“The Blue Man Group uses drums, paint, goo and other mess-makers to produce an artistic extravaganza.”
- Elizabeth Maupin, Theater Critic, Orlando Sentinel, June 8, 2007
The internationally renowned Blue Man Group made its debut at the 1,000-seat, state-of-the-art Sharp AQUOS Theatre (formerly one of the old Nickelodeon soundstages) at Universal Orlando on June 7, 2007. The Sharp AQUOS Theatre is located at Universal CityWalk between the main entrance to Universal Studios and Hard Rock Cafe.
Founded in 1987 on the streets of New York City, Blue Man Group has evolved into a totally outrageous, multisensory production that mixes elements of live music, theater, art, science, vaudeville and humor into an award-winning show unlike anything you’ve ever seen before. Blue Man Group has been variously described by critics as “hilarious,” “groundbreaking” and “visually stunning.”
All Blue Man Group shows run approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes long. Tickets for the Blue Man Group are currently on sale, starting at $59 for adults and $49 for children ages 3-9.
Filed under: Disney World, Vacations, Water Parks, orlando, sea world, theme parks, universal orlando | Tags: African Queen, Ancient Spanish Monastery, Big Cat Rescue, Blue Hole, Burt Reynolds, Butterfly World, Cassadaga, Christ of the Deep, Citrus Tower, Coral Castle, Creations Pop Culture Museum, Devil's Millhopper, Dinosaur World, Dry Tortugas National park, Flipper, Fort Jefferson, Gatorland, Holy Land Experience, Jackie Gleason, Jesus, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Jules Undersea Lodge, Jungle Adventures, Key West Cemetery, McDonald's, Monkey Jungle, Monument to the States, Mulberry Phosphate Museum, National Key Deer Refuge, Navy SEAL Museum, Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse, Perky's Bat Tower, Potter's Wax Museum, Reptile World, Ripley's Believe It Or Not!, Ron Jon Surf Shop, Salvador Dali Museu, Serpentarium, Seven Mile Bridge, Solomon's Castle, Southernmost Point, Spook Hill, St. Augustine Alligator Farm, Titanic, Venetian Pool, Water Ski Hall of Fame, Weeki Wachee, WonderWorks, World Chess Hall of Fame, World Erotic Art Museum, World's Largest Drive-In, World's Smallest Police Station
An ancient Spanish monastery, spiritualist camp, castle made entirely of coral, undersea lodge, bat tower, seven mile bridge, Navy SEAL museum and other unique curiosities can all be found in the Sunshine State for those travelers who like to stray off the beaten path. Below are 50 of the most offbeat attractions in Florida:
African Queen – Key Largo, Florida
The marina at the Holiday Inn Key Largo (Mile Marker 100) is home to the original boat used in the classic 1951 movie, The African Queen, which was directed by legendary director John Huston and starred Humphrey Bogart, Katherine Huston and Robert Morley.
Ancient Spanish Monastery – North Miami Beach, Florida
Built in Segovia, Spain, in 1141, the Spanish Monastery is the oldest building in the Western Hemisphere. Newspaper tycoon, William Randolph Hearst, had the entire monastery dismantled and sent to the United States in the 1920s where it serves today as St. Bernard de Clairvaux Episcopal Church.
Big Cat Rescue – Tampa, Florida
The world’s largest big cat rescue and sanctuary, Big Cat Rescue is home to lions, tigers, cougars, leopards, bobcats, ocelots, servals, lynx, caracals and other exotic cats. Guided educational tours of Big Cat Rescue are available.
Blue Hole – Big Pine Key, Florida
The largest body of fresh water in the Florida Keys, the Blue Hole is an old rock quarry created during the construction of the Florida East Coast Railway, according to legend. Today, the Blue Hole is home to alligators, turtles, fish, ducks and a variety of wading birds. The Blue Hole is located at Mile Marker 30.5 (bayside).
Burt Reynolds & Friends Museum – Jupiter, Florida
A monument to actor Burt Reynolds’ massive ego, the Burt Reynolds & Friends Museum contains a collection of awards and memorabilia from his movie and TV career.
Butterfly World – Coconut Creek, Florida
One of South Florida’s top tourist destinations, Butterfly World is the world’s largest butterfly aviary – home to more than 80 butterfly species and 5,000 butterflies.
Cassadaga Spiritualist Camp – Cassadaga, Florida
A Historic Spiritualist Camp founded in 1894, Cassadaga is the oldest active religious community in the Southeastern United States and has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Christ of the Deep – Key Largo, Florida
The John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, “America’s First Undersea Park,” is home to the famous nine-foot-tall bronze “Christ of the Deep” statue, which lies 25 feet beneath the ocean in the Key Largo National Marine Sanctuary.
Citrus Tower – Clermont, Florida
Although these days you will definitely view more subdivisions than citrus trees, you can still ride the elevator to an observation deck 226 feet above the rolling hills of Clermont for a spectacular glimpse of the surrounding area.
Coral Castle – Homestead, Florida
How did one individual endeavor to procure and sculpt more than 1,100 tons of coral rock into a “fantasy world carved out of stone” using only homemade tools? The secrets still lie within Coral Castle, “America’s Stonehenge,” the bizarre masterpiece of obsessive genius Ed Leedskalnin, which was built over a 28-year period.
Creations Pop Culture Museum – Delray Beach, Florida
A variety of incredible exhibits await you at Creations Pop Culture Museum, which features tons of Hollywood movie and TV memorabilia.
Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park – Gainesville, Florida
A National Natural Landmark, Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park boasts a 120-foot-deep sinkhole that is accessible from a stairway leading to a lush, “miniature rain forest.” The premises include a visitors center and hiking trails.
Dinosaur World – Plant City, Florida
A unique outdoor museum, Dinosaur World is billed as the “world’s largest dinosaur attraction.” Highlights include life-size dinosaur replicas, caves, hands-on activities, fossil dig area, educational exhibits, gift shop and more.
Dry Tortugas National Park – Key West, Florida
About 70 miles West of Key West lies Dry Tortugas National Park, which is home to historic Fort Jefferson. Dry Tortugas National Park is accessible only by boat, ferry or seaplane.
Flipper’s Grave – Grassy Key, Florida
Grassy Key in the Florida Keys is home to the Dolphin Research Center, which also serves as the final resting place for the original “Flipper” (real name: Mitzi), the most famous dolphin in film and TV history. Mitzi is buried in the Center’s courtyard.
Gatorland – Orlando, Florida
Billed as the “Alligator Capital of the World,” Gatorland features such lively shows as the world-famous Gator Jumparoo, Jungle Crocs of the World, Gator Wrestlin’ Show and Up Close Animal Encounters, as well as the Gator Gully Splash Park, petting zoo, aviary, train ride and more.
Holy Land Experience – Orlando, Florida
A “living, biblical history museum,” Holy Land Experience allows visitors to meet interesting biblical characters in authentic costumes, view a fascinating collection of antiquities and expore the ancient architecture of biblical Jerusalem.
Jackie Gleason’s Mausoleum – Miami, Florida
An immense outdoor mauseoleum at the Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Cemetery in Miami serves as the final resting place for Jackie Gleason, who will always be remembered for his role as Ralph Kramden in “The Honeymooners.” The only inscription on the mausoleum is Gleason’s signature parting lines: “And Away We Go.”
Jesus Film Project – Orlando, Florida
The two-hour docudrama, Jesus, has been viewed by approximately 5 billion people around the world since making its debut in 1979. Learn all about the “most widely viewed film in history” at the Jesus Film Project’s master studio, which is located at the World Headquarters of Campus Crusade for Christ.
Jules’ Undersea Lodge – Key Largo, Florida
The only underwater hotel in the United States, Jules’ Undersea Lodge lies approximately 30 feet beneath the sea and guests have to scuba dive to reach the two-bedroom habitat.
Jungle Adventures – Christmas, Florida
A 20-acre wildlife sanctuary, Jungle Adventures is home to alligators, bears, deer, bobcats, panthers, crocodiles, monkeys, snakes and turtles. View alligator feedings and wildlife shows, take a jungle cruise and visit a Native American Village.
Key West Cemetery – Key West, Florida
Opened in 1847, the historic Key West Cemetery is home to a monument for sailors who died during the sinking of the U.S.S. Maine in 1898, as well as a number of quirky inscriptions such as “I Told You I Was Sick” and “Devoted Fan of Julio Iglesias.”
Monkey Jungle – Miami, Florida
Visit Monkey Jungle – “Where Humans are Caged and Monkeys Run Wild!” One of the few protected habitats for endangered primates in the country, Monkey Jungle is home to more than 400 primates that run free on a 30-acre reserve. A total of 30 primate species are represented here such as spider monkeys, colobus, gibbons and guenons.
Monument to the States – Kissimmee, Florida
Begun in 1942, the 50-foot-tall Monument to the States lies in downtown Kissimmee and consists of more than 1,500 fossils and rocks from every state, as well as more than 20 countries.
Mulberry Phosphate Museum – Mulberry, Florida
Mulberry is known as the “Phosphate Capital of the World” and the Mulberry Phosphate Museum features an incredible colleciton of fossils and exhibits that document the town’s role in the phosphate industry.
National Key Deer Refuge – Big Pine Key, Florida
A 8,542-acre National Wildlife Refuge that lies on Big Pine Key and No Name Key in the Florida Keys, the National Key Deer Refuge serves as the home of the endangered Key Deer, as well as nearly two dozen other threatened and endangered plant and animal species.
Navy SEAL Museum – Fort Pierce, Florida
The Navy SEAL Museum is the world’s only museum dedicated exclusively to “the elite warriors of Naval Special Warfare.”
Old Jail – St. Augustine, Florida
The entire family will enjoy a guided tour through this 1891 jail, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse – St. Augustine, Florida
Built in the early 1700s and located near the famous St. Augustine City Gates, the Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse contains a variety of unique artifacts and displays.
Perky’s Bat Tower – Sugarloaf Key, Florida
Built in 1929 by Florida Keys entrepreneur, Richter Perky, as a way to attract mosquito-eating bats, Perky’s Bat Tower never attracted any bats but today it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Potter’s Wax Museum – St. Augustine, Florida
Billed as “America’s first and finest wax museum,” Potter’s wax museum is nestled in historic St. Augustine and features more than 160 wax figures of such celebrities and historical figures as Albert Einstein, Julius Caesar, Tiger Woods, Princess Diana, Michael Jordan, Johnny Depp and even a bald Britney Spears!
Reptile World Serpentarium – St. Cloud, Florida
The Reptile World Serpentarium houses more than 50 species of snakes from all over the world such as the Australian taipan, king cobra and East African green mamba. Venom shows take place twice daily.
Ripley’s Believe It Or Not! – Orlando, Florida
View such oddities as a Rolls Royce made from a million matchsticks, two-headed calf, shrunken head, four-eyed man, cannibal dinosaur, Mona Lisa made out of toast, Egyptian mummy, Van Gogh portrait made from 3,000 postcards and a piece of the Berlin Wall at the Orlando Odditorium, which appears like it is being slowly devoured by an immense sinkhole!
Ron Jon Surf Shop – Cocoa Beach, Florida
Open 24 hours a day, Ron Jon Surf Shop is a massive 52,000-square-foot, multilevel specialty store that features surfboards, clothing and surf-related souvenirs, as well as live music, demonstrations and autograph sessions.
Salvador Dali Museum – St. Petersburg, Florida
Nestled in downtown St. Petersburg (of all places!), the Salvador Dali Museum boasts the most comprehensive collection of permanent works by the famous surrealist painter such as “The Hallucinogenic Toreador” and “The Discovery of America by Christopher Columbus.”
Seven Mile Bridge – Marathon Key, Florida
A masterpiece of engineering, the Seven Mile Bridge was constructed between 1979 and 1982 on the Overseas Highway and serves to connect the Middle Keys (Marathon Key) to the Lower Keys (Little Duck Key). For the record, the actual length of the Seven Mile Bridge is 6.79 miles.
Solomon’s Castle – Ona, Florida
Internationally known sculptor, Howard Solomon, created this unique medieval-style fortress to house his extensive artwork. Guided tours of Solomon’s Castle are available. The premises also include the Boat in the Moat Restaurant.
Southernmost Point – Key West, Florida
A huge buoy-like structure at the corner of Whitehead and South streets in Key West supposedly marks the “Southernmost Point in the United States,” which is only 90 miles North of Cuba.
Spook Hill – Lake Wales, Florida
Park your car at the bottom of this “gravity-defying hill” in Lake Wales and it will appear to roll up the hill. Is it an optical illusion or some kind of mystical occurrence?
St. Augustine Alligator Farm – St. Augustine, Florida
View Maximo the Giant Crocodile (15 feet and 3 inches long, 1,250 pounds) at the St. Augustine Alligator Farm, which also features wildlife shows, nature habitats, albino alligators and much more.
Titanic: The Experience – Orlando, Florida
The world’s first permanent Titanic exhibition features a full-scale re-creation of the Titanic’s Grand Staircase and incredible stories of the passengers and crew who survived the tragedy, as well as more than 250 Titanic artifacts and memorabilia from the 1997 Oscar-winning movie, Titanic.
Venetian Pool – Coral Gables, Florida
Surrounded by Venetian-style architecture and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Venetian Pool is a 820,000-gallon pool that was carved out of a coral rock quarry in 1923. It features a variety of waterfalls, caves, grottos and a diving platform.
Water Ski Hall of Fame & Museum – Polk City, Florida
View the first pair of water skis and other rare artifacts and memorabilia that document the history of waterskiing at the Water Ski Hall of Fame & Museum, which also contains a resource center and audiovisual library.
Weeki Wachee Springs – Weeki Wachee, Florida
Established in 1947, Weeki Wachee Springs still features its ever-popular live mermaid shows, as well as a state-of-the-art waterpark called Buccaneer Bay and sightseeing boat tours.
WonderWorks – Orlando, Florida
Experience an earthquake, lie on a bed of nails, design your own roller coaster and immerse yourself in virtual reality fun at WonderWorks – “Orlando’s only upside-down attraction!”
World Chess Hall of Fame – Miami, Florida
Learn about some of the most famous chess players in history such as Bobby Fischer and Boris Spassky at the World Chess Hall of Fame, which also features fascinating chess exhibits and artifacts.
World Erotic Art Museum – Miami Beach, Florida
The World Erotic Art Museum boasts an extensive collection of more than 4,000 artifacts that comprehensively document the history of eroticism from 200 B.C. until today.
World’s Largest Drive-In – Sunrise, Florida
Open since 1963, the Fort Lauderdale Swap Shop boasts the largest drive-in movie theater and daily flea market in the world.
World’s Largest McDonald’s – Orlando, Florida
In addition to offering a unique menu that includes gourmet sandwiches and desserts, this two-story McDonald’s offers a 25,000-square-foot play area, as well as more than 60 arcade games. It is located just off world-famous International Drive.
World’s Smallest Police Station – Carrabelle
Basically a phone booth, the World’s Smallest Police Station was built in the early ’60s to accommodate the one police office in Carrabelle, population 1,800. It’s worth the photo opportunity if you ever find yourself driving aimlessly through Florida’s panhandle.
Think you know everything about Walt Disney World Resort and its four world-class theme parks – Disney’s Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney-MGM Studios and Disney’s Animal Kingdom? Think again! Even the biggest Disney fanatic will be amused, intrigued or surprised by some of the 50 fascinating Disney World facts listed below . . .
1. Walt Disney World encompasses 30,500 acres, making it approximately the same size as San Francisco.
2. When Disney’s Magic Kingdom first opened its doors on October 1, 1971, adult admission cost $3.50.
3. The opening day crowd at Disney’s Magic Kingdom was approximately 10,000 guests.
4. The eight “E ticket” attractions at Disney’s Magic Kingdom were Space Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean, Haunted Mansion, Country Bear Jamboree, Hall of Presidents, Jungle Cruise, It’s a Small World and 20,000 Leagues under the Sea.
5. The estimated annual attendance at Disney’s Magic Kingdom is 16.2 million, followed by Epcot with 9.9 million, Disney-MGM Studios with 8.6 million and Disney’s Animal Kingdom with 8.2 million.
6. Cinderella Castle is the tallest structure in Disney’s Magic Kingdom at 189 feet, followed by Space Mountain at 183 feet.
7. Both the Carousel of Progress and It’s A Small World made their debut at the 1964-65 New York World’s Fair.
8. The 180-foot-tall Spaceship Earth at the entrance to Epcot weighs approximately 16 million pounds.
9. The Haunted Mansion uses state-of-the-art Omnimover vehicles called “Doom Buggies.”
10. The jolly headhunter who shows up near the end of the Jungle Cruise is known as “Trader Sam.”
11. In conjunction with the 2006 release of Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men’s Chest, the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction at Disney’s Magic Kingdom was renovated to add several characters from the movie such as Jack Sparrow and Hector Barbossa.
12. The icon of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, The Tree of Life, stands 14 stories, features more than 300 animal carvings and is 50 feet wide.
13. Built in 1917, Cinderella’s Golden Carrousel in Fantasyland was once located at Olympic Park in Maplewood, New Jersey.
14. The Great Movie Ride at Disney-MGM Studios is housed in a replica of Mann’s Chinese Theater.
15. Astro Orbiter first opened in Tomorrowland in 1974 as Star Jets.
16. The Hall of Presidents had its origins as an audio-animatronic exhibition called “Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln,” which premiered at the 1964-65 New York World’s Fair.
17. Originally known as the “Tropical Serenade,” the Tiki Room in Adventureland was once sponsored by Florida Citrus Growers.
18. The 60-foot-tall Swiss Family Treehouse in Adventureland weighs approximately 200 tons and is made of concrete and thousands of polyethylene leaves.
19. Cinderella Castle, the centerpiece of Disney’s Magic Kingdom, features 18 towers and 13 gargoyles.
20. The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh at Fantasyland is located on the site of the former Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride.
21. The “Spirits of America” statues in The American Adventure at Epcot represent Adventure, Compassion, Discovery, Freedom, Heritage, Independence, Individualism, Innovation, Knowledge, Pioneering, Self-Reliance and Tomorrow.
22. Towering four stories over DinoLand U.S.A. at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Dino-Sue is an exact replica of the largest Tyrannosaurus Rex ever discovered.
23. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad in Frontierland features six trains: I.B. Hearty, I.M. Brave, I.M. Fearless, U.B. Bold, U.R. Daring and U.R. Courageous.
24. The Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster – Starring Aerosmith at Disney-MGM Studios launches you at a speed of 0 to 60 miles per hour in 2.8 seconds.
25. A swinging suspension bridge leads from Tom Sawyer Island to Fort Langhorne, which was named after Samuel Langhorne Clemens (better known as Mark Twain).
26. The replica of the Liberty Bell that can be found in the center of Liberty Square was built from the same authentic cast as the original in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
27. The exit to Haunted Mansion features crypts with humorous names inscribed such as I.M. Ready, Rustin Peese, Pearl E. Gates, Manny Festation, Dustin T. Dust and Asher T. Ashes.
28. The Walt Disney World Railroad, which serves approximately 1.5-million passengers annually, is an authentic 1928 steam-powered train.
29. The Mission: SPACE thrill ride at Epcot is so authentic that motion sickness bags are available just in case of emergency.
30. Mickey’s Toontown Fair was once known as both Mickey’s Birthdayland and Mickey’s Starland.
31. Sonny Eclipse, an “intergalactic lounge singer,” performs daily at Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café in Tomorrowland.
32. In order to rank as a “Galactic Hero” at Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin, you must score 900,000 to 999,999 points.
33. The audio-animatronic dog in the Carousel of Progress is named “Rover.”
34. Astronauts Scott Carpenter, Gordon Cooper and Jim Irwin were present at the grand opening of Space Mountain in 1975.
35. Stitch’s Great Escape in Tomorrowland lies at the former site of ExtraTERRORestrial Alien Encounter, which closed in 2003.
36. One of the original attractions at Disney’s Magic Kingdom, Tomorrowland Indy Speedway was once known as Grand Prix Raceway.
37. Recently renamed The Seas with Nemo & Friends, The Living Seas pavilion opened at Epcot in 1986 and was originally sponsored by United Technologies.
38. “Honey, I Shrunk the Audience,” a 3-D film at Epcot, is located in Future World at the former site of “Captain EO,” another 3-D adventure that was directed by Francis Ford Coppola and starred Michael Jackson and Anjelica Huston.
39. Legendary golfer Jack Nicklaus was the first champion at the Walt Disney World Open Invitational, which made its debut in 1971.
40. The Tomorrowland Transit Authority was originally called the WEDway People Mover (WED standing for Walter Elias Disney).
41. Disney’s Magic Kingdom, which encompasses approximately 107 acres, is itself larger than Disneyland, which only covers 80 acres in Anaheim, California.
42. The design of Main Street U.S.A. was loosely based on Walt Disney’s hometown of Marceline, Missouri.
43. The Swiss Family Treehouse is of the species Disneyodendron eximus or “Out-of-the-Ordinary Disney Tree.”
44. The 189-foot-tall water tower icon at Disney-MGM Studios is known as the “ Earffel Tower.”
45. Jungle Cruise riverboats include Amazon Annie, Bomokandi Bertha, Congo Connie, Ganges Gertie, Irrawaddy Irma, Kwango Kate, Mongala Millie, Nile Nelly, Orinoco Ida, Rutshuru Ruby, Sankuru Sadie, Senegel Sal, Ucvali Lolly, Volta Val, Wamba Wanda and Zambesi Zelda.
46. Splash Mountain in Adventureland features a five-story, free-fall plunge at a 45-degree angle into a splash pool at a speed of 40 miles per hour.
47. The 8,500-acre Disney Wilderness Preserve, which lies 15 miles South of Disney World, features a Conservation Learning Center and hiking trails.
48. Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin is located at the former site of If You Had Wings in Tomorrowland.
49. The three “talking heads” who introduce the Country Bears Jamboree are named Buff, Max and Melvin.
50. Approximately 46 million people visit Walt Disney World – including Disney’s Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney-MGM Studios, Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Downtown Disney – annually.
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Believe it or not, you can live it up at Walt Disney World Resort – whether you plan on visiting Disney’s Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney-MGM Studios or Disney’s Animal Kingdom – without making a huge dent in your wallet. By planning ahead, seeking out the best online deals and following the money-saving tips listed below, you can enjoy significant savings on your Disney World vacation getaway – without sacrificing any of your family’s comfort or enjoyment.
1. Seek out discount Disney World tickets, budget accommodations convenient to Disney attractions and individually tailored Disney vacation packagesbefore you arrive in Orlando. 2. If possible, plan your Disney World trip during the off-season and you will usually discover significantly lower airfares and hotel/resort rates.
3. If you are staying at a Disney resort, take advantage of complimentary transportation to all Walt Disney World theme parks, water parks and Downtown Disney.
4. Some of the area factory outlet stores such as Orlando Premium Outlets sell Disney merchandise at significantly lower prices than you will find at stores within the Disney World theme parks.
5. Check out some of the free things to do at Disney World such as strolling around Disney’s Boardwalk and Downtown Disney, or hiking through the Disney Wilderness Preserve.
6. Take the family to one of the all-you-can-eat buffets that lie just outside Disney World property such as Bill Wong’s Famous Buffet, Sweet Tomatoes, Boston Lobster Feast, Golden Corral, Ponderosa, Sizzler, Captain Nemo’s Seafood Feast or Angel’s Lobster, Crab & Prime Rib Buffet.
7. If you don’t mind staying off Disney property, you will discover numerous budget motels and hotels (many of which provide complimentary transportation to Disney World theme parks) along Highway 192 in Kissimmee just East of the main entrance to Walt Disney World Resort.
8. Look for free publications such as I Love Orlando magazine, which contain a multitude of discount coupons to Disney area attractions, restaurants and specialty shops.
9. Before you book a hotel or motel, check if they offer guests a complimentary continental or full breakfast each morning.
10. Check out comprehensive online guides to Disney World such as Orlando, Florida Guide for in-depth information on Disney World discount tickets, accommodations and vacation packages.
11. For larger families, reunions or any other get-together at Disney World, it may make better financial sense to look into renting a vacation home, many of which offer enclosed garages, private backyard pools and washer/dryers.
12. If you are visiting one of the Disney World theme parks with young children, don’t forget to bring along a backpack with some snacks or juice boxes.
13. You don’t have to shell out big bucks to stay on Disney World property at one of Disney’s budget all-star resorts – Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort, Disney’s All Star Music Resort and Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort (all of which offer complimentary transportation to Disney theme parks and feature onsite food courts).
14. Instead of spending a fortune at a Disney character breakfast, take your kids to Town Square at Main Street, U.S.A. for autograph and photo opportunities with Disney characters.
15. Choose the appropriate Disney World ticket deal based on your family’s length of stay in Orlando and remember not to overdo things – you will want to schedule time for rest and relaxation during your trip.
16. If you choose to eat at the Disney World theme parks, try to make lunch your big meal of the day when prices are considerably lower than for dinner (especially at Epcot’s World Showcase).
17. Whenever you leave one of Disney World’s theme parks, make sure to get your hand stamped. Then after you rest awhile and enjoy a cheaper dinner off site, you can head back to the park after the crowds have thinned out.
18. You may want to schedule your Walt Disney World vacation around one of Disney’s highly acclaimed annual events and festivals, many of which are included with the price of admission such as the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival, Star Wars Weekends, Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, Festival of the Seasons, ABC Super Soap Weekend, Festival of the Masters and Holidays Around the World.
19. Carry your own water bottle into the Disney theme park and you can fill it up at any of the abundant water fountains throughout the day.
20. Establish a budget for Disney World souvenirs and stick to your budget (no matter how many cool gifts you see as you stroll through Epcot’s World Showcase!).
21. If you are an AAA or AARP member, take advantage of any special rates or discounts that are available during your Disney World vacation.
22. Many off-site hotels and motels with onsite restaurants offer “Kids Eat Free” deals (one child eats free per paying adult).
23. Purchase such necessities as film and sunscreen before you arrive at Disney World, since prices at the theme parks are more expensive for such items.
24. If you are staying at one of the Disney resorts, take advantage of Disney’s Magical Express, which provides complimentary shuttle service to and from the Orlando International Airport (reservations are required for Disney’s Magical Express).
25. If possible, try to avoid Disney World during holiday weekends and Spring Break when prices are higher and the theme parks are most crowded.
Filed under: Disney World, Vacations, orlando, sea world, theme parks, universal orlando
Spectacular fireworks displays, colorful parades, patriotic music, lively festivities and nonstop fun for the entire family make Orlando the place to be during the 2007 Fourth of July weekend. So gather the family together and celebrate America’s independence at the “Theme Park Capital of the World!”
Walt Disney World Fourth of July Celebrations
A variety of special Fourth of July events have been scheduled for all four of Disney’s world-class theme parks – Disney’s Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney-MGM Studios and Disney’s Animal Kingdom – such as patriotic parades, live music and spectacular fireworks displays. The “Fantasy in the Sky Fireworks” show at Disney’s Magic Kingdom will begin promptly at 9 PM. A street party with live entertainment and a late-night fireworks display is also planned for Pleasure Island in Downtown Disney. All of the Fourth of July celebrations at Disney World are included in the regular admission price.
Fourth of July at Universal CityWalk
Spend the Fourth of July weekend enjoying the thrilling rides and attractions at Universal Orlando’s two extraordinary theme parks – Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. Then check out an amazing Fourth of July extravaganza that involves live music, games and an “All-American cookout,” as well as the simultaneous launch of a glorious display of fireworks from Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. The Fourth of July celebration at Universal CityWalk is included in the regular admission price (preferred viewing is $10). Visitors can also reserve seats on the second-floor balcony of Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville to get a spectacular view of the fireworks display.
SeaWorld Orlando Fourth of July Events
In addition to it exhilarating live animal shows such as “Blue Horizons” and “Shamu Rocks America,” SeaWorld Orlando will feature patriotic daytime shows, special performances of Mistify and an impressive fireworks display. SeaWorld Orlando park hours will be extended to 11 PM on Fourth of July.
Downtown Orlando Fourth of July Festivities
Enjoy a fun-filled afternoon around beautiful Lake Eola in downtown Orlando at Fireworks at the Fountain, which features games, activities, live entertainment and delicious food, followed by a fabulous 30-minute fireworks display at night. More than 100,000 people are expected to attend Fireworks at the Fountain and admission is free. If you’re seeking some serious Fourth of July partying, head to downtown Orlando’s Wall Street Plaza for the Fourth of July Block Party, which includes an outdoor stage for quality live entertainment. It’s a great place to go before and after viewing area fireworks displays. Admission to the Fourth of July Block Party is free.
Filed under: Uncategorized
If you haven’t treated the family to Walt Disney World Resort during the past few years and visited its four world-class theme parks – Disney’s Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney-MGM Studios and Disney’s Animal Kingdom – check out all of the great new Disney attractions you’ve been missing:
1. Expedition Everest – Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Opened in the spring of 2006, Expedition Everest has already evolved into one of the must-see attractions at Disney World. A high-speed train adventure, Expedition Everest combines roller coaster-like thrills with a fun-filled theme that includes a face-to-face encounter with the terrifying abominable snowman!
2. Soarin’ – Epcot
A “high-flying adventure” that can be found at The Land Pavilion in Future World, Soarin’ features state-of-the-art technology that allows you to take a bird’s-eye view of famous California sites such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Yosemite National Park, Napa Valley, Redwood Forest and Disneyland.
3. Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show – Disney-MGM Studios
A high-octane adventure, Lights, Motors, Action! features a behind-the-scenes view of how incredible stunts are executed in big-budget action movies. The spectacular, action-filled show boasts high-flying cars, motorcycles, watercraft and amazing pyrotechnics.
4. Capt. Jack Sparrow joins Pirates of the Caribbean – Disney’s Magic Kingdom
In conjunction with the 2006 release of Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men’s Chest, the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction at Disney’s Magic Kingdom was renovated to add several characters from the movie such as Capt. Jack Sparrow and his nemesis, Hector Barbossa.
5. The Seas with Nemo & Friends – Epcot
The Seas with Nemo & Friends Pavilion (formerly The Living Seas Pavilion) boasts a 5.7-million-gallon saltwater aquarium and numerous interactive exhibits, as well as The Sea with Nemo & Friends, a fun-filled ride aboard a “clamobile”, where kids can visit all of their favorite Finding Nemo characters such as Nemo, Dory, Marlin and Crush.
6. Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor Comedy Club – Disney’s Magic Kingdom
Join “Monster of Ceremonies” Mike Wazowski and other characters from Monstropolis at this unique comedy club that relies entirely on audience interaction. Inspired by the hit animated movie, Monsters, Inc., the Laugh Floor Comedy Club provides fun and laughs for the whole family!
7. Crush ‘n’ Gusher – Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon
Experience a “gravity-defying” adventure on one of the three Crush ‘n’ Gusher water roller coasters – Banana Blaster, Coconut Crusher and Pineapple Plunger! Riders speed down the coasters aboard inflatable rafts with a multitude of twists and turns along the journey.
8. Disney’s Pirate & Princess Party – Disney’s Magic Kingdom
Disney’s Pirate & Princess Party is an after-hours event that made its debut in January 2007 and will return for select nights from August 11 to September 3, 2007. The festivities include Disney’s Enchanted Adventures Parade and the “Magic, Music and Mayhem” fireworks display.
9. Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique – Downtown Disney
Within the World of Disney Store in the heart of Downtown Disney lies the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, a “magical salon” that offers princess makeovers by “Fairy Godmothers-in-Training.”
10. Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant – Downtown Disney
One popular addition to Pleasure Island in Downtown Disney is Raglan Road, a lively Irish pub that boasts authentic Irish cuisine and four bars, as well as live Irish music and dance nightly.
“With the constantly evolving attractions at Disney World’s four world-class theme parks, it’s more important than ever to plan ahead and develop an itinerary so you will get the most out of your Orlando vacation,” said Kyle Collins, Director of Interactive Marketing at HotelsCorp.com. “By seeking out discount Disney World attraction tickets, hotels near Disney theme parks and individually tailored Disney vacation packages before you arrivein Orlando, you and your family will enjoy incredible savings.”
Discover the enchanted lands of Disney’s Magic Kingdom . . . Hike along solitary trails through the beautiful Great Smoky Mountains . . . Stroll through the restored capital of colonial Virginia . . . . Tee off on any of the more than 120 championship golf courses along the Grand Strand . . . Relax on the white-sand beaches of Miami Beach . . . Choose from one of these premiere vacation destinations and experience a once-in-a-lifetime adventure for your whole family this summer!
Orlando, Florida: Experience Big Thrills at the “Theme Park Capital of the World”
Enjoy a magical vacation with the entire family in beautiful Orlando, “The Theme Park Capital of the World,” which boasts warm weather year round, world-class theme parks, water parks, unique attractions, outdoor recreation, first-class accommodations, fine dining, lively nightlife, great shopping opportunities and championship golf courses. Experience the magic of Walt Disney World Resort – Discover the enchanted lands of Disney’s Magic Kingdom, blast off into the future at Epcot, journey through the fascinating history of Hollywood movies at Disney-MGM Studios and take a fun-filled safari expedition at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Don’t miss the thrilling rides of Universal Orlando’s two amazing theme parks – Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, as well as the up-close animal encounters of SeaWorld Orlando.
Gatlinburg, Tennessee: Explore the Scenic Great Smoky Mountains
A picturesque mountain town full of fun-filled adventures, Gatlinburg also boasts fine art and antiques, mountain crafts, family-friendly dining establishments, live entertainment, whitewater rafting and excellent lodging choices. One of the premiere year-round vacation destinations in the United States, Gatlinburg provides spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and serves as the principal gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the largest national park East of the Rocky Mountains. Established in 1934, the park boasts more than 800 miles of scenic hiking trails, as well as historic sites, scenic waterfalls, museums and picnic areas. Must-see Gatlinburg attractions include Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies and the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community, as well as Dollywood theme park in neighboring Pigeon Forge.
Williamsburg, Virginia: Step Back in Time at Colonial Williamsburg
A multitude of attractions await the entire family in Williamsburg, Virginia, which is home to Colonial Williamsburg, the restored 18 th-century capital of colonial Virginia and the largest living history museum in the United States. Colonial Williamsburg lies within Virginia’s Historic Triangle, which includes Jamestown Settlement, site of the first permanent English-speaking colony in North America, and Historic Yorktown, site of the last major battle of the American Revolution. The Williamsburg area also boasts fun-filled theme parks such as Busch Gardens Europe and Water Country USA, championship golf, fine dining and more than 150 factory and designer outlet stores, as well as abundant accommodation choices that range from luxurious resorts and full-service hotels to budget motels and charming bed & breakfast inns. Don’t miss the opportunity to tour the beautiful campus of The College of William and Mary (founded in 1693), which is considered one of the best small public universities in the United States.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina: Tee Off at the “Seaside Golf Capital of the World”
From its humble beginnings, Myrtle Beach has evolved into one of the top vacation destinations on the East Coast – with more than 50,000 guestrooms available, from modest cottages to all-inclusive oceanfront resorts, and approximately 1,800 restaurants, many of which specialize in fresh seafood and Lowcountry specialties. A golfer’s paradise, the Myrtle Beach area offers more than 120 championship courses designed on former rice plantations by some of the world’s top course designers, including Jack Nicklaus, Robert Trent Jones, Tom Fazio, Pete Dye, Greg Norman and Arnold Palmer. Myrtle Beach also features miles of white sandy beaches, lively amusement parks, race tracks, water parks, fishing piers, boat charters, nightclubs, miniature golf courses, old plantation gardens, historic homes, outdoor recreation and massive shopping, dining and entertainment complexes such as Barefoot Landing and Broadway at the Beach.
Miami Beach, Florida: Relax on White-Sand Beaches in a Tropical Paradise
A world-class vacation destination,Miami Beach encompasses 12 miles of endless recreational and entertainment opportunities that include sunbathing, swimming, sightseeing, boating, fishing, golfing, tennis, world-class dining, shopping and nonstop nightlife. If you’re seeking excitement, head to South Beach, the Southernmost 3-mile stretch of Miami Beach, which offers a wealth of specialty shops, trendy restaurants and cafes, many of which can be found along bustling Ocean Drive. Tour the Art Deco Historic District with its vibrant colors and uniquely stylized architecture. Other Miami Beach attractions include the pedestrian-friendly Lincoln Road Mall, Art Center of South Florida, Jackie Gleason Theater of Performing Arts, Holocaust Memorial, Bass Museum of Art, Bal Harbour Shops and Espanola Way shopping district.
“Each of the popular vacation destinations above makes for the perfect summer vacation destination,” said Kyle Collins, Director of Interactive Marketing for HotelsCorp.com. “And by purchasing discount vacation packages, hotels and attraction tickets online, you and you family can enjoy substantial savings on your summer getaway.”
Filed under: Disney World, Vacations, Water Parks, orlando, sea world, theme parks, universal orlando
Would you like to save hundreds of dollars on your family vacation getaway to Disney World this summer? By planning ahead, seeking out the best online travel deals and following some simple money-saving tips, you can enjoy significant savings at Disney World – without sacrificing any of your family’s comfort or enjoyment.
Choosing Accommodations
If you don’t mind staying off Disney World property, you will discover numerous budget motels and hotels (many of which provide complimentary transportation to Disney World theme parks) along Highway 192 in Kissimmee just East of the main entrance to Walt Disney World Resort or along world-famous International Drive. Before you book a motel or hotel, check if they offer guests a complimentary continental or full breakfast each morning.
If you do wish to stay on Disney World property, consider one of Disney’s budget all-star resorts – Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort, Disney’s All-Star Music Resort and Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort (all of which offer complimentary transportation to Disney theme parks and feature onsite food courts). For larger families, reunions or any other get-together at Disney World, it may make better financial sense to look into renting a vacation home, many of which offer enclosed garages, private backyard pools and washer/dryers.
Getting Around If you are staying at a Disney World resort, take advantage of complimentary transportation to all Walt Disney World theme parks, water parks and Downtown Disney. Also, check out Disney’s Magical Express, which provides complimentary shuttle service to and from the Orlando International Airport (reservations are required for Disney’s Magical Express).
Eating Out
Instead ofspending a fortune at one of the Disney Character Breakfasts, take your children to Town Square at Main Street, U.S.A. in Disney’s Magic Kingdom for autograph and photo opportunities with their favorite Disney characters. If you choose to eat at the Disney World theme parks, try to make lunch your big meal of the day when prices are considerably lower than for dinner (especially at Epcot’s World Showcase).
For dinner, consider taking the family to one of the many all-you-can-eat buffets that lie outside Disney World property such as Bill Wong’s Famous Buffet, Sweet Tomatoes, Boston Lobster Feast, Golden Corral, Ponderosa, Sizzler, Captain Nemo’s Seafood Feast or Angel’s Lobster, Crab & Prime Rib Buffet. In addition, look for free publications such as I Love Orlando magazine, which contains a multitude of discount coupons for area restaurants. Also, many off-site hotels and motels with onsite restaurants offer “Kids Eat Free” deals (one child eats free per paying adult).
Shopping for Souvenirs
Establish a budget for Disney World souvenirs and stick to your budget (no matter how many cool gifts you see as you stroll through Epcot’s World Showcase!). Some of the area factory outlet stores such as Orlando Premium Outlets sell Disney merchandise at significantly lower prices than you will find at stores within the Disney World theme parks.
Planning Ahead
Most importantly, seek out discount Disney World tickets, budget accommodations convenient to Disney attractions and individually tailored Disney vacation packages before you arrive in Orlando. Several leading online vacation providers such as HotelsCorp.com serve as comprehensive one-stop resources for discount theme park tickets, hotels and vacation packages.
“Consumers planning their vacation to Orlando can select from a variety of online providers,” said Kyle Collins, Director of Interactive Marketing at HotelsCorp.com. “Our goal at HotelsCorp.com is to provide them with the best prices in Orlando.”
Filed under: Disney World, Vacations, Water Parks, orlando, sea world, theme parks, universal orlando
Beat the heat this summer and cool off at one of the Orlando area’s state-of-the-art water parks, where you can barrel down a thrilling waterslide, take a whitewater rafting adventure, snorkel through a colorful reef full of exotic fish, body surf in one of the world’s largest wave pools and interact with dolphins, sharks and stingrays.
Billed as the “ Coolest Water Park in Central Florida,” Disney’s Blizzard Beach boasts nearly two dozen waterslides – all centered around 220-foot-tall Mount Gushmore! Highlights of Disney’s Blizzard Beach include the twisting flumes of the Runoff Rapids tube run, Snow Stormers racing slides, Cross Country Creek river ride, Melt-Away Bay wave pool, Downhill Double Dipper racing slides, Summit Plummet free-fall slide, Teamboat Springs raft ride, Mount Gushmore Chair Lift, Tike’s Peak children’s water play area and Ski Patrol Training Camp.
According to Disney World legend, a freak storm dumped a ship high atop Mount Mayday and created Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon in the process! In addition to a Shark Reef, Surf Pool and Humunga Kowabunga speed slides, Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon features the Ketchakiddee Creek children’s water play area; Storm Slides; Keelhaul Falls, Gangplank Falls and Mayday Falls tube runs; Castaway Creek lazy river ride; and a Sandy White Beach, the perfect spot to enjoy some relaxation in the sun.
From thrilling waterslides to relaxing river rides to children’s water play areas, Wet ‘n Wild Water Park has something for everyone! Nestled in the heart of world-famous International Drive, Wet ‘n Wild is known as “ America’s most exhilarating water park.” The truly adventurous will want to experience Wet ‘n Wild’s “extreme slides” such as “The Blast,” “Der Stuka” and “The Storm,” as well as “Brain Wash” (which features a 53-foot vertical drop) and the Disco H20 raft adventure.
Spend a day in a tropical paradise at Discovery Cove, SeaWorld Orlando’s sister theme park, which allows visitors to interact with bottlenose dolphins, sharks, barracuda and stingrays, as well as snorkel through a colorful reef full of exotic fish. Float down a river through waterfalls and lush landscaping, feed hundreds of tropical birds and relax on a white-sand beach overlooking the beautiful lagoon. Attendance at Discovery Cove is limited to 1,000 guests a day, so it is never crowded. Note: Reservations are required for Discovery Cove.
In addition, construction is under way for SeaWorld Orlando’s Aquatica, which will open along International Drive in the spring of 2008. The sister theme park of SeaWorld Orlando and Discovery Cove, SeaWorld Aquatica will boast 36 thrilling waterslides, side-by-side wave pools, raft rides, more than 80,000 square feet of white-sand beach, and six rivers and lagoons. SeaWorld Orlando’s Aquatica’s signature attraction will be a 300-foot-long waterslide, which will feature a clear tube that will plunge riders down a 42-foot drop and through a crystal-clear lagoon full of black-and-white Commerson’s Dolphins.
“With state-of-the-art water parks and world-class theme parks, Orlando is the ideal destination for family vacations this summer,” said Kyle Collins, Director of Interactive Marketing for HotelsCorp.com. “And with a little online research, you can find discount attraction tickets as part of an Orlando vacation package that will allow you enjoy significant savings.”
A summer vacation at Disney World brings to mind massive crowds and waiting in long lines in the sweltering heat, right? Fortunately, by making preparations, creating a plan of attack and following the Disney World time-saving tips below, you and your family can enjoy the ultimate Disney World vacation getaway.
- Arrive at Disney World early – at least a half hour before it officially opens – so you can get a jump on the crowds.
- Use Disney World theme park maps and tip boards to develop a plan in order to visit as many attractions as possible.
- Don’t follow the crowd – Many people will go to the right and move clockwise throughout Disney World’s theme park, so try going left and moving counterclockwise.
- At Disney’s Magic Kingdom, beat the crowds by hopping aboard the Walt Disney World Railroad, which has train stations in Frontierland and Mickey’s Toontown Fair.
- If you want to experience such immensely popular rides as Expedition Everest at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Splash Mountain at Disney’s Magic Kingdom, Twilight Zone Tower of Terror at Disney-MGM Studios or Soarin’ at Epcot, make them your first stop since they tend to draw some of the longest lines at Disney World.
- If you love a parade, stake out your spot early since they usually draw crowds. Also, by picking a spot toward the beginning of the parade, you will get a jump on everyone else. You will have finished the parade and made it to the most popular rides while most of the crowd is still watching the parade.
- Take advantage of Disney’s FASTPASS, a free reservation system that helps you to avoid crowds at the most popular rides and attractions.
- Avoid driving to or from Disney World on Interstate 4 during rush hour, which usually runs from 7 to 9 AM and 4 to 7 PM.
- Eat a good breakfast before you get to Disney World. Once there, try to eat lunch a little earlier or later than usual to avoid crowds (before 12 PM or after 2 PM). Eat while the restaurants are empty and everyone else is on the rides or watching a parade.
- If you are planning to dine at one of Disney World’s themed restaurants, make reservations well in advance if possible. Just call (407) WDW-DINE (939-3463).
- If you think you’ve had enough and it’s time to leave, get your hand stamped. After a little rest and a shower, you might feel like returning, especially since it cools off a little after sunset and the crowds thin out. Most of the Disney theme parks have a grand finale show such as a big parade, light show or fireworks.
“In addition to the time-saving tips above, make sure you purchase discount Disney World theme park tickets in advance online and avoid long lines at ticket windows, while enjoying substantial savings in the process,” said Kyle Collins, Director of Interactive Marketing for HotelsCorp.com.
