a mask, and not have the chance to hug Goofy. You may not get your favorite table in The Three Broomsticks or that prime seat on Rock ‘n Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith due to social distancing. By following these tips, however, you will still manage to have a tiny bit of magic in an uncertain world.

Discuss your current travel plans to Orlando with 100,000+ 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.

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One of these ways is the resurgence in popularity of a classic: the drive-in movie theater. It goes without saying that social-distancing is part of any drive-in’s nature, making it a great alternative to its indoor siblings. My favorite one is Silver Moon Drive-In, located in Lakeland, Florida – here’s why.

Silver Moon Drive-In – social distancing at the movies

As one of the surviving retro-gems of a bygone era, Silver Moon Drive-In offers not only a nostalgic trip back to simpler times, but also a great way to safely enjoy a night at the movies. Since 1948, the locally-owned and -operated establishment has showcased double features on a nightly basis. The dual, outdoor screens are large enough to see from just about any vantage in either of its two viewing lots. Each parking spot is numbered and has space for two vehicles. Whenever I’ve attended, being able to watch the film usually isn’t an issue, especially considering they respectfully request pick-up trucks and vans to park towards the back, out of courtesy for smaller vehicles.

Budgeting a trip here won’t be hard, as their tickets will run you only $6, plus tax, for everyone 10 years or older and $2 for children between the ages of three and nine. The movie selections change, more or less, on a weekly basis and can vary between new releases and classics. Given the effects of the pandemic, the latter have been the focus recently, but this would still allow for multiple visits. While they do their best to accommodate viewers, the best way to experience the movies’ soundtrack is through the FM dial of your radio; otherwise, outdoor speakers broadcast the features across the lots, and for the small cost of $2 – along with a temporary exchange of your driver’s license – they’ll rent out smaller speakers to mount in your car.

It’s important to know that Lakeland is just under an hour away from Orlando, meaning that you’ll want to allow for the commute in addition to Silver Moon’s advice of arriving early. This may sound like a little much, but it’s all worth it – trust me! I’d also advise to go during the week, as it’s typically less busy, and it’s suggested to arrive just 30 minutes prior to the start of the feature; however, if you’re committed to the weekends, you’ll want to be at the theater an hour early, as the showings will naturally be of higher interest on these days.

Silver Moon Drive-In – the snack bar

What true, big-screen experience isn’t complete without snacks? Silver Moon’s snack bar has many of the traditional culinary cinematic pairings, and then some.

Spoiler alert: they’re actually affordable! The freshly prepared menu tops off at $7.50, plus tax, and this culprit is also their most popular item: a 14-inch, fresh-baked, house-made handmade pizza! It also comes in a half-size for $4, or you can get a personal “fiesta pizza” for $2 (yum!). Of course, if pizza isn’t your thing, that’s fine – the theater’s snack bar offers other choices, too, like popcorn, hot dogs, nachos, or candy at a (comparatively) low cost of $2 to $4 per item.

It isn’t just about food at the concession stand. For those particularly swampy nights that Florida is known for, patrons can purchase mosquito wipes and coils that are almost necessary to deter our pesky little neighbors, as well as the theater’s official t-shirts. Don’t feel too bad if you can’t make it out their way but still want to show your support – you can also find their shirts on Silver Moon’s online store.

On that note, although the theater welcomes you to bring your own treats to chow on, the snack bar is also what helps to keep this theater running – so, if you want to help this local business, arrive hungry! As a bonus, if you spend $25 or more in concessions, they’ll even reward you with a free movie ticket for your next visit. I’d call that a mutual investment!

Silver Moon Drive-In – swap shop weekends

On Saturday and Sunday mornings, when the cinema isn’t operating, the drive-in doubles as a swap shop. If you’re a fan of flea markets and the like, this would be right up your alley. Every weekend morning starting at 5:00, everyone is welcomed to meander the vendors’ wares that are for sale and trade – or, even, sell – something of his own. Admission and parking is free while the swap shop is open (unless you want to set up a table). Anyone interested in being a dealer can do so by contacting Silver Moon and paying a set-up fee of $5 on Saturdays and $15 on Sundays. 

The swap shop typically lasts until around noon and takes place under the shade of their large canopy located by the snack bar. It’s worth anyone’s time to check it out and, even, come back for another visit, since their merchandise changes weekly. Patrons can find just about anything, including produce, DVDs, and antiques. And for anyone who needs to fuel up during the swap meet, the snack bar is open and serves up some tasty breakfast options.

Silver Moon Drive-In – final thoughts

On our last visit to watch a Bill Murry and Harold Ramis double feature of Stripes and Ghostbusters, my wife and I can say we felt safe and comfortable the entire time. Seeing the films from the safety and comfort of our vehicle made it feel like we were in our own private, movie-viewing capsule and was the very definition of social distancing. Throughout the property, the theater’s employees were doing their part in respect to the CDC guidelines by properly wearing masks and maintaining the cleanliness of their facilities, and everyone – including the patrons waiting for their food – were doing their best to maintain their six-foot separation at the snack bar and bathrooms.

Their service was top-notch, as well, from the booth attendant’s smiling eyes and kind voice directing us to our viewing lot to the snack bar displaying the wait time for their made-to-order items. Overall, Silver Moon Drive-In has consistently delivered an exceptional experience any time we’ve gone – you seriously couldn’t ask for anything better.

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Featured image: Silver Moon and Cinema Treasures

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Central Florida’s Space Coast has beautiful beaches and access to an incredible visitors’ complex, the Kennedy Space Center. With rocket launches happening practically every month, and a renewed excitement in space exploration, there is a lot to do here. Read on for important tips and information about planning your future visit.

(Please note that Kennedy may not be fully up to operational standards, thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic. Be sure to check with them directly first, and if they’re not fully open, bookmark this article and read up again before your next outing.)

Exhibits and attractions at Kennedy Space Center

The Kennedy Space Center is more than a museum – there is a number of interactive experiences to encounter here, as well. Some of these activities are very hands-on; others consist of historical artifacts from the space program, such as space suits, equipment, and actual spacecraft.

One of my favorite attractions is Apollo/Saturn V Center: Race to the Moon, which has multiple exhibits. You start off with a short film and then enter the Firing Room Theater, where you see actual consoles that were used to launch the Apollo 8 mission to orbit the moon. In a dramatic presentation, you’ll experience first-hand the thrill and excitement of being in the firing room during an attempted take-off. Afterwards, you get an incredible up-close look at the actual Saturn V rocket (every human being who stepped foot on the moon launched from Kennedy Space Center atop a Saturn V). The rocket is on its side, elevated above the ground so you can walk under it and marvel at its mass.

An absolute must-do is the Space Shuttle Atlantis Zone – besides the bus tour (which we will get to in a short bit), the Atlantis attraction is my favorite at Kennedy. As you approach the towering building, you’ll see a large replica of a space shuttle, and once inside, you will view a captivating film, which gives way to jaw-dropping exhibits.

The most incredible part of this zone, of course, is the chance to see the Atlantis itself in person. The designers here did an incredible job at presenting the shuttle in a way that makes it both accessible and regal. (The space shuttle program has a huge place in my heart – I was fortunate enough to have grown up in Orlando during its heyday, and standing outside or driving to the beach to see a launch was as regular as going to see a neighborhood friend.)

Also in this Space Shuttle Zone, you can learn about the incredible Hubble telescope – NASA’s first space-exploration satellite and the basis of much of our modern knowledge about the final frontier – and experience the rush of a launch firsthand thanks to the Space Shuttle Launch Experience. This is a thrilling ride that was designed with the input of real astronauts and engineers in order to provide the authentic feeling of force (and just a touch of weightlessness).

Do not leave this area without paying a visit to the Forever Remembered exhibit. This solemn-but-uplifting section honors the fallen astronauts of the space shuttles Challenger and Columbia – it took my breath away and brought tears to my eyes. Growing up in Orlando, I remember both of these tragedies vividly, and I’m impressed at the tasteful and educational way they’re presented here.

Outdoor activities at Kennedy Space Center

Most of the experiences at the Kennedy Space Center are indoors; however, there are a few ways to enjoy the sunshine while exploring the fascinating universe of outer space. One of the most photographed areas at the visitors’ complex is the Rocket Garden, where you walk among actual spaceships. The rockets of the Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo programs are represented here. Be sure to take the time to read the plaques and information as you stroll and take photos among these giants.

It may be obvious, but Kennedy Space Center is named in honor of President John F. Kennedy. (It was entitled such in 1963 as the president inspired the country to head to the moon.) Don’t miss the beautiful fountain in his honor – or the Historic Countdown Clock, an iconic sight as millions watched rocket and space shuttle launches. After it was replaced by a newer version, it was retired and given a home here.

A relatively new addition is the “Step. Power. Launch.” walkway, which is made of special tiles that generate power when you step on them. This is done via Piezoelectric technology that was developed by the Georgia Tech Research Institute.

Bus tour at Kennedy Space Center

One of the main highlights of visiting Kennedy Space Center is embarking on the bus tour. This experience is included in daily admission, even though it feels like a VIP tour. It’ll take you to historic sites of past launches as well as operational spaceflight facilities, replete with a live tour guide. You will make a few stops, and you are welcome to linger at each one for as long as you wish.

This is also how you access the Apollo/Saturn V Center. Many visitors decide to eat lunch here, since there’s a food court with both indoor and outdoor seating. Another highlight of the bus tour, though, is going past a nature preserve, where you may spot some of Florida’s incredible wildlife, like bald eagles and, of course, alligators.

Those looking to enhance their visit and get into deep space should consider an upgraded tour:

• Explore Tour – this is a great choice for those who do not want to get too deep or stray too far from the regular Kennedy experience but still enhance their visit. You’ll get access to photo opportunities that others do not and get a closer view of some of the spaceflight icons.
• Early Space Tour – if you’re a history buff, then you’ll definitely want to consider this one. You’ll get to visit the place where America’s space program was born, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.
• Cape Canaveral’s Rise to Space Tour – for some additional historic sites (with a mix of Florida’s natural beauty), opt for this tour. You’ll get to see Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, the Sands Space History Center, and the Cape Canaveral Lighthouse.
• Fly with an Astronaut – on this special experience, you’ll tour Kennedy Space Center, have lunch, and then ride the Shuttle Launch Experience with an astronaut, who stays by your side the entire time.

How far is Kennedy Space Center from Orlando?

Kennedy Space Center is located on Merritt Island in Florida. It is so large and encompassing that Kennedy has its own ZIP code! Merritt Island is near famous Cocoa Beach, which is also the closest beach to Orlando. Additionally, Titusville is near the complex and is a charming town full of history and connections to the space program – if you’re looking for a side trip while in the area, I recommend a stop at historic downtown Titusville.

There is a toll road, 528, that connects Orlando to Cocoa Beach, Merritt Island, and Port Canaveral. While this “Beach Line” does cost about $5 roundtrip, it will get you to Cocoa Beach or Kennedy Space Center in just about an hour.

Tips and information about Kennedy Space Center

• Besides the attractions and activities I’ve mentioned, there are also IMAX movies and a chance to meet an astronaut each day (there’s at least one present, and he may conduct a short presentation, answer questions, or do a meet-and-greet).
• There are three casual dining locations. Each offers vegetarian and gluten-free choices besides a menu of lunchtime favorites.
• One of the unique features here is the presence of a free on-site kennel! Be sure to read up on the requirements before your visit.
• There is a fee for parking, which, at the time of publication, is $10 for cars and $5 for motorcycles.
• Small personal coolers are allowed if you wish to bring your own food. (All items are subject to security search.)
• There is a lot to explore, and you can easily spend your entire day here, so dress comfortably, and enjoy!

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(Please note that some of these locations may not be fully up to operational standards, thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic. Be sure to check with them directly first, and if they’re not fully open, bookmark this article and read up again before your next outing.)

Indoor attractions near Universal Orlando

Universal Orlando Resort is near International Drive. In this attractions area, you can find endless ways to have fun.

Two of the most well-known experiences here are Ripley’s Believe It or Not and WonderWorks. Both venues offer lots of interactive exhibits that are loads of fun. You might even learn something interesting, too!

Further down I-Drive is ICON Park, which is an outdoor shopping and dining area and which is itself home to two fun indoor attractions. Madame Tussauds Orlando is the go-to spot if you want tons of awesome photo opportunities with unbelievable life-like wax figures of celebrities. And in the same building is Sea Life Aquarium, which allows you to explore the underwater world in a variety of ways (this is an especially great time for younger kids).

Additionally, you can crank up the adrenaline at two different indoor go-kart tracks: both K1 Speed and Andretti Indoor Karting give you a pulse-pounding experience of racing premium go-karts on expertly designed indoor courses. Andretti also has an arcade, bowling, laser tag, a ropes course, and more, which you can read all about in our write-up.

Cap off your exploration of International Drive’s indoor experiences with a visit to ICEBAR Orlando, the world’s largest permanent bar made of ice. Check out the amazing ice sculptures that double as fantastic photo ops, and then try the equally good food and drinks. And then, when you’re done, warm back up inside Fire Lounge, which has an extensive food and beverage menu. (Before 9:00 pm, families with kids ages eight and older are welcome to visit.)

Indoor attractions near Walt Disney World

On Walt Disney World Resort property is Disney Springs, a haven for shopping and dining that is beloved by visitors and locals alike. There are three indoor attractions here that are a great way to escape the brutal heat or intense Florida storms. The NBA Experience is a must-do for any sports fan – there are countless hands-on activities that test your athletic ability and give you some really cool sports knowledge to impress your friends with later.

Then there’s the virtual-reality experience that elevates all VR standards. The VOID at Disney Springs puts you in the middle of some of your most beloved Disney movies – like Ralph Breaks VR or the previous entry, Star Wars: Secrets of the Empire. No matter what’s on tap when you arrive, your mind will be blown by the immersion and effects.

And although bowling alleys aren’t usually considered major attractions, you’ll find one at Disney Springs that is far from ordinary. Splitsville Luxury Lanes is an upgraded bowling experience. You can do far more than just bowl at this two-story entertainment venue – there’s billiards, live music at night, and great food and drinks.

Near Disney World, in Kissimmee, is Margaritaville Resort Orlando. At this tropical-themed getaway is Sunset Walk, an outdoor dining and shopping area that is open to anyone and features free parking. Look for GameTime here, a robust indoor activity center that has 24,000 square feet of fun – there are new and retro videogames, prize machines, and other interactive games, plus food, drinks, and TVs everywhere. (Read more about Margaritaville Resort here.)

Finally, Old Town Kissimmee is just 10 minutes from Walt Disney World, providing classic American fun. Old Town is free to walk around, with shops and dining, plus there are two indoor stops here: the Great Magic Hall and Mortem Manor, both of which have a nostalgic, roadside-attraction feel. Fans of horror and other scary stuff are sure to love Mortem Manor; it was created by Extreme Fear Design & Production, which has designed various experiences around the world. The Great Magic Hall, meanwhile, has live magic shows at 3:00, 7:00, and 9:00 pm.

Local Orlando-area indoor attractions

Inside The Florida Mall is a kid-focused attraction that is worth the trip. The Crayola Experience is as colorful as you’d imagine it to be. It maintains a great balance between artistic activities and science-driven interaction – and many of the experiences result in a take-home creation, leaving you with a little memento of your trip. (It’s just one reason to visit The Florida Mall!)

Near Downtown Orlando, you can explore the beloved Orlando Science Center, which is home to hundreds of fascinating exhibits, including the multi-level one in the atrium that showcases Florida’s natural wetland habitat. You can marvel at an impressive IMAX theater, which often plays fascinating science films. Plus, the Orlando Science Center is located at Loch Haven Park, which is part of Orlando’s corridor of museums, theaters, and beautiful parks.

(And speaking of museums, there are lots of incredible ones around Central Florida – another great way to spend time indoors!)

Orlando’s indoor attractions – other information

Some indoor attractions have limited hours. Many are open seven days a week, but only in the evenings – be sure to review the hours as you plan your trip. Also, many have discounted tickets if you purchase in advance. Some locations crank up the air conditioning in the summer, so if anyone in your party gets chilly easily, he or she may want to have a light sweater to put on once inside.

Have fun, and be ready for lots of photo opportunities!

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It can be hard to find time to sit down and enjoy your trip – however, it is possible. These are some of my favorite ways to find time to relax in Orlando. It’s a vacation, after all!

1. Spend a day at the pool

Instead of spending every day of your trip in the theme parks, allow yourself at least one full day to relax at the pool. (This will also help you get rid of those awful theme-park tan lines!) For a family, this can mean a fun day without having to hustle around the parks; couples, this is your chance to have some alone time and unwind together.

If your schedule is so busy that you only have one day available for pool relaxation, try to put it in the middle of your trip to allow for a break from all of the excitement. If you happen to be staying at one of Universal’s hotels, you can combine this day with some exploration of your resort or of CityWalk.

2. Don’t spend all day, every day in the parks

Whether you want to get out to the theme parks early and stay until the afternoon or you’d rather head out late and stay until closing, it’s not always necessary to remain there the entire day. Unless you’re planning to do all four Disney parks in one day – which I wouldn’t recommend – you should have enough time for plenty of fun if you spend two-thirds, or even half, of a day at the theme parks. They tend to be much more crowded in the morning than in the evening, so if you want to avoid the crowds, try to go later on. (Another bonus of heading out later is the chance to enjoy the evening spectaculars that Disney and Universal offer, such as Happily Ever After at Magic Kingdom or Cinematic Celebration at Universal Studios Florida.)

3. Enjoy a sit-down meal

Depending on when you decide to go to the parks, sitting down and relaxing for a meal can be a great way to unwind for a spell. You’ll definitely be doing a lot of walking during the day – especially when visiting the larger parks, like Magic Kingdom or Animal Kingdom. Instead of grabbing a hot dog or pretzel to eat on the go, sit down at a restaurant or a quick-service location – if you take a little break to eat, you’ll be a lot more energized to have even more fun in the park afterward!

One thing to note, however, is that eating a sit-down meal can be more expensive than a grab-and-go snack. If you’re sticking to a tight budget, plan ahead and choose a dining location that’s in your preferred price range. You’d be surprised to see that, sometimes, a hot dog is just as expensive as a full meal! (Although the relaxation can be worth an upcharge.)

4. Do not rush (unless necessary)

While strolling around the theme parks, I often spot many families speed-walking – or, sometimes, running – to their next destination. The pressure to experience everything there is to see and do can definitely make you feel like you have to rush – but you don’t, I promise! You can still make it to every attraction and show you want to hit up while taking your time and enjoying all the sights and sounds.

The best way to ensure this is by planning your day(s) ahead of time. Use the My Disney Experience or Universal Orlando mobile apps to check ride wait times and show schedules, and adjust your plans accordingly, if needed. (Of course, if you have to find a spot for the 3:00 parade at 2:55 pm, rushing might be your only option. Just try to keep it to a minimum!)

5. Try not to stay up all night

After a long day of exploring Orlando or its theme parks, your best bet is to lie down and get some rest. Sure, it can be tempting to go out to one of the many restaurants or clubs that the city has to offer, but the exhaustion isn’t worth it – trust me. The parks tend to close around 9:00 or 10:00 pm, so you’re already looking at a late night if you plan to stay until closing. The only thing that’s worse than a hectic vacation is an exhausting vacation, but you can avoid this if you head back to your hotel at the end of the day and tuck in.

That’s not to say you shouldn’t experience some of Orlando’s amazing nightlife, though! Just plan ahead so your evening escapades don’t occur the night before an early theme-park morning.

Vacations are supposed to be relaxing – with a little planning, your Orlando trip doesn’t have to be an exception. Follow the above tips, and you’ll be sure to unwind as much as you deserve on your next jaunt to the City Beautiful.

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After closing the theme and water parks of its Universal Orlando Resort back on the night of Sunday, March 15, Universal started to reopen them all on Monday, June 1. There’s something of a catch, however: the first two days were only an internal opening for team members (and their invited guests), allowing the company to gauge the effectiveness of its new safety measures. Attendance was then expanded to a limited number of annual passholders on June 3 and 4, with the general public finally being admitted on Friday the 5th. (For more, see our comprehensive write-up here.)

Those plans had to go through a long process: they were first delivered by Universal to the Orange County Economic Recovery Task Force on the morning of Thursday, May 21, which approved and passed them on to Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings; he, in turn, gave them his stamp of approval the following morning and sent them along to Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’s desk. This results in Universal Orlando being the first major theme park in the United States to open back up after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic (although we should point out that LEGOLAND Florida, during this same time period, obtained permission from both Winter Haven’s mayor and the Polk County Commission to fully reopen on Monday, June 1).

(Wait just a second – what is the Orange County Economic Recovery Task Force? It was created by the county on April 17, as Florida was roughly halfway through its almost-month-long lockdown, to “establish a phased approach to reopening businesses that balances the need to ensure the protection of employees and the public while preserving the economic livelihood of the community.”)

This development caps a long, convoluted process that began quite unexpectedly back in the middle of March, when the country was first realizing the lethality of the novel coronavirus and its unimpeded spread around the world. Universal quickly shut down its parks on March 15, followed by CityWalk on March 17 and its hotels on the 20th (thereby allowing guests to make new accommodations, if necessary). Originally expected to just be a two-week closure, it didn’t take long for it to extend on for months – the parks and resorts were ultimately given a new provisional reopening date of Monday, June 1, with CityWalk actually going ahead and bowing on Thursday, May 14.

The premiere of Universal Orlando’s dinning/shopping/entertainment complex started small, with just a limited sliver of restaurants, stores, and entertainment offerings present – though Universal was so happy with that first day’s results, it quickly added on more venues for the next day. From there, it’s almost been like a sprint to the races: on Wednesday, May 20, at the same time Disney was opening Disney Springs’s doors, Universal had Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer over at its parks to discuss new potential safety measures for their reopening. That, of course, was followed the next day by both LEGOLAND Florida and Universal Orlando’s new proposals to the local and state governments.

A week later, on the morning of May 27, during the Economic Recovery Task Force’s next meeting, SeaWorld and Disney submitted their own reopening plans. On June 10, SeaWorld reopened SeaWorld Orlando for employees only, with June 11 kicking off the general public’s admittance; Disney staked out the dates of July 11 for Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom and July 15 for Epcot and Hollywood Studios. (Having been approved by the task force, they followed the same path as Universal’s petition, first making their way to Mayor Demings and, then, over to Governor DeSantis, who both approved them.)

How are the parks different now that they’re reopening?

Unsurprisingly, all of the Central Florida theme-park operators – LEGOLAND, Universal, SeaWorld, and Disney – are drawing heavily from the CityWalk and Disney Springs reopenings here in Orlando, as well as Shanghai Disney Resort’s March return to operations, to boot.

Let’s take this one step at a time and focus specifically on Universal Orlando, which is emblematic of across-the-board changes:

Resort hours: starting on June 5, both Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure will be open from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. Volcano Bay‘s hours, meanwhile, will be from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, and CityWalk‘s, 8:00 am to 10:00 pm.

Please note that a reservation to enter the parks isn’t required, but their capacity has been limited (at 35% of total occupancy, to start).

Parking at and entering the resort: valet parking continues to be suspended, and cars continue to be spaced out in the garages. Temperature checks proceed (if you have a fever of 100.4 degrees or higher, you won’t be allowed to enter), as is the practice of providing one free disposable face covering if you forget yours at home (oh, yeah – those masks are still mandatory, as well). You’ll also notice that all those social-distancing markers and signs from the dining and shopping district are now present across all three of the parks.

Entering the theme parks: grabbing one of those trusty park guides is slightly different, as Universal no longer has them sitting out on shelves, where multiple people can touch them – instead, employees hand them out individually to those guests who’d really like to have one. (Instead of obtaining a physical map, the company has been trying very hard to steer you towards using its official app, which has a digital map built into it.)

Experiencing the attractions: depending upon the crowd flow and wait times, certain rides may utilize Virtual Line, just like Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon and Fast & Furious – Supercharged already do (essentially, you use the Universal Orlando app or QR codes posted outside of the attractions to nab a return time). All single-rider lines have been discontinued, since travel parties board the ride vehicles together, as a group, with spaces being left on the seats and rows around them. And every guest must use hand sanitizer prior to climbing aboard.

Furthermore, there are a couple more odds and ends to make note of: 3D glasses are now individually handed out (just like those park maps); the misters on the various attractions – yes, that Universal staple – have either been reduced or removed entirely; locker areas have visitors pulsed into them, with the extra precaution of every other locker bank going unused; actors no longer stick around after shows for meet-‘n-greets and now, instead, pose for photos on the stage afterwards; all child play areas, such as Fievel’s Playland and Camp Jurassic, along with all parades are temporarily suspended; and, finally, if the ride involves “significant” amounts of water, you aren’t required to wear your face mask.

Express Passes: let’s talk for just one moment about something that isn’t different – Universal’s Express Passes. They went back on sale on Monday, June 8, but if you’re staying at one of the premier hotels, you’ll still get them for free. Additionally, if you’re a Premier Passholder, you’re still able to use your after-4:00 pm Express benefit, too.

Eating in the parks: menus come in single-use form, allowing patrons to toss them once they’re done eating (or keep them as a free “souvenir”), and silverware comes prepackaged. And as at CityWalk, Universal strongly recommends using mobile order and cashless payment options, such as Apple Pay.

Volcano Bay: according to Universal, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention “has stated that well-maintained pools using chlorine and bromine are known to inactivate the virus.” Still, life vests are regularly cleaned, the quantity of inner tubes in the lazy or action rivers has been lessened, the number of riders on each raft is limited, and lounge chairs have been arranged in clusters that are spaced six feet apart for individual groups’ usage. (Also, face coverings aren’t allowed on the slides or in the pools.)

How are the other theme parks different? Despite being overwhelmingly similar to Universal, the other Orlando operators have a couple of different practices on the books. At LEGOLAND, for instance, cash has been discontinued as a valid payment type.

Disney, meanwhile, has said it’s going to install plexiglass barriers at a lot of its cash registers, will enforce social distancing on its monorails and buses, discontinue makeovers and fireworks shows, push mobile ordering at even more food locations, and, most notably, institute a reservation system that will “require all guests to obtain a reservation for park entry in advance” (more on this in just a moment).

There are two further items at Disney World to highlight: the temperature-screening areas will be positioned right at the front gates of Disney World’s theme parks, and there is a whole bevy of changes coming to the resort’s shopping scene (which you can read more about here).

Finally, SeaWorld has modified certain animal interactions and has also implemented reservations for attendance for all three of its Orlando parks. You can read more about all of this here.

Disney’s new reservation system

Given just how sweeping this change is across all of Walt Disney World, we’ve devoted a whole write-up to it. You can find that here.

What about the theme-park resorts’ hotels?

Now, let’s run down what Universal Orlando’s seven hotels are like now that they’re opened back up again. (Why only seven resorts? Because the eighth – Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites – got its grand opening date pushed back from March 17 to sometime later this summer thanks to the pandemic.)

All but one of the properties, Portofino Bay Hotel, welcomed guests back on Tuesday, June 2. This means that two of the premier venues (Hard Rock Hotel and Royal Pacific Resort), the sole preferred (Sapphire Falls Resort), both of the prime values (Cabana Bay Beach Resort and Aventura Hotel), and the one-for-now value (Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites) are all yours for the booking.

There are a ton of new regulations or safety practices, so let’s start working our way through them:

Theme-park admission: Early Park Admission started being offered again on June 5, from 8:00 to 9:00 am at Universal Studios and from 9:30 to 10:00 am at Volcano Bay.

(Worried about how the hotel guests affect the strict crowd limits being enforced at the parks? Don’t be – Universal has said that, should the parks hit capacity, it will give those individuals staying at the resorts priority.)

Express Passes: as already mentioned, if you’re staying at one of the premier hotels, you’ll still be able to receive complimentary Express Passes during your length of stay (which, as always, includes your check-in and -out dates).

Face masks: just like at CityWalk and the parks, visitors are required to wear face masks while in the hotels’ public spaces, which means when traveling to and from the pools and at their attached bars and bathrooms. Once seated at the pools and maintaining six feet of distance from other travel parties, guests may take off their face coverings. (Please note that the masks aren’t allowed in the water or on the slides.)

Temperature checks: again just like the whole rest of the resort, you will have your temperature checked before being admitted into the hotels (if it’s 100.4 degrees or higher after three attempts, you’ll be barred from entering – though the rest of your party will still be allowed to do so). If your temperature spikes to that level after you’ve already checked in, you’ll be required to self-quarantine (Universal can provide an additional room for the rest of your party) and seek medical attention, and Universal may ask you to leave the premises, as well.

But wait – there’s more. Once you clear the temp check, you’ll receive a wristband for that day, which will tell the Universal team members at other locations (such as the parks) that they won’t need to do so again (or vice versa – if you’re checked first at the parks, you won’t have to be at the resorts).

Possible amenity disruptions: Universal warns that the “availability of food service, pools, fitness centers, and other amenities may be limited due to the increased frequency of cleaning and sanitization or to comply with the latest guidelines and recommendations.”

Enhanced safety practices: guests’ rooms feature “enhanced” cleaning, using an “EPA-approved cleaner and disinfectant,” and hand-sanitizer stations have been erected throughout the building, including at elevator landings. Furthermore, when possible, the guest rooms will be left vacant for 24 to 48 hours after checkout. And, finally, contactless experiences are prized, such as for communicating with the front-desk staff, checking out, and getting room deliveries.

To read even more about all this, be sure to see our on-the-ground write-up (with photos!).

What about over at Disney World?

Over at Walt Disney World, Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground and the various Disney Vacation Club properties will bow on Monday, June 22 – although new reservations are currently temporarily suspended for the former, so as to allow Disney to focus on guests with pre-existing bookings. (Please note, however, that DVC members are still eligible to arrange accommodations.)

In the weeks and months following this kick-off, a number of other hotels will join the reopening ranks:

• July 10 – Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House, Pop Century Resort, Contemporary Resort
• July 29 – Caribbean Beach Resort
• August 12 – Polynesian Village Resort and Art of Animation Resort
• August 24 – Yacht and Beach Club Resorts
• September 21 – Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
• October 1 – BoardWalk Resort
• October 14 – Coronado Springs Resort

As for what new practices will be mandated at the hotels, the company has listed a number that are, by this point, standard: increasing cleaning in high-traffic areas (such as elevators and restrooms), social-distancing tables at the resorts’ restaurants, and expanding the number of hand-sanitizer locations. But there’s also an increased emphasis on online check-in services (at certain venues, at least), and re-engineering bell services to have your luggage dropped off at your room before you set foot in it.

Speaking of your room, it’ll be given an “enhanced” scrubbing before your arrival, but then limited cleaning services throughout your stay – the removal of trash, for instance, and the restocking of towels, which will occur every other day – in order to limit contact. (DVC members, we should point out, will still receive their “traditional housekeeping service.”)

Can I travel to Florida right now?

A lot of individuals have expressed interest in hopping on a plane or in their car and traveling back to Orlando to visit the theme parks, but there is some confusion about whether they may be allowed to, given Governor Ron DeSantis’s travel restrictions. The good news is that the order to quarantine for 14 days once setting foot in Florida is only applicable to a small number of states: namely, New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Louisiana (which have all been coronavirus hotspots over the past three months). Everyone else is able to cross state lines without any holdups at all.

I’d like more theme-park COVID info, please!

Sure! We’d be happy to help.

Here are the articles that we’ve been consistently maintaining during the ongoing coronavirus outbreak:

Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, SeaWorld, and LEGOLAND first shut down

How to visit CityWalk during COVID-19

How to visit Disney Springs during COVID-19

How to visit Universal Orlando’s parks during COVID-19

How to visit Universal Orlando’s hotels during COVID-19

How to visit SeaWorld Orlando during COVID-19

How the Shanghai Disney reopening could influence its Stateside counterparts

Last updated: 12:00 pm, 06.19

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Have questions about the phased reopening at Universal Orlando Resort’s parks? Ask 100,000+ other Universal die-hards in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook.

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The post Universal, SeaWorld, and Disney begin reopening in June and July appeared first on Orlando Informer.

If you like to live it up at night, you’re in luck – there are some great nightclubs in Orlando. We’ve pulled together some of the best.

(Please note that some of these locations may not be fully up to operational standards, thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic. Be sure to check with them directly first, and if they’re not fully open, bookmark this article and read up again before your next outing.)

The best nightclubs near Walt Disney World

Once upon a time, a magical nighttime destination within Walt Disney World Resort welcomed nightclub enthusiasts from around the globe. That destination was Pleasure Island, and it was glorious. Sadly, those days are long gone, but there are still a few places on Disney World property that offer a nightclub experience.

At Disney Springs – at the former site of one of the most beloved Pleasure Island nightclubs, in fact – is The Edison. Although the venue is primarily a restaurant early in the evening, as the night glows on, the nightclub vibes get into gear. The atmosphere is an interesting blend of The Great Gatsby and steampunk – quite an intriguing experience. The dance floor, which is relatively small and positioned in the left side of the space, is also a stage for live performances throughout the night. Prohibition era-inspired cocktails and delicious food are served until late, keeping the party shining into the morning hours.

Sitting along the shore of Crescent Lake, at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn, is Atlantic Dance Club. This storied nightclub has had its peaks and valleys over its multi-decade history, but it remains gorgeous inside – the Art Deco ballroom evokes the time period of dancing the night away to a live orchestra. A DJ often spins hit songs as part of a music-video dance party. Visiting on an off-night, such as in the middle of the week, is not much use, unless you desire to simply take a look around. If a big convention is happening at any of the nearby hotels, though, then you’re in for a fun night, and major holidays are a good bet for a good time, too. This stunning space is available for private events and is popular for wedding receptions and corporate parties, so it is a good idea to check the hours of operation before you plan a night out here.

The best nightclubs near Universal Orlando

At Universal Orlando Resort, you will find a variety of nightclubs. Universal CityWalk contains multiple dance- and nightclubs, each with its own unique offerings, plus a slew of bars and lounges. It is easy to get carried away in a night full of music, dancing, dining, and drinking.

The two dance clubs at CityWalk are the groove and Red Coconut Club. At the former, things get moving late at night; although the doors open earlier, the party really gets going after 11:00 pm. The main dance floor is flanked by a DJ booth and dancer platforms, as well as a stage that often serves as a VIP area. There are multiple bars throughout this two-story venue, and bright lights and thumping club hits fill the air. There are certain themed nights throughout the week, but there is always a variety of great dance music mixed in. This is the best nightclub in Universal Orlando for those who want a traditional dance-club experience.

Red Coconut Club offers a balance between a nightclub and a tropical lounge. Early in the evening is a great time to stop in, sit at either of its two bars, and enjoy a specialty cocktail or martini (paired with vibrant, tropical food, of course). The interior is warmly lit, with bright color accents and South Beach-inspired decor. Live music starts off the night, and as the moon rises, the band gives way to a DJ. Red Coconut’s dance music tends to be a blend of Latin hits, hip hop, and a few club favorites. It’s easy to dance the night away here, and it’s great to be able to take a break to sip on a cocktail and enjoy the tropical vibes.

Besides the groove and Red Coconut Club, you can also visit Pat O’Brien’s for dueling pianos, Rising Star for karaoke with a live band and backup singers, or Bob Marley – A Tribute to Freedom for live music and food from the islands. The energy of CityWalk at night is electrifying.

The best nightclubs on International Drive

In the heart of Orlando’s attractions area, you’ll find International Drive. There is so much to do here, I-Drive is truly its own destination.

Besides loads of attractions, shopping, and dining, you’ll also find lots of nightlife. But, first, you’ll need to know that International Drive is over 10 miles long, and there is quite a difference when you compare one end of the tourist corridor to the other. South of the Sand Lake Road intersection has some of the best restaurants, attractions, and experiences offered on this bustling strip.

One of the most iconic venues here is Mango’s Tropical Cafe. This multistory venue that is home to one of Orlando’s best live entertainment acts is located almost at the corner of Sand Lake and I-Drive. During the early evening hours, guests from around the world are entertained with live music, singing, and dancing. Then, as the night gets later, the volume cranks up, and Mango’s becomes the city’s best nightclub – Orlando Sentinel readers voted it as such two years in a row. There is a massive dance floor in the center of this dazzling space, as well as the smaller Vodou Room, which boasts a different vibe and features a different DJ than the main floor.

Further south on International Drive is Orlando’s coolest place, ICEBAR Orlando. Part ultra-lounge and part themed attraction, this place is more than just a bar made of ice – even if it is the largest permanent such bar in the world. When you first enter ICEBAR, you’re actually entering the Fire Lounge, where a menu of flatbreads, sliders, skewers, and more await to fuel your evening. Specialty cocktails – some that are on fire, some that bubble, and others that are served in a glass made entirely of ice – are perfect for toasting your night out. After 10:00 pm, the party vibe really gets going with dance and club music. You’re in for a unique experience, for sure.

The best nightclubs in Downtown Orlando

It’s not surprising that the greatest concentration of night clubs in the City Beautiful is in Downtown Orlando itself. Since the downtown area is about 20 minutes north of the attractions area, the nightclubs here are very adult focused; locals love to party by club hopping, especially on the weekends to blow off steam.

One of the most popular nightclubs in Downtown Orlando is Room 22. Billed as a “show bar,” you’re definitely in for an entertaining night, both on the dance floor and at the bar. Scantily clad bartenders don’t just serve drinks – they perform. On a busy Friday or weekend night, the place can be absolutely packed.

For a sophisticated night out, look to EVE Orlando, a posh ultra-lounge with a beautiful interior. Specialty craft cocktails kick off your night as brilliant lights add a colorful hue to the space. On certain nights, there are themes, like Latin Night and Ladies’ Night, and DJs spin a variety of music.

Another popular spot in the area is The Beacham. This venue is popular for concerts throughout the week, but on nights without performances, it is one of Orlando’s most popular nightclubs, packed with party-goers. The Beacham is a historic theater, so the atmosphere is also special.

Many Downtown Orlando club-goers start their night at SHOTS Orlando, or make it their last stop. This is a hybrid of a bar and lounge early in the evening, leading to a nightclub-feeling late at night. There are over 100 specialty shots on the menu – some are served with props or other fun interaction. The bartenders and servers make sure everyone is having a good time. There is no cover here, and there are usually food and drink specials on certain nights.

Additional information about Orlando’s nightclubs

• Most venues have a dress code. While not too strict, the general rule of thumb is clothing be in good repair and stylish. Also, closed-toed shoes for men are usually required.
• Many nightclubs have a cover charge, though not typically until after 10:00 pm.
• Many nightclubs are 21 years of age or older. Please confirm this prior to your visit.
• If you’re celebrating a special occasion, consider VIP service.

What are your favorite nightclubs in the City Beautiful? Share them with 100,000+ 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.

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After a lengthy (and unprecedented) closure period that first began all the way back on the night of Sunday, March 15, Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resorts are beginning to slowly rumble back to life – well, at least partially.

Both dining/shopping/entertainment districts of the two resorts will be the first areas to reopen, with all of the other Disney and Universal components – that is to say, the hotels and, most notably, the theme and water parks – remaining indefinitely closed. Still, this is, indeed, progress, as this was the same pattern that was implemented in the slow, phased reopening of Shanghai Disney – a pattern that at least Disney has said it’s interested in eventually replicating at all of its other theme-park locations around the world.

We have compiled everything you need to know about the situation, from a brief history of the COVID-19 closures to the two sections’ new sanitary and social-distancing practices.

Why did Disney Springs and Universal CityWalk close again?

Both Disney and Universal began the unexpected and rather tangled process of shutting down their Florida resorts in the middle of March – the parks came first, on March 16, with Universal CityWalk and Disney Springs following on the next day and, finally, the hotels bringing up the rear on the 20th. All of this, of course, was in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, which officially started in China in late December 2019 and spread to the United States of America just a month later; the extremely rapid-changing situation on the ground has since rattled literally every industry, both domestic and international, causing scores of schools and businesses to be shuttered, at least for a time.

The companies had originally expected to reopen after just a two-week period, but that window kept getting extended as the novel coronavirus continued to expand its infection; as of their last updates on this front, Universal pushed its reopening target date back to Monday, June 1, while Disney only offered up “until further notice.” With several states across the country – including Florida – moving to lift a number of their lockdowns at the end of April, however, it seems that Disney and Universal decided to alter their plans one final time.

How Disney Springs is reopening

Starbucks is open this morning at Disney Springs for all of our coffee aficionados. Disney did not originally announce that this location would be open on their website. Mobile order pickup is available. pic.twitter.com/NwmXAHH3EA

— Orlando Informer (@OrlandoInformer) May 20, 2020

The Disney Springs dining/shopping/entertainment district is the first part of Walt Disney World to rev back up, which occurred on Wednesday, May 20. Just a limited number of dining establishments opened their doors alongside the district, though that tally’s been growing in the days and weeks since:

• 4 Rivers Cantina Barbacoa Food Truck
• B.B. Wolf’s Sausage Co.
• Blaze Fast-Fire’d Pizza
• The Boathouse
• Chicken Guy!
• D-Luxe Burger
• The Daily Poutine
• Earl of Sandwich
• Erin McKenna’s Bakery NYC
• Frontera Cocina
• Haagen-Dazs
• Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company
• Joffrey’s Handcrafted Smoothies Kiosk
• Morimoto Asia
• Morimoto Asia Street Food
• Paradiso 37 Entertainment
• Pizza Ponte
• Planet Hollywood
• The Polite Pig
• Starbucks (both locations)
• STK Orlando
• Sunshine Churros (both locations)
• T-Rex
• Vivoli il Gelato
• Wine Bar George – A Restaurant & Bar
• Wetzel’s Pretzels (both locations)
• Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill
• YeSake Kiosk

Joining their gastronomical brethren is a smaller collection of shops, as well, including World of Disney, Aerophile, UNIQLO, and Marketplace Co-Op.

The partial reopening move, of course, comes with a number of restrictions, which prospective visitors should keep in mind. Firstly, parking is a bit different (with self-parking only being available in the Orange and Lime garages), along with just entering Disney Springs (the only four entrances are from the Hotel Plaza Boulevard pedestrian bridge, the ride-share drop-off lot, and the Orange and Lime garages). Unsurprisingly, a temperature screening is required before visitors can be admitted; much like over at Universal CityWalk, those with a fever of 100.4 degrees or more will be denied entry (along with everyone else in his or her party). Additionally, face coverings are mandatory for every guest – and, of course, employee – who is above the age of two, and the masks can only be removed when eating.

Once you’re inside Disney Springs, you’ll notice smaller-than-average crowds and ground markings to help denote proper social distancing, as per Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines. There may also be some physical barriers erected here and there, when the situation or area calls for it. (Some specially-trained cast members will be roaming the premises, answering questions and ensuring that everyone is following these [spatial] guidelines.) Heightened cleaning and sanitation practices have been instituted, particularly at high-trafficked areas, and, finally, cashless transactions, such as Apple Pay, are being recommended across the board.

And though these are Disney’s regulations for Disney Springs, generally, it appears that most, if not all, vendors at the complex are also doing the same, including checking their employees’ temperatures and spacing dining tables appropriately apart. There’s also the usage of digital menus instead of physical ones at select venues, having guests pull out their smart phones to access the eateries’ offerings.

What’s it like at the newly-reopened Disney Springs? We walk you through the experience, step by step, here.

How Universal CityWalk is reopening

Universal, for its part, revealed a similar approach to CityWalk on May 12, almost a week after the Disney Springs news dropped. Universal’s own entertainment district opened just two days later, on Thursday, May 14, employing many of the same health and safety precautions as its neighbor down the street.

Here are the restaurants, whether quick- or full-service, that are currently operational:

• Auntie Anne’s Pretzels
• Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
• Cinnabon (mobile ordering available)
• Cold Stone Creamery
• Hard Rock Cafe Orlando
• Hot Dog Hall of Fame (mobile ordering available)
• Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville
• Lone Palm Airport
• NBC Sports Grill & Brew
• Red Oven Pizza Bakery (mobile ordering available)
• Starbucks Coffee
• Toothsome Chocolate Emporium
• VIVO Italian Kitchen
• Voodoo Doughnut (mobile ordering available)

Each venue features a limited menu and spaced-out tables, again to maintain those CDC recommendations for social distancing. In addition, mobile ordering has been made available, and Universal also recommends that guests use its Universal Orlando app to make cashless payments.

Joining them are just a few retail and entertainments offerings – namely, Hollywood Drive-In Golf, Hart & Huntington Tattoo Company, Airbrush, the Universal Studios Store, and a handful of “merchandise carts.” And, lastly, please note that self-parking is free (while valet parking is unavailable), visitors will be subject to a temperature check (those with a fever of 100.4 degrees or higher will not be admitted), every individual will be required to wear a face covering (if you don’t have one, Universal has some for sale at the screening area), and CityWalk’s hours of operation are only from 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm – essentially, the complex is only open for the dinner shift.

What’s it like at the newly-reopened CityWalk? We walk you through the experience, step by step, here.

Notice: Orlando’s curfew

On Memorial Day in Minneapolis, Minnesota, George Floyd, a black man, died due to the actions of a white police officer, who put his knee on Floyd’s neck for over eight minutes. The resulting wave of protests, demonstrations, and, in some cases, rioting has since radiated out across the entire country – and, indeed, around the world, as cities in Canada, the United Kingdom, and Germany, among other nations, got involved.

This has also affected Orlando, Florida, which, in turn, has affected the operations of Universal CityWalk and Disney Springs – several businesses across the city were vandalized and, in at least one instance, attempted to be burnt down. Initially, in response, Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings instituted a curfew from 8:00 pm to 5:00 am, which started on Sunday, May 31, and lasted until Monday, June 8. During this time period, there was also a curfew in effect for the city of Orlando, specifically, but it was lifted the day before. Although not confirmed as of yet, it is now possible for the hours of the two theme-park resorts’ dining and shopping sectors to return to normal.

What about reopening the theme parks?

Universal Orlando’s hotels came back online on Tuesday, June 2, and its three parks reopened to annual passholders on Wednesday, June 3. The general public will be allowed access beginning on Friday, June 5.

Disney, meanwhile, will reopen half of its theme parks on Saturday, July 11 (that’s Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom), and the other half (Epcot and Hollywood Studios) on Wednesday, July 15; the hotels will predate them, bowing starting on Monday, June 22. We’ve been tracking every step of this development here.

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All of these options are wonderful and should be visited whenever you have the chance, but what do you do when you want a great gastronomical experience that also caters to your particular dietary needs? Most restaurants these days can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free, but, generally speaking, the choices are pretty limited. Luckily for you, I’ve compiled a list of some of the top-rated and most popular vegan and vegetarian possibilities in town.

Travel is already stressful enough! Eating shouldn’t have to be.

Norma’s Plant-Based Cuisine (Altamonte Springs)

You wouldn’t expect to find a five-star Yelp-rated restaurant tucked into a Seventh-Day Adventist bookstore, but you would be wrong. This hidden gem is definitely worth searching for. There are no signs for the restaurant itself, so look instead for the Florida Conference of Seventh-Day Adventists building.

Norma’s Plant-Based Cuisine is a charming, casual eatery that boasts an ability to “turn almost any dish into a vegan or vegetarian dish.” Let me tell you, they are not lying. From sandwiches and salads to pizza, they make every plate a work of plant-based art. In addition, their menu is absolutely filled with Mexican-inspired flavor so perfectly balanced that you may just forget you’re eating Chick’n or Impossible Burger instead of traditional protein.

Infusion Tea (College Park)

Infusion Tea, located in the hip College Park area, is an organic tea cafe serving a wide variety of vegetarian options, such as acai and quinoa bowls, salads, quesadillas, pizzas, and a whole bunch more. All of their offerings can also be made vegan upon request, as well.

Not only do they have an impressive food menu, but Infusion’s separate – yes, separate – tea menu boasts well over 50 teas! Hot or iced, you can get it by the glass, pot, or pitcher. Their teas cover the entire spectrum, from black and herbal to more exotic choices. There’s also a variety of blends and mates, so no matter what kind you prefer, you’re bound to find something you enjoy (and, maybe, even discover something new). You can then take home a tin of your new (or old) favorite.

(Fun note: Infusion Tea also offers full-service event planning for bridal and baby showers, birthdays, and more.)

Ethos Vegan Kitchen (Winter Park)

One of Winter Park’s mainstays is Ethos Vegan Kitchen. Conveniently located right near Park Avenue and Rollins College, Ethos offers – as the name might imply – an entirely vegan menu, but they also feature several gluten- and soy-free choices, should you have other dietary preferences or restrictions. They pride themselves on their hearty, home-style fare, and besides the usual soup and salad offerings, you’ll find pizza, pasta, and a little something called Sheep’s Pie – it boasts carrots, broccoli, and peas smothered in gravy, topped with mashed potatoes, and cooked in Ethos’s brick oven to perfection. Pair that with your favorite beer or wine, and you’re in for a real treat.

Market on South (Milk District)

As the name would suggest, Dixie Dharma is where you want to go for all of your vegetarian Southern food cravings, and, boy, do they deliver their “plant-based fine vittles” with the Southern flair you’d expect from a Central Florida establishment. They actually have three locations in the CF area, including Tampa, Orlando, and Sanford; each location offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and while their menus vary slightly, the all-time favorites are featured at all three.

Some of those winners include biscuits n’ gravy, BBQ-style sandwiches, and some great “stick to your ribs” sides, such as Tater Salad and Creamy Cashew Mac ‘n Cheese, in original, garlic, or buffalo flavor. And if you’re looking for something a little lighter, but still full of flavor, be sure and check out the Heirloom T.L.T., which features heirloom tomatoes, arugula, and smoked maple tempeh bacon on Texas toast.

When you’re done, you can roll yourself next door to Valhalla Bakery and try a selection of one of their delectable vegan cakes, cupcakes, or pastries.

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Hopefully, you’ve enjoyed this vegan/vegetarian tasting tour around Orlando. Not only will you feel good getting to eat some healthy and delicious food, but these restaurants are locally owned and operated, so you can feel good about supporting your local businesses, too!

If you have some other suggestions to offer up, be sure to do so with 100,000+ other vacation-planners in our OI Community Facebook group. And 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.

The post The best vegan and vegetarian restaurants in Orlando appeared first on Orlando Informer.

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The state of affairs surrounding a novel coronavirus and the respiratory disease it causes has been rapidly evolving over the course of the past four-plus months; called COVID-19 (an abbreviation for “coronavirus disease 2019”), it first appeared in China in December 2019, most likely at the Huanan seafood and live animal market in Wuhan, and quickly spread person-to-person from there. (It is currently believed that the virus was being circulated among a human population for quite some time before the first cases of a “pneumonia of unknown cause” were reported to the World Health Organization’s China Country Office, but it will be a while before the timeline can be definitively stated.) Within the next month, two key events would happen: the first COVID-19 case was announced in the United States of America, and the disease was declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern by the WHO.

Underscoring just how quickly the situation on the ground all across the globe has changed, both of those incidents have ballooned in the over three months since; 1.19 million American cases have since been reported, nearly all states banned most public gatherings or, in many instances, all schools and restaurants for one length of time or another, and the WHO has officially pronounced that the coronavirus is now a pandemic, which means that “a new disease for which people do not have immunity spreads around the world beyond expectations.” Sidestepping the immense national and international concerns and complications such a situation generates – financial markets, for instance, have been roiling and unemployment has skyrocketed in an unprecedented fashion, stoking fears of a recession (if not a depression) for the first time since the subprime mortgage crisis started the Great Recession in 2008 – there is the matter of the theme parks to also consider, given Orlando’s central role in transatlantic tourism and the large sums of money that families near and afar spend to arrive here.

The theme parks’ closures

The latest word on the Central Florida front is that the theme and water parks of both Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resorts closed on the night of Sunday, March 15 (after the end of business), and will remain down through Sunday, May 31, in the case of Universal, and until further notice for Disney. On midnight, Tuesday, March 17, Universal CityWalk was temporarily shuttered, and later that day, all the Disney-owned and -operated stores located in Disney Springs were also shut down. All of Disney’s and Universal’s hotels followed suit at 5:00 pm on Friday, March 20 – the delay was to give guests enough time to make new accommodations, if necessary. And, finally, we should note a spate of other closures at Universal Orlando: the company ended its annual Mardi Gras celebration two-and-a-half weeks early, on March 15; Blue Man Group closed alongside the theme parks; and the March 17 opening of Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites has been indefinitely delayed (as has been Epic Universe, Universal’s newest theme park – it’s been pushed back by a year, to 2024).

(Update: Disney Springs has since been given a partial reopening date of Wednesday, May 20. Read more here.)

While drastic, the developments – initially announced on the night of Thursday, March 12 – didn’t come as a particular surprise; earlier that day, both companies announced the closure of their West Coast counterparts, with Disneyland Resort coming in first, around 4:30 pm, and Universal Studios Hollywood following approximately two hours later. Both destinations had to contend with California Governor Gavin Newsom’s then-just-issued executive order that banned public crowds of 250 individuals or more for the rest of March – and even though Disneyland was initially exempt from the directive, the Mouse House wanted to act out of an abundance of caution, with Universal opting to follow course. (Disneyland Resort’s two theme parks and Universal Studios Hollywood closed down on the morning of Saturday, March 14, with Disney’s on-site hotels doing so on the 17th.)

SeaWorld and LEGOLAND, meanwhile, have similarly announced that they have closed down all of their parks during the same time period as most of their Florida brethren, starting on March 16 and running until an as-yet-undetermined date. The LEGOLAND Hotel has remained open for all pre-existing reservations – the company states that the venue is operating “within government guidelines” – and the brand-new Pirate Island Hotel is still currently scheduled for its grand opening on Monday, June 1.

Above and beyond all of the various theme-park operators, a number of local and state authorities have issued their own stay-at-home orders, as well. First up was Orange County, where most of the parks reside, with a directive that was set to last from Thursday, March 26 until Thursday, April 9; it was soon joined by Osceola County (where the rest of Disney World sits), for the same time period; and, finally, Governor Ron DeSantis at last joined the national trend of locking entire states down, ordering Florida’s residents to remain in their homes from 12:01 am, Friday, April 3 until Thursday, April 30 – a move directly inspired by the White House’s then-recently-updated federal guidance on social distancing, which expanded its initial 15-day period (from March 16 through the 30th) to run for some 45 days (through April 30).

Currently, a number of states – including Florida – have begun the process of reopening their economies in phases.

What cancellation/refund policies do the theme parks have?

Both Universal and Disney have asked for patience as guests attempt to reschedule their visits, theme-park tickets, and dinner reservations, with apps crashing immediately after the proclamations and guest-services call centers continuing to have especially long hold times in the days and weeks afterwards. These are the general terms that both corporations have offered up, though patrons with more specific questions will want to reach out to the park operators directly:

Disney has extended the tickets, whether partially used or not, that were issued for the time period during the current COVID-19 closure; they will now be valid up until December 15, 2020. (And if you aren’t able to visit by that new date, and if you have a wholly unused ticket, the company will allow you to apply the value of that pass towards the purchase of a new one for a future time.) Additionally, admission to premium add-on experiences, such as Disney Villains after Hours, or special reservations, like Droid Depot, will be automatically refunded. And, regarding the hotels, any change or cancellation fees through June 30 have been waived, and any deposits will automatically be refunded. (If you are interested in making a new hotel reservation, Disney will allow you to book from June 1 onward.)

Let’s take a moment to pause on Disney World annual passes – there are two methods for paying for your AP, and each of these, in turn, has two options available. Firstly, if you’ve paid in full, your two choices are (1) to have the number of days that the parks are closed be tacked on to your pass or (2) to receive a partial refund for the closure period (just call VIPassholder Support). And if you’re on a monthly payment plan, you should first know that Disney stopped those recurring charges starting on April 5. How you opt to proceed from here is where your options spring up: (1) if you want to postpone all subsequent payments until the parks reopen, your pass will be extended; (2) if, on the other hand, you’d rather stick to your original expiration date, those monthly charges will be foregone and you’ll receive a partial refund from March 14 through April 4 (when Disney World first temporarily shut down).

Universal, for its part, is offering “flexible programs” that are almost identical to Disney’s. The company is extending the validity of any pass, either single- or multi-day, up to one year out from its date of purchase – but keep in mind that, once you start to use a multi-day ticket, all of its days must be redeemed within a week. (And if you aren’t able to visit within that one-year period, Universal will allow you to apply the value of a wholly unused ticket towards the purchase of a new one for a future time.) Annual passes will also have the number of days that the parks are closed tacked on to them, and any and all cancellations or modifications to hotel reservations during the closure period will be allowed without any fees (also, if you’re paying for your annual pass with FlexPay, all monthly payments have been postponed starting on Wednesday, March 25).

SeaWorld will also refund any ticket or in-park experience customers aren’t able to use during its own downtime, and you can reschedule your visit up through 2021 without any fees. (If you have a vacation package, you can either reschedule or get a refund if you’re within the 72-hour cancellation window.) Additionally, the company is upgrading all of its annual passholders to the next tier for free for the remainder of 2020 and offering a number of other goodies, such as additional bring-a-friend days and pass-member events.

LEGOLAND has initiated a “Peace of Mind Policy” that still encourages guests to book visits at the theme and water parks and their attached hotels with the knowledge that the dates can be shifted with no penalty fees (you’ll just need to do so at least five days before your scheduled day of arrival). In addition, any admission that was dated during the closure period can be used on any other 2020 day; as far as annual passes go, all pre-existing ones will receive an extension of one month for every month that LEGOLAND Florida is closed (as long as those passes aren’t enrolled in Monthly Pay, that is), while all brand-new ones will have 100 days after purchase to be activated. (If you are a Monthly Pay AP, don’t worry – those payments were suspended starting on April 1.)

What about the theme parks’ employees?

The financial situation for the various theme-park operators’ employees has, in many cases, been evolving right alongside the closure situation on the ground. Disney, for example, paid all of its various cast members up through April 18 (which, the company was quick to point out, was an additional five weeks’ worth of pay). All non-union workers have since been furloughed, though they still receive full healthcare benefits, with both the employee and company premiums being picked up by Disney. (Specific agreements with specific cast-member unions have also been reached, which more or less fall under the same general guidelines.)

Universal‘s approach is a bit different from its competitor’s. All team members were paid in full until April 19, at which point phases of pay cuts were instituted: most employees went down to 80% pay (with their work being adjusted accordingly) starting on the 20th, and all part-time hourly workers were furloughed beginning on May 3 (yes, all health benefits were likewise picked up by the company).

Lastly, over 90% of SeaWorld‘s employees were furloughed beginning on April 1.

What will the theme parks be like when they do reopen?

On April 7, the business trade Barron’s spoke with Disney Executive Chairman Bob Iger about just what, possibly, the theme parks would look and operate like once they reopen (whenever that may be). “One of the things that we’re discussing already,” Iger said, “is that, in order to return to some semblance of normal, people will have to feel comfortable that they’re safe.” Should a vaccine not be ready by then – a very real possibility, as most medical experts expect that process to take anywhere from 12 to 18 months – Disney is currently playing around with the idea of setting up a temperature check for guests before they’re admitted into Walt Disney World Resort, just as China, ground zero of the coronavirus pandemic, has already instituted across many parts of its vast country (and just as Disney had to implement security screenings in the face of violent incidents nationally).

Other theme-park operators in Central Florida are already following suit. On May 1, Universal began to check the temperature of all employees and business visitors – such as contractors and vendors – as they set foot on Universal Orlando property; all those individuals with a temp exceeding 99.9°F are being turned away and banned from re-entry for the next 72 hours. It is very likely that other businesses all across the rest of the country will follow these same guidelines, as well.

On May 5, during a quarterly earnings call, Disney officials announced absolutely horrific numbers for what the company’s worldwide COVID-19 closure has been doing to its revenue, but the real eye-catcher for American audiences is what the Mouse House says it’s planning to do in reopening its resorts all over the world, starting with the one in Shanghai.

Once Walt Disney World opens its doors again – whenever that may be – the company will implement:

• A phased reopening (dining/retail locations will bow before the theme parks, for instance)
• Social distancing everywhere, probably via virtual queues and the Play Disney Parks app
• Increased sanitization, particularly in high-trafficked areas
• Increased usage of personal protective equipment
• Extra training for cast members on all new procedures

Just two days later, the very first peek of what that slow, deliberate, tentative reopening process at Florida will look like was offered, as Disney Springs was announced to start its phased reopening on Wednesday, May 20. You can read all about that, and follow along with the latest developments, here.

Last updated 6:09 pm, May 7, 2020

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Throughout our visits, I’ve learned that the key to having a fun and successful vacation is to have realistic expectations. Here are my top 10 pieces of advice to keep in mind while embarking on your Orlando adventure.

1. Plan it out

Realistic expectations include a plan. The basics of budget, hotel, food, transportation, and your family member’s special needs must all be considered in advance. Do you need a room that does not have direct access to the outside if your child is an “escape artist”? Is your family member on a gluten-free diet? Will you be driving to Orlando or flying? If you are flying, are you relying on available park transportation or renting your own? Are taxi rides something you’ll consider if your special-needs relation cannot tolerate crowded buses or boats?

These are potential situations that are easy to overlook in your eagerness to get to the parks, but thinking (way) ahead can go a long way in ensuring you have a smooth trip.

2. Know your limits

Realistic expectations include being aware of how much you can do in a day. Before leaving home, you and your family will need to understand that it just isn’t possible to do everything, and that’s okay! A willingness to forgo some attractions or, even, particular theme parks will be necessary.

It’s a good idea to go back to your hotel to rest or take a swim to cool off in the middle of the day; then, after dinner, head back out to the parks. Even if your child doesn’t nap, he or she will get a break from all the stimulation. Of course, you know your child best – sometimes it might be better to stay until dinner-time and make an early night of it.

3. Catch (and coordinate!) those Z’s

Expect to keep a similar sleep routine. Is your family a group of night-owls, or are they up before the sun? Keeping a coordinated sleep schedule on vacation will help minimize family members’ crankiness.

Furthermore, my mother-in-law always said “go a day, rest a day” regarding her vacations. This may not be practical in your situation, but spending long hours at the theme parks each day of your vacation can be exhausting. Prioritize and value your downtime in the midst of the excitement – you’ll have more energy for the fun that’s yet to come!

4. Mark your calendars

Use a schedule to help with transition issues and your special-needs family member’s expectations. We use a calendar and write what park we are attending each day. While on vacation, we put the calendar in a prominent place in the hotel room, and my son knows what to expect. This helps alleviate some of the anxiety that may arise from a big day.

Naturally, plans may change, but this gives everyone a good starting point. If your child can’t read, use pictures of the theme parks’ major symbols. Social stories on the subject of what will happen while on vacation may also help your family member.

5. Beat the heat

Expect it to be hot and that you will experience afternoon thunderstorms from May through September. Although, on the other hand, don’t let the weather stop you – put on your ponchos and keep going if it’s raining. On other days, don’t forget to put on sunscreen and a hat before you leave your hotel.

Drink plenty of water (much more than usual!) throughout the day to stay hydrated. If the heat becomes a little overwhelming, find somewhere in the air conditioning or shade to cool off as soon as you can. Heat can heighten anxiety and induce meltdowns, so you may even find it helpful to map out a few “emergency cool-down” areas before your trip.

6. Know your crowd

Expect crowded conditions if you are planning a vacation during the summer months (mid-May to September), during the week of every major US holiday (especially Christmas), or during the months of March and April. (See the OI crowd calendar to learn more information.) If your family member with special needs can’t handle crowds, try to plan a vacation during the off-peak times. Personally, our favorite times to visit the theme parks are early December and early January, but there are other low-level crowd days during the year.

7. Get those steps in

Expect a lot of walking – it is not unusual to put in three to five miles in a typical day. If your family is not used to moving that much, start a walking program at least a month prior to your vacation. Wear sturdy shoes while visiting the theme parks. Check your special-needs family member’s feet often, especially the first day – he may not be able to tell you he’s getting a blister. (This amount of walking should be kept in mind when deciding to bring or rent a stroller for your younger child, as well.)

8. Pick up your passes

A vital factor for realistic expectations is a clear understanding of the guest assistance passes that each park or resort – Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and SeaWorld Orlando – provides. You can pick it up as you enter the respective theme park, but be aware that each is different both in appearance and how it can be used.

Be certain you clearly understand how the passes work. You can learn all about Universal’s here.

9. Prevention is key

Expect that your child will exhibit behaviors like she does at home. For some, the behaviors may be more pronounced because you are in a new location or your child is overstimulated. Know the triggers and warning signs of a meltdown and be on the lookout for them, if possible. Be mindful in not letting her get too hungry, thirsty, or tired, as these factors can contribute to potential meltdowns. If it’s at all feasible, try to remove her to a more isolated location and work with her behavior as best you can.

10. Become comfortable with comfort zones

Have reasonable expectations about meeting characters and riding attractions. Some kids are terrified of large costumed characters; try not to become disappointed or pushy if your child won’t stand next to Goofy. Depending on the child, you may find it helpful to show him pictures and/or videos of characters engaging with other children, to allow him to become more comfortable with the process. This also applies to the attractions, as POV-style ride videos may help prepare him for the real thing.

Conversely, some children are dazzled by their favorite characters and may become upset when they have to leave them. And some can’t cope with all the stimulation of a ride, whether it be good or bad; therefore, take a break while the rest of the family goes on it. Others, like my son, want to experience one specific attraction repeatedly, so be prepared to factor this aspect into your plans, as well.

All things considered, your trip to Orlando can be a magical experience for everyone in the family as long as you keep these realistic expectations in mind. Please remember to thank those team members who happily go the extra mile in providing accommodations for you and your loved ones (we’ve found them all to be very courteous).

I hope you and your family have an amazing vacation! And then, when you get back, I hope you also share your experiences with 100,000+ other theme-park fanatics 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.

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One such place where you could do this is Andretti Indoor Karting & Games Orlando. Since the complex has much to cover, I’ll keep this as simple as possible for your convenience by showcasing its worthiest parts and providing an idea of what each may cost. Hopefully, along the way, you’ll get an idea of why you should consider Andretti Orlando on your next trip.

With that said, readers, let’s start our engines!

The racing at Andretti Orlando

Since the Andretti family is synonymous with racing, giving guests the opportunity to do so with their family and friends is the focus of their business. To this end, Andretti Indoor Karting & Games Orlando’s electric go-karts are some of the best in the industry and accelerate up to 35 miles per hour. They even come in a version that is safe for the little ones to enjoy.

Digging into the courses, there are three different tracks to race on: Track 1 is considered the beginners’ level that’s geared towards the kids or “junior” racers; Track 2 involves 25 feet of varied elevation and a great view of Universal Boulevard, the road on which Andretti Orlando resides; and Track 3 is dedicated to speed races while also containing its own elevation changes, as well. The most important thing for would-be racers to make note of is that naming a winner takes a slightly unorthodox approach. Instead of who crosses the finish line first, it’s whoever held the best overall average from each lap. This means that while speed is a natural factor, you’ll want to complete your laps as efficiently as possible for the better average.

One of my favorite aspects of the Andretti complex is that it doesn’t have a general admission fee. Everything there is pay-as-you-go, which allows their patrons to tailor their own experience each time. You’ll want to note that there are some variance in rates between annual members and non-members. For those interested: the annual membership is $9.95, plus tax, per year and will get you discounted rates of 15% off arcade play and 10% off bowling and meals in the Andretti Grill. For the sake of this article – and given that it’s the more likely scenario – I’ll be listing the non-member rates before tax, but this pricing link provides both, if you’re interested.

Concerning the races, the prices can vary. At the low end of the spectrum, you have $9.95 for a single Mini Mario Race; at the high end, it’s $21.95 for single racers and each “heat” (or “races,” for those keeping track at home), which varies between five to seven minutes, depending upon the purchased race. Note that these prices include admission along with your safety helmet and head sock. (I should mention here that there are certain height/weight requirements and recommendations for the race tracks and Andretti’s experiences both, which you can absorb on the aforementioned pricing link.)

You’ll also have to register by signing a waiver in order to participate in the racing – and most everything else – at Andretti, which you can find here. Since you can fill it out online, I’d suggest taking advantage of this and doing it beforehand, but, for anyone making a spur-of-the-moment plan, there is a convenient registration station at the complex.

Games, bowling, and more at Andretti Orlando

Let’s face it – not all of us are racers, and that’s fine. If you fall into this category and find yourself at Andretti Karting & Games for an outing, don’t fret – you have options. Gamers in the crowd can purchase credit and hit up the arcade floor that includes classic and modern arcade games. Those who want to add a little more to their day can brave the ropes course two stories above the arcade or jump over to the VR stations to check out the Hologate racing simulator or shooting experience. And if you want something a little more low-key, Andretti has a 12-lane bowling alley on their premises, complete with black lights and 150-inch projection screens.

Most of their additional experiences will run you about $13 apiece, with a couple of exceptions. The first would be bowling, which costs $25 an hour, Monday through Thursday, and $35 hourly from Friday to Sunday. If this seems up your alley (excuse the pun), you’ll naturally want to factor in the additional cost of $3.50 for your shoe rental and $2.50 for anyone in need of socks while they play.

The arcade’s gaming cards are the other exception. They vary depending on the amount of credit you want to put on them – the minimum is $5, and they max out at $150. As someone with an innate love for arcades, I can tell you the minimum amount won’t get you far, but it would still net some play time. If hitting up the games is a must and you can spare it, I’d suggest possibly going for the $20 option, so you can get the $5 bonus credit that’s included.

Eventually, you’re going to work up an appetite. To that end, the Andretti Grill has you covered for your family’s refueling needs. Their expansive menu includes the likes of pizzas, burgers, sandwiches, and shareable plates, such as the Ultimate Nachos. Most of your items will average about $11 (again, before tax and tip). On top of this, the grill offers a full bar with either signature drinks or all the ingredients to make something from scratch for you. For my money, I’d have my eye on the Grill and Thrill Combo, which includes a VR experience and an entree for the price of $18 and would end up saving you some money.

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Objectively, you can find a lot of what Andretti Indoor Karting & Games offers within a short distance from the complex. One could argue that their three separate, multi-leveled, and varying indoor race tracks should be enough to grab your attention; however, I would say that what makes them stand out is that everything you’ll want to do is right under one roof. As someone who may race once and have my fill, I dig that not only am I welcomed with open arms, but I have a day’s worth of activities to entertain myself with whenever I’m there.

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Now, back to the regular article:

Throughout Orlando, you’re likely to pass by the alluring “4R” bumper stickers at some point. If you’re not at least a little familiar with the city, you may not know where these come from. As a native, allow me to solve that mystery for you!

Those are some of the official merchandise of what I consider to be the best choice in barbecue: 4 Rivers Smokehouse. If you don’t know what that is, well, I’d say it’s time you found out.

4 Rivers – a local legacy

In his previous career as the president of a billion-dollar pharmaceutical company, 4 Rivers’s founder, John Rivers, accepted a friendly challenge to impress his wife’s family in Texas with the best brisket they’d ever had. During the travels of his profession, he’d make sure to stop at barbecue joints for the academic purpose of experiencing the food, comparing notes with the head chefs and owners and expanding off what he learned. Along the way, of course, he found he had a love for it.

Then, in 2004, John accepted a call-to-action and launched a fundraiser for a young girl with cancer. This began his “barbecue ministry,” which would eventually leave the humble beginnings of his garage and grow into a community culinary legend; today, 4 Rivers Smokehouse consists of 14 different locations throughout the state of Florida.

Focusing on the restaurants, my wife and I have been fans since they first opened their doors in Winter Park back in 2009. We frequent the Winter Garden location on Dillard Street and even went to their flagship restaurant for the rehearsal dinner of our wedding. 4 Rivers makes it a point to hire staff that provides a warm and accommodating experience, and they ensure that the food is even better – meaning that you can’t go wrong, no matter which location you find yourself in.

When it comes to their menu, 4 Rivers has a ton to choose from. While John made it his mission to make some of the best brisket around, this may not be your speed – so let me give you some further direction.

4 Rivers – St. Louis-style ribs

4 Rivers Smokehouse’s ribs are a great option for anyone and come in either half or full rack. Each one is smoked to fall-off-the-bone perfection and generously dressed in 4 Rivers’s signature sauce. Being from the South, you get some experience in this department, and I can tell you that few come close to this dish in terms of flavor and overall quality. (I’d add in a forewarning of how messy they are, but, honestly, that’s part of the fun of the experience!)

While the ribs are excellent on their own, I’d be remiss if I didn’t tell you that 4 Rivers’s sides make the meal. Patrons can order a la cart, add two sides to their meal, or add three sides and a biscuit, with the prices varying depending on what you may be ordering. All are laid out prep-station-style in diners’ view, which allows for easier selection and adds just a bit of temptation, as well.

Those searching for the perfect partners for their rib dinner should look no further than the smokehouse’s collard greens and bread pudding. These not only complete a traditional Southern meal via the collard greens, but they also bring a rounded sweetness to the savory dish by means of the bread pudding.

4 Rivers – vegetarian quesadilla

Given the nature of smokehouses, I’m impressed at how 4 Rivers’s menu has evolved with the nation’s dietary trends. To that end, I love the vegetarian quesadilla. This spin on the classic Tex-Mex entree typically involves broccoli, asparagus, and other seasonal vegetables that are generously smothered with cheddar cheese and drizzled with chipotle aioli dressing. The cook then grills the ingredients between two warm, crispy tortillas that is cut into four slices.

While similar dishes skimp on the vegetables and lean more into the cheese for a more easily favorable dish, 4 Rivers simply doesn’t, ensuring you get an equal helping of both. I’d suggest pairing this with the Texas Cornbread, which is your traditional cornbread mixed with jalapenos and cheddar cheese. This delicious dish also goes great with their regular and hot signature sauces, as the sharpness of the cheddar cheese and the tanginess of the chipotle aioli dressing meld nicely with them.

I should probably add a bit of a warning here – I like a little heat in my flavor, but I’ve noticed that the hot sauce can sometimes be a little too much for some. I recommend mixing the hot and regular sauces as a way of regulating the spiciness. Adding in that small kick allows a wonderful playfulness to any meal, but I wouldn’t fault anyone for keeping the spice out.

4 Rivers – the Sweet Shop

If you’re hankering for something sweet, 4 Rivers Smokehouse has you taken care of on that end, too – their Sweet Shop has a seemingly endless array of treats that are great on their own or give you that satisfying finale to your meal. Typically, it’s a selection of cupcakes, milkshakes, cake (full or by the slice), and, even, pop tarts and cookies. In any case, take my advice and save room, since you’ll love whatever each may offer.

If you’d like some guidance, you could go with a sizable slice of double chocolate cake or my personal favorite, the Hello Dolly cookie bar. Those wanting some more adventurous options could do well with the restaurant’s soda-flavored cupcakes – you’ll have some interesting choices here, such as Mountain Dew and Dorito, Coca-cola and potato chips, or, even, Cheerwine.

The charity – 4Roots

On top of being a successful entrepreneur, John Rivers doubles as a philanthropist. His charitable nature for giving back has shown not only through the chain’s origins, but also through numerous donations towards hurricane-relief efforts and creating his own charity, 4Roots, to help benefit the community.

But that’s not all. With the COVID-19 crisis impacting the nation, 4 Rivers Smokehouse was one of the first establishments to quickly offer curbside pick-up as well as the ability for patrons to purchase grocery essentials via their Groceries 4R You. While supplies last, the various locations are providing hygiene and food products during a time when certain items, such as toilet paper and sanitizer, are difficult to find.

One of the most impressive things John Rivers has done, however, is establishing the 4R Foundation. This charitable organization is the embodiment of this man’s true nature, believing that a community’s success and vibrancy are enhanced by the health of its residents. This is shown directly through their main effort, the 4Roots farm, which takes its name from the “4 roots” of their beliefs: education, health, economic development, and sustainability.

The commercial-sized farm campus will be located in the heart of Orlando and will act as a crossroads where individuals can work with organizations to build solutions for a “better food future.” To make this happen, the foundation partnered with the city of Orlando, schools, and other charities and organizations. If you’re interested, you can view the partnerships’ specifics via the 4R Foundation site, but, suffice it to say, what they’re already doing is pretty amazing.

So what does a “better food future” mean? Essentially, it means teaching local farms how to use cutting-edge techniques and technology and creating an opportunity for the community to make more conscious choices. In turn, they will learn how to be aware of where their food is coming from and the importance of choosing local sources. The farm will also instruct the community on how to source and prepare wholesome meals, why all of this matters, and how they can get involved.

Personally, I look forward to seeing what effects, both short- and long-term, it will have for us. Until then, I’ll keep supporting this local legend’s endeavors by dining at his restaurants, and anyone  – be you a local or traveler – should, too.

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Have a favorite dish at 4 Rivers Smokehouse? Or is there another iconic local spot that commands your loyalty – and vacation dollars? Be sure to tell 100,000+ other Orlando fans over in our OI Community Facebook group.

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Each map focuses on a different section of the city with a brief intro of what is in that region, including entertainment options, restaurants, and the like. So click a map and get exploring!

International Drive area

International Drive is a hub of activity in Orlando. Home to scores of hotels and restaurants, including the Pointe Orlando shopping center, and very close to Universal Orlando Resort and SeaWorld, there’s something for everybody here. The Orange County Convention Center is also located on I-Drive, so if you’re in town for a conference, you’ll have great dining and lodging choices right nearby.

Even better, this 11-mile-long strip of tourist nirvana features great attractions and activities to enjoy by yourself or with friends and family, such as WonderWorks, escape rooms, putt-putt golf, and Ripley’s Believe It or Not. Then there’s Icon Park, which is home to The Wheel, Sea Life Orlando Aquarium, and Madame Tussauds.

Pro tip: to explore faster, hop on the I-Ride Trolley, which picks up and lets off at various locations.

Lake Buena Vista area

Lake Buena Vista is, of course, home to Walt Disney World Resort (well, parts of it, at least), with all of its various theme and water parks and its dining/shopping/entertainment district, Disney Springs (speaking of which, you have to check out Splitsville, a super-fun bowling alley and restaurant, and catch a flick at the AMC Dine-In Movie Theater).

Located not too far from International Drive, Lake Buena Vista is the vacation spot of Central Florida.

Downtown Orlando area

If theme parks aren’t your thing, definitely check out Downtown Orlando.

Lake Eola is home to the famous Lake Eola fountain, as well as the City Beautiful’s beautiful swans. Take a ride on a swan boat, or just walk around and enjoy the lovely park surrounding the lake. Downtown also has many bar and restaurant options, along with clubs and entertainment venues that include the Amway Center, Bob Carr Theater, and the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. If you’re into sports, be sure and check out a game at Camping World Stadium or Orlando City Stadium, home to the Orlando City Lions soccer team.

Lake Ivanhoe Village is close by, too, and has a variety of places to eat and shop, and it’s also where you can find the Orlando Science Center, Museum of Art, and Orlando Shakespeare Theater, among other cultural attractions.

North Orlando/Winter Park/UCF area

If you want to get even farther away from the theme parks, check out the north side of town! Winter Park is just a stone’s throw from Downtown Orlando and another great area to discover lots more restaurants, like the James Beard Award-nominated Ravenous Pig and 4 Rivers Smokehouse (both of which are locally-owned and -operated). Shopping options are also plentiful along the picturesque Park Avenue and Central Park, and the city is host to the annual Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival every spring, which features artists from all over the world.

Not too far from Winter Park is the University of Central Florida (go Knights!). As with any college town, you’ll find all kinds of fun stuff to do and places to eat. If you’re in town around the holidays, for instance, Light Up UCF is an event that’s not to be missed – it’s a 45-night festival that features ice-skating, a brilliant light show, live entertainment, carnival rides, and, even, snow!

Kissimmee area

South of Lake Buena Vista and off of I-Drive South is Kissimmee. An area mostly made up of neighborhoods, it’s a great quiet place to stay if you’re going to the parks but don’t want to linger on-property. Celebration Town Center is located here and is home to all sorts of shops and dining venues, and don’t forget about the farmers’ market that’s held every Sunday.

Also nearby are the Lake Buena Vista Factory stores, and, if you hop onto I-4 West, you’ll be on your way to the LEGOLAND theme park.

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Best seafood at Walt Disney World

Walt Disney World Resort has some great seafood, despite being home to Ariel and her under-the-sea friends.

Let’s start off with the best seafood in the theme parks. Magic Kingdom has two options: Columbia Harbor House is a counter-service restaurant inside Liberty Square, near the Haunted Mansion (it’s actually my favorite quick-service place at the park). Highlights of the menu include Grilled Salmon, a Grilled Shrimp Skewer, and classic Fried Shrimp – a staple of Columbia Harbor House. I suggest heading up to the second floor to dine; it’s quieter and has some great views of Fantasyland and Liberty Square.

For table-service inside Magic Kingdom, my favorite is Skipper Canteen in Adventureland. The venue’s story is that it is run by Jungle Cruise skippers so they can have extra income (kind of an edgy backstory, if you think about it). I absolutely love the atmosphere – there are so many details to explore, and lots of Jungle Cruise-appropriate puns, too. The menu has seen some changes over Skipper Canteen’s relatively short lifetime, but, currently, there are three seafood entrees: Fried Whole Fish, Seafood Stew, and Fresh Sustainable Fish. If you really, really love seafood, you should try a whole fried fish (at Skipper Canteen or elsewhere) – it’s a lot of work navigating an entire whole fish with your fork, but nothing compares to the flavor.

Over at Epcot, you’ll find Coral Reef Restaurant, where you can immerse yourself into the wonderful world under the sea. Located at The Seas with Nemo & Friends, you’ll dine right alongside the second largest aquarium in North America – which provides some spectacular views and an unbeatable ambiance. The menu is a little limited compared to other Disney restaurants, but the Lobster Seafood Boil and Seared Mahi Mahi are great for aficionados.

A hidden gem for seafood is located at Animal Kingdom. Tiffins Restaurant is an explorer’s paradise, with an atmosphere that is sophisticated and that contains tributes to the beauty of world travel. Highlights of the menu include Charred Octopus as well as Thai Curry Mussels for appetizers and Whole Fried Sustainable Fish for an entree. And the wine selection and cocktail list are among the best in all of Disney World.

At Disney Springs, you will find two incredible venues dedicated to seafood: The Boathouse and Paddlefish, which are located pretty close to each other. It is hard for me to decide which I prefer, but I could give a slight edge to Boathouse – I enjoy its atmosphere, especially at its Dockside Bar right on the water. Really, though, you cannot go wrong with either one – since both of their menus are dominated by fresh seafood, I highly recommend either one for a true seafood fan.

It would be remiss of me to not include Todd English’s bluezoo at the Swan hotel. The eatery has an atmosphere all its own, located in a resort with a style all its own. Offering the largest raw bar in Walt Disney World, bluezoo has some of the most beautifully presented seafood you can find – and creatively prepared, too. A dinner here is costly, but it is sure to also be unforgettable.

Best seafood at Universal Orlando

At Universal Orlando Resort, you can find great seafood inside the theme parks, at CityWalk, and at some of the hotels. Within the parks, Lombard’s Seafood Grille is your best pick, as the name implies; overlooking the Universal Studios Florida lagoon, Lombard’s is one of the park’s original restaurants, so going here is a little like stepping back in time to Universal Studios’s original days. The menu is impressive – highlights include the Fisherman’s Basket (full of fried seafood goodness) and the Cioppino Ocean Bowl (with mussels, calamari, little neck clams, Atlantic cod, shrimp, tomato fennel broth, and fusilli pasta).

For something much more casual, head over to Springfield: Home of the Simpsons for the fried seafood specialties of The Frying Dutchman. As a big fan of The Simpsons, I love the this area of the theme park, and I think Fast Food Boulevard, where Frying Dutchman is housed, has some of the best quick-service food in all of Universal Orlando. Here, you can order the Battered and Plattered Fish Combo and Basket o’ Bait, which consists of fried cod, coconut-crusted shrimp, and fried calamari.

It is hard to argue against Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. being the best place for seafood at CityWalk. Of course, there is shrimp galore, like the movie says – options include Shrimp Cocktail, Shrimp Mac and Cheese, Shrimp Gumbo, Coconut Shrimp, Shrimp New Orleans, Shrimper’s Heaven, and more. This casual and energetic restaurant is a guaranteed fun time; life may be like a box of chocolates, but at Bubba Gump, you know you’re going to get some great seafood.

If you want a high-end experience, consider The Palm at Hard Rock Hotel. Throughout the country, The Palm has locations at the most popular cities, and here at Orlando, you can savor delicious seafood specialties like Branzino and Chilean Sea Bass. The venue is also a well-known steakhouse, so if you’re dining with someone who would prefer an excellent steak while you’re in search of excellent seafood, you will both be happy here.

Best local restaurants for seafood in Orlando

We are so fortunate here in Orlando to have so many great restaurants throughout our area. When in search of the best seafood, you can, of course, head out to either coast for ocean-side dining, but there is also actually plenty of places for great seafood in Central Florida.

Most locals rank High Tide Harry’s as the best seafood in the City Beautiful, and this come-as-you-are eatery is packed to the gills with tasty catches from the sea. The menu is massive, and there are specials based on whatever is fresh from the ocean that day – essentially any seafood you can imagine coming out of Florida’s oceans can be found here. There is a raw bar, you can get a variety of crab legs, or you can try a Florida favorite: rock shrimp. High Tide Harry’s is located near the Orlando International Airport, so consider it to either kick off your Orlando vacation or end it on a great note. (Oh, and don’t forget to order a cocktail or a beer served in a fish bowl!)

Not far from Universal Orlando is an area known as Restaurant Row, which is home to Big Fin Seafood Kitchen. For over a decade, Big Fin has been serving Orlando with a fantastic raw bar, sushi, and creative seafood specialties. During the months of mid-October to mid-May, Florida enjoys stone crab season, so be sure to order that here if you visit during this time. Its Happy Hour runs Monday to Saturday, 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm, and on Sunday, 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm – you can enjoy great drink and food specials, and I suggest sitting at the open-air bar if the weather is nice.

Finally, Grills Lakeside is the absolute best option if you don’t want to drive out to the beach but still get the feeling you are there. There are two Grills locations on the East Coast, and one new one in Orlando. About a 30-minute drive from the attractions area, along the shores of Lake Fairview, Grills Lakeside Orlando has incredible views of the water. Locals quickly fell in love with this place thanks to its tropical atmosphere and locally sourced food. Offering live music in the evenings, Friday though Sunday, Grills Lakeside is a great place to kick back, enjoy a few drinks, and nibble on delicious seafood like Peel and Eat Shrimp, Seared Tuna, Bahamian Fish Chowder, or a Fish Reuben Sandwich.

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Have you dined on Florida’s delicious seafood during a visit to Orlando, and, if so, where’s your favorite place to go? Tell 90,000+ other vacation-planners in our OI Community Facebook group.

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Even if you knew where you wanted to start, it would require a bit of digging and tons of travel time to properly appreciate Orlando’s understated art community. While the effort rewards itself, it’s a given that not everyone has that kind of required flexibility within their schedules. If you’d like my suggestion for a well-rounded place to get your cultural fix, I’d point you to the Orlando Museum of Art.

Orlando Museum of Art – general information

Speaking briefly about its history, the Orlando Museum of Art was founded in 1924 as a small, informal assembly known as the Orlando Art Association by artists and art enthusiasts and has been community-focused to this day. This is evidenced in many ways, not the least of which includes their status as a non-profit, charitable institution and their stated mission: “to inspire creativity, cultivate passion, and provoke intellectual curiosity by connecting art and new ideas with the masses” – something I can absolutely get behind.

Within its grounds, the museum houses an impressive inventory that ranges from the classics to contemporary pieces and that includes artists of varying ages, from local Floridians to those all over the globe. Typically, there’s a small number of featured exhibitions along with their permanent collection.

As of this article’s publication, my favorite current exhibition is Living Color: The Art of the Highwaymen, as I found it to be the most captivating. No matter how far I ventured into the museum’s 19,000 square feet of gallery space, I found myself returning to this one, as the artists’ use of bold, vibrant colors captured Florida’s beauty in even its most disastrous moments. This is especially impressive when you learn about the Highwaymen’s history and that they were mostly self-taught and a mentor to one another. I could go on about why this small group of African-American artists should be included in anyone’s collection, but suffice it to say that their impact was such that Mary Ann Carole, one of the nine original members and the only woman of the group, was the guest of honor at one of Michelle Obama’s First Lady’s Luncheons.

Orlando Museum of Art – operational info and prices

A day at this museum won’t run you much in terms of money or time spent. General admission is only $15 for adults and $5 for children between the ages four and 17, which makes it an excellent choice for an inexpensive family day.

Additionally, they offer several great discounts: groups of 10 or more are only $13, college students are only $5, and active military and veterans are free with a valid college or military ID. If you find yourself a bit of an enthusiast, museum memberships might be right up your alley – they run between $55 and $500.

If that last price shocked you, don’t fret! There are five levels of memberships, each offering its own perks. Even the Individual Membership will get you free admission to the Orlando Museum of Art and other reciprocal museums, a gift pass to the Orlando Museum of Art for friends and family members, discounts in the gift store and for the museum’s adult and youth programs, and other benefits that’ll make it more than worth it.

Concerning their operating hours, visitors are welcome between ten in the morning and four in the afternoon on Tuesdays through Fridays, and from noon to 4:00 pm on Saturdays and Sundays. The museum is closed on Mondays and during the major holidays.

You’re not alone if you raised an eyebrow at the Monday closure. The reason for this is to allow the staff to perform gallery updates and general facility maintenance and to conduct school tours. I would agree with those thinking that four to six hours isn’t a very long time for them to be open to the public – but, from my experience, you can easily get a decent visit at the Orlando Museum of Art in just a few hours.

Orlando Museum of Art – events and additional details

For those who want to get more involved, the Orlando Museum of Art offers a wide variety of ways to do so. One of the easiest is to volunteer your time – opportunities include becoming a docent (which is to say, a trained, volunteer tour guide for adults and students visiting the museum), assisting with their educational programs or marketing/development department, or helping with their special events. (Anyone interested in volunteering must be at least 16 years of age and send in a completed application, which you can find on their website.)

Speaking of the special events, the museum has plenty for all ages. Some are included with admission, such as Sketching in the Museum, which provides supplies and an abundance of inspiration; others incur a separate fee, like Art Night Out, which is essentially an art class that would be perfect for a date night. Each class covers a specified topic and includes supplies as well as an adult beverage for $30 ($27 if you’re a museum member). Their Cocktails and Conversation meet-up is another event that may be of interest. This happens on the first Wednesday of each month, and admission is $15 and includes an all-levels class and themed cocktail. The topic differs each time, allowing for multiple experiences for frequenters.

As a former Art Club kid, I’d be interested in either of these. If neither seems up your alley, though, there’s always a ton of fun events and community programs held by the Orlando Musuem of Art that are worth attending or getting involved in.

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I can go on all day about how under-appreciated our art community is given the talent that I know Orlando contains and why we deserve a better spotlight in the bigger picture. Thankfully, the Orlando Museum of Art does its part in showcasing the best examples to their visitors. Hopefully, you can make it out there and, possibly, become inspired, as well.

If you do, be sure to share your experiences with 90,000+ other Orlando fans over in our OI Community Facebook group. And 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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Let’s review how to use Disney’s mobile order and see how it can save you time. (Want to read more about Universal’s version of ordering on-the-go? You can do so here.)

How to order food through Disney’s mobile order

First things first: you will need to download and sign into My Disney Experience. This smartphone app is a necessary tool to help you plan your Disney World vacation, including making FastPass+ selections and viewing wait times. Once you have the app open, select the plus sign (+) at the bottom of the screen, then choose “order food.”

Once you do, the long list of locations with mobile-order access will appear. Currently, there is not a way to filter this list, so you will need to scroll through the whole thing – but it is organized by location, with Magic Kingdom coming first, followed by the rest of the theme parks, then Disney Springs, and, lastly, the on-site hotels. Select your desired restaurant, then tap “order food.” If you’re not sure where you want to eat, you can use the app to view the menus, but only once the restaurant is open for business.

As you browse a menu, you can use the icons along the top to view individual options, or you can just scroll down to view all of the offerings. When you click on an item, it will give you a photo of it, along with a brief description. Tap “add” to add the dish to your order.

(Important note: while the entire menu is generally represented on the mobile app, sometimes an item may not actually be available because it’s not being currently served at the restaurant – or vice verse. These occasions are pretty rare, however.)

Once you have selected all of your choices, touch the bag in the top-right corner to complete your order. You will need to have a form of payment on file in the app in order to finalize it; credit cards and Disney gift cards are acceptable forms of payment – Disney Visa Rewards are not.

How to pick up your food from Disney’s mobile order

Whenever you’re ready for your food, open My Disney Experience and head to the location where you placed your order. Inside the app, select the lines in the bottom-right corner of the screen, which will open up your profile and menu. Tap “mobile food orders,” then “I’m here” (even if you’re not directly at the restaurant, you can tell them that you’re there). Generally, the food is ready within five minutes of you notifying them.

Once you’ve alerted the location that you are there and ready for your food, the app will update to show that they are preparing your order. Head to the mobile order pick-up window, which is generally all the way to the right or to the left, depending on the restaurant; you’ll see a black-and-white mobile order pick-up icon at the designated spot.

When your order is ready, your phone will let you know, and, generally, the cast member at the window will also call out your name or your order number.

How to save time with Disney’s mobile order

I use Disney’s mobile order nearly every time I am in the theme parks. My strategy is to browse the menu and place the order while I am waiting in line for an attraction, for bag check, or at the park entrance. Then, once I’m ready to eat, I immediately open My Disney Experience as I walk toward the restaurant – once I’m within a few steps of the venue, I “check in” in the app, letting them know I’m there. By doing all this, I’ve essentially filled up vacant time that’s otherwise spent just waiting – and I’ve avoided doing some extra waiting at the eatery, too.

You can even order your food before you arrive in the park – you do not need to physically be on Disney property to place a mobile order. The restaurant simply needs to be open for business at the time of your order, and open for the specific meal period you desire; for example, you generally cannot order something off the lunch or dinner menu while the location is serving breakfast.

All of Disney’s hotels also have mobile ordering available at their counter-service venues. This is great because you can place your order while you’re at the pool, in your room, or, even, when you’re on the way back to your resort after a fun day in the parks.

Finally, I’ve used My Disney Experience in last-minute situations, as well – an impulsive snack, for example, or when there’s a line at the restaurant and I don’t feel like waiting in it. The different ways – and the amount of time – you can save are pretty vast!

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What are your thoughts on Disney’s mobile order? And what’s your favorite place to use it at Walt Disney World? Tell thousands of other Disney fans in our OI Community Facebook group.

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Experiencing the City Beautiful’s art, history, and culture through a visit to its museums will make your Central Florida vacation more enriching and memorable. Take a break from the busy theme parks and enjoy a relaxing visit to a museum or escape a rainy day inside a historic center. Many museums offer reasonable admission prices, making it an affordable vacation activity.

As someone who grew up here, with memories of field trips and family time in the museums, I have my favorites. Check out some of the best institutions Orlando has to offer.

Art museums in Orlando

If you’re going to visit just one museum in Orlando, I strongly suggest the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art. Located along Central Florida’s poshest drag, Park Avenue in Winter Park, you can make a whole afternoon of your visit. This museum features works of art by Louis Comfort Tiffany, whose last name you may recognize – Louis Comfort Tiffany is of the Tiffany family that’s behind Tiffany & Co. jewelry. The art contained within the walls of the Morse Museum are incredible works made using stained glass and other materials. (Keep in mind the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum is closed on Mondays. All visitors are free on Fridays, from 4:00 to 8:00 pm, from November through April.)

While you’re in Winter Park, you may want to consider a visit to Cornell Fine Arts Museum and the Alfond Collection of Contemporary Art. Both are located at Rollins College, which is a private college with an exquisite campus and a neighboring boutique hotel, the Alfond Inn. You can view a wide array of awe-inspiring art both at the museum and in the collection on display at the inn. Admission is free to both!

Want even more art while in Winter Park? There’s an exquisite sculpture collection a few minutes from where the Morse Museum and Rollins College are located. The Albin Polasek Museum and Gardens offers a fascinating collection of over 200 works by Czech-born sculptor Albin Polasek, and what makes this experience so unique is that the majority of the art is outside in the gardens. Take in the sculptures on display on the shores of Lake Osceola, at the sculptor’s home, and linger in the shade underneath majestic trees and enjoy bright and cheerful flowers. This picturesque location is on the National Register of Historic Places. (Note that the museum and gardens are closed on Mondays.)

Another artful area in Orlando is Loch Haven Park, where you will find both the Orlando Museum of Art and the Mennello Museum of American Art. The Orlando Museum of Art was founded in 1924, and for many locals like me, it is the beacon of the art community within Central Florida; no matter what exhibits are on display, you’re sure to view inspiring and interesting art here. Nearby is the Mennello Museum, which showcases art by Earl Cunningham that has been described as a combination of folk and pop culture. (Like many others, both of these museums are closed on Mondays.)

Orlando history museums

In the heart of downtown Orlando is one of my favorite treasures, the Orange County Regional History Center, which showcases Orlando and Orange County’s history (as the name might imply). A variety of exhibits help to paint Orlando’s rich heritage at this incredible history center. Theme-park fans can have a little fun here as there is a collection of memorabilia, news articles, and other items that show how Orlando became the themed capital of the world. There is also a somber tribute to the Pulse Nightclub tragedy and how Orlando came together during that historic moment. (This museum is open seven days a week and offers free admission on the third Thursday of each month, from 6:00 to 9:00 pm.)

Also in downtown Orlando is the small and humble Orlando Fire Museum. Located inside a historic fire station, this museum is a treat for anyone with an affinity for fire fighters, including kids – not only are there interesting details to learn about firefighting, but also Orlando’s history, as well. (This museum is only open on Fridays and Saturdays.)

Escape the hustle and bustle of downtown Orlando and the attractions area by going to the Maitland Art and History Center.  There are actually five different museums to explore across two campuses: the Maitland Art Center, Maitland Historical Museum, Telephone Museum, Waterhouse Residence Museum, and Carpentry Shop Museum. The Waterhouse Residence Museum is a preserved Victorian home located at lovely Lake Lily Park – you’ll walk among Victorian furnishings and view turn-of-the-century woodworking tools and other items. Artists can take up residence in studios here to create inspiring works of art, and as you visit the Waterhouse residence, be sure to stroll on the first brick road to ever be laid in the state of Florida.

See? The Orlando area does have some pretty cool history!

Unique Orlando museums

Two of the most unique museums in Orlando are along International Drive. And as you explore the museums, be sure to visit some of the nearby restaurants and attractions, as there is a lot to do along this corridor.

Start off at Ripley’s Believe It or Not. You’ll be amazed at the exhibits and the facts – and, maybe, you’ll even be a little grossed out, too. Having visited both the Orlando and St. Augustine Ripley’s, as a kid and an adult, I can say the things I saw there have certainly stuck with me.

And then end your tour of International Drive on a sweet note. The Chocolate Museum and Cafe is a trip into the wonderful world of chocolate. Your visit starts off learning about the origins of chocolate while inside a tropical rainforest; then you can gaze at incredible chocolate sculptures, the sweetest art you may ever see. There’s also machinery on display so you can see what it takes to get the sweet stuff, and, finally, your tour finishes with a tasting of some of the world’s finest chocolate. If you’re craving even more chocolate, there is a cafe with coffee, wine, sandwiches, and all kinds of dessert. It’s the sweetest museum in Orlando!

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Inside the theme parks and in local spots throughout Central Florida both, there is plenty to satisfy your sweet tooth. Here are the best of the best.

The best places for desserts at Disney theme parks

Inside Walt Disney World Resort’s theme parks, you will find plenty of desserts and sweet treats to make your visit to the Most Magical Place on Earth even sweeter.

Ice cream reigns supreme here – each of the four theme parks has either a specialty ice cream shop or a restaurant that serves unique ice cream treats, and at Magic Kingdom, it’s the Plaza Ice Cream parlor, which awaits on a corner in Main Street, USA. As you near the entrance of the shop, you can smell the fresh-baked waffle cones (by design, of course), and massive ice cream sundaes can be enjoyed while sitting at tables with views of Cinderellla Castle. Or you can have a simple scoop of ice cream in a cup or cone as you stroll this happy place. (And speaking of Magic Kingdom, don’t forget the famous pineapple Dole Whip inside Adventureland, too!)

Over at Epcot, the delights of Italian gelato and French glace are just some of the frosty sweetness that is offered at World Showcase. In fact, between the France, Italy, China, and Japan Pavilions, you could create your own four-stop ice-cream-and-shaved-ice crawl. My favorite is located in France – L’Artisan des Glaces is a visual delight, but the menu makes this a must-do for Epcot. Artisanal flavors of rich ice cream and sorbet in a cup (or cone) are the simple, but flavorful, way to go. Or you can really indulge with one of the specialty creations – pick one or two flavors of ice cream or sorbet and combine them with an iced cappuccino or a martini with rum, vodka, or Grand Marnier. My favorite creation is the Ice Cream Sandwich, using fresh brioche that is wrapped around a scoop of ice cream or sorbet and then pressed. C’est magnifique!

When you’re in Tinsel Town, a.k.a. Disney’s Hollywood Studios, be sure to visit ’50s Prime Time Cafe. Dining here is like stepping back into a 1950s TV show, complete with the doting – but strict – mother-like treatment from your server. Desserts include Traditional Warm Apple Crisp a la Mode and Mom’s Brownie with Vanilla Ice Cream. Even if you don’t stop in for a meal, you can visit the Tune in Lounge for a libation or – better yet – a fan-favorite treat, the Peanut Butter and Jelly Milkshake. Whether you sit at the bar or in the living room seating area, or take the shake to go, you’ll be sipping on a signature flavor of the theme park.

The best places for sweets at Disney Springs

Disney Springs is the culinary center of Walt Disney World – there are so many flavors and cuisines to explore throughout this massive shopping and dining district, and the atmosphere is tough to beat.

There are plenty of places for desserts, but I have my favorites. If you only stop at one location for sweets, make it The Ganachery Chocolate Shoppe – even if you are not a chocoholic, it’s easy to love this artisanal chocolate shop. Seasonal treats throughout the year, including truffles like Irish cream around St. Patrick’s Day or key lime in the summer, make for a fun way to celebrate whatever season you’re in when you visit. One treat that comes and goes that I wish would just stick around is the Gourmet S’more, which is not your average campsite s’more – each one is handmade with upgraded ingredients. You will get messy, but it is so worth it. Be sure to ask if it is available during your visit and, if it is, do not hesitate to order it.

If massive, mega milkshakes are more your style, then blast off to Planet Hollywood. Three different Super Nova Milkshakes will satisfy anyone’s sweet tooth, and they certainly make for incredible Instagram posts. The Cosmic Cotton Candy shake is a hand-dipped cotton candy milkshake with rainbow sprinkles and white chocolate-covered pretzels that’s topped with cotton candy and a lollipop. Or if you prefer a twist on traditional desserts, there are three Star Jars, which are parfait-style cakes and pies.

The best baked goods in all of Disney Springs can be found at Amorette’s Patisserie. This beautiful bakery is, well, far more than just a bakery – French-style pastries, desserts, and cakes are proudly displayed and ready to delight, and a nice selection of sparkling wine and champagne pair well with each petite treat. You can even toast your visit to Disney Springs with a frozen wine slushy!

Whether you are a full-fledged practicing vegan or just plant-curious, I recommend a stop at Erin McKenna’s Bakery NYC – here, you’ll find cupcakes, donuts, cookies, bagels, and more, all of which are vegan and gluten-free. This bakery originated in New York City, and it is a welcome addition to Disney Springs for those who are vegan, have food allergies, or keep kosher.

The best places for desserts at Universal Orlando

Universal Orlando Resort is epic in every way, including in the desserts it offers. You don’t even have to head into the parks to get an epic sweet fix – at CityWalk, there are two must-do stops to satisfy your cravings. First, you can start your day in a really sweet way at Voodoo Doughnut. Originally from Portland, Oregon, this doughnut shop is full of humor and creativity. There are vegan options, and be sure to keep an eye out for seasonal offerings.

Just across the sparkling CityWalk lagoon is a towering building that resembles a candy factory only found in childhood dreams. Toothsome Chocolate Emporium and Savory Feast Kitchen is my favorite place for sweets at Universal – the steam punk atmosphere is fantastic. Though sweets are the star of the show, their savory entrees should not be overlooked, and even some of their specialty cocktails will satisfy your craving for something sweet. While many others have copied, Toothsome was one of the first places in Orlando to offer massive, over-the-top milkshakes. Even if you don’t dine at Toothsome, you can get one of these epics to go at the downstairs counter.

It comes as no surprise that the two best places for sweets inside Universal Orlando’s theme parks are part of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. At Hogsmeade (located in Islands of Adventure), the wondrous candy shop that Hogwarts students dreamed of visiting is yours to enjoy. Honeydukes is small, to make you feel as cramped as it appears in the movies, but there are countless treasures within – shelves are lined with treats that are ready for you to take home for yourself or give as generous gifts to friends back home. You can also browse baked goods and other treats, like the incredibly sweet Butterbeer Fudge.

Hop aboard the Hogwarts Express, bring along a Chocolate Frog for authenticity’s sake, and head to Diagon Alley (in Universal Studios Florida). There is so much to see here, but the place to go for a sweet spell is Florean Fortescue’s Ice Cream Parlor. Choose between velvety soft serve with intense flavor swirled throughout or hand-scooped ice cream in non-traditional flavors. It’s hard to find a bad flavor here, but my favorite is the Toffee Apple soft serve. It doesn’t get much better than getting a cone of ice cream from Florean’s and taking a stroll throughout Diagon Alley, especially during the summer (when you should take your cone to Knockturn Alley).

Best local Orlando neighborhood for sweets

After enjoying the fantastic sweets at Orlando’s theme parks, perhaps you’ll be ready to sink that sweet tooth into some local treats.

Head to Audubon Park, a charming neighborhood just outside of Downtown Orlando. Here, you’ll find four different sweet shops all within a short distance of each other. The first stop is perhaps the best: Gideon’s Bakehouse is home to the undisputed best chocolate chip cookie in the entire state of Florida. The cookies here are twice the size of an average one and packed with semi-sweet chocolate chips. Add a dash of sea salt, and you’ve got a cookie that is decadent and full of flavor. Located inside East End Market, a trip to Gideon’s is also the perfect way to get a taste of Orlando’s local culture.

While in the area, consider stopping by Blue Bird Bake Shop for cupcakes or pastries to take with you. and if you’re a fan of pie, P Is for Pie Bake Shop is the place for you – you can pick up a whole or a hand pie for yummy baked-good sweetness on the go. For a scoop of local ice cream, visit Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream. As the name implies, Kelly’s provides fresh homemade ice cream – classic flavors like strawberry and chocolate are offered year-round, plus creative seasonal flavors, like gingerbread or lavender, can be enjoyed, too. This local business is growing with a few locations in Central Florida.

The ultimate in local, homemade sweets, however, is Sister Honey’s. You’ll need to drive a little further than Audubon Park, but if you’re looking for authentic Southern treats, then Sister Honey’s is well worth the trip. Pies and cakes are available by the slice (and if sweet potato pie is available, then order it without hesitation). If you’re celebrating a special occasion, you may want to consider ordering a cake or pie ahead of time. This small bakery is a great way to see, and taste, the local neighborhoods near downtown Orlando.

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What are your favorite desserts in Orlando? Be sure to let 90,000+ other vacation-planners know in our OI Community Facebook group.

And 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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Orlando’s best-known animal attractions

Disney’s Animal Kingdom is perhaps the most well-known animal attraction in Orlando, and it’s also my favorite theme park at Walt Disney World Resort – the details and immersion of Animal Kingdom are the best of all the Central Florida parks, in my opinion. Attractions like Kilimanjaro Safaris and Maharajah Jungle Trek provide breathtaking moments with animals in environments that are beautiful and designed for the creatures’ well being. And if you want to elevate your experience and connection with the animals, there are a variety of tours and special experiences you can book. My recommendation is Wild Africa Trek, which takes you to parts of the Kilimanjaro Safaris habitats that are otherwise inaccessible.

The other most well-known animal attraction in Orlando is SeaWorld’s Discovery Cove. I cannot recommend this place enough – it is a blissful paradise in the middle of the city’s attractions area. I try not to rush through my son’s life, but I cannot wait until he is old enough for the three of us to spend a day splashing around the park. Only a certain amount of guests are allowed in each day – advance reservations are required. This tropical escape is best known as the only place in Orlando where you can swim and interact with dolphins up close. This is an extra charge, but otherwise all your food and drink – including beer and wine – is included, plus snorkel equipment and everything else you need to swim around the unique environments.

The wildest animal encounters in Orlando

Besides the heavy hitters of Disney’s Animal Kingdom and SeaWorld’s Discovery Cove, there are other, more intimate ways of connecting with the animal world. Wild Florida, for instance, has just added a drive-thru safari; this new experience is already wowing guests and is just one more reason to visit the park.

Another way to experience the wild world of Florida’s native animals is at Gatorland. This classic attraction has been a part of the area since 1949 – well before Walt Disney World. As the name implies, the focus here is on alligators, but there is a whole host of other animals ready to make your acquaintance. You can also enhance your experience by zip-lining over massive gators or hopping on the new Stompin’ Gator Off-Road Adventure, which is a ride that has you boarding a monster-style off-road vehicle and traversing hills, swamps, water, and other rugged terrain while getting views of the various critters that call the Sunshine State home. As a native, I have taken many friends and family here who are in town and want to get a taste of natural Florida. If you want to experience the state’s most famous animal – and a classic Orlando attraction, to boot – sink your teeth into Gatorland!

If you’re looking for another off-road adventure, the Safari Wilderness experience in Lakeland is one of the best in all of Florida. This is as close to an African safari as you can get in the state, and without the crowds of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, to boot. Lakeland is about 45 minutes from the attractions area, so it’s within reach but still feels far removed from the hustle and bustle. At Safari Wilderness, you can choose to experience a camel expedition or a sunset, all-terrain vehicle, or, even, a kayak safari. You can also feed lemurs! You’ll leave with unforgettable memories and great photos.

Favorite local animal experiences in Central Florida

Just north of the attractions area is Maitland, a charming suburb of Orlando (and my “neck of the woods”). It is worth the 30-to-45 minute drive to head to the Audubon Center for Birds of Prey. If you’ve ever marveled at the beauty of a bald eagle or a hawk, you’ve got to spread your wings and visit here! This incredible facility provides medical treatment and rehabilitation to raptors and birds of prey that are in need of help throughout the state, including bald eagles, ospreys, owls, and falcons. (And be sure to not miss the Magic of Flight Barn!) Plan a visit to the Audubon Center when you’re looking for a more relaxing day during your Orlando vacation.

Also on this side of Orlando is the Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens. This is my childhood zoo, and now that I have a little one of my own, we have a family annual pass. Located in Sanford, this is a great animal attraction to visit if you decide to fly into the Sanford International Airport, and to see one of my favorite scenic drives in Central Florida. Besides being a charming zoo, there are also botanical gardens to explore, plus a tree-top ropes course and zip-lining adventure. You can also feed giraffes and get up close and personal with a rhino. If you visit on a warm day with little ones in tow, pack a bathing suit to enjoy the massive splash pad.

Other animal experiences in the Orlando area

• One of the most recognized and respected animal rescue organizations in Central Florida is the Back to Nature Wildlife Refuge. Located near the Orlando International Airport, about half an hour from the attractions area, this is a worthy cause and a nice visit.
• If you like creepy, crawly reptiles, then be sure to put Reptile World Serpentarium in St. Cloud on your list. This facility is small but mighty and has a venom show twice each day.
• Experience one of Florida’s most precious animals: the sea turtle. If you visit Central Florida in May, June, or July, consider heading out to Brevard County, Orlando’s closest beach, and experience a turtle walk with the Sea Turtle Preservation Society. It is an experience unlike any other.

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This massive complex is the largest endeavor of the Margaritaville brand to date. It’s been open for just about a year, making it an appropriate time to explore the development. There’s lots to see, including Sunset Walk (Margaritaville’s free shopping and dining district), a whole neighborhood of vacation cottages, and Island H2O Live! (the resort’s water park).

The vacation vibe of Margaritaville Resort Orlando

The mix of adult-focused entertainment, and the propensity of drinking adult beverages, mixed with the promotion of Walt Disney World Resort’s proximity is an interesting one. Margaritaville Resort Orlando offers a casual approach to a family-friendly destination. Tropical decor is practically everywhere, but the crisp white linens, sheer curtains, and wood accents add a sophisticated touch. It is easy to escape here – it is easy to slip into the vacation state of mind.

(The one thing that is missing is lush landscaping. This is the former site of the Splendid China attraction in Kissimmee, and the land was essentially completely cleared of any previous vegetation. However, once the foliage grows in, I am hopeful it will feel more lush and immersive.)

I’ve visited Margaritaville a few times, and I am always surprised that the lobby does not have more people in it – comfortable, cushy chairs just beckon you to sit and relax. There are a few seating sections that are styled after a cabana, inviting you to sip a margarita with a big floppy hat and sunglasses. The chandeliers feature margarita glasses, and nautical and tropical details abound.

In short, you’ve arrived in paradise.

Accommodations at Margaritaville Resort Orlando

Staying in paradise comes with a choice: you can reside in the hotel portion of the resort or book your very own vacation cottage.

The hotel offers regular rooms and one-bedroom suites, and here’s the best part: every single room has a pool view. Included amenities help add to the resort experience, such as complimentary wi-fi, plush bathrobes, 24-hour access to the Fins Up! Fitness Club, in-room digital compendium tablet, in-room bottled water, and transportation to Walt Disney World, SeaWorld Orlando, and Universal Orlando. (There is, of course, a resort fee of $30 plus tax per night, which covers these included amenities and more.)

The vacation cottages are the first time the Margaritaville brand has ventured into full-fledged home ownership – yes, you can own your own vacation cottage at Margaritaville Resort Orlando (and trust me – it’s on my wish list). But if owning one is out of the question, you can stay in one. Ranging from one to eight bedrooms, each free-standing cottage offers plenty of room and lots of great features. Situated on streets with names like Key Lime Loop and Pirate Way, you will definitely feel some changes in latitude, changes in attitude.

As I strolled through what is now my dream neighborhood, I came across two surprising features. The back porch of every cottage opens up to a common area that features sandy walkways, a playground, and great gathering areas – some cottages even have their own hot tub. What a fantastic way to relax at the end of the day! There are also bicycle rental stations throughout the entire resort for a fun way to get around. (And it should go without saying that no matter which part of Margaritaville you stay in, you have access to all of the resort’s amenities.)

Recreation and pools at Margaritaville Resort Orlando

If you just want to waste away again in Margaritaville and do nothing, you certainly can, but there are plenty of ways to have fun.

There are two pools, both of which are gated and only available to resort guests. The quiet pool does not feature much but is perfect for catching some sun and reading a good book. The feature pool is where the party is, with a zero entry and surrounded by beachy sand. And while there are plenty of lounge chairs and cabanas at both pools, there is no waterslide, which is disappointing for kids – as I walked around, it did appear that the pools were focused more on adults than children.

Speaking of kiddos, there is an on-site kids’ and teens’ club, The Parakeets Kids’ Club. This is a great option for parents who want to have some time together while leaving their parakeets in the care of trained counselors. This is also a competitive advantage, considering not many resorts in the area actually offer something like this.

For the ultimate in relaxation, there is the St. Somewhere Spa (any spa treatment enables you to enjoy the amenities of the St. Somewhere area throughout the day). And what would Margaritaville be without live music? It’s practically everywhere. In the afternoons, there is daily live music by the feature pool; in the evenings (7:00 pm to 11:00 pm), there is live music at Euphoria Lounge; and on the weekends, you’ll often encounter additional live music in the hotel lobby or during events at Sunset Walk.

Dining and lounges at Margaritaville Resort Orlando

Margaritaville may have started with a song, but it quickly became a shop in Key West that became a cafe that then became a worldwide chain of restaurants. And although the Margaritaville Cafes are now owned by a third party, food and drink are still a big part of the Margaritaville way of life.

Dining at Margaritaville Resort Orlando runs the gambit from quick grab-and-go options at Provisions to signature dining. Euphoria, the upscale on-site restaurant, offers live music and a panoramic view of the grounds. During one of my visits, I pulled up a bar stool at Euphoria’s lounge and enjoyed a Coco-Rita, made with coconut tequila, coconut rum, fresh lime juice, and agave syrup and garnished with toasted coconut. The margaritas here are top shelf.

For something more casual, there is Salty Rim Bar and Grill, which is located poolside and which, in the afternoon, features live music. And there is one more table service restaurant at the resort, On Vacation, but, right now, it is actually on vacation itself. On Vacation normally offers breakfast each day, but, for the time being, breakfast is being served in Euphoria.

Still hungry? There are a lot of restaurants from which to choose at Sunset Walk. Speaking of which…

Sunset Walk at Margaritaville Resort Orlando

This next feature of the resort is something that aims to change the west side of Highway 192. Littered with discount souvenir shops and fast-food chains, 192 West hasn’t always been the most attractive corridor in the attraction area. But with new development here, a lot is changing, and Sunset Walk is definitely part of this initiative.

Margaritaville Resort’s dining, shopping, and entertainment destination brings a tropical vibe with a diverse mix of shops, eateries, and full-service restaurants. Although less than half of the spaces are still left open, there’s nonetheless plenty to enjoy, starting with Sunset’s two entertainment centers, Game Time and Studio Movie Grill, along with a trio of restaurants by the same owner: Ford’s Garage, Capone’s Coal Fired Pizza, and Yeoman’s Cask & Lion. Each of these three venues are right next to each other and have fun, themed environments and great outdoor bars, but each also has its own distinct personality. You gotta at least go into Capone’s to see the gangster’s hideout and the restrooms – the men’s room is a prison cell and the ladies’ room is a powder room.

Bahama Buck’s Shaved Ice has 91 flavors and other treats, and Don’t 4 Get about Me is an adorable pet boutique that even has tropical-themed dog toys. But one of the really cool features of Sunset Walk is the radio studio right in the heart of it. From here, SiriusXM DJs JD Spradlin and Renee Adams broadcast live on Jimmy Buffett’s Radio Margaritaville. (You may remember JD from his over 10 years of broadcasting live at Universal CityWalk‘s Margaritaville Cafe.) This brand-new studio opened about a year ago, and anytime I have visited JD, he seems to love having this upgraded space for his show. You can stop in and say hi – JD is usually there Wednesday through Sunday, 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm, and Renee is usually there filling in for him when he’s out. They both have great theme-park entertainment backgrounds and have lots of stories to tell.

Margaritaville Resort Orlando’s water park, Island H2O Live!

There certainly is no other water park like it in Central Florida. Island H2O Live! is not operated or owned by Margaritaville, so it does not have the island-and-tropical vibe you might assume it would capitalize on; instead, it is themed around the excitement of sharing the good times on social media. There are eight main attractions, with names like Reply Racers and Follow Me Falls. Plus, there is a lazy river, a sports-themed section, areas for young kids, and an adults-only pool and bar.

Besides the social media-themed slides, what sets the park apart is the technology. Each guest gets a wristband, which captures on-ride photos and videos for you to share and also gives you opportunities to earn points throughout the day that are good for discounts and other goodies. There’s even incentive for you to ride attractions that have short wait times! The app allows you to find family and friends who are in the park (and who have linked their wristbands to their app profiles).

Jimmy Buffett has always been an early adopter of technology, so, in this way, the theme of the park kinda fits, I suppose.

Margaritaville Resort Orlando: more information

• $30-per-night resort fee includes a full list of amenities
• $15 per day for self parking/$20 for valet
• Transportation to all theme parks is included, but at scheduled times
• Dogs are welcome – two dogs up to 50 pounds for an additional fee of $75 per dog, per night
• Located three miles from Walt Disney World Resort

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For many, an Orlando vacation is not complete without a beach trip. While Central Florida is just that, central to the state, there are plenty of beaches nearby within reasonable driving distance. As a Central Florida native, let me guide you to some of my favorite spots for soaking up the sun and sand – here are some of the best and closest beaches to Orlando.

Central Florida beaches on the east coast

Admittedly, the east coast of Central Florida does not get as much praise as the west. However, there is lots to enjoy here, and it should not be overlooked. The sunrises are breathtaking and worth waking up early for. Many of the beach towns are quieter on this coast, with several offering a small-town feel. The power of the Atlantic Ocean can be felt here.

Cocoa Beach is the closest to Orlando. From the attractions area, you can head down Toll Road 528, known as the Beach Line, and be on the sand in not more than an hour. I adore the Cocoa Beach area – during my childhood, we ventured on many family trips here. It is a unique beach town because of Port Canaveral and its beautiful cruise ships, as well as its proximity to Cape Canaveral, former home of NASA’s Space Shuttle Program and current home of the SpaceX and ULA private space initiatives. (In fact, one of the reasons the Disney Cruise Line came into existence is because of Port Canaveral being so accessible to Walt Disney World Resort.)

You can find lots of public-access beaches with low-cost parking along A1A once you’ve reached the Cocoa Beach city limits. Growing up, we used to park near the famous Ron Jon Surf Shop; we’d take a stroll through the massive surf store before walking out to the beach and claiming our spot for the day. (Ron Jon Surf Shop really is an iconic spot in the area, so consider stopping in.)

Now, as an adult, my favorite beach in the area is Jetty Park. Because of the jetty at the end of its beach, the water is calmer than the other beaches in the area, and the park’s also a well-attended campground, complete with cabins that are almost on the oceanfront. There is a building just before the walkway out to the beach that offers restrooms, a restaurant, and a gift shop with beach essentials. I really enjoy the casual restaurant, Fishlips, here at Jetty Park – the food is affordable and perfect for the beach, plus they serve cold beverages, including beer. From Jetty Park, you can enjoy the beach, walk out on the pier, and watch cruise ships head out to sea in the afternoon.

On the other end of the spectrum is Cocoa Beach Pier, which was redeveloped by Westgate, the timeshare mogul. This famous pier is an exciting beach destination with lots of activity: there are multiple casual eateries along the pier, and, often, there is live music to be enjoyed. Just be aware of the parking fee, which is generally about $20 (but is free after 4:00 pm on weekdays and 5:00 pm on weekends).

Not too far from Cocoa Beach is Titusville. Here, you’ll find a smaller beach town with a charming historic downtown. Titusville celebrates the unique culture of the space program and is a very popular spot for viewing rocket launches. When my son was just six-weeks-old, we spent the day here to celebrate and watch the very first Falcon Heavy launch (the one during which Elon Musk launched the first Tesla car into space). There aren’t as many public-access beaches here, but you will find a nice selection of restaurants and lounges and Playalinda Brewing.

Perhaps the most well-known beach on Central Florida’s Atlantic coast is Daytona Beach. Home of Daytona International Speedway and the famous Daytona 500 race, this beach allows cars to drive and park right on the sand, in honor of the original Daytona 500 races taking place on the beach itself. Personally, I find Daytona Beach to be too busy and congested, but it is certainly a sight to see if you are visiting Central Florida. And there is a special place in my heart for the location as it was on the way to this area that I first listened to Jimmy Buffett and eventually became a Parrothead. (Speaking of Parrotheads, thanks to the development of Latitude Margaritaville, a retirement community, housing is booming in this area, and lots of development is spreading along I-95 in the Daytona Beach area.)

My final pick for Central Florida beaches on the east coast is a favorite among us locals: New Smyrna Beach is small, but mighty. The road to NSB is full of scenery that is not very beach-like; tall, skinny pine trees and farm fields quickly give way to a bridge, and – viola – you’re at the beach. Charming small businesses make up this town, and there are plenty of great restaurants for a delicious meal. A visit to this area is not complete without taking a stroll down Flagler Avenue, the main street of New Smyrna Beach. (Public parking is available along and near Flagler.) And another unique feature about NSB is the amount of beachside parks there are, giving you another way to enjoy the beach. One of my favorites is 27th Avenue Beachfront Park, with its beachside playground and picnic facilities. There is also a dog-friendly beach at Smyrna Dunes Park (though it is very popular on the weekends and usually reaches capacity by 11:00 am).

Central Florida beaches on the west coast

The west coast of Florida is the preferred one by Floridians and visitors alike. Because of the Gulf of Mexico, there are soft, lapping waves, and warmer waters on this coast make for pleasant splashing any time of year.

The most famous beach of this side of the state is Clearwater Beach, whose calm waves and sugar-soft sand make it a very desirable destination. A nightly sunset celebration takes place on Clearwater’s Pier 60 – live entertainment and vendors line the pier as everyone gathers to watch Mother Nature put on a show at each sunset. Just be aware that traffic can be very congested here, especially on the weekends. Affordable parking can be hard to come by; there are ample parking garages that run about $15 for three hours. (Sand Key is right next to Clearwater Beach and is a nice alternative for a quieter spot, though you will have to contend with Clearwater traffic.) Overall, it is a great destination and is where I just celebrated my anniversary with my husband.

Not too far from Clearwater Beach is Honeymoon Island. This beautiful Florida state park is on my list to get back to someday soon – I visited a few times as a kid, and now, as an adult, it is calling me back. Here, you’ll experience a more natural environment and a quieter setting – four miles of beach and three miles of walking trails wait to welcome and soothe you. You can rent bicycles and kayaks for the ultimate in beach-day recreation. You can also take a ferry to Caladesi Island, and if your desire is to experience unspoiled Florida, then you should definitely make the trip. Grab a bite to eat at the small cafe near the boat dock here or claim your piece of paradise and rent beach chairs and umbrellas to make the most out of your island time.

Further south than Clearwater Beach, but still within a reasonable drive from the attractions area, is Fort De Soto Park. One of the most beautiful beaches in the entire state, you’ll find emerald-green waters, white sand, and picturesque views. Six miles of beach allow visitors to spread out and enjoy without overcrowding each other. That alone is enough to entice anyone looking for the ultimate beach trip, but there is also an early 20th century fort on the grounds – hence the name Fort De Soto Park. Plus, there are restrooms, picnic facilities, and a playground. There is also both a dedicated dog park and dog-friendly section of this spectacular beach.

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