Theme Park Tickets

When planning a vacation in Orlando, Florida, any family is likely to go to at least one theme park. As the number one vacation destination in the U.S., Orlando hosts major league theme parks and the greatest amount. Visitors can spend time at one of four Disney theme parks and two water parks. They can also see Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. Orlando is famous for Sea World and just west toward Tampa they can see Lego Land and Busch Gardens, Tampa.

These vacations can be very expensive if not planned carefully.  Consider what year and time of year you want to come. Are you going to fly or drive? Where do you plan to stay? There are a variety of options but do your homework.

1)  Buy multi-day, multi-park tickets.  This may concern some people but if you calculate the cost of 1-day park passes and value that against the combo packages there is a lot of money to be saved.

2)  Stay on the property.  Disney and Universal Studios  have many benefits and savings for "all inclusive reservations".  Sea World doesn't have a hotel on site but several hotels adjacent the park have excellent savings.

3)  When possible, fly - don't drive.  Transportation is world class from hotels or theme parks. They can be booked from reliable booking sites like Expedia or Orbitz.  In fact, booking sites can plan all your reservations including shuttle service to and from the airport.

The parks want you to stay with them. It seems like a more expensive option but you are on vacation.  Let others do the work. The more you bundling you do the more money you save and the more fun and relaxation you have.  That's why you're here!  Don't forget to review older posts by clicking the icon at the bottom.  Thank you.

Wet n Wild Scheduled to Close - 2016

                                             (photo courtesy of www.wetnwildorlando.com)

Wet n' Wild water park was opened in March, 1977, by George Millay, the creator of Sea World. At the time it was heralded as the first water park in America. In the late 1990's he sold off his share of the park and it was purchased by the Universal Studios Group. It has run steadily since it opened and has been a great success for many years.

In recent years, Universal Studios, Orlando has added Cabana Bay to it's three other hotels and now has plans to open a water park in 2017 to be called Volcano Bay. It will close Wet n' Wild on 30 December, 2016. Speculation is that the new park will open simultaneously, This will create another distinct park collocated on Universal Studios Orlando main property. The reason is to create little reason for visitors to leave the complex through the course of a stay.  It will encourage visitors to remain on park. Vacation packages and other incentives will sweeten the deal for traveling families.

The opening of the new water park is expected to put Universal Studios on par with nearby Sea World and Walt Disney World which each have water parks of their own.

                                    (photo courtesy of www.orlandosentinel.com)

Fun Spot Attractions - Orlando & Kissimmee

A good vacation day aside from all the mega theme parks is Fun Spot, a smaller amusement park with two locations:  International Drive across the highway from Universal Studios or on US Hwy 192 in Kissimmee. For $39.95 you can ride all the rides all day from 10:00 AM until midnight.  Since parking and entrance is free you can spend some time, go somewhere for lunch or dinner. and return to enjoy yourself until the park closes.

Fun Spot is more like a permanent county fair.  It has multiple roller coasters and midway rides. It also has several go kart courses that all ages can enjoy.  You'll notice right away that the park is clean - actually spotless- and the staff is very friendly and professional.  They have several concession stands that have great park style food and the prices aren't too extreme.  

 

 

 

The only ride that isn't included in the general pass is the Sky Coaster which is a two hundred fifty drop from the top of the structure you see above.  If you get the all day arm band it costs $25.00 each but if you come to the park just for the Coaster they charge $40.00.  My kids went on it and had a great experience.  I got some great shots of them flying through the air but it's not something I'm interested in.

 

 

This place is fun and affordable.  They have a nice family atmosphere there and the staff is nice to talk to.  We enjoyed it there and look forward to going back soon.  Visit their website for pricing and deals. You can save a few dollars by purchasing your tickets online and printing them before arriving.

 

 

 

 

 

 



Walt Disney World Parks Before We Knew Them .........

I wanted to do something different so I found some old photos of Disney under construction.  The one above was a promotional flyer from 1969 when the Preview Center was opened on Buena Vista Drive.  The Preview Center is still there. It is now an AAU headquarters building.

 

                                                   

          Cinderella's Castle

Below is the inside of the Contemporary Hotel.  If you've ever been there you recognize the monorail track just below the windows.

                                                   Expedition Everest - Animal Kingdom

Spaceship Earth - Epcot

EPCOT

Tower of Terror - Disney Hollywood Studios

Jungle Cruise - Magic Kingdom

Typhoon Lagoon

(All photos courtesy of Google and Walt Disney World properties)

Universal Studios - Orlando Memorial Day

Our family went to Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure on Memorial Day.  We got there after noon and thought it would be incredibly congested but the crowds, while substantial, weren't too bad. I'm not sure if everybody was at the beach but it should have been busier for Memorial Day.  We wondered if the economy and government furloughs have taken their toll and people were hesitant to travel.  The longest wait we had for any one ride was about 30 minutes.  If you've been to Central Florida theme parks you know the waits can be over 2 hours in the summer.  Since schools up north haven't let out yet it may be just the Florida/Georgia crowd and the heavy tourism hasn't struck yet.

Universal Studios is always a fun day.  I'm showing some shots I took of all the new construction.  Up top is the train station for the Hogwart's Express I mentioned in a previous article.  This will connect Universal Studios with Islands of Adventure and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter (2-park pass required).  Above is Krustyland, the Simpson's Ride which will soon be surrounded by the new Springfield setting.

We had a great day.  Temperatures right now in Florida are hovering around 75-89 degrees but in the next few weeks temps will soar into the mid 90's and the humidity will be higher than the temperatures.  When you come down use lots of sunblock and drink water continuously not just when you get thirsty.

Transformers is almost complete and should open in the next few weeks.  Right above the entry way pictured here a huge Transformer was just added this week.  I saw a photo of it on another blog this morning.  I only missed it by a few days so I'll have to include next time we go back.

When you visit Universal/Islands treat yourself to award winning dining either at the parks or on City Walk.  Reservations can be made at some but you want to make them more than 24 -48 hours in advance.  Visit UniversalOrlando.com for more information and enjoy your Florida vacation!

Last Note:  Here's the Autobot I was talking about.  He's 28 ft tall and 9 tons.  Cool..

(photo courtesy of Universal Studios)

   

Universal Studios Orlando Simpson's Land

                                               (photo courtesy of Universal Studios)

Universal Studios has been doing major renovations and construction over the last year.  In addition to Transformers and expansion of Harry Potter, the all new Simpsons-themed Springfield Street is almost complete.

The area will resemble Springfield, the Simpsons home town and will be centered on the Simpsons Ride.  The attraction will include Fast Food Boulevard where guests can visit the Krusty Burger, the Frying Dutchman, Bumblebee Man or Moe's Tavern. The newest ride is Kang and Kodos 'Twirl and Hurl', that should spin you out of your mind.  Walk the streets of Simpsons Land this summer and, if you like the Simpsons, you can enjoy the rides and eat food right out of the show.  Visit with the characters for photo opportunities and spend the day watching your kids have a great time.

Simpsons Land will open this summer. Universal Studios hasn't set a firm date but it will be soon.  I will repost when the date is set.

Sea World Orlando - Events

This year at Sea World has a lot planned. In addition to all the park regular attractions Viva La Musica was a big success of Latin food, music, and culture. Coming up is Summer Nights that includes extended summer hours, night time shows, featuring Shamu Rocks, Clyde and Seamore, and roller casters under the stars.

In September, Jack Hanna, the world-renowned zoologist and Director Emeritus of the Columbus Zoo, will host Jack Hanna Weekend where the whole family can get up close and personal with Jack, share his stories and wildlife knowledge, while learning about animals and the environment.

In October Sea World will host "Halloween Spooktacular" where the kids can join Count Von Count for a character breakfast. They can have fun at Penelope's Party Zone, go trick or treating, and participate in Sesame Street's Countdown to Halloween.

In December the family can enjoy Sea World's Christmas Celebration all month long ending with the always spectacular New Year's Eve Celebration at Sea World. Here you can enjoy one of the best fireworks shows seen anywhere.

Visit the website www.seaworldparks.com/seaworld-orlando. You can view park hours as they change throughout the year, what is happening now, and buy tickets or vacation packages all on the same site. Don't forget to book the pets. Sea World has on-site kennels so nobody has to be left at home. I always suggest visiting and comparing prices and packages with Orbitz, Kayak, Priceline, and the other mainstream vacation sites. Go with names you know. There are scams out there so stick with the established sites. Shop and compare to get the best rates for your family and enjoy your vacation in Central Florida.

Harry Potter Expansion - Universal Studios & Islands of Adventure

Universal Studios Orlando is at it again.  For months now there has been a tremendous amount of construction going on in both parks and now they have revealed what many speculated to be an addition to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

The area pictured above is inside Universal Studios and will be called   "Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Diagon Alley".  It will be modeled after London and will have a major ride where visitors ride cars through a labyrinth of passageways populated with dragons and other characters based on Gringott's Wizarding bank from the J.K. Rowling novels.

There will also be shops and eateries like on the Islands of Adventure side and other novelties not yet revealed. Diagon Alley, located on the site of the old Jaws Ride, will be connected to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Islands of Adventure by the "Hogwarts Express" train ride.

There has been so much interest and speculation about the expansion, The folks at Universal and Warner Bros. decided to release the proposed expansion to the public to boost interest in the parks.  The entire project is set to open sometime in 2014. Exact date to be announced sometime in the future.

Since the Harry Potter project will span both parks, it's likely visitors will need a 2-Park Pass to see the whole thing but it will be well worth it. Tickets and packages can be purchased on Universal Studios Orlando website.  Shop around and see what kind of deals you can secure from other travel sites as well.

Although an opening date hasn't been firmed up yet, the parks usually open newer attractions prior to the summer months to maximize visitor enjoyment so I'm going to venture a guess it will be ready in April or may 2014.  We'll see.

Walt Disney World

Walt Disney World is the largest entertainment complex in the world.  At over 30,00 acres (47 sq. miles) it rivals Orlando, the nearest city and covers large portions of two Florida counties.  Walt Disney World consists of 4 major theme parks: Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Disney Hollywood Studios, and EPCOT.  It also boasts two water parks: Disney Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach.

Magic Kingdom, opened in 1971, is the original Walt Disney World park, featuring the classics like the Haunted Mansion and Space Mountain. Animal Kingdom is a world class wildlife exhibit that showcases animals in their natural environments, but wait - you can actually see the animals because you are going to take a bus tour right through their habitat!  Nobody but Disney could have thought of that.

Then there is Disney Hollywood Studios, a tribute to Disney and MGM's fantastic world of 100 years of film-making.  Rides, shows, stage acts, and the ever-popular Star Wars Weekend make this a popular venue for families. When you;'re there don't pass up the Tower of Terror and the Rockin' Roller Coaster featuring Aerosmith.

Park hours vary and they extend through the summer months.  Get up to date hours and ticket pricing at:

                                                          www.disneyworld.disney.go.com


Welcome to Florida. Have a fun summer and be safe.  Please have the time of your life!

Disney World Hotels

One of the special parts of a vacation to the happiest place on earth is the accommodations.  The Walt Disney World complex hosts a variety of hotels but I've always been partial to the original three.  Settled on the shores of the Seven Seas Lagoon are the Contemporary Hotel, The Polynesian, and added many years later, the Grand Floridian. 

Ranging from $299 - around $1400 a night, the prices are a little steep for many, but there are benefits.  Many families come to town wishing to eliminate driving around an unfamiliar place, Vacations are supposed to be fun and once on Disney property everything you need for your vacation is available along with world-class service. There is transportation, scenery, and the ambiance of staying in the "Mouse House" for the entire vacation.  After a day at any of the parks or water parks, weary travelers can't imagine having to drive off property to secure some sleep.  All the hotels have comforts such as movies, swimming areas, jet skis, sailing, luaus, (at the Polynesian), etc.  The monorail actually runs right through the center of the Contemporary Hotel.  There are numerous activities for the kids like you might find on cruise ships, character dining, and much more.

 Vacation packages can be booked on-line.  I recommend these since the prices are considerably higher than off site, but  shop around.  Also consider military and AAA Club discounts.

Check with your employers as many corporations have deals with the theme parks for family discounts.

The only down side of staying on property is the premium price tag that goes with the convenience.  Rooms are luxurious but basic.  Last time I stayed in the Polynesian there wasn't even a coffee maker in the room. The whole design, while plush, is set to make you go out of your room and not sleep in.  (Unless you're the fortunate one who can afford the luxury suites).

Sound like I'm trying to discourage you?  Not at all.  The Disney folks run shuttles from Orlando International Airport so you can save hundreds on rental cars and fuel.  Mom and Dad can be chauffeured everywhere and not touch a gas pedal.  Not to mention you can bee at any of the parks within minutes of waking up!  So, I would see what offers you can get from Disney.go.com, Travelocity, or the other sites.

Florida Vacations - Off the Beaten Trail

When traveling in Florida most people stay within the tourist corridor and rarely encounter any wildlife.  Florida is just like anywhere else, an ever-evolving sub tropical ecosystem.  At the top of that system is the guy you see up top.  This Florida alligator is about 10 feet long and weighs in at about 350-400 lbs.  These are peaceful, lazy creatures but if you go near the water be sure they are there and they already are aware of you.  The gator can grow up in excess of 13 feet and over 1000 lbs.

If you stop while driving through the state please look where you're walking, especially in grass or water or you can encounter one of these:

This is an Eastern Diamondback Rattler and is native to the southeast.  He won't bother you but he's a viper so has no sense of humor.  He is relatively nocturnal but I found him warming himself in the roadway on a cold day.  When I snapped this photo I stepped out of my truck and his reaction was predictable:

We have various snakes that are harmless, feral hogs, bobcats, and the very rare Florida Panther.  I've lived here all my life and have yet to see one outside captivity.  Be careful where you sit, stand, or place your hand.  The Brown Recluse is on of many spiders that are toxic.  Just remember these creatures only want to be left alone but can be trouble if bothered.  You likely won't encounter any of them but they don't mention them in travel brochures.

BIG NOTE:  Wherever you are in Florida DON'T feed the seagulls.  If you do you will step right into a scene from an Alfred Hitchcock movie!

Caribe Royale

One of the Disney area hotels that can be overlooked is the Caribe Royale.  A sprawling 50+ acre arrangements of towers and villas, this resort is well worth your stay.  Set a few blocks off the mainstream hotel locations of Lake Buena Vista, Caribe Royale is a great place for families and business types to stay for surprisingly reasonable rates.

Enter the spacious lobby with tropical appeal and be greeted by a professional front desk staff who aim to please. Check in is quick and painless.  Once you get your room walk down the majestic staircase and out to the pool area surrounded by three towers hosting over 1, 200 one room suites ranging from $109 - $129/night during this season.

Caribe Royale has casual dining and a 24 hour deli where you can walk down in your pajamas and get whatever you want.  Wander past the towers and view the Convention Center located adjacent the 2 bedroom villas raging from $134 - $149/night.

Spend some time at the pool and have a drink at the poolside bar.  You can enjoy the 2 Jacuzzis and there is a kiddie pool/playground for the kids.  They also have a fitness center (see picture to the left).

Say "Hi" to some of our Florida wildlife.  I met these red-crested cranes ambling through the parking lot.



We've stayed here many times over the years and always enjoy the stay.   It's close to the parks and shuttle service is available. Visit their website at www.CaribeRoyale.com and take the virtual tour. You won't be disappointed. Thank you for reading.

Gaylord Palms Resort - Orlando

Gaylord Palms Resort just off the Osceola Parkway near the gates to Walt Disney World is a world class hotel and convention center with a lot going on this fall.  To step into the majestic corridors and gardens of this hotel will amaze even the most critical traveler.  The grounds and amenities appeal to the business traveler and families looking for a great place to stay while visiting the parks.

Visitors can choose from Sunset Guest Rooms, Emerald Guest Rooms, or Luxury Suites and Presidential Guest Suites that range in price from $199-$850/night.  They also have rates for Florida residents, seniors, AARP, military, and more.  Remember to bounce their deals against the travel sites.  Believe it or not, you may find a better rate at another site.

I thought it would be good to display the layout of the place. It's that big!

This fall there are several events that will attract folks from up north and Floridians alike.  Christmas at Gaylord's is a decorative celebration of the season that includes a 54 foot tall tree and over 2 million lights inside and out of the resort.  There are Dream Works characters from films like Shrek, Madagascar, and KungFu Panda which also accompany the character dining events.

The incredibly popular "ICE" premiers from Nov 10-Jan 31.  This one appeals especially to Floridians whose kids never get to see ice and snow. They can play on and slide on a 2 million pound ice sculpture. Packages start at $189 per night but you can also attend the event separately starting at 13.99/Child and $22.95 /Adult Visit the website for more information, tickets and reservations:

www.GaylordHotels.com

www.ChristmasAtGaylordPalms.com

We certainly plan to attend this year and hope if you do that you will enjoy it!

Tips on How To Plan a Florida Vacation

This is an email I received from a friend of a friend.  Thought it was worth passing on.

Hi Kevin!

I work with a friend of yours in Princeton, NJ. He gave me your card and said I should
contact you.

My story is a bit unusual but wonderful. My son is 28 and not long ago weighed close
 to 400 lbs. All the lecturing in the world was totally ineffective to get him to lose weight
 until I promised him a trip to Disney World if he could lose 100 lbs. A challenge for
 anyone!

But since last January, he’s lost 108 lbs through good diet and exercise. He did this
 all on his own, all I did was find the best incentive for him and off he went!

When we started planning this trip, he decided that he’d much rather go to Universal
Studios. So that’s where we’re going.

Can you help us plan it?

We’re looking towards February,2013 to go. We want to spend 4 days and three night
 there, perhaps right on the premises if we can afford it. Due to his autism, we would
also like the quick pass so there won’t be long waits on lines. Bill said this is right up
 your alley!

Thank you for reading our story and thank you in advance for any help you may provide.

Sincerely,

 (name)

Hi!

It's cool to hear about your son's extraordinary success with the weight loss.  It's a
 major obstacle but I've heard stories in the past of people who tackle mountains
 and win.  Congrats to you both.

I'm guessing from your content either the trip was the incentive  to lose the weight
 or just something you're both planning on doing.  One way or the other our theme
 parks can only be the best vacation you've ever had.  The memories are priceless.

There are several ways to plan your trip and are remarkably painless.  I strongly
suggest vacation package deals which are available on all 3 major park sites:  SeaworldOrlando.com, UniversalOrlando.com, or Disney.go.com. Look for the package
 that fits your stay including lodging.  Universal has FastPass privilege built in to their
lodging as all 3 hotels are on Universal property.  Sea World has participating hotels
 that give discounts and transportation but Fast Pass is extra.  The same with Busch Gardens.  Walt Disney World doesn't have front of the line charge but you can use
 any ticket combo by scanning your ticket at one ride, ride another, then return at
the time they give you to bypass the regular line.  

Also look at dining deals such as pay one fare and eat all day.  Food prices in the
parks are high so to not worry about shelling out every 3 hours is worth the headache.

If you want all-inclusive packaging, to include airfare, then the travel sites are for you.  Expedia, Orbitz, and Kayak can book everything on one site including transportation
to and from the hotels and parks. I'm partial to expedia but they all operate the same
way. If you do your homework and compare all the site deals you can actually save
 on car rental by reserving at the right hotel and be transported to your daily venue.  

The key here is to shop and compare.  I can't emphasize this enough.  Orlando is the
 number one tourist destination in the world.  A lot of people are interested in your
business and competition is fierce.  If you look at several sites and it seems as though
 they are all the same don't be fooled.  They all have a slightly different deal so see
 which one best fits you and your son's needs.  I would research for at least a week.
 It could save you a lot of money.  Also stick to mainstream sites.  There are a lot of
 folks who want your money.  If you find a site and are not sure of their validity please
 contact me and I will verify their authenticity.  I'm certain I know most of them.

I hope this helps.  Enjoy your vacation.  I know you will love it.  

v/r

Kevin

Thank you, Kevin. This is just what I needed! I’ll start looking this weekend.

Thanks so much.

Regards

Kumba Front Row Seat on-ride POV Busch Gardens Tampa

T

Bongo's Cuban Cafe - Downtown Disney

Bongo's Cuban Cafe in Downtown is like visiting Havana in the 50's.  Established in the 90's by Gloria Estefan and her husband Emilio, this is a great experience even if you aren't too familiar with Cuban fare.  The reservations line is a good idea but this time of year it's not quite so essential.  The staff is almost entirely Cuban and the service is usually fantastic.  More of that in a moment.

The girls at the reception desk are quite nice and hospitable.  We arrived early and were seated right away.  The food was perfect and we loved the atmosphere.  Unfortunately, our server wasn't the best and, while she was pleasant, was not very helpful.  Other servers paid more attention to us so it was still a nice dinner.

Dinner was perfect in every way.  We started with a potato ball with meat stuffing appetizer.  Cuban fried rice and fried pulled pork were also delicious.  The drinks were awesome and the children's menu had a good variety.  I recommend the pollo with yellow rice or the fried pulled beef which is a great choice every time.

The dining room is typically bustly and it's a little hard to hear everybody but not annoying.  The bar area is nice although we visited the dining room and entertainment on weekends is worth filming. There is a small gift shop attached if you're a souvenir hunter.  It's often too hot but this time of year you can sit outside and eat as well as on the balcony overlooking the sidewalk at Disney Village.  At night when the street music is playing and the street is lit the feeling is awesome and you never want to leave.

I give the experience an "A" although our server left something to be desired.  Everything else was great for us so we recommend this as a dining experience and hope to return as soon as we can.