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Alice Couture
 The Alice in Wonderland hype is growing fast and we are loving very second of it. Alice and friends can be tough to find in the Disney theme parks. If you go to the Supercalifragilistic character breakfast at the Grand Floridian, she’s there along with Mary Poppins. Over at the Magic Kingdom you can usually find Alice and the Mad Hatter causing trouble by the tea cups. She can also be found over in the UK pavilion of Epcot’s World Showcase. Now, thanks to Tim Burton’s upcoming take on the film, dear little Alice is coming into the spotlight once more and fans of Disney’s biggest “non-Princess” female character couldn’t be happier. Alice has even gone to the runway. Top designers Stella McCartney, Tom Binns, LaRok and Sue Wong created amazing clothes and accessories inspired by everything that is Alice. Whether it be patterns similar to card suites or Victorian-style lace and dresses, Alice has gone high-end! Even Swarovski will be crafting special pieces inspired by scenes from the classic story, including crystal teacups and of course, the Cheshire Cat. As for the clothes, you can buy some of the dresses in Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, and Saks Fifth Avenue. Sue Wong spoke about her amazing line: “I have long been mesmerized by the fantastical tales of Alice and her surrealistic adventures in Wonderland and am thrilled to be collaborating with Disney on this project. This classic story, along with Tim Burton’s inspired interpretation, lends itself especially well to my design aesthetic, which is whimsical and fun, while adding yet another element of creativity and expression to my artistic process. It is an honor to help bring this marvelous tale to life.” Most of these great collectibles won’t come cheap! While the Swarovski items range from a reasonable $80-$150, the Stella McCartney and Sue Wong dresses can cost as much as $600! If you’re a major Alice fan, we suggest you start saving now. The movie comes out in March but fans everywhere are already excited to see the genius Tim Burton’s take on the movie and increase their Alice in Wonderland collections. What will you be buying? Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, walt disney world
The Original Disney Princess
 The Disney Princess franchise has been a great success for the Disney Company. Girls of all ages enjoy the movies and merchandising of the company’s most beloved princesses. At the Disney theme parks it’s hard not to run into all of the cute items featuring the Disney princesses. But while we currently have nine thanks to the addition of Princess Tiana, there had to be a first, and the title of the first-ever Disney princess belongs to the fairest of them all: Snow White. This week, back in 1937, Snow White and the Seven Dwarves debuted at the Carthay Circle Theatre in California. Presented by RKO Pictures and Walt Disney, it was the first full-length animated feature film in the history of motion pictures. Of course, Walt had done other animated shorts like the Silly Symphonies and Mickey Mouse cartoons, but Snow White changed Disney history forever. The American Film Institute even named Snow White and the Seven Dwarves the greatest animated film of all time. While we’re sure there are plenty of Disney fans that go to the Magic Kingdom looking for Princess Aurora and Cinderella merchandise instead of Snow White, you can’t ignore the fact that it was Snow White that started it all! When you head to the Walt Disney World Resort you can go to the Magic Kingdom and ride Snow White’s Scary Adventures, a “dark ride” that focuses on Snow White’s journey to happiness with her Prince Charming. You can also meet Prince Charming and Snow White at various picture spots throughout the park. It’s a bit harder to find the Seven Dwarves running around, but if you go to special events like Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party or Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, you have a better chance of seeing them! You can also catch all of your favorite characters in the various parades at the parks. If you want to commemorate the first Disney Princess and the release of Snow White and the Seven Dwarves, why not pick up the DVD? Better yet, check out the exclusive Blu Ray edition with special footage and behind the scenes looks! It’s a must have for any Disney fan and fans of Snow White Labels: Discount Disney Tickets
Epcots Flower and Garden Festival In Bloom Soon
 The Epcot International Food and Wine Festival is reaching its final days this year. The entire Epcot crew put on an amazing event and they can go home knowing they made plenty of foodie fanatics extremely happy! We’re sure the guests that visited the event at Epcot, one of the most popular Disney theme parks, went home with full tummies and plenty of pictures to commemorate the culinary event and are already busy planning for next year’s trip. But for those of you that like to call gardening your passion, you can rest assured the Walt Disney World Resort has not left you behind. Disney just released the details for the 17th annual Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival, and it looks like it’s going to be yet another fantastic event full of Disney magic. The event will go on for 75 days, from March 3rd to May 16th, giving you plenty of time to pick up your discount Disney tickets and come to Orlando for a beautiful park experience like you’ve never seen before. Luckily for everyone, the festival is starting earlier! “The advantage of starting earlier is that we’ll be able to feature more brilliant color than ever, with richly hued petunias, violas, snapdragons and other hardy flowers,” says festival horticulture manager Eric Darden. “By starting earlier and going through mid-May, it allows more guests than ever to experience the festival and to plan ahead for their spring and summer gardening.” Prepare to have plenty of events to go to and keep your camera handy. There will be beautiful topiaries of all of your favorite Disney characters. The New Victory Garden at the American Adventure will focus on veggies and topiaries of Disney’s “Fab Five” Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Pluto and Goofy. If you like butterflies you will enjoy Bambi’s Butterfly House over at Future World West. It will feature 3,500 square feet of beautiful flowers and up to 700 butterflies flitting about. Fairy fans will love the Pixie Hollow Fairy Garden featuring Tinker Bell and the rest of her Pixie Hollow friends. This is going to be a great event, so don’t forget to check back with us for all of the news about the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival. Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, Disney World Tickets, epcot flower and garden festival
Tianas Showboat Jubilee Debuts at Magic Kingdom
 The Orlando theme parks are always busy debuting brand new shows and attractions during the fall months. That goes for the Walt Disney World Resort’s Magic Kingdom as well! The hype continues to build surrounding The Princess and the Frog! We love to write about it here at OrlandoFunTickets.com because it’s almost a sure thing this new movie, and new princess, will be a Disney hit for many years to come! Disney has been releasing wonderful merchandise based off of the new movie. We recently told you about the Tiana bridal gown and the gorgeous Halloween costumes for your own little princess. Tiana dolls and figurines are already lining the store shelves and the latest Disney DVD releases all have special features for The Princess and the Frog including sneak previews and featurettes on the making of the picture.
Tiana is the first princess in nearly a decade, the last princess being Mulan. She is also the first Black princess in Disney history! Disney surprised guests by debuting Tiana a bit earlier than they had planned. It’s perfect timing considering the busy holiday season is coming up and thousands of Disney princess fans will be coming to the parks in see Tiana. Just this weekend, the other planned part of the new movie’s promotion debuted as well. Tiana’s Showboat Jubilee debuted at the Magic Kingdom.
The parade begins in Liberty Square as the American colonial-influenced area of the park turns into a Mardi Gras party. Princess Tiana, Prince Naveen and Louis the Alligator, along with the evil Dr. Facillier, walk toward the Liberty Belle steamboat which is docked by the Haunted Mansion. The parade dancers are decked out in green, gold and purple. The girls were wearing saloon-style dressed as they dance with umbrellas and tambourines to the beat of a live jazz band. As the parade boards the Liberty Belle the boat takes off for a tour around the river as songs from The Princess and the Frog play and performers dance with sashes and women’s tambourines. The parade is a great addition to the Magic Kingdom and a wonderful way to promote the film. Make sure you try to catch a performance if you’re in the parks during this time of year. Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, Disney, Magic Kingdom
Custom Maps at Walt Disney World
Floridians are lucky. We can take a drive to the Orlando theme parks whenever we want without having to worry about airfare or other travel hassles. Considering great parks like the Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort are just a few hours away, we’re pretty darn lucky to live where we live! One of the perks is that you’ve probably been to the parks enough times to know how to navigate them without having to ask questions or look for a map. It’s no secret the Walt Disney World Resort is one of the most, if not the most popular theme park in the world and there are plenty of Floridians that know the secrets you learn from being a local. But what if you’ve never been to places like the Magic Kingdom, Epcot or Disney’s Hollywood Studios before?
There are so many great features in these parks. Not only do you have great rides like Space Mountain and the Twilight Zone: Tower of Terror, there are parades, special shows and character meet and greets. Sometimes it seems like there’s a new attraction to see every time you get to the Disney theme parks. It can get a little hard to keep track of. So Disney has introduced a great way to make sure you make the most of your time in Orlando and not miss one amazing show or attraction: customizable maps!
Via the Walt Disney World website you can create a custom map for your trip by looking through all of the activities at the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney’s Animal Kingdom. As you browse the interactive website you can select which events, shows and rides you would like to see. The program them adds them to a full color map that will be mailed to you before your trip so you can have a customized experience when you visit the Walt Disney World Resort. Considering there are so many special features being added to the parks every year, especially around the holiday season, this is a great way to keep track. You won’t miss anything you want to see on your trip to the Walt Disney World Resort! Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, Magic Kingdom, walt disney world
Kirstie Kelly Adds Tiana to Bridal Line
 A few months ago OrlandoFunTickets.com talked about Disneys Dream Weddings, where you can get married at the Disney theme parks in a ceremony fit for a prince and princess. The celebrations have been magical for the hundreds of couples that get married at Walt Disney World every year, but there is always one key element to every wedding: the bride’s wedding gown. Thanks to Disney Consumer Products and pro designer Kirstie Kelly, Disney fanatics can choose from a beautiful array of dresses all themed after Disney’s legendary princesses. Kelly is a graduate of The Otis Art Institute of Parsons School of Design in Los Angeles and has been designing for 12 years. If you haven’t seen any of her beautiful gowns you can check them out on the Disney Bridal website. Snow White, Jasmine, Ariel, Sleeping Beauty and even Giselle from Enchanted have gowns of their own. Bridesmaids’ dresses are called “Maidens” and flower girl dresses are called “Blossoms.” There is even the “Red Label” line of Disney wedding gowns for women that wear larger sizes. Now Kirstie Kelly has revealed a new dress for her Kirstie Kelly for Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings collection, and it’s inspired by Princess Tiana from The Princess and the Frog. Tiana is the newest Disney princess in over 10 years and the first African American princess in Disney history. The Tiana inspired dress is ivory colored with a rouched bodice, a pleated skirt and a waterfall train. The new designs are highly influenced by Tiana’s independent spirit. Her dream isn’t to be rescued by a prince and taken off to a castle; it’s to open up her own restaurant. Her independence greatly inspired Kirstie Kelly’s design. “The Princess Tiana gown is a very special part of the Disney Princess collection,” said Kelly. “When I look at this gown I see a modern woman that is very comfortable with her own identity. The gown is designed for a bride with a modern sensibility and effortlessly exudes both romance and sultry flair.” We’re sure this won’t be the only Tiana gown to come from Kelly’s collection. Considering the other princesses have a number of dresses to their name, we can safely assume Tiana’s first won’t be the last. Labels: cheap disney tickets, Discount Disney Tickets, disney news
Personal Favorites: The Magic Kingdom's Mountains
 Some people just are not roller-coaster enthusiasts. The idea of huge loops, drops, inversions and crazy speeds make them queasy just thinking about it. But thanks to the Walt Disney World’s “family friendly” coasters there are plenty of ways to have some fun on a coaster without having to worry about losing your lunch. You’ll see little kids dragging their parents to rides like Space Mountain, Thunder Mountain and Splash Mountain because they’re all fun and give you just the right amount of “thrill” and no spill…if you get what I mean. Space Mountain is getting ready to reopen this November just in time for the holiday season. You and fellow riders hop into a rocket that takes you through “space” as you race by shooting stars and comets. It’s great to wait in line at Space Mountain and feel like the galaxy is right above your head as you hear the distant screaming of guests riding the space coaster. Don’t let the fact that there are no loops or inversions on Space Mountain fool you: this is an intense and FAST ride! The “mountains” usually have the longest lines of any of the Magic Kingdom’s attractions, but thanks to the Fast Pass system you can plan ahead and not have to wait too long. Over in Frontierland we have the other two mountains in the park: Splash Mountain and the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad (or Thunder Mountain for short). Splash Mountain is a silly adventure with Br’er Rabbit and Br’er Bear on a log flume ride that will leave you soaked—you’ve been warned! It’s great on a hot summer day but might not be a good idea when the temperatures start to drop in Orlando. Over at Thunder Mountain you’ll take a trip through the Wild West on a runaway train that takes sharp turns and dips into dark caves as you hear banjos and train whistles going off around you. This is a nice attraction to reserve for night time as you take many curves outside and the breeze is excellent (as is the brief glimpse you can catch of Cinderella’s Castle through the trees). So these may not be huge coasters like SeaWorld’s Manta or Busch Gardens’ Kumba…but the mountains at the Magic Kingdom can be thrilling for all ages. Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, disney world, Magic Kingdom, Magic Kingdom Attractions
Remembering September 11th: Be Patriotic at Walt Disney World
 No one will ever forget the tragedy of September 11th, 2001. All you have to do is ask someone where they were and they will tell you what was going on in their lives when they first learned about the attacks on the World Trade Center in New York and the Pentagon in Washington D.C. The entire nation was affected by the terrible event and the Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland were no different. It’s no secret Walt Disney was an incredibly patriotic man and that is a sentiment still very much engrained in the Disney family today. The day of the attacks, Disneyland kept their parks closed. Because of the time difference no one had gone to visit the parks, but there were still people at the resorts. Food and beverage stations remained open and all telephone charges were suspended so visitors could call their families. Groups that had been stranded were entertained by free Disney movies over at Downtown Disney. Here at Walt Disney World, Cast Members were instructed to link hands and form a human wall to gently guide visitors out of the parks. Hotels let stranded visitors stay in and also suspended telephone charges so people could try and connect with their loved ones. The closing of the Disney parks on September 11th marks only the second time in history the Disney parks closed. The first was when President John F. Kennedy was assassinated in 1963. There are plenty of ways to salute America and be patriotic in the parks. Over at the Magic Kingdom you can visit the refurbished Hall of Presidents. Over at Epcot you can visit the American Adventure Pavilion at the World Showcase. Check out Voices of Liberty, an eight singer group that sings classic American songs or check times for the next performance by the The Spirit of America Fife and Drum Corps. This incredible group marches right into the streets with incredible renditions of “Yankee Doodle” and “God Bless America” all in colonial costume. You can also view the 30 minute American Adventure which features music, film and Audio-Animatronics of important figures from American history like George Washington and Martin Luther King Jr. Despite the country’s ups, downs and tragedies the spirit of Walt Disney and patriotism will always be found at Walt Disney World. Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, disney world, history, walt disney world, Walt Disney World News
Mother Knows Best
 Mother knows best, right? Well at the Walt Disney World Resort moms definitely know best with the Walt Disney World Moms Panel. Going to Disney for the first time can be a daunting experience especially for those with young children. Trying to figure out what to pack or thinking of something as simple as figuring out where to eat is hard to do when you have to please a family—so why not let the moms help you out? The Disney Mom’s Panel has an online forum where they offer advice about all sorts of things related to the Disney parks, hotels, shopping and even the Disney Cruise Line. Every year a new panel of moms is selected to work as correspondents for the Walt Disney World Resorts. They can be your source of info if you don’t want to speak to a travel agent and would rather speak to someone who knows, first hand, what traveling to the Disney parks is all about. So what kinds of questions can the Disney Mom’s Panel help you out on? How about starting with the parks themselves. Whether you are visiting Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Epcot or the Magic Kingdom, the moms will help you figure out what’s the best way to navigate the parks and where to begin. Because the moms help guests through an online forum, you can ask whatever question you want and you will receive a number of replies, not only from official panelists, but from other guests of the forum as well. If you’re looking to make a reservation at one of Disney’s fantastic restaurants, the moms can help you on questions regarding dietary restrictions and which restaurant is the most kid friendly. Thinking of catching a fireworks show but not sure if you will be able to bring your stroller? Ask the moms panel. Don’t know if The Haunted Mansion is too scary for the little ones? Ask the moms panel. This valuable resource has become a mainstay in the Disney community. If you would like to be a Disney Mom, applications for new panelists are accepted every year. As a panelist not only would you get to work on the forum, you would also get to attend special Disney events and report on them for the site. Just recently, the Disney Moms were at the unveiling of the new Hall of Presidents and the opening of the new Animal Kingdom restaurant Sanaa. If you would like to apply for the Disney Mom’s Panel, check out the applications and see if it’s a job for you! Labels: cheap disney tickets, Discount Disney Tickets, Disney, disney world
Disney Convention Mecca Comes to Anaheim
 Remember watching the Mickey Mouse Club and singing along to the theme as you wished for your own Mousketeer gear? Back then the MMC was the closest thing Disney fans had to a fan club they could call their own. Well things changed this year thanks to D23, the first official community for Disney fanatics all over the world. D23 members get access to special memorabilia, discounts on events and a quarterly magazine featuring incredible articles and inside info on all things Disney. To mark another “first” in D23 history, this year the first ever D23 Expo will take place in Anaheim, California. The D23 Expo will cover everything from Disney’s beginnings in 1923 to the present and future of the company. There are tons of great events planned for the expo as well as celebrity appearances, merchandise to buy and incredible opportunities to see films and screenings from all aspects of the Disney family—that includes Disney-owned channels like ABC. Among the many events that will be happening at the D23 Expo are special previews of all the projects Disney has coming up. That means plenty of Alice in Wonderland and TRON: Legacy talk for the movie fanatics. Because Sleeping Beauty is celebrating its 50th anniversary, those who attend the D23 Expo will be able to view it with hundreds of other Sleeping Beauty fans. Pin trading events as well as screenings of ABC’s newest fall shows will be part of the D23 madness. Celebrity appearances from stars like Donny Osmond, Nicolas Cage and Courtney Cox are expected as well as the Disney Legends Ceremony, which will be honoring important figures in Disney’s extended family like The Golden Girls and the voices of Donald Duck and Goofy. If you’re a fan of ABC’s LOST you’re also in for a special treat. The show, which will be entering its final season in 2010, will also have a special section of D23 devoted to it. You will get to see props and costumes from the show as well as find out potential clues as to what will happen in the show’s final season. So whatever aspect of Disney suits your fancy, you’re sure to find something to cater to you at the enormous D23 Expo. Make sure to look for our partner booths at the event! But, if you are not able to make the trek to Anaheim, always remember that the magic of Disney can be celebrated right here in Orlando at Walt Disney World with OrlandoFunTickets.com! Labels: Birthdays at Disney, d23, Discount Disney Tickets, disney events
The Disney PhotoPass - Great Photos, Endless Options
 Making sure you get the best photos out of your Orlando theme parks vacations is an essential element of making a good trip great. Thanks to the PhotoPass system, getting the best pictures from your trip is a breeze! Participating in the PhotoPass system at the Walt Disney World Resort is as easy as tracking down any Disney cast member with a camera around their neck. Usually located around the best spots for a snapshot in the parks, this cast member will offer to take a free photo of you and your group. Instead of handing you a slip and directing you to a certain shop to go pick up your family picture, you are given a credit card-sized PhotoPass. This handy item is your ticket to an array of photo options later on in the day. Thinking of riding Test Track at Epcot or Splash Mountain at Magic Kingdom? Most of the larger rides in the parks now contain kiosks that allow you to swipe your PhotoPass and save your souvenir photo directly onto the card. With one quick swipe you are ready to go off to the next ride, so the PhotoPass saves you a lot of time since you no longer have to wait in line. So what happens once you’ve taken a few photos and want to take a look at them? Located at the center of every Walt Disney World park is a photo center headquarters, so make sure you check your maps or ask a cast member for the photo center closest to you. Your pictures are good for 30 days after they are taken, so these photo centers allow you a number of options for printing and saving your pictures from the card. Along with prints, you can make and order a variety of lovely souvenir items with your photos. The Disney PhotoPass system is constantly updating their custom souvenir website with new and unique options. Make a puzzle out of your Cinderella Castle snapshot, or a calendar out of your meetings with Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck. Of course, regular prints of various sizes are available to order as well. If you want more traditional options, Kodak Picture Maker Kiosks are also located in the parks, usually within the photo centers themselves. You can burn up to 120 photos from your PhotoPass or even your camera’s memory card onto a CD, or directly print out 4X6 prints on the spot. Whichever option you choose, the Disney PhotoPass is a great addition to Walt Disney World Resort. Thanks to the PhotoPass, making unique souvenirs out of your gorgeous photos is as easy as swiping a credit card! Labels: cheap disney tickets, Discount Disney Tickets, Disney, Magic Kingdom
A Magical Welcome for 1,000 New Americans
 Disney World is known for making magical memories. Every day people from across the world visit the Walt Disney World Magic Kindgom Park for a chance to meet Mickey Mouse and zoom through space on Space Mountain. The Magic Kingdom is the place where wishes come true, and it was always the dream of Walt Disney himself that every visitor to the park experience the joys of being a kid again at any age. Over the July 4th weekend, the dream of American citizenship became a reality for over 1,000 new citizens at the Magic Kingdom. People ages 18-82 from over 100 countries experienced the opportunity of a lifetime as they became American citizens at the Walt Disney World Resort’s Magic Kingdom. This patriotic event fits the environment and ideals of the Disney name. Walt Disney was an avid patriot of the US and listed Abraham Lincoln as his hero. It was his love of America that created the “One Nation Under God” attraction at Disneyland, an attraction that was reborn as “The Hall of Presidents” in Orlando’s Magic Kindgom. The recently “re-Imagineered” Hall of Presidents now features the addition of Barack Obama and a crisp new audio presentation of The Gettysburg Address by an animatronic Abraham Lincoln. The citizenship ceremony was led by actor Andy Garcia. Originally from Cuba, Garcia is now famous for starring in hit movies like The Untouchables, The Godfather III and Ocean’s 11. Garcia delivered the key-note address to the new citizens in front of Cinderella’s castle. 25 Disney employees were among those naturalized at the ceremony, reciting their Oath of Allegiance to the United States amidst a backdrop of red, white and blue décor and Disney characters dressed in American revolutionary wear. After the naturalization ceremony, the new American citizens originally were treated to a presentation at the grand re-opening of the Hall of Presidents, now titled The Hall of Presidents: A Celebration of Liberty’s Leaders. The attraction is open to anyone with Disney tickets to the Magic Kingdom park. Showings of the new presentation now narrated by Morgan Freeman are held daily in Liberty Square. Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, Magic Kingdom, Magic Kingdom Events, walt disney world events
A Pirate's Life for Thee
 If the glitter and ringlets experience of the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique is not your childs idea of fun, then look no further than the Adventureland for the newest experience at Walt Disney World Resort’s Magic Kingdom: The Pirate’s League. This is a new experience for pirate fans young and old at the Magic Kingdom. The Pirate’s League is perfect for any child with a yearning for their own pirate adventure. Located in the gift shop adjacent to the Pirates of the Caribbean ride, The Pirate’s League lets your child channel their inner Captain Jack Sparrow for a swashbuckling good time. Leave the Mickey ears and sunglasses behind, it’s time for pirate beards and eye patches! The Pirate’s League is accessible to anyone with theme park admission, so get your discount Disney tickets with OrlandoFunTickets.com. After choosing their very own pirate name and receiving their treasure maps, junior buccaneers are whisked off into the land of endless exploration and treasure through their choice of three packages. The Pirate’s League provides First Mate, Captain’s and Empress Packages. Using various costume choices and makeup techniques, Walt Disney World cast members will transform your child into a Cursed Pirate, Captain Hook or Captain Jack Sparrow. With the First Mate Package your child can pick from the above three choices and add the option of fake teeth, a reversible bandana and one 5x7 souvenir photo. The Empress Package is perfect for little lassies that prefer ships and buried treasure over castles and glass slippers. A cast member will provide glamorous makeup, nail polish and a face gem to girls ready to explore Adventureland with fellow pirates. The Captain’s Package provides the biggest pirate experience for your child. They can choose their own pirate costume along with the options in the First Mate package with three souvenir photos. Reservations for The Pirate’s League are a must, and our OrlandoFunTickets.com customer service representatives are waiting to assist you with booking your Pirate’s League experience. You can reach a representative via e-mail or by calling us directly at 1-866-225-4712. If the pirate’s life is for you, then make sure you get your discount Disney tickets to the Magic Kingdom and other Orlando theme parks through OrlandoFunTickets.com. Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, Magic Kingdom, Magic Kingdom Attractions, Magic Kingdom Events, Pirates of the Caribbean
Play Like the Pros at Walt Disney World Resort
 Do you love Walt Disney World? Do you have a passion for learning and improving your tennis game? Then, do we have an announcement for you! The Modern Tennis Coaching Academy, of All-Star tennis coach Oscar Wegner and internationally acclaimed tennis player Jorge Aguirre, is coming to the Walt Disney World Resort. Two week-long camp sessions will take place this summer at Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando, Florida, during the weeks of July 26 – August 2 and August 2 – August 9! Combining a vacation into a great learning experience for young athletes, the “Play Like the Pros” program will provide students with the tennis lesson of a lifetime. Campers will be treated to training both on and off the court with tennis marvels Oscar Wegner and Jorge Aguirre. Oscar Wegner is one of the most well-known tennis coaches in the world. Having played internationally in the 1960’s and then moving into the world of coaching, coach Wegner developed a methodology to teaching tennis. His methods make tennis an easy sport to pick-up and perfect. With his teaching methods he has molded some of the top players in five continents! Jorge Aguirre is one of the top players in the country from Buenos Aires, Argentina. He is a true expert of modern tennis. With the combined teachings of this duo, students to the camp will leave with solid knowledge and experience to perfect their tennis game! The week-long camp will provide tennis instruction, accommodations, Disney theme park visits, and more! Included in the camp, campers will get over 24 hours of MTM certified tennis instruction for all skill levels (beginners, intermediate, and advanced). The training sessions will be broken down into small groups, based on age and skill level, for personal one-on-one attention. After intense training during the day, campers will want to cool down and relax at their resort accommodations. Campers will be housed at the sports-loving, fun, resort of Disney’s All Star Sports Resort. All of the meals and ground transportation will be taken care of by the program, as well. Even tennis-loving fanatics will need a break from the courts from time to time. Included in the camp is one night at Disney’s Cirque du Soleil production of La Nouba (at Downtown Disney), a day at Magic Kingdom, and a day at Epcot. If all of the Disney fun makes parents and additional family members jealous, why not bring them ALL to Walt Disney World?! For an additional fee, families can add family members to the room accommodations. Now all you need are those discount Disney World tickets for your family members, and the entire family can enjoy a week of fun, sun, and sports at Walt Disney World Resort! So, why not, treat your sport-loving kids to a summer camp they will never forget (And, treat yourself to the vacation of a lifetime)! Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, sports in orlando, walt disney world events, Walt Disney World News, wide world of sports
$35 Million Relaunched Holiday Inn Heading to Walt Disney World Resort
 Holiday Inn is one of the most widely-recognized and family-friendly hotel brands in the world, and now it is heading right to the doorstep of Walt Disney World Resort! With a 2007 announcement of a one-billion dollar relaunch program for their brand, Holiday Inn set out to modernize their brand with a contemporary brand image, increased quality, and consistency throughout their hotels. Over 3,200 Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express hotels will be receiving face-lifts to be debuted by the end of 2010. Over 800 hotels have been “relaunched,” thus far, and next on the list for its updated debut it the Holiday Inn in the Walt Disney World Resort! “When the Holiday Inn in the Walt Disney World Resort opens this Fall, it will be both the newest property in the Downtown Disney area and the only Holiday Inn on Disney property,” said John Merkin, senior Vice President of Brand Management for Holiday Inn Brands, the Americas, to finchannel.com. “Many of today’s travelers have memories of staying at Holiday Inn during their own childhood family vacations, and we’re excited that out new contemporary brand will now be part of even more vacation magic.” The new Holiday Inn on Walt Disney World property will feature the elements of the relaunch, including refreshed guest rooms, signature welcome service to the hotel, and a new service promise. Guests will be welcomed to the hotel with customized music and scent selections floating through the air, giving guests a complete sensory experience. The new “Stay Real” service plan will give guests a personalized experience, so that they feel more like an individual rather than a number. There will even be a head leader to this program – the Guest Experience Champion! Rooms will be redefined with new bedding, improved bathrooms, LCD HD televisions, and numerous guest rooms that overlook the Walt Disney World Resort, perfect for viewing nighttime firework displays. Also within the hotel, there will be a state-of-the-art fitness complex, jogging paths, swimming pool, lap pool, hot tub, sun deck, and a game room. This 14-story, 323 room, Holiday Inn will be within walking distance to Downtown Disney Marketplace. In fact, as a paying guest, you will be treated just as you would on any other Disney property hotel. You will get the added perks of complimentary transportation to the Disney theme parks (every 30 minutes), guaranteed access and preferred tee times at Walt Disney World golf courses, assistance with reservations for Walt Disney World restaurants and dining experiences, Disney character breakfasts, an on-site Disney retail store, and, even, free delivery service of Disney Theme Park purchases and souvenirs to your hotel room. If you are looking for the consistent service that you would expect from Holiday Inn’s while on your Walt Disney World vacation, you should check-in to the new Holiday Inn on Walt Disney World property starting this Fall. And, as always, if you are looking for the consistently discounted prices for Walt Disney World tickets, you can depend on OrlandoFunTickets.com. Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, hotel advice, orlando hotels, Walt Disney World News
Eating Healthy in the Parks
 Mickey shaped ice cream bars, Shamu slushees, Jurassic Park cheeseburgers, French fries, and soda galore - Ahh, the joys of theme park food! It is all delicious and fun, until your guilty weight-and-health conscious mind steps into the picture. But, dining at the Orlando theme parks does not need to be this way, thanks to newer and healthier in-park dining options! Walt Disney World is notorious for delicious in-park food options. Disney understands that people are becoming more health conscious and have begun implementing numerous healthy dining and snacking options for those who visit their four Disney theme parks. As you walk around the parks, each park has at least one fresh fruit stand. Also, look to grab fast options such as Dole whips, turkey legs, a cup of chili, or fresh fruit bars to keep fat and calories at bay! When going to a quick-dining option in the parks, look for Disney’s newest side items, for kids and adults alike, such as low-fat milk, 100% fruit juice, unsweetened applesauce, baby carrots, or fresh fruit – in replacement of the fatty French fries and soda. When at Disney sit-down restaurants, don’t be afraid to speak up! They are more than willing to accept your special dietary needs requests. Ask if you can substitute for a healthier side item, put dressings on the side, or for sugar-free or fat-free dessert options. Universal Studios Orlando has been put on the map recently for their break-through dining options of trans-fat-free in-park dining options! Many of the in-park restaurants and food locations at Universal Orlando offer cooking in trans-fat free oil or heart-healthier options. Kid’s meals now come with the option of fruit or trans-fat-free French fries, while adults have the choice of a side salad or trans-fat-free French fries. SeaWorld Orlando has been doing its part in conservation for the animals and the environment over the years, but now they are doing their best to conserve one of the top animals on the planet – humans. With healthy food stops, SeaWorld Orlando has some of the most heart-healthy options out of all of the theme parks. At Mama’s Kitchen Healthy Alternatives, guests can get quick-service options that are prepared with fresh ingredients and lower-fat items. Diners can visit any restaurant throughout the park and see low-fat, low-carb, sugar-free, and vegetarian options. If you are looking to satisfy your sweet tooth without sacrificing your diet, SeaWorld Orlando can help you out with their sugar-free options at Polar Parlor ice cream shop, Sweet Sailin’ Candy Shop, and the Cypress Bakery. All of the Orlando theme parks are jumping onto the health band-wagon, to make Orlando vacations healthier and happier than ever! So, make your diet and wallet happier. With the help of OrlandoFunTickets.com, you can save money on your discount theme park tickets while getting the scoop on these great healthy dining options. Labels: adults at Universal, Discount Disney Tickets, Disney Dining, orlando dinning, Seaworld Orlando, vacation dinning
Walt Disney World Now Offers Park Souvenirs Online
 Have you ever visited Walt Disney World, opted not to get a great souvenir or toy, and then regretted it later? Or perhaps you wanted to make a visit to the park already decked out in Mickey ears and a fun Disney shirt, but you couldn’t find the right apparel online or in stores. Well, Disney fans can now rejoice - Walt Disney World is now offering its famous theme park merchandise online. “We are delighted to be able to offer this great experience and convenience to our loyal guests who can now go to DisneyStore.com and purchase that forgotten item, one that was too large to carry or one that will make their Disney vacation all that more magical, like autograph books, which are great to have in advance,” said Edward Kummer, senior vice president of Disney Global E-Commerce. “Many of these products are among the most frequently asked for by our guests and now they are available to them at the click of a mouse.” Before, you could only visit in-park spots like Epcot’s Mouse Gear, Magic Kingdom’s Emporium, Hollywood Studios’ Mickey’s of Hollywood, and Animal Kingdom’s Mombasa Marketplace to find particular character souvenirs, unique park apparel, and other fun park merchandise like Disney pins. Now, however, Disney lovers can simply visit DisneyStore.com (formerly DisneyShopping.com) to peruse more than 100 top-selling products previously available only at U.S. Disney parks. These include customizable novelty hats, birthday gifts, exclusive art, collectibles, toys, and plush items. And the products available will only grow throughout the year as the store adds special Disney theme park items just in time for the holidays. At DisneyStore.com, guests can find a gift, shop by category, shop by character, and even personalize and create their own park merchandise. Guests can also locate Disney stores across the U.S. and have address and phone information sent to their e-mail address or cell phone. Of course, just because you can now visit DisneyStore.com doesn’t mean park visitors should completely bypass the fun of shopping for souvenirs while visiting the parks. However, knowing that you can go online later and purchase an item, should you need time to consider whether you want it or not, definitely takes the pressure off Walt Disney World shopping. And just as a heads up, you don’t have to pass up getting that special Walt Disney World gift for yourself or someone else just because the package is heavy. At each of the four parks, merchandise can be moved to the front entrance of the park for pick up at no charge, and it can also be delivered to Walt Disney World resorts at no charge as well. Shipping is also available for an additional charge at time of purchase. So don’t hesitate to go on a shopping spree – whether it’s from the comfort of your computer or from within the Disney theme parks! We especially recommend logging on to get a pair of personalized Mickey Mouse ears, which you can rock on your next visit to Walt Disney World. And be sure to get your Walt Disney World tickets for said visit right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com, your #1 online shopping destination for discount Orlando theme park tickets. Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, Disney, shopping, shopping at disney
Disney World Takes on Disneyland in Friendly Wager
 The 2009 NBA Finals have become known as the Disneyland vs. Disney World NBA Finals, so it is only appropriate that the head honchos of each Disney theme park resort have gotten a little more invested in the Orlando Magic’s upcoming battle against the Los Angeles Lakers. Similar to the way mayors of towns involved in a sports championship bet on their team for the big win, Walt Disney World president Meg Crofton and Disneyland president Ed Grier have made a friendly wager on the outcome of the finals with some rather interesting conditions. If the Orlando Magic win, Disneyland’s Grier has promised to walk down Main Street, USA at Disneyland wearing a pair of specially made Mickey Mouse ears in blue and silver, the Magic’s colors. Alternately, if the Lakers win, Disney World’s Crofton will don a pair of mouse ears in Lakers’ purple and gold while she walks down Main Street, USA at Magic Kingdom. Already, the two presidents are engaging in some friendly banter. “The Lakers are going to make your team very Grumpy this week,” predicted Grier to Crofton. “But we have ‘Magic’ on our side,” shot back Crofton. “And isn’t that what Disney is all about?” Crofton and Grier went through their respective parks Wednesday looking for fans and drumming up support in an impromptu pep rally. At Magic Kingdom, Crofton was accompanied by Minnie, Goofy, Chip, Dale, and basketball jersey-clad cast members as she passed out Orlando Magic hats, t-shirts, balloons, and basketballs to park-goers in front of Cinderella Castle. And though either Crofton or Grier will have to make a walk of shame down their respective Main Street, U.S.A.’s, both park presidents can take comfort in a show of team support each park will be making throughout the finals. In celebration of the historic finals, Cinderella Castle and Sleeping Beauty Castle will be lit up in the Magic and Lakers’ colors, respectively. Cinderella Castle was already lit up in blue and white on Thursday night. So far, the Lakers have won game 1 of the Finals, which took place last night. Game 2 of the finals will take place on Sunday, followed by game 3 on Tuesday, and game 4 on Thursday. Game 5, 6, and 7, if needed, will take place on the following Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday. If the Orlando Magic win the finals, you can expect an amazing celebration at Walt Disney World, complete with parades and appearances from team players. After all, it’s a safe bet to say that Dwight Howard will be asked, “You’ve just won the 2009 NBA Finals! What are you going to do next?” and he’ll respond, “I’m going to Disney World!” Check out Walt Disney World tickets on OrlandoFunTickets.com and get ready to celebrate the Magic’s win with a festive day at the parks – hopefully! Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, disney land, disney world, walt disney world events
Be One with the Force at Disney's Star Wars Weekends
 This weekend, in a Walt Disney World theme park not so far away, hundreds of Star Wars fans will gather for a celebration unline any other in the galaxy. It is time for Star Wars Weekends yet again, an annual special event at Disney's Hollywood Studios that brings together an incredible assortment of Star Wars characters, stars from the legendary saga, and fun activities and shows in tribute of the epic Star Wars saga and the new animated TV series The Clone Wars. If you love the films and the show, then this is the place to be as Jedi Masters, Sith Lords, and Wookies get down with their bad selves in special shows and presentations. Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from May 22 through June 14, Star Wards Weekends will take over Hollywood Studios in a very noticeable way. Not only will guests be able to grab photo ops and autographs with dozens of famous Star Wars characters like Princess Leia and Chewbacca, but passionate fans take it upon themselves to dress up like their favorite movie figure as well! You'll feel like you've been suddenly transported to another planet as you navigate a Hollywood Studios filled with Ewoks, Wookiees, Stormtroppers, droids, and more. And each day of the event, those famous figures will star in "Legends of the Force," a Star Wars motorcade. Fans will also get a chance to get autographs from some real life Star Wars stars during the Weekends. Celebrity guests during this year's Star Wars Weekends include Ray Park, Warwick Davis, and James Arnold Taylor (May 22 - 24); Peter Mayhew and Matthew Wood (May 29 - 31); Jeremy Bulloch, David Prowse, and Matt Lanter (June 5 - 7); and David Filoni and Temuera Morrison (June 12 - 14). To a non Star Wars fan, these names might seem meaningless, but devotees of the series know that Ray Park played Darth Maul in The Phantom Menace, Jeremy Bulloch played Boba Fett in two of the films, and Peter Mayhew appreared in four of the six films as the unforgettable Chewbacca. In addition, each Star Wars Weekend will be hosted by Jay Laga'aia ("Captain Typho") with special guest Ashley Eckstein ("Ahsoka Tano"). Laga'aia will host "Stars of the Saga," a talk show and Q&A about the saga, and Eckstein will host "Clone Wars: Behind the Force," a behind-the-scenes show that explores The Clone Wars. Other fun highlights to look for during the event include a Jedi Training Academy, where each young Jedi who's chosen will learn a lightsaber combination as they prepare to face the dark side; the Star Tours attractions, where guests will blast through the galaxy on a starspeeder; the Padawan Mind Challenge, where kids under 12 can test their wits before the Jedi Council; and Wicket's Warehouse, where guests can find an abundance of Star Wars themed and limited-edition merchandise developed just for Star Wars Weekends 2009. At the end of each Weekend day, the fun will wind down with a blast, as Star Wars characters and guests gather for Hyperspace Hoopla - a show filled with music, comedy, dancing, and more. As previously mentioned, Star Wars Weekends are free to all with regular admission to Disney's Hollywood Studios. So if you want to hang with Luke, Leia, and Han Solo this weekend (can you think of any cooler plans for Memorial Day weekend?), snap up your Walt Disney World tickets from OrlandoFunTickets.com. And may the force be with you! Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, disney events, Disney Hollywood Studios, star wars, star wars weekends
Water Park Fun & More: Disney's Wide World of Sports
 As summertime brings warm, sunny days and beautiful, breezy nights to Orlando, there is no better time to explore some of the different offerings of Walt Disney World. And the best way to take advantage of said offerings is through Disney's Water Park Fun and More ticket option, which is an all-in-one access pass to Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon, Disney's Wide World of Sports, Disney's Oak Trail Golf Course, and DisneyQuest at Downtown Disney. Over the past few weeks, we've been highlighting some of these great Disney spots and why the Water Park Fun & More ticket option is such a steal. And in our final installment this week, we're checking out the games at Disney's Wide World of Sports. The Wide World of Sports (WWoS) Complex at Walt Disney World is a mysterious entity. Many visitors to Walt Disney World are unsure of what exactly the complex is. After all, it's big enough to be a Disney theme park itself, but the WWoS doesn't pull in nearly as many admissions as the other parks do. Still, for the players participating in an ever-important championship game, and for the spectators who get to be witness to that game, the Wide World of Sports is just as magical as Magic Kingdom. To put in simpler terms, the WWoS is a 200 acre athletic complex located inside Walt Disney World. Made up of nine different venues, the comples hosts over 170 amateur and professional sporting events throughout the year. Its clients represent some of the best names in sports - the AAU, Pop Warner, the Atlanta Braves, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the USSSA, and more. The WWos complex consists of Champion Stadium, an impressive 9,500-seat baseball stadium that's hosted two regular season Major League Baseball series; the Milk House, a 5,000-seat multi-purpose arena; the Jostens Center, a similar but smaller arena; the Hess Sports Fields, eight multi-purpose fields equipped to host multiple sports; the Baseball Quadraplex consisting of four professional baseball fields and practice facilities; the Diamondplex, consisting of six fields used for softball and youth baseball; the Centre Court Stadium, a ten-court tennis complex; and the Track and Field Complex, a 500-seat competition facility for track and field events. Though WWoS is different from the other Walt Disney World attractions in the sense that you can't randomly drop by and explore it (the complex is closed if there are no events going on), it often offers a variety of unique and unusual sporting events sports lovers can really get into. For example, every year the PGA Tour tees off at the complex with the Children's Miracle Network Classic. The Braves hold spring training there every year, and the Disney's Soccer Showcase features 600 of the best soccer teams in the country battling it out. The famed Walt Disney World Marathon, which runs through the various parks, is also hosted there every year. So next time you take a trip to Walkt Disney World, we suggest checking out the events scheduled that week at Disney's Wide World of Sports for some fun at an lesser-known Disney attraction. Parking at the complex is free, though there is an admission fee for spectators. However, if you have the Water Park Fun & More ticket, you'll get in free! When you consider all the events hosted at the Wide World of Sports, along with all the other admissions that come with the Water Park Fun & More option, adding it onto your Walt Disney World tickets just makes sense. Check out OrlandoFunTickets.com now for Water Park Fun & More, and have fun at the water parks, the golf course, the sports complex - or wherever you decide to go. Labels: cheap disney tickets, Discount Disney Tickets, Disney Tickets, sports in orlando, wide world of sports
Water Park Fun & More: Oak Trail Golf Course
 As summertime brings warm, sunny days and beautiful, breezy nights to Orlando, there is no better time to explore some of the different offerings of Walt Disney World. And the best way to take advantage of said offerings is through Disney’s Water Park Fun & More ticket option, which is an all-in-one access pass to Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon, Disney’s Wide World of Sports, Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Course, and DisneyQuest at Downtown Disney. Over the next few weeks, we’ll be highlighting some of these great Disney spots and why the Water Park Fun & More ticket option is such a steal. And this week, we’re teeing off at the Oak Trail Golf Course. Perfect for a fun outdoor excursion with the whole family or a pastime just for Dad or the boys, the Oak Trail Golf Course is a beautifully manicured nine hole, par-36 walking course. Endowed with lush, undulating target greens and widely varied holes, it has something to please everyone. Advanced players will find it a nice practice tune-up, while busy travelers with time for just nine holes will appreciate the convenience of Oak Trail. Moreover, the course is a perfect layout to learn on for beginning players and young golfers. Holes at Oak Trail range from 132 yards to 517 yards from the back tees, so players of every level will find something to challenge or delight them. Mostly a series of par 4s and par 3s weaving through wooded areas, Oak Trail has a few surprises in store from the 5th through 7th hole, which revolve around a deep canal and large pond. The fifth is a long one at 517 yards, running uphill with a dogleg left and then downhill with a dogleg right to a large, guarded green. Then on the par-5 7th hole, players will carry over water to an elevated green bordered on the right by a sizeable pond. Though it is short, let it never be said that Oak Trail is a pushover of a golf course. If you decide to pause your game and take a breather, do take some time to enjoy the scenery; Oak Trail features beautiful natural terrain dotted with water fountains and gazebos. Hidden wildlife abounds, with plenty of turkey, deer, and waterfowl lurking about. There are wooden benches at every hole for your comfort while you take in the landscape. Don’t have your own clubs or shoes? Fear not – Oak Trail Golf Course provides rentals for both, with no charge on rentals of junior-sized clubs. Pull-carts are also available for rental. In addition, guests can fine-tune their game with a little help from the pros; the course offers private instruction from PGA instructors, who customize lessons to your skill to help you get the most of the experience. So if you’re in search of a new family adventure at Walt Disney World or a place to escape to when your wife decides to go shopping, check out Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Course. Normally, rates range from $20 to $38, but you can enjoy the course with your Water Park Fun & More tickets for a fraction of the cost! Check out Walt Disney World tickets now at OrlandoFunTickets.com to see what we mean – and good luck on the greens! Stay tuned to our blog in the coming weeks, as we continue to explore the Water Park Fun & More option and all its great admissions. Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, disney waterpark, golf, Orlando Water Park
Water Park Fun & More: DisneyQuest
 As summertime brings warm, sunny days and beautiful, breezy nights to Orlando, there is no better time to explore some of the different offerings of Walt Disney World. And the best way to take advantage of said offerings is through Disney’s Water Park Fun & More ticket option, which is an all-in-one access pass to Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon, Disney’s Wide World of Sports, Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Course, and DisneyQuest at Downtown Disney. Over the next few weeks, we’ll be highlighting some of these great Disney spots and why the Water Park Fun & More ticket option is such a steal. And this week, we’re journeying into DisneyQuest. Imagine the fun of a Disney theme park squeezed into five stories of interactive, high-tech fun, and you’ve got DisneyQuest Indoor Interactive Theme Park. A one-of-a-kind gaming experience at Downtown Disney, DisneyQuest is like your favorite arcade pushed into overdrive and multiplied by several stories. Virtual reality, 3D encounters, and other games that push the limit of your imagination can be found here, and many of them revolve around some of your favorite Disney characters and stories. For example, you can sail the seven seas with the Pirates of the Caribbean Battle for Buccaneer Gold attraction, which lets you steer your very own pirate ship and steal gold from other pirate ships! Or, fly through the alleys and street of Agrabah on Aladdin’s Magic Carpet Ride, where you’ll search for the magic lamp and try to save the Genie. Games and attractions at DisneyQuest are divided into four zones: the Explore Zone, a virtual Adventureland; the Score Zone, for superhero quests; the Create Zone, for artistic endeavors; and the Replay Zone, for nostalgic fun. There’s something for guests of all ages at DisneyQuest, from the youngest to the oldest of Disney fun lovers. Younger tikes will likely enjoy the Create Zone, where they can learn from Disney animators at the Animation Academy and build their own toy with Toy Story’s Sid. And older folks will hearken back to the days of Asteroids with Buzz Lightyear’s Astroblaster, where they’ll fend off asteroids in a futuristic bumper car. One of the coolest experiences at DisneyQuest just might be CyberSpace Mountain, which allows you to design your very own roller coaster on a computer with help from Bill Nye the Science Guy. You can make your coaster as scary, tame, or crazy as you want – but beware, because after you’re done, you’ll be the first test subject! Guests will be able to hop into a simulator and ride their creation in full 360 degree motion. DisneyQuest even offers a traditional arcade area for video game purists with pinball and other classics. And coming soon to the indoor theme park will be everyone’s favorite video game experience, Guitar Hero. Perfect for a rainy day or for some Disney fun when you’ve gotten too late of a start to hit one of the main theme parks, DisneyQuest also features several delicious eateries and souvenir shops inside, eliminating the need to go anywhere else. Now – you could get admission to DisneyQuest separately, but its five stories of interactive fun are included when you purchase the Water Park Fun & More option with your Walt Disney World tickets from OrlandoFunTickets.com. With everything DisneyQuest offers, along with the magic of Disney’s water parks and other attractions, we can’t think of a better Disney deal out there! Stay tuned to our blog in the coming weeks, as we continue to explore the Water Park Fun & More option and all its great admissions. Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, disney waterpark, disneyquest, Downtown Disney
Disney's Hollywood Studios Celebrates 20th Anniversary
 The third theme park to be built at Walt Disney World, Disney Hollywood Studios, will be celebrating a big event this week - its 20th birthday! It’s hard to believe, but the park dedicated to show business fun and magic will have been open for 20 years this Friday, May 1. And though it certainly won’t be celebrated with Disney’s usual level of enthusiasm (they’ll save that for the 25th anniversary), fans can mark the occasion by visiting Hollywood Studios this Friday for a few commemorative events and some rare information sessions. On Friday, Hollywood Studios will open at 8 am with a special rope drop ceremony welcoming guests into the park and kicking off the celebration. Then, at 9 am and 10:45 am, there’ll also be two sessions where fans will be able to listen to Walt Disney Imagineers share their insights about the development of the park and the creation of Hollywood Studios. Taking place in the Premiere Theater, the sessions will feature Bob Weis, Executive Vice President of Walt Disney Imagineering, Executive Vice President and Senior Creative Executive Tom Fitzgerald, and Senior Vice President of Creative Development Eric Jacobson. Each session will last one approximately one hour and give fans a rare chance to get insider information behind the magic at Hollywood Studios. In addition, the park will be full of anniversary merchandise on Friday. Starring Rolls will be selling special anniversary cupcakes, and many of the restaurants will feature menu items that were sold when the park first opened. On Friday, Disney will also release five 20th Anniversary pins, which feature Mickey Mouse clad in a director’s outfit. Each of the five designs will only have 1,500 pins available, so expect them to sell out quickly. Here are a few fun facts about Disney's Hollywood Studios. Most older Disney fans will likely remember that the park was originally named MGM Studios and grew from the idea for a pavilion that was originally planned for Epcot. Newly appointed CEO Michael Eisner, however, proposed that the pavilion be expanded into a new park devoted to the secrets behind movie and television production, and he cut the ribbon on MGM Studios on May 1, 1989. “The World you have entered was created by The Walt Disney Company and is dedicated to Hollywood—not a place on a map, but a state of mind that exists wherever people dream and wonder and imagine, a place where illusion and reality are fused by technological magic. We welcome you to a Hollywood that never was—and always will be,” Eisner said at the dedication. And from then on, the park that eventually became known as Hollywood Studios really was a miniature Hollywood, with Disney shows and films being produced at the park. Until Mickey’s Sorcerer’s Hat was added in 2001, the park’s architectural icon was even a water tower (the Earful Tower) based on those typically found in the backlots of early Hollywood studios. Hollywood Studios eventually stopped being an active production studio, but many of the park’s early sound stages and sets are still there, blended in with attractions like Toy Story Midway Mania! Today, Hollywood Studios consists of six themed areas modeled after Hollywood sets, studios, and buildings. Guests will feel like they’ve really stepped into tinseltown with attractions like the Studio Backlit Tour, Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show, and The American Idol Experience. To visit Disney’s Hollywood Studios and see why this park has been a Walt Disney World favorite for 20 years, check out Walt Disney World tickets on OrlandoFunTickets.com. And from everyone here at OrlandoFunTickets.com, Happy Birthday, Hollywood Studios! Here’s to twenty more years of making Hollywood magical. Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, disney events, Disney Hollywood Studios, Disney Tickets
Water Park Fun & More: Typhoon Lagoon & Blizzard Beach
 As summertime brings warm, sunny days and beautiful, breezy nights to Orlando, there is no better time to explore some of the different offerings of Walt Disney World. And the best way to take advantage of said offerings is through Disney’s Water Park Fun & More ticket option, which is an all-in-one access pass to Disney’s two water parks, Disney’s Wide World of Sports, Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Course, and DisneyQuest at Downtown Disney. Over the next few weeks, we’ll be highlighting some of these great Disney spots and why the Water Park Fun & More ticket option is such a steal, starting with the fun at Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach. Typhoon LagoonAs Disney legend has it, Mount Mayday was once a normal village - until it was swept up in a wild typhoon, which tossed surfboards into palm trees and boats onto houses. The result eventually became a 56-acre tropical paradise full of waterways, rivers, rapids, and slides that we know today as the sun-drenched Typhoon Lagoon. Not your ordinary water park, Typhoon Lagoon boasts the largest inland wave pool in existence - every 90 seconds, a big wave sweeps through the pool giving a nice nudge to any swimmers and surfers in its wake. Fun can also be found on the Crush ‘n’ Gusher, which offers up and down topsy-turvy thrills, unlike most slides which only head downwards. And every half hour, all the inhabitants of Typhoon Lagoon will get a refreshing splash from the volcano, which attempts to dislodge the shrimp boat sitting at its peak by letting out an enormous geyser of water. Nine waterslides offer slippery fun at Typhoon Lagoon, which also includes a children’s play area. You’ll easily slip into a carefree state of mind at this quirky water park, which offers surfing lessons in the mornings and snorkeling with sharks, stingrays, and tropical fish - for free! Blizzard Beach
If Typhoon Lagoon is a watery escape, then Blizzard Beach is a watery roller coaster with plenty of exhilarating attractions for adrenaline junkies. The legend behind this water park begins with a freak snowstorm that blanketed Florida. Faster than you can say snowman, Disney built a ski resort with slalom courses, toboggan slides, and iceberg walkways. Then, the weather went back to normal and the resort melted. But all wasn’t lost as Florida gators soon realized that the snowless ski jumps made great slides – and with that, Blizzard Beach was born. Making this exciting water park particularly fun are attractions like Teamboat Springs, one of the longest current raft rides in the world. Mild but wild, this whitewater raft ride is an invigorating journey for up to 6 members of the family. And let’s not forget Summit Plummet, the tallest, fastest free-fall waterslide in the country with a high speed of 60 mph. Not for the faint of heart, riders will plunge down a 360-foot long flume from 120 feet high up. Voted the most extreme water park by the Travel Channel, Blizzard Beach also features three slalom style waterslides, three toboggan-style racing slides, a chair lift, and much more. Parking is free at both Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon, making the parks two of the most affordable places to visit at Walt Disney World - not to mention fun! So if we’ve piqued your interest in these refreshing watering holes, be sure to request the Water Park Fun & More option the next time you purchase Walt Disney World tickets from OrlandoFunTickets.com. You’ll get admission to both parks for much less than it costs to buy admission separately, and you’ll never forget the experience! Stay tuned to our blog for more info on the Water Park Fun & More ticket option. Labels: blizzard beach, Discount Disney Tickets, disney waterpark, orlando water attractions, Orlando Water Park, typhoon lagoon
Disney Offers New Services for Disabled Guests
 Walt Disney World has always taken strides to make its fun available to disabled guests, whether it is through special maps at guest services, sign language interpreters at live shows, wheelchair accommodations, etc. And now, visually impaired guests can take advantage of yet another service designed to help them experience Disney magic in all its glory. Disney has unveiled “audio description,” a new service designed to provide blind vacationers with descriptions of scenes as they unfold through various attractions such as Epcot’s Spaceship Earth and Magic Kingdom’s Haunted Mansion. The service focuses on actions, settings, or scene changes within attractions and works with the existing attraction’s audio. “We want to make our rich stories available to everyone,” said Greg Hale, vice president of worldwide safety and accessibility for Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. Audio description works by way of a handheld wireless device, which relies on a series of remote, infrared sensors to determine a guest’s location and dispense the appropriate narration. A guest hears the clear, even-toned descriptions through a single earpiece, which leaves the other ear free to gauge one’s surroundings. The handheld device, which is built to withstand elements like rain, diet coke, and accidental droppings to the ground, also features amplified sound and hand-held captions for guests who are deaf or hard-of-hearing. Those services have been available at the park since 2005, but it took Disney engineers much longer to perfect audio description, particularly to make sure the narrations didn’t interrupt an attraction’s primary narration. The audio description service has been available for about two weeks, but Disney says it’s working on expanding it to include descriptions of outdoor areas, which is especially pertinent given the International Flower & Garden Festival currently underway at Epcot. Like Braille maps or the Guidemap for Guests with Disabilities, the audio description device is available at Guest Services at each of the four theme parks. There’s no cost for the handheld or the earpiece, but there is a refundable $100 daily deposit. Audio description is currently available at 11 locations in Epcot, 11 locations in Magic Kingdom, 5 locations in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and 3 locations in Disney’s Animal Kingdom. So if you’re a visually impaired guest, be sure to check it out upon your next visit for extra help in enjoying your favorite attractions at Walt Disney World. And remember to save extra by getting your Walt Disney World tickets at OrlandoFunTickets.com. Labels: Christmas in Disney Hollywood Studios, Discount Disney Tickets, Disney Animal Kingdom Attractions, EPCOT attractions, guest services, Magic Kingdom Attractions
Magic Kingdom Featured Fun into the Night
 Typically, Magic Kingdom, like other Walt Disney World parks, opens at 9 am and closes at 10 pm. But thanks to a rare schedule change last week, guests could take advantage of the amazing childhood wonderland into later hours of the night - an especially cool thing given how packed with crowds Magic Kingdom has been lately during the day. And with Extra Magic Hours, Disney resort guests were especially able to take advantage of extra time at their favorite park early in the morning. From Wednesday, April 15, through Sunday, April 19, Magic Kingdom’s usual closing time was be pushed back until midnight for all park guests. As for guests staying at select Walt Disney World resorts like the Animal Kingdom Lodge and the Grand Floridian Resort, they were able to pack on even more time at the park with Extra Magic Hours from 8am to 9 am on Thursday and Saturday, and from 7 am to 9 am on Friday. On Sunday, Extra Magic Hours tacked on to the already late closing hour of midnight kept the park open for resort guests until 3 am. Extra Magic Hours after normal park closing provides everyone at least two extra hours to witness their favorite attractions, experience their favorite thrills, and see all the magic that they didn’t get a chance to see earlier in the day. Haunted Mansion is particularly fun at night since the darkness outside makes this mysterious tour even spookier. The Wishes Nighttime Spectacular is obviously another nighttime favorite as one of the brightest and biggest fireworks extravaganzas in the history of Magic Kingdom. And when the park closes extra late, guests have additional time to sit down and enjoy a leisurely meal at tasty dining spots like the Crystal Palace, Cinderella’s Royal Table, Tony’s Town Square, or the Tomorrowland Terrace Noodle Station. In addition to providing more opportunities to see beloved attractions, Magic Kingdom’s later hours last week meant a second chance to see the SpectroMagic Parade. Usually appearing once at 9 pm, this dazzling nighttime procession filled with brilliantly lit Disney characters and floats appeared for a second time through Sunday at 11 pm. Known for putting miles of smiles on guests faces, the SpectroMagic Parade features 500,000 lights and miles of twinkling fiber optic cables. So if you want to get the most magic out of a trip to Magic Kingdom, keep an eye out on the park schedules for last minute changes and Extra Magic Hours! Extended hours at the parks are rare, but when they happen, you won’t want to miss a chance to stay up late at the most magical place in the world. Get your Walt Disney World tickets from OrlandoFunTickets.com today and have a good night at Magic Kingdom. Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, Disney at night, Magic Kingdom, Magic Kingdom Attractions, Magic Kingdom Events
A Celebration of Flora and Fauna at Epcot
 Orlando is just now starting to experience the April showers that spring is famous for, but you do not have to wait until May to see the fruit of all this rainy weather. At Epcot, the International Flower & Garden Festival is in full bloom, and it’s a great time to strap on a poncho and head down to this Walt Disney World park and see what’s flowering. The festival, which continues until May 31, is loaded with fun in the form of rocking Flower Power concerts, educational seminars, and fun activity areas for young and old alike. However, the stars of the festival are undoubtedly the various topiaries scattered throughout the park, and we’ve got a preview of some of the ones you’ll want to keep your eye out for. First, young princesses will definitely want to find and pose by the topiary at the Pixie Hollow Fairy Garden, which features friends from the new Disney movie Tinker Bell and the Lost Treasure. Each figure, donning wings and her uniquely colored dress, stands among matching natural foliage with a plaque explaining who she is. This whimsical garden holds hands-on activities for kids every day, and children dressed as fairies or princesses can join their green fairy friends in a daily pixie processional at 2 pm. And keep an ear open, because you just might hear some ticking from the green shrubbery-covered crocodile featured in an elaborate topiary with the characters of Peter Pan. The croc awaits hungrily with mouth open while Captain Hook stands nearby, sword at the ready. This fun topiary can be seen near the festival’s Pirates Adventure Zone, where it awaits to lure young swashbucklers to exploration and adventure. Finally, the masterpiece among festival topiaries is the signature “Cinderellabration” topiary at the entrance of the park. This colorful tableau features 16 figures, including Belle and the Beast from Beauty and the Beast; Princess Aurora and Prince Philip from Sleeping Beauty; and Snow White, Bashful, Dopey, and their friends from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. These figures have gathered to help Cinderella and Prince Charming from Cinderella to celebrate her coronation, and the resulting display is one of the most impressive ones Disney gardeners have ever crafted. Of course, sculpting beloved Disney characters out of flowers and moss isn’t easy. Disney horticulturists built each figure by stuffing a metal frame with moss, then hand-pinning plant life to the moss. Even then, it’s not over – the festival lasts three months, which means figures have to be carefully watered using specialized irrigation and meticulously hand-trimmed and maintained so that they last. More than 50 green statues are scattered in topiaries around the park, so be sure to join in on the festival’s official Disney scavenger hunt and find them all. There’s no extra cost to attend the International Flower & Garden Festival – all you need are Walt Disney World tickets, which you can find right here at OrlandoFunTickets.com to start your flora and fauna expedition. Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, EPCOT celebration, EPCOT events, epcot flower and garden festival
The Seas with Nemo and Friends Wins AZA Accreditation
 Though Animal Kingdom is generally known as the best place to see and interact with creatures of different shapes and sizes in Walt Disney World, it is not the only park where you can get acquainted with nature. Over at Epcot, one of the largest man-made ocean environments in the world exists with a variety of undersea life to rival even SeaWorld. The Seas with Nemo & Friends is not only an entertaining pavilion in Epcot, but it’s also a great place to learn about aquatic animals. And now, The Seas has been granted accreditation by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA), officially making it a top animal institution. “The Seas has been awarded AZA accreditation because of its high standards in every aspect of its operations,” said AZA President and CEO Jim Maddy. “Orlando should be proud to have one of the top facilities in North America as a valuable community asset and economic engine.” So what does getting accredited mean? In order to pass the AZA’s test, The Seas had to undergo a thorough investigation to ensure it has and will continue to meet stringent standards of animal care, veterinary programs, conservation, education, and safety. AZA requires zoos and aquariums to complete this process in order to be members of the Association, and they have to undergo it again every five years. The Seas with Nemo & Friends, located in Future World, features a 5.7 million gallon saltwater tank named Caribbean Coral Reef, which is home to 6,000 inhabitants representing over 60 species – including sea turtles, angelfish, dolphins, rays, sharks, and even manatees. Guests can immerse themselves in undersea life on a circular platform in the middle of the aquarium and browse smaller exhibits throughout the aquarium where Nemo and his friends share knowledge about the underwater world. There’s even a fun activity area called Bruce’s SharkWorld where younger guests can learn about some fearsome and silent predators of the deep. In addition to the Sea Base and Caribbean Coral Reef aquarium, The Seas with Nemo & Friends includes Turtle Talk with Crush, which gives guests an opportunity to chat about undersea life with one of the stars of Finding Nemo. Children can pose questions about the marine world to a digital Crush, who responds on the fly. While entertaining guests and educating them, The Seas with Nemo & Friends is dedicated to inspiring conservation of coral reefs, marine mammals, and fish. In fact, The Seas partners with the US Fish and Wildlife Service and other zoos and conservation groups in the Manatee Rehabilitation Partnership. The Seas is a designated rehab site for rescued manatees and sea turtles until they are well enough to be returned to their habitats. “Every visit you make to The Seas supports wildlife conservation.” Maddy stated. “It’s an opportunity for families to get together and connect with conservation.” Certainly, no visit to Epcot is complete without visiting The Seas with Nemo & Friends, and for animal lovers, it’s definitely a must-stop at Walt Disney World. So make an appointment with Crush, Nemo, and other stars of the ocean by getting your Walt Disney World tickets from OrlandoFunTickets.com, and get ready to embark on a fun and educational undersea adventure. Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, Disney, EPCOT, EPCOT attractions
What Guest Services Can Do for You at Disney
 Sure, everyone sees them when they enter the park, but chances are that most guests do not really know the many purposes of the Guest Relations centers at Walt Disney World. If you have special needs, however, are young, old, lost, speak a different language, or are allergic to peanuts, the Guest Relations center can provide you with a lot of help to make your Disney experience better. Here are a few of the things you can score through Guest Services at Epcot, Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. First of all, Guest Relations has every kind of map you could possibly need in Walt Disney World. For families traveling with little ones, Guest Relations has special guide maps pointing out all the best kid stuff. They’re especially handy for finding characters, though they also make it easier to find attractions, entertainment, and interactive activities that are of special interest to young children. There’s also the Guidemap for Guests with Disabilities, which provides a detailed overview of services and facilities available for guests with disabilities – including those with mobility, hearing, visual, and non-apparent disabilities. Theme park guidemaps are also available in six languages, including English, French, German, Japanese, and Portuguese. Visitors can also find times guides for shows, character greetings, parades, and fireworks in their language of choice. Guest Relations is also the place to go if you’ve become separated from your party, or if you’ve lost a member of your party. If you need to exchange your foreign currency for US dollars, Guest Relations can help you out; they can even provide you with Disney Dollars. And let’s say you need to score a special gift for someone – try giving a Walt Disney World Gift Certificate, available for purchase at Guest Relations. What if you want to stay or eat someplace really special within Walt Disney World? At Guest Relations, you can arrange your Disney Resort reservations and even make advanced reservations for dining. Speaking of dining, if you have a specific diet or food allergies that need to be taken into account, just make a mention of it and Disney will make sure your culinary needs are met. And don’t forget that the guest services at Walt Disney World don’t end at the Guest Relations center. Throughout each theme park, guests can also find Baby Care Centers, ATMs, First Aid, Lockers, Wheelchair and Pushchair rentals, and even Camera Services. The latter is particularly cool – let’s say you’ve filled up all the memory on your digital camera. Simply head to one of the camera services spots within the park and you can burn all your photographs to a CD, leaving you free to wipe your camera’s memory card and continue photographing your fun at Disney. There’s no end to the help you can find at Disney; they’ve thought of nearly everything a guest might possibly need to make their day at the parks a great one. But if, perchance, you can’t find what you’re looking for on a map or have a different kind of special request not listed here, Guest Relations will bend over backwards (as far as they can) to assist you. So if you’ve been making excuses not to go to Walt Disney World because of some special circumstance, give Disney Guest Relations a chance to make that circumstance a non-issue. Start your Disney adventure today by checking out Walt Disney World tickets at OrlandoFunTickets.com. Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, Disney Hollywood Studios, Disney's Animal Kingdom, EPCOT, guest services, Magic Kingdom
Celebrate Your Birthday at a Disney Resort
 As if the What Will You Celebrate promotion at Disney was not already cool enough, a Walt Disney World resort is now offering an additional present to complete your celebration. At the Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin, guests can now enjoy a complimentary room on their birthday. Add in one of the great birthday gifts from Disney for your theme park adventures, and there’s no doubt now that Disney is the place to go for an all-out birthday celebration. The Swan & Dolphin, a Four-Diamond luxury resort located in the heart of Disney World, is offering birthday guys and gals a complimentary birthday room with a minimum three-night stay. Under this offer, birthday celebrators can also purchase a second room for an additional $99 per night. And to cap things off, when birthday guests dine in one of the Swan & Dolphin’s signature, award-winning restaurants, they’ll receive a complimentary birthday cake prepared by two-time champion pastry chef, Laurent Branlard. The resort’s restaurants include Todd English’s bluezoo, Shula’s Steak House, and Il Mulino New York Trattoria. Dinner reservations should be made at least five days in advance to allow for birthday cake preparations. When guests book their birthday stay at the Swan & Dolphin, they should provide the rate code “BDAY.” And don’t forget to pack your ID when you go on vacation – you’ll need it to verify your birthday at the resort, but you’ll also need it to redeem your birthday treats when you visit Walt Disney World. In case you need reminding, celebrating your birthday at Walt Disney World can earn you one of three awesome gifts: a 1-Day Magic Your Way base ticket for use any time until your next birthday; a birthday FASTPASS exchange card for a certain number of attractions at the Disney park you visit on your birthday (valid for the birthday person and up to five members of his/her party); or a birthday fun card in an amount equal to the price of a 1-day Magic Your Way base ticket to use for certain purchases like merchandise, recreation or tour experiences, or Disney’s PhotoPass on-site services at participating Walt Disney World locations. The birthday fun card never expires and can be used repeatedly until there’s no amount left on it. All you have to do to redeem your three gifts is have your ID and a Walt Disney World ticket from OrlandoFunTickets.com handy, and head to the guest services line when you enter Animal Kingdom, Magic Kingdom, Epcot, or Hollywood Studios. So if you’ve got a birthday coming up, there’s one guaranteed fun way that you can celebrate with friends in style – a trip to a Walt Disney World theme park, complete with a stay at the Disney Swan & Dolphin Resort. Start by checking out Walt Disney World tickets from OrlandoFunTickets.com, and you’ll be on your way to one great celebration. Labels: Birthdays at Disney, Discount Disney Tickets, orlando hotels, resorts, what will you celebrate
The Sounds of Spring at Epcot's Flower Power Concerts
 As the first day of the 16th annual International Flower & Garden Festival gets underway today at Walt Disney World, hundreds of visitors visiting Epcot will be greeted by flowering blooms, lovely scents, and whimsical topiaries. In two days, however, that array for the senses will have an auditory addition – the rockin’ sounds of the Festival’s Flower Power Concerts, which will begin this weekend. From March 20 through May 31, the festival’s beautiful flowers will be accompanied by a spring shower of songs from eleven famous performers of the ‘60s and ‘70s. Park guests will be able to travel back in time with nostalgic tunes like “If You Don’t Know Me By Now,” by Harold Melvin’s Blue Notes, and other hits during every weekend of the 16th annual Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival. The Flower Power concerts kick off opening weekend from March 20 through 22 with performances by Davy Jones, known for a string of pop singles including “Daydream Believer.” The music goes on from March 27 through 29 with Paul Revere & The Raiders, who’ll be performing “Good Thing” and other songs. The Turtles featuring Flo & Eddie will take the stage next from April 3 to April 5 with hits like “Happy Together,” followed by Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone from April 10 through 12, who’ll perform their infectious “I’m Henry the VIII, I Am.” From April 17 to 19, The Ventures, known as “The Band that Launched a Thousand Bands,” will croon hits like “Hawaii Five-O.” And Harold Melvin’s Blue Notes will wrap up the month’s concerts from April 24 through 26. From May 1 to May 3, Chubby Checker & The Wildcats, famous for “The Twist,” will perform, followed by Ricky Nelson Remembered featuring The Nelsons from May 8 through 10 with songs like “(Can’t Live Without Your) Love and Affection.” Jose Feliciano, known for “Light My Fire” will take the stage from May 15 to May 17, and the 5th Dimension will sing “Up, Up and Away” and other songs from May 22 through 24. From May 29 to May 31, crooner of “Tie a Yellow Ribbon” Tony Orlando will conclude the Flower Power concert series. Each concert will take place at the America Gardens Theatre in Epcot at 5:15, 6:30, and 7:45 pm on each Friday, Saturday, and Sunday of the festival. There’s no extra cost to jam to the sounds of the Flower Power era – music lovers need only their Walt Disney World ticket, which they can get right here at OrlandoFunTickets.com. So don’t wait until the last minute to score yours so you can get in the spirit of spring with the great tunes of the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival. Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, EPCOT, EPCOT events, epcot flower and garden festival
St. Patrick's Day Fun at Walt Disney World
 Tomorrow is St. Patricks Day, and thousands of people here in Orlando will be celebrating the luck of the Irish with green-tinged festivities and raucous parties. Depending on where you go, however, the celebrations can sometimes get a little too out of control, especially for those who are on vacation in Orlando with family in tow. So what do you do if you want to show your Irish pride but want a casual and family-friendly St. Patty’s celebration? You visit Walt Disney World, of course, which is a fun place to celebrate any event, especially Ireland’s national holiday. First, a great place to stop by during St. Patrick’s Day for a casual dinner or a bit of live entertainment is Ragland Road Irish Pub, located in Downtown Disney. This charming and laid-back restaurant perfectly evokes a classic neighborhood Irish pub with its custom-made furnishings and delicately carved woodwork straight from Ireland. In addition, Ragland Road’s classic Irish fare is savory and soothing, with dishes like creamy colcannon soup, fish n’ chips, and beef stew with a touch of Guinness. Irish celebrity chef Kevin Donlan heads up the kitchen, and you’ll be transported back to the Emerald Isles with every bite. The entertainment at Ragland Road’s is particularly fun – every night, the pub lights up with dancing and live music from a foot-stomping Irish band. You just might find yourself participating in a jig if you’re not careful! And with a strictly enforced no-smoking policy and a seating area especially set aside for parties with small children, Ragland’s is a decent environment for a family dinner. But if you come with friends, you’ll find that the pints are fresh and plentiful. On St. Patrick’s Day, the restaurant should be particularly lively as it usually holds a fairly big celebration every year. And revelers will find the rest of Pleasure Island will also be turning green with “Sham Rock ‘n’ Roll” festivities, featuring live music by Irish artists, leprechauns, and green specialty beverages. Before or after dinner, stopping by the parks is a must, of course, and we especially recommend Epcot, where you’ll be sure to see plenty of other Irish Disney fans decked out in green. Best yet, if you didn’t arrive to the park decked out in your holiday gear, you can stock up at the United Kingdom pavilion’s shops with St. Patrick’s Day Mickey shirts, plush leprechaun Mickey’s, and St. Patrick’s Day themed Mickey mugs. St. Patty’s Day merchandise can also be found at Ye Old Christmas Shoppe in Magic Kingdom. When it comes to celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or any other special holiday or event, you’ll be sure to have a blast at Walt Disney World, which has a park, attraction, and restaurant that’s perfect for every occasion. Start preparing for your St. Patrick’s Day festivities by getting Walt Disney World tickets from OrlandoFunTickets.com, and you’ll be one lucky theme park-goer. Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, Holidays in Orlando, Orlando Events, Saint Patricks day
Animal Kingdom Leaps Forward with Froggy Fun
 This weekend is the beginning of daylight saving time, which sadly means that most people will lose an hour of sleep when they set their clocks forward one hour on Sunday night. However, instead of mourning the loss of time, Walt Disney World is celebrating it with a series of whimsical activities for the whole family. At Disney’s Animal Kingdom, guests can get a “leap” on the weekend’s time change with some frog-focused events that will remind them to set their clocks ahead. On Thursday, March 5, the park kicked off their daylight saving time celebrations, which will continue through the weekend. Some of the activities include a frog-leap that challenges children to see if they can jump as far as frogs and a special frog-calling game where guests match the frog to the corresponding “ribbit.” Little ones can also don “frog-wear” with goggles to model amphibians’ transparent eyelids, along with mesh vests that represent permeable skin and special suction-cupped gloves to mimic froggy feat. The events are part of Animal Kingdom’s efforts to promote conservation and raise awareness of the serious decline in amphibian populations. Some estimates suggest that as many as one-third of known amphibian species may be threatened by extinction because of loss of habitat, climate change, pollution, and disease. So aside from providing a subtle clock change reminder, the program is also designed to engage guests in conservation efforts. Guests will be given tips on how they can help combat the dwindling numbers of amphibians in the world and create a frog-friendly environment in their own backyard. Some of the suggestions include building a pond with native shrubs, providing an overturned pot or small areas of leaf litter to benefit amphibians, and using fewer chemical pesticides to keep amphibians healthy. Incidentally, at Animal Kingdom, which is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, members of the Animal Programs teams are studying the nutritional needs of the Puerto Rican Crested Toad, a species native to Puerto Rico where it is threatened by extinction. Hopefully, the teams will help conservationists determine alternate habitats where food is abundant for the toads. Researchers are studying the amphibian population in Orlando’s backyard as well, in Disney's Wildlife Management and Conservation Area. To learn more about Animal Kingdom’s conservation efforts, guests can also stop by the Conservation Station at the Rafiki’s Planet Watch area of the park. There, animal handlers and exhibits offer a behind-the-scenes look at the day-to-day activities of the park, and guests can get more information on what they can do to help in the preservation and conservation battle. There’s no extra cost to participate in the froggy fun this weekend; you only need a Walt Disney World ticket, which you can get at discount rates right here at OrlandoFunTickets.com. Don’t forget to stop by Animal Kingdom for an educational amphibian experience, and don’t forget to make your clocks leap forward on Sunday, March 8. Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, disney events, Disney's Animal Kingdom, special events
High Tech Convenience with Online Services at Disney
 There doesn not seem to be anything that can not be done on the internet these days. A person can buy stocks, groceries, and furniture, take an art class, and find a date for Saturday night. And now, Walt Disney World is jumping onto the internet convenience bandwagon with new services and tools that makes planning and taking a Disney vacation even easier. One such service is online check-in, which was launched earlier this week for Disney resort. A completely free service available to all guests staying at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels and Disney Vacation Club resorts, online check-in is designed to simplify and streamline guest arrivals. Here’s how it all works: within ten days of their arrival, guests go online and provide check-in information, let the resort know what time they’ll be arriving, and give their room preferences (though they can’t always be guaranteed). Guests can also provide the names of all the people in their party as well as a credit card to cover resort charges. Then when they arrive, instead of proceeding to the check-in desk, guests visit a special welcome location where their room keys and other registration material are waiting. Should they have any questions when they arrive, Disney cast members will be available to provide information. “Our new Online Check-In Service offers added convenience and time savings for Walt Disney World Resort hotel guests,” said Kevin Myers, vice president of Resort Operations for Walt Disney World Resort. “It’s the latest benefit created as part of our continuous effort to provide a seamless and hassle-free arrival experience for our guests as they begin their Disney vacation.” And if that wasn’t hassle-free enough, Walt Disney World also recently launched a new element on its website to make planning a Disney trip a little easier and more memorable. Now, guests can go online and use a new Web planner to learn about what fun experiences are available at Disney and even customize their own “celebration vacation” itinerary. With everything from fireworks cruises to street parties and specialty birthday cakes and parties, this interactive online celebration planner asks soon-to-be Disney guests “What Will You Celebrate?” and then tells them how they can celebrate it. All guests have to do is go online and tell the planner what they’re celebrating – a birthday, reunion, personal triumph, romantic occasion, or even a first visit. Based on the occasion, the online planner gives a list of ideas, such as a Sweetheart Dinner for Two at Victoria & Albert’s or a trip to the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique at Magic Kingdom. Now if only you could get your Walt Disney World tickets online…oh wait, you can! And you can get them at discount, too. Simply check out the tickets on OrlandoFunTickets.com, which you can even have delivered to your Disney resort, to which you can check-in online, after planning your Disney vacation on the internet. What will they put online next? Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, Disney, hotel advice, orlando hotels, resorts, what will you celebrate
Did You Know? Interesting Disney Factoids
 With four theme parks and over 35 years of history behind it, there is so much to learn about Walt Disney World. And even if you’ve been to the parks a thousand times, chances are there’s still plenty of interesting Disney World facts you may have never heard before. So in honor of one of our favorite Orlando theme parks (or rather, several), here’s a sprinkling of Disney knowledge to brighten your day.
Spaceship TechnologiesIt’s no secret that Spaceship Earth at Epcot possesses one of the coolest architectural designs in the country. Designed with the help of science fiction writer Ray Bradbury, the park icon is a geodesic globe made out of more than 10,000 isosceles triangles, and it opened along with Epcot in 1982. However, did you know that when it rains, not a drop of water running through Spaceship Earth’s grooves actually falls to the ground? The cladding was designed so that when it rains, all the water is absorbed through one-inch gaps in the facets and collected in a gutter system – which eventually is channeled right into the World Showcase Lagoon. Neat, huh? Disney’s No Dummy
When Disney was first acquiring the property for Walt Disney World as we know it today, the company used various dummy corporations to avoid a burst of land speculation. The first five-acre lot was bought in 1964 by the “Ayefour Corporation,” a subtle pun on Interstate 4. Other interestingly named and secretly Disney-owned lot purchasers included “M.T. Lott Real Estate Investments” – get it? Empty lot! Royally Cool ConstructionCinderella’s Castle, the iconic figure of Magic Kingdom, was inspired by several French castles. Completed in 1971 after 18 months of construction, the castle reaches a height of 189 feet. However, an optical trick called forced perspective makes it look much larger than it really is. As you proceed to look up at the castle, the proportions get smaller the higher up it gets, making the castle look taller. Also, despite appearances, no bricks were used in the castle’s construction. Two of the spires, however, were built using actual gold and gold leaf. Hidden MickeysSure, you can find Mickey Mouse in any number of Disney parades every afternoon, such as the Mickey’s Jammin Jungle Parade at Animal Kingdom. But did you know that Mickey’s famous round head and two round ears can be spotted all over the Disney parks in random, secret places? Called Hidden Mickeys, these little stamps can be seen in restaurants, on the sidewalk, on the art of attractions, and even on parade vehicles. Keep your eyes peeled for a broccoli Mickey in the Body Wars mural in Epcot, for a row of hidden Mickey railings underneath a window at Disney’s Hollywood Studios Tower of Terror, and for a Mickey at the center of the manhole covers at all of the parks. If you want to learn more about your favorite Disney theme park, one of the best and most fun ways to do that is to visit! Score your Walt Disney World tickets at OrlandoFunTickets.com, and you’ll be on your way to becoming a Disney expert. Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, Disney Attractions, disney world, Disney World Tickets
Super Bowl Winners are Going to Disney World!
 One particular phrase in the English language has become so iconic over the years that it is now a trademark reaction to any kind of milestone achievement. Most recently uttered by American Idol winner David Cook, the expression “I’m going to Disney World!” has even been used as a sort of joke – that’s how often it’s been said. But for Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Santonio Holmes and quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, “going to Disney World” is no joke – it really is how the players will celebrate their dramatic victory in Super Bowl XLIII. In the midst of frenzied celebrations just after their team claimed the National Football League championship on Sunday, February 1, Roethlisberger and Holmes shouted, “I’m going to Disney World!” And indeed, they will. Steeler victory celebrations will kick off at Magic Kingdom on February 2 with a special Super Bowl victory parade down Main Street, U.S.A. Holmes, a native of Belle Glade who scored the winning touchdown last night in Tampa, will be joined by NFL Youth Football players from Jacksonville, Florida, for the special celebration beginning at 11 am. Through Roethlisberger initially planned to join the MVP wide receiver, he’ll be making his celebration visit at a later date. Roethlisberger and Holmes made their victory announcement as part of one of TV’s longest commercials, filmed immediately after the Steelers’ 27-23 victory over the Arizona Cardinals. This latest commercial is the milestone 40th of a series that first began in 1987 following Super Bowl XXI. The first “I’m going to Disney World” commercial featured New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms, and as a national commercial involving a current event airing on major networks within hours of its conclusion, it was regarded as a groundbreaking concept. Holmes and Roethlisberger have joined a long lineup of people from sports, music, and beyond who have celebrated milestone achievements by “going to Disney World!” If you’re a Steelers fan, there’s nothing quite like celebrating your team’s victory with fellow fans at Holmes’ victory parade at Magic Kingdom. Or, if you can’t make the parade, you can plan a day at the park to coincide with Roethlisberger’s future visit. No matter when you drop by Walt Disney World, you’ll be sure to celebrate the Steelers' Super Bowl victory in style. And don’t forget that Walt Disney World offers special promotions for birthday celebrations too – check out all the details on our What Will You Celebrate? page. After all, there’s no place quite like Disney theme parks for celebrating an event that’s close to your heart. Be sure to check out Walt Disney World tickets at OrlandoFunTickets.com in order to get your birthday party or sports celebration started. Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, disney world, sports in orlando, super bowl, walt disney world events
Camp Out at Walt Disney World
 When most people come down to Walt Disney World, they do so for the sunshine, the rides, the unique attractions and shows, the characters, etc. – the list goes on and on. However, winter is the perfect season to try something that’s a little different from the Disney norm – camping! With the cooler temperatures in Orlando right now, nothing’s more fun than snuggling up to a campfire and roasting marshmallows at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground. Since 1971, the campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort have offered classic outdoor fun right in the middle of Walt Disney World. This picturesque campground features more than 700 acres of lush pine and cypress trees, and the scenery is truly beautiful this time of year. Hike through quiet trails beside trickling water canals in a serene forest filled with ducks, deer, and rabbits. You’ll enjoy all the outdoor beauty that would normally be covered with snow in other states during the winter. And unlike other campgrounds that are close together and only have a few trees, you’ll really feel like you’re in your own private patch of forest at Fort Wilderness. If you don’t want to rough it entirely, Fort Wilderness also features over 400 charming cabins with all the amenities of a typical hotel room. These wilderness retreats are complete with fully equipped kitchens and a charcoal grill. Six people can sleep comfortably in them, and along with the campgrounds, they come with a wood deck and a picnic table. Since Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground is the only pet-friendly resort at Disney, you can also bring along Fido or Kitty for the fun. Though most people enjoy escaping to the parks for the day, Fort Wilderness has plenty of activities to keep you occupied if you opt to hang out at the resort/campground. Normally, swimming is a popular pastime, though the water might be a little too chilly at present. Horse riding is also available, as well as fishing, biking, several sports, and even an arcade for those needing a momentary escape from nature. You can also rent movies at the Meadow Trading Post, which also sells groceries, limited camping supplies, and other sundries. And since one can’t subsist on marshmallows alone, Fort Wilderness features plenty of dining options. Check out the Trail’s End restaurant for classic American fare or Crockett’s Lounge for a relaxing quick bite. You can also combine dinner with an incredible show at Mickey’s Backyard BBQ or the Hoop-Dee-Hoo Musical Revue. With rates starting at $43 a night, the Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground is an inexpensive alternative to staying in one of the pricier Disney resorts, which means you’ll have more money left over for fun at Disney theme parks. Combine that with all the savings you’ll get when you purchase Walt Disney World tickets at OrlandoFunTickets.com, and the result is one sweet winter deal. Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, Disney, Disney at night, disney resort dinning, fort wilderness, resorts
New Disney Parades Will Liven up the Parks
 There is no doubt that one of the highlights of Walt Disney World that puts smiles on the faces of guests on a regular basis are its incredible parades. Filled with music, dancing, and incredible floats, each parade has a personality and a theme all its own, suited to fit the particular park it strolls through. And in the coming weeks, Disney will add a few more parade spectacles to its roster, with new delights and surprises that are sure to thrill any Disney lover. First up is the "Disney Dreams Come True parade" at Magic Kingdom, which will be revitalized with a whole new name and new fun. Beginning January 23rd, the afternoon parade will be known as the "Celebrate a Dream Come True Parade" to go along with Disney’s new What Will You Celebrate promotion, which began earlier this month. The new parade will make more stops as it winds through Main Street USA and Frontierland, during which party dancers will perform to get guests into the celebratory spirit. There’ll also be new costumes, new music, and all-new float décor to go along with the new theme. In addition to this parade, the "Move It, Shake It, Celebrate It! Street Party" will debut in mid-February with a high-energy cast of Disney characters, stilt walkers, and other performers processing down Main Street USA toward Cinderella Castle. Combining the floats and décor of a parade with the spirit of a street party, characters will dance to high-energy tunes such as “I Like to Move It” and contemporary hits like “Breakout” by Disney protégé Miley Cyrus. Five floats decked out as gift-wrapped packages will be part of the procession, and near the castle, Mad Hatter (from Alice in Wonderland), Genie (from Aladdin), Lumiere (from Beauty and the Beast), and Sebastian (from The Little Mermaid) will pop out of huge four gift boxes. They’ll join about a dozen other Disney characters lead by the master mice of ceremonies, Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse. Visitors will be encouraged to mix, mingle, and dance in the street with performers during this 12 to 15-minute parade, which is scheduled to take place three times daily. “That is the main idea of the show,” said Disney Entertainment Producer Gary Gutierrez, “to have the opportunity to play and dance with the characters.” While the "Move It, Shake It Celebrate It! Street Party" will have several performances on most days, the "Celebrate a Dream Come True parade" will continue as the main, once-daily parade; guests can check the daily schedule when they arrive the park to find out parade routes and performance times. For classic Walt Disney World fun, there’s nothing like a good parade, and Magic Kingdom makes it its business to put on some of the best! Don’t miss out on the fun when these two new parades make their debut; score discount Disney tickets at OrlandoFunTickets.com to get in on all the street party, celebrating action. Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, Magic Kingdom, Magic Kingdom Attractions, Magic Kingdom Parades
Re-Imagineering Downtown Disney: New Additions in 2009
 It started with the closing of Pleasure Island last year; then, T-Rex: A Prehistoric Family Adventure, A Place to Eat, Shop, Explore and Discover opened, creating a whole new standard for Disney dining. With all these changes, visitors might be wondering what’s going on at Downtown Disney, Walt Disney World Resort’s beloved shopping, dining and entertainment hub. Well, this famous Disney attraction that’s a popular favorite among tourists is getting a little bit of a makeover, with new restaurants and all-new attraction set to draw crowds later this year. Since Downtown Disney has always been a free place for visitors to walk, shop, and spend a leisurely afternoon, guests will be surprised to learn that in the spring, Downtown Disney will get its very own iconic attraction in the form of a giant tethered balloon. Not much is known about this aerial ride that, for now, is simply known as Aerophile. But the word from Disney is that it will take guests 300 feet into the air from the waterfront. With a volume of 210,000 cubic feet of lighter-than-air gas, the 72-foot-diameter balloon will lift up to 30 guests at a time on a six-minute trip by day or night, giving them an unparalleled, 360-degree view of up to 10 miles. Adding to the fun will be a new Downtown Disney restaurant, a high-energy eatery and bar from E-Brands Restaurant Group. There’s no official word on the name yet, but we can expect to see an international wine bar, a tequila bar with more than 50 kinds of tequila, and 10 signature frozen margaritas. This new dining spot will also be located on the waterfront and will be open daily until late into the evening with nightly entertainment. The new additions will certainly fill help to fill a bit of a hole at Downtown Disney, which has developed ever since Pleasure Island closed back in late September, after close to 20 years in operation. Reportedly, Disney was responding to guest feedback asking for more family-friendly experiences. Pleasure Island featured nightclubs like the Adventurer’s Club, Comedy Warehouse 8 Traxx, Motion, Mannequins, and BET Sound Stage. While Disney reinvents Pleasure Island with a new slew of dining, shopping, and other unique features, Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant, Fuego by Sosa Cigars, Curl by Sammy Duval, and Orlando Harley-Davidson will still be open to visitors. So far, Downtown Disney’s newest additions include Disney’s new Design-A-Tee store presented by Hanes, which we recently reported on, and T-Rex: A Prehistoric Family Adventure. T-Rex combines dining with entertainment, allowing kids to learn and play in an interactive prehistoric environment built around water, fire, ice. Both places are part of a recent trend in Disney stores, restaurants, and attractions to provide interactive entertainment, where the guest can be an integral part of the fun. We’ll keep you posted on all the latest developments at one of Walt Disney World’s most beloved spots, Downtown Disney. And in the meantime, don’t forget to check out all the fun at other Disney theme parks like Magic Kingdom and Epcot – you can find discount Disney tickets right here at OrlandoFunTickets.com. Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, Disney Attractions, Disney Dining, Downtown Disney
Design Your Own Tee at Downtown Disney
 One of our favorite places in Walt Disney World to eat, shop, and spend a leisurely afternoon, Downtown Disney is like a mega metropolis of fun. Filled with restaurants, unique shops, and live entertainment, this attraction draws hundreds of visitors every day. And soon, Downtown Disney is about to get even better with a new high-tech store that will allow guests to customize their clothing. In a grand opening ceremony on January 9th, Walt Disney World launched balloons, confetti cannons, and unveiled a giant T-shirt cake in celebration of its newest store, Disney’s Design-A-Tee Presented by Hanes. The first of its kind, this interactive T-shirt design and printing store located at the Downtown Disney Marketplace will enable guests to create unique vacation tee shirts with limitless design capabilities. Using one of eight state-of-the-art kiosks with touch-screens, guests will be able to customize a long-sleeve or short-sleeve T-shirt in multiple colors by choosing from more than 300 art selections of Disney animation and movie characters. Make a green Tinkerbell shirt or a red Pirates of the Caribbean tee – the design is up to you! Guests can also add a unique message or logo of up to four lines to their tee using a wide selection of type fonts and colors. If you can’t think of any particular message you want your tee to convey, previously programmed messages are also available to choose from. Disney’s Design-A-Tee is the latest product of the collaboration between Walt Disney World and Hanes Brands, Inc. In 2007, the clothing maker signed a deal to become the official T-shirt supplier at Disney World. Once guests have designed their unique tee, the design is electronically sent to the store’s printing machine. Shirts at Disney’s Design-A-Tee are printed on site and take about 15 minutes to make, although the wait may be longer if the store is busy. Guests can watch the creation of their tee via video screens while they wait, or they can opt to pick them up later or have them delivered. You can make one T-shirt just for you, or produce multiples of the same design to share with friends, family, or perhaps a club or team. Prices range from about $20 to $30. Tee-lovers can find the Design-A-Tee shop next to the Art of Disney store at the east end of Downtown Disney. Downtown Disney is home to the Downtown Disney Marketplace, featuring the largest Disney character store in the world, and Downtown Disney West Side, featuring top-notch restaurants, theaters, shows, and one-of-a-kind amusement, including Cirque du Soleil’s La Nouba. Be sure to plan a stop here during your next Disney vacation, and don’t forget your discount Disney tickets at OrlandoFunTickets.com. Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, Disney Attractions, Downtown Disney, Walt Disney World News
Cinderella Suite Will Stay Open in 2009
 If you have ever been curious as to the life of a princess, or more pragmatically, if you have ever wondered what the inside of a castle looked like, you’ll have more of a chance to find out this year as the Walt Disney World Resort will be keeping open its Cinderella Suite in 2009. This three-room suite located at the top of Cinderella’s Castle at Magic Kingdom was refurbished in 2007 as a Grand Prize for the Year of a Million Dreams promotion. Since the promotion, which selected a lucky guest at random each day to spend a night in the suite, is now over, Disney will continue to use the room as a prize for other promotions, including some by outdoor companies. A sweepstakes by Orbitz called “Inside Your Celebration” was the most recent outside promotion to feature the Cinderella Suite as a prize. Originally, the room at the top of Cinderella’s castle was intended to be an apartment for Walt Disney and his family when they were in Florida. But after Disney died in 1966, the apartment was left unfinished until 2006, when Disney announced its decision to completely redecorate and reupholster the “royal bedchamber.” Now, the suite features a salon, bedchamber, and bathroom off a private marble-floored foyer. The Royal Suite combines 17th century French style with state-of-the-art luxuries and classic Cinderella décor. The bedchamber invites sweet dreams with two queen beds underneath a regal canopy. The stone bedchamber floor features a mosaic design inspired by the masterpiece at the castle’s entrance to Fantasyland. A parlor sofa is perfect for cozying up with a book (of which the suite has a few), and stone walls, hardwood paneling, and stained-glass windows complete the castle setting. A few magical additions include Cinderella’s famous glass slipper, which adorns a cove in the foyer, and a 17th century-style portrait of Cinderella in the bedchamber, which magically transforms into a flat screen HDTV. The suite also features original Cinderella concept art by renowned Disney artist Mary Blair. A whirlpool tub and copper vanity basins complete the luxurious bathroom. The suite also comes with a personal concierge ready to assist with any special requests (though he’s also there to make sure no one goes wandering around Magic Kingdom at night). Since the Cinderella Suite was opened for special Disney guests, there’s been widespread speculation about what Disney would do with it once the Year of a Million Dreams promotion was over. The most fervent hope among Disney fans has been that Disney would open the suite to guests much like a regular hotel suite. Others have speculated that the room would be donated to philanthropic causes. It’s still possible that all these options are in play, though the most popular rumor is that the Cinderella Suite is open to anyone with enough funds to enjoy the princess lifestyle. “Other uses and opportunities for the suite are still to be determined,” said Disney spokesperson Rick Sylvain. “We will continue to evaluate all options.” One of the newest rumors among Disney fans is that a stay in the Cinderella Suite will be awarded to some lucky birthday boy or girl as part of the new What Will You Celebrate? Promotion. Until we get the official word from Disney, however, it’s all speculation – but fun speculation, nonetheless. After all, can you think of any better gift than a night in Cinderella’s Castle? Plenty of dreams come true outside the castle – we can only imagine how magical it would be on the inside. Labels: Cinderella's Castle, Discount Disney Tickets, Magic Kingdom, Magic Kingdom Attractions
Make Some Birthday Magic at Walt Disney World
 A new year means many things: new opportunities, new experiences, new resolutions to try to keep, and a whole year filled with new chances to celebrate whatever might be important to you. One particularly fun celebration we all share is birthdays, and at Walt Disney World Resort, you can really make your birthday a day you’ll always remember. We here at OrlandoFunTickets.com are especially determined to your birthday magical – and not just any kind of magical – Disney magical. In 2009, your birthday will be a true milestone when you purchase Walt Disney World Resort tickets from OrlandoFunTickets.com. When you do, not only will you guarantee an amazing day of fun at Disney, but you’ll also get to choose one of three incredible treats: a birthday fun card to use for merchandise, recreation, and fun at participating Walt Disney World Resort locations; a special FASTPASS for certain attractions at the park you visit on your birthday; and a 1-day Magic Your Way base ticket for you to use any time until your next birthday. Simply bring your ticket to the gate on the day of your birthday along with a valid photo ID (including proof of birth date) in order to take advantage of this super-cool offer. The only hard part is deciding which treat to choose! The birthday fun card, for example, can be used towards merchandise items at participating Walt Disney World or Disneyland resorts. It’s great for buying a unique birthday gift for yourself, one that you’ll always have to remember your special birthday at Walt Disney World. (The birthday fun card cannot be used towards the purchase of food or beverage items, personal services such as face painting or caricature drawing, or Disney resort room charges.) However, the FASTPASS is great for skipping all the long lines on your birthday. With it, you can make sure to cram the most fun into your birthday at Walt Disney World. It can also be used for the birthday boy or girl and up to five members of his/her party, ensuring that everyone with you gets in on the fun. If you do wish to choose the FASTPASS, you may want to pick it up early, as the number of these special birthday passes is limited and may not be available after 11 am. And though a birthday fun card and FASTPASS are fun, a 1-day Magic Your Way ticket might be the ultimate birthday gift. After all, the only thing better than a day at Walt Disney World is two days at Walt Disney World! Best yet, you can use it anytime after your birthday until your next one. It’s perfect for seeing all the sights and attractions you couldn’t fit in the first time around. There are some important things to remember in order to make sure you’re eligible for these amazing birthday gifts from Disney. First, you can only receive birthday benefits on the actual day of your birth. Similarly, the birthday fun card is only valid on your birthday – so be sure to spend it all! And finally, proper identification is required in order to redeem your birthday benefits; if you’re 18 or older, a Driver’s License, Government-issued photo ID, or passport will do. If you’re a minor and don’t have these forms of ID, a birth certificate or notarized copy of a birth certificate can be used. So what are you waiting for? Even if your birthday is in December, there’s no rule that says you can’t start planning and looking forward to it now. Get discount Disney tickets at OrlandoFunTickets.com, and you’ll be on your way to a special Disney celebration where you’re the guest of honor. Have a very happy and magical Disney birthday! Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, disney events, walt disney world events, Walt Disney World News, what will you celebrate
Off the Beaten Path at Walt Disney World
 When vacationers and residents go to Walt Disney World to enjoy amazing parks like Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, Epcot, and Magic Kingdom, they obviously go for the rides, attractions, exhibits, parades, shows, shopping, dining, and of course, the amazing characters. (Did we forget anything?) And while that’s all good and fun, there’s a whole world of amazing things at Disney that many people miss out on – the road untraveled, as Robert Frost would call it. Here are a few cool activities and undiscovered gems that you might want to check out on your next trip to Walt Disney World. See art from all over the world. Everyone knows that Epcot’s World Showcase is an interactive buffet of different countries, cultures, and cuisines. Most don’t know, however, that several countries in the showcase host museum-quality art galleries. Next time you tour the world at Epcot, stop by these exhibits, which are free with general park admission: The Vikings: Conquerors of the Seas at Norway, Tomb Warriors at China, “Tin Toy Stories” Made in Japan at Japan, and Gallery of Arts and History at Morocco. Build your own roller coaster and ride it. In the DisneyQuest Indoor Interactive Theme Park at Downtown Disney, CyberSpace Mountain allows guests to create their very own roller coaster. Bill Nye the Coaster Guy walks guests through the design process, which includes choosing speeds, settings, and track combinations. When you’re done, jump in a simulator and ride your creation in full 360-degree motion…if you dare! Update your Mickey Mouse ears. No longer must guests of the parks be restricted to those plain, black Mickey ears of old. In today’s modern era, Mickey’s ears come in a whole variety of colors and styles to suit every personality in your family. Get sequined ears, pink veiled ears, patriotic themed ears, or even a bride and groom set. Ears are available throughout stores at Walt Disney World, and guests can even build and customize their own pair at The Chapeau on Main Street USA in Magic Kingdom. Take a dive and make a splash. Guests can dive into a 5.7 million-gallon indoor aquarium as part of DiveQuest at Epcot. Swim alongside more than 65 species of marine life, including sharks, turtles, eagle rays, and tropical fish. Guests even become part of the show, visible through the large acrylic windows at The Seas with Nemo & Friends. (Divers must be at least 10-years-old and have SCUBA certification). Get a snazzy new hairstyle. Travel back to the days when barbershops were a neighborhood staple at the Harmony Barber Shop on Main Street USA. Complete with a signature candy-striped pole outside, the shop provides good old-fashioned haircuts while entertaining with barbershop quartets. Kids can experience a special first haircut here, which includes pixie dust, bubbles, Mickey Mouse stickers, and a special set of Mouse Ears. Next time you plan a Walt Disney World vacation, squeeze in some time for investigating the unknown. We guarantee you’ll have plenty of fun trying these and other “off the beaten path” activities at Disney theme parks. Since each park is huge, there are plenty of them – some that even we haven’t discovered yet. So check out discount Disney tickets today on OrlandoFunTickets.com and start exploring! Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, Disney Attractions, walt disney world events
Disneys Contemporary Resort Stays Modern
 One of the first two resorts to open on Walt Disney World property back in 1971, the Disney Contemporary Resort was named so for its contemporary design – an A frame built with outer walls which slope inwards around an inner atrium. The rooms are similarly modern, with muted colors and dark woods, a suede headboard running the length of the room, a clear glass desk with computers, a light green day bed/couch, LCD television sets, and Kohler flat sinks. Undergoing a refurbishment to this present day look in 2005, the Contemporary Resort is always trying to stay on top of the latest trends, and Disney guests can now see just a few more of their recently unveiled improvements. One of the most modern changes guests will find is the new Contempo Café in the Grand Canyon Concourse at the resort. This newly opened eatery has taken the fourth floor space originally occupied by the Concourse Steakhouse and is a high-tech venture into dining. Designed for guests who want to grab a quick snack rather than a full sit-down meal, Contempo Café features some particularly neat technology when it comes to ordering. Instead of ordering from a server, guests will order their food from a self-service touch screen. Guests will start by perusing the menu on electronic boards; they’ll be able to read descriptions and look at color photos of dishes on these boards. When they’re done, they’ll place their orders at touch screens and head to a cashier to pay for their food. When their meal is ready, a pager will blink, signifying that the food is available for pickup at the counter. For those who think this new technology might make dining harder, Disney has anticipated every request diners might possibly make. For example, a salad can be ordered with the options of having the dressing mixed in, on the side, or not at all. Prices on the screen change according to your choices, and a running total is displayed at all times so guests can see how much they’ll spend. The Contempo Café is open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and features thin-crust pizzas, hearty deli sandwiches, and house-made soups, among other options. In addition to the new Contempo Café, Disney’s current revitalization of the Contemporary Resort includes the new Wave Restaurant on the first floor, which opened this past summer, and the construction of a new game arcade on the fourth floor concourse. Also, the area that was once the Outer Rim Lounge is being converted into additional seating for Chef Mickey’s, while the new Outer Rim Lounge is being constructed at a different location in the resort. And for those who are wondering what that construction is next to the Contemporary Resort, that would be the Bay Lake Tower, a Disney Vacation Club property that is set to open in fall 2009. The 15-story building will mimic the Contemporary Resort in design and feature a rooftop lounge and fireworks viewing area for seeing the show at Magic Kingdom. Bay Lake Tower will also be connected to the Contemporary Resort via a pedestrian bridge. Be sure to stop by Disney’s Contemporary Resort sometime soon to enjoy all the latest improvements and changes. At Walt Disney World, fun new additions are being made all the time, which is why you can never go too long without visiting, or you’ll miss out! So score your discount Disney tickets at OrlandoFunTickets.com, and see what’s new at your favorite parks and resorts. Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, disney resort dinning, The contemporary Resort, Walt Disney World News
MouseFest 2008
 MouseFest is an annual gathering of some of the biggest Disney fans, writers, ticket providers, and more! Bringing together fans from across the globe to events throughout the Disney Resort properties, MouseFest gives attendees the opportunity to experience the Disney attractions with their friends, idols, and fellow Disney lovers. MouseFest was in full swing this year; with tons of events for the entire 900+ group. The event kicked off with a four day Disney cruise on December 7th. When the sun-kissed cruisers returned to land after days of sun, fun, and mingling, that is when the party really started! On December 10th there were numerous land events and then on December 11th there was the official Kick-Off Party at the Disney Contemporary Resort. Despite the rain, there was a great turn out, and Mickey fans were excited to mix and mingle with each other. Orlando Fun Tickets had the wonderful opportunity of being able to take part in this year’s MouseFest. As one of the sponsors of the event, Orlando Fun Tickets was there to celebrate the kick-off, as they greeted the Disney fans as they entered the reception hall. As the gleeful Disney fans ran off to the Disney theme parks, Orlando Fun Tickets prepared themselves for the biggest meet of the entire event, the Mega Mouse Meet at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resort! On Saturday, December 13, 2008, Kerry Camisa and Courtney Mills of the Orlando Fun Tickets Marketing Team set up shop at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resort Convention Center. As they set up, hundreds of fans lined up around the hotel, anxiously waiting to enter the Convention Center for the Meet. All of the main sponsors and other tables prepped their stations as they awaited the opening of the doors. As the doors opened for the MouseFest registered attendees at 10 am, the Disney fans flocked to the numerous tables. At the tables they were able to meet and greet with their favorite Disney Fan Celebrities, grab pins to add to their ever-growing collections, get free souvenirs, enter for raffles of Disney prizes, and more! At 11 am, the general public was allowed into the Convention Center as well. The event was a great success for all! We had a great time at our table! We loved being able to put names with faces, see happy customers that have purchased with Orlando Fun Tickets before, and being able to chat with our past, present, and future affiliate partners. Thanks to all of those that stopped by our table to say hello and we cannot wait to see you all at MouseFest next year!  Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, Mousefest, orlando fun tickets, walt disney world events
Pets Will Be Staying in Luxury at Walt Disney World Resort
 Walt Disney World knows it can be hard to leave your furry friend behind when you come on vacation; that is why the parks offer several kennels for dogs and cats so that guests can enjoy the parks while knowing their pets are safe. Kennels are located at Magic Kingdom (the Ticket and Transportation Center), Epcot, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, and Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground. Since the beginning of 2008, all these Disney kennels have been taken over by an industry expert, Best Friends PetCare Inc. A national provider of pet hospitality in the US, Best Friends PetCare Inc. has 44 locations in 18 states. And soon, this leader in kennels will be able to add a luxury pet resort to their list, which is planned to open at Walt Disney World in late 2009. Best Friends Pet Care Inc. recently signed an agreement to build and operate a full-service, luxury pet “resort.” This facility will cater to park and resort guests as well as Walt Disney World employees, providing a full range of pet hospitality services such as dog and cat boarding, day care and grooming services, and doggy day camp. Pets will even enjoy luxury and amenities not available at any other Disney kennel. These include luxury suites with television and raised bedding, activities such as nature walks and playgroups, and pampering services including ice cream treats and bedtime stories. The new state-of-the-art pet resort will be located on Bonnet Creek Parkway, close to Epcot and Disney’s Dixie Landings Resort, Disney’s Port Orleans Resort, and Disney’s Old Key West Resort. "We are thrilled to have this opportunity to come to Walt Disney World Resort to create the premier vacation destination for pets," said Dennis Dolan, president and CEO of Best Friends Pet Care. "This project is still in the design phase, but our goal is to create a true resort destination for pets. This facility will be designed to fit into the Walt Disney World vacation experience and will be unlike anything else in the industry.” Best Friends PetCare Inc. introduced the concept of a “pet resort” to the industry in 1996. They have been an innovator in services and care options such as luxury suites and doggy day camp programs, which provide opportunities for dogs to play, exercise, and socialize. Currently, Disney’s kennels provide daytime and overnight boarding, though feeding and walking is only available at the Magic Kingdom, Fort Wilderness, and Epcot Kennels. At Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom, guests are required to feed and walk their own pets. All dogs and cats must have proof of certain vaccinations and must be at least 8 weeks old in order to stay at Disney’s kennels. Pets are not currently allowed at Disney Resort hotels, except for designated service animals, of course. As Disney takes steps to make sure our beloved pets have a nice vacation, don’t forget about your own! Start planning a 2009 trip to Walt Disney World for you and your Fido or feline and remember to save with discount Disney tickets at OrlandoFunTickets.com. Labels: customer service, Discount Disney Tickets, disney services, Disney World Guide, pets at disney, Walt Disney World News
Experience Holidays Around the World at Epcot
 Close your eyes and imagine being able to travel around the world and experience how different cultures and countries celebrate the holidays…Now, open your eyes, and head over to Disney’s Epcot to see everything you imagined and more! From November 28th through December 30th, one of Walt Disney World’s most festive and anticipated annual events, Holidays Around the World, comes to Epcot for a fantastic universal celebration that doesn’t even require an airplane. Once you cross the luminous light bridge adorning the breezeway to World Showcase Plaza, guests will see a magnificent holiday tree along with exquisite holiday decor and dazzling lights. Be sure to stick around the Tree Stage to catch the Lights of Winter, a synchronized light show set to a festive holiday score. Then, go around to each Pavilion (to refresh your memory, Epcot includes Mexico, Norway, China, Germany, Italy, The American Adventure, Japan, Morocco, France, United Kingdom, and Canada) to enjoy unique holiday traditions, international culinary delights of the season, one-of-a-kind holiday gifts, and incredible storytelling. From France’s Pere Noel to Italy’s LaBefana and the USA’s Santa Claus, you’ll see beloved international holiday figures spreading messages of goodwill. Don’t miss the highlight of the celebration, the nightly Candlelight Processional. In this heartfelt holiday tradition, a mass choir and 50-piece live orchestra showcase the reason for the season. Located at the America Gardens Theater, the Processional features a different celebrity narrating the Christmas story each evening. The narrators scheduled to perform include John O’Hurley, Neil Patrick Harris, Brian Stokes Mitchell, Virginia Madsen, Marlee Matlin, Monique Coleman, Chita Rivera, Abigail Breslin, Steven Curtis Chapman, Edward James Olmos, Angela Bassett, and Courtney Vance. We highly recommend pairing this heart-warming holiday show with a Candlelight Dinner Package, which provides dining at a select Epcot restaurant and reserved general seating for the Candlelight Processional. Since the show’s seating is on a first come, first serve basis, people begin waiting in line for 45 minutes before show time (and if you’re waiting for the 2nd or 3rd show of the night, this means you’ll hear the music from the show before). For this reason, it’s worth reserving the Candlelight Dinner Package for the reserved Processional seating alone. If you think the Candlelight Processional sounds amazing, wait until you see the finale of the evening, the IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth nighttime spectacular. At 9:30 every night, the World Showcase Promenade comes alive with music, lights, water fountains, and an incredible pyrotechnics show. And every evening during the Holidays Around the World celebration, IllumiNations will feature a unique holiday finale with the song “Let There Be Peace On Earth” and the warm voice of Walter Cronkite. Since Holidays Around the World is an international celebration, it’s a festive and educational attraction that the whole family can enjoy. And since Kwanzaa and Hanukkah observances are also featured, every family can enjoy it, too. Don’t miss out on this incredible holiday treat that will warm your spirit and transport it around the world. Check out discount Epcot tickets at OrlandoFunTickets.com to begin a fun, seasonal journey. Labels: Christmas at EPCOT, Discount Disney Tickets, EPCOT events, Holidays in Oralndo
The Perfect Holiday Gifts at Walt Disney World
 Walt Disney World is obviously a great place to get into the holiday spirit with incredible holiday events such as Mickeys Very Merry Christmas Party and the Downtown Disney Festival of the Seasons. However, what many don’t take into account is that it’s also a great place to do all your holiday shopping! Disney theme parks often sell one-of-a-kind Disney merchandise that you can’t find anywhere else, providing the perfect gift for little ones, older fans of the park, and even picky teenagers. But what to give? That’s where OrlandoFunTickets.com comes in – we’ve highlighted some of the coolest gifts and the best places to find them in the park. For little girls this season, princess gear is still popular, but the hot items on Christmas lists have to do with fairies. Tinkerbell is very ‘in’ right now, as are costumes from the five Disney fairies featured in the new Tinkerbell film. You can find them all at the new gift shop next to Pixie’s Hollow in Disney's Magic Kingdom, along with wands, pixie “crowns,” and illuminated wings. And though young girls may be the “target audience” for Tinkerbell, even teens love Tinkerbell merchandise such as tank tops, mugs, and collectible figurines. For the boys, Pirates of the Caribbean merchandise is still very hot, as Disney carries everything from playing cards to bookbags and action figures. Merchandise from Disney Channel show Phineas and Ferb is also a hit with boys, as is generally anything Star-Wars related from Tatooine Traders at Disney's Hollywood Studios. And since Disney owns the Power Rangers, look for cool apparel, toys, and other Power Rangers gifts at Japan in Epcot or at World of Disney in Downtown Disney. And let’s not forget that adults love Disney gifts too. Some of the most popular gifts to give are guide books to the parks; providing interesting facts and tales about our favorite theme parks from the experts. Colorful prints of Castle Dream Lights also make a lovely holiday gift, and kitchen utensils, mugs, and glasses from Mickey’s Pantry in the Downtown Disney marketplace make a great addition to any kitchen. And for adult Disney fashions, accessories, and jewelry, check out Keystone Clothiers at Hollywood Studios. Another great place to find unique holiday gifts is Epcot, which is known for unique holiday merchandise during its Holidays Around the World celebration from November 28th through December 30th. At Epcot, you can shop for cool gifts from around the world without actually having to travel around the world. Each country features unique imported gifts, and you can also find lovely holiday merchandise; Germany’s gift shop in particular usually sells beautiful hand-blown glass ornaments. And when it comes to gifts for that hard-to-shop-for person, you can’t go wrong with Disney Dollars or rechargeable Disney gift cards. You can get these both at the parks, resorts, and online, and they’re a great way to teach kids about managing their own money. Every year, the Disney Dollars appear with a different character, so they’re also a fun collectible. But if a gift card seems too impersonal to you, there’s always the ultimate holiday failsafe: Walt Disney World tickets! And with OrlandoFunTickets.com, buying discount Disney tickets is not only inexpensive, but it’s also the easiest form of holiday shopping. So this holiday season, look to Walt Disney World for some of the best holiday gifts that definitely won’t be returned. Labels: Christmas in Orlando, Discount Disney Tickets, shopping, shopping at disney
Put on Your Wings and Fly over to Magic Kingdom Pixie Hollow
 One of the lesser known Disney characters has been brewing a huge cult following over the years, and as a result of “earning her wings,” so to speak, she is now being given her very own attraction in Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom. Visitors to the park can now meet the one and only Tinker Bell, Peter Pan’s sprightly and mischievous companion, along with four of her fairy friends at Pixie Hollow in Magic Kingdom. The new Pixie Hollow takes the place of the Country Fair tent in Mickey’s Toontown Fair where Goofy, Pluto, and Donald used to meet visitors. Guests now have a chance to meet and greet Peter Pan’s partner in crime in her magical home, where they’ll shrink to the size of a fairy and explore the place where a baby’s first laugh brought Tinker Bell to life. Fairy fans will get to hear Tinker Bell speak for the very first time and meet her friends, including Fawn, an animal fairy; Iridessa, a light fairy; Rosetta, a garden fairy; and Silvermist, a water fairy. Each fairy signs autographs, poses for photographs, and chats with visitors. Pixie Hollow, which opened on October 24th, is now open for you to explore. A symbol of the magic of Disney, Tinker Bell first appeared in the animated 1953 film, Peter Pan. Her signature flourish has been seen in numerous Disney productions, and she’s been a presence in Walt Disney World ever since it opened. And now, with the release of her very own animated DVD feature, Tinker Bell is done playing second fiddle to Peter Pan and is becoming a leading Disney character in her own right. The computer-animated film, which was released on October 28th, is the first of four fairy films in the works, with a new one being released each year. The movies will feature Tinker Bell’s voice for the first time; in Peter Pan, Tinker Bell’s fairy language, which sounds like the tinkling of bells, is incomprehensible. Tinker Bell, which pre-dates Peter Pan, will also explain Tinker Bell’s origins and purpose, as well as introduce her friends, each with their own fairy purpose and distinct personality. For example, one fairy is a tomboy, one fairy loves nature, and so on. Pixie Hollow in Magic Kingdom was designed to tie into the film; visitors will hear its soundtrack playing in the background, and the fairy characters there can also be seen in the film. With Tinker Bell and her fairy friends earning their own line of merchandise and films separate from the Disney Princesses, it’s safe to say that Pixie Hollow is the first of a lot more fairy fun at Walt Disney World. Who knows? Fairy wings may become just as popular an accessory as mouse ears! One thing is certain, though; every little fairy or princess at heart will love visiting Pixie Hollow and meeting these colorful pixies in person. Get your discount Disney tickets at OrlandoFunTickets.com, and you’ll be on your way to earning your fairy wings. Tell Tinker Bell we said hi! Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, Magic Kingdom, Magic Kingdom Attractions, Magic Kingdom Events, Tinkerbell Movie
Catch the High School Musical Fever at Hollywood Studios
 With the new High School Musical 3 movie debuting recently on October 24th, the High School Musical craze is at an all-time high. And now, guests at Walt Disney World Hollywood Studios can get in on the action and fun with the new live show, “High School Musical 3: Senior Year, Right Here! Right Now!” In case you’ve been living under a rock for the past two years and don’t know what High School Musical is, we’ll give you a short overview. High School Musical is a Disney Channel original movie that was released in January 2006 and spawned a world-wide teen-craze. The most successful Disney Channel movie ever produced, it tells the story of two high school juniors from rival cliques, Troy Bolton and Gabriella Montez. The athlete and academic try out for their high school musical and break social divides as they learn that love and music is all that matters. With a modern-day love story, a great message, and a soundtrack full of catchy songs and ballads, the film became an instant hit and launched its stars, Zac Efron and Vanessa Hudgens, to fame. The film was followed by a sequel, High School Musical 2: Get in the Picture, released in 2007, and the feature film High School Musical 3: Senior Year, which was recently released. The film series also launched a concert tour with cast members, and a fourth installment in the series (with an all-new cast) is in the writing stages. However, if you already saw High School Musical 3 and didn’t get enough of the music and fun, you can see the new sidewalk show at Disney's Hollywood Studios, which debuted the same day as the movie was released. The new show is replacing the former live show about High School Musical 2, which went dark on September 13th. With many of the same cast members as the previous show and an updated storyline, the new show features the talented East High Crew in a full musical production based on the new film. Watch and groove along as fourteen singers and dancers perform six original songs from High School Musical 3 in a high-energy rock concert on a traveling stage. The show includes a rousing “pep rally” style parade through the park’s Hollywood Boulevard and stops in front of Mickey’s Sorcerer’s Hat for twenty minute shows at 10 am, 11 am, 12 pm, 1 pm, 4:35 pm, and 5:35 pm. Complete with all-new interactive sequences, a cool set, fun costumes, concert lighting, and lots of choreographed dancing, the show is an infectious energetic party you won’t want to miss. Kids will love getting pulled out onto the stage to dance with the performers, and you’ll especially feel like you’re right in the middle of the movie when the crew performs their incredible finale entitled “High School Musical.” Though teens might not see their favorite Wildcat played by dreamy Zac Efron, “High School Musical 3: Senior Year, Right Here! Right Now!” is a must-see for any HSM lover. In order to be part of the High School Musical fun, get your discount Disney tickets at OrlandoFunTickets.com and get ready to show your Wildcat team spirit. Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, Disney Attractions, Disney Hollywood Studios
How to Celebrate at Walt Disney World: A Magical Disney Birthday
 Whether it is a birthday, a graduation, an engagement, a reunion, or a first visit, there is no place like Walt Disney World to celebrate special moments. And these events have just gotten even more magical at Walt Disney World with new products, services and programs that are sure to make a special day truly spectacular. This week, we will be highlighting all the new features Disney has to offer and giving tips on how to celebrate your special event Disney-style, starting with the ultimate Disney birthday. Beginning in 2009, birthdays everywhere will get a little more special when Walt Disney World begins to offer free admission to one of the theme parks on your birthday. This makes it even easier to take advantage of Disney’s latest features available for birthday celebrations. One great new option is the Magical Pop-Up Party Pack, available in Spring 2009 at character dining and buffet locations inside Walt Disney World Resort. These packs include goodies, treats, activity sets, and a surprise pop-up centerpiece, and are perfect for the celebration of any special little guy or girl’s birthday. And for the mini-princess who has gotten a year older, any fabulous princess celebration starts with a makeover at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique at Disney's Magic Kingdom and Downtown Disney, where girls three and older can be transformed, hair, makeup, nails, clothes, and all, into a princess or a star like Hannah Montana. The perfect follow up is the My Disney Girls’ Perfectly Princess Tea Party, where girls can put on their tiara, sit with Princess Aurora and Rose Petal, and enjoy princess food and tea, storytelling, and sing-a-longs. Or, for the little Pirate, there’s Disney’s Pirate Adventure or the Island of the Caribbean Pirate Cruise, where the birthday boy can go on a two-hour hunt for treasure and adventure on the high seas of Disney’s Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake. Then you can end the day with a Neverland Club Birthday Party at Disney’s Polynesian Resort, which comes complete with crafts, activities, a Disney movie, and games. And of course, no child’s birthday celebration is complete without a birthday cake! Starting in Spring 2009 at select Walt Disney World restaurants, you can order a Disney Pirate Treasure Chest or a Disney Princess Jewelry Box, each containing surprises and an individual cake. For a special 15th or 16th birthday, Disney now provides packages for the perfect Quinceañera – whether it’s with the Belle of the Ball, Dancing With A Star, Reflection of You, or custom packages, a magical birthday filled with dinner, dancing, and fireworks is never far away! These packages are available year-round and include entertainment, food and beverages, and linens and centerpieces. You can even choose the location from a variety of choices. And if you’re not a little pirate, princess, or 15-year old, don’t fret – you too can celebrate your birthday Disney-style with customized parties available for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or dessert for groups of 20 or more at select Walt Disney Resort locations. Customize your party however you like it – it’s your birthday, and Disney is determined to make it magical. With all these new options available, there’s only one question left: how will you celebrate? One thing is certain – you can start your celebration by getting discount Walt Disney World tickets here at OrlandoFunTickets.com. And stay tuned for more tips on how to celebrate your special event at Disney! Labels: Birthdays at Disney, Discount Disney Tickets, disney resort dinning, disney world, Magic Kingdom Events
Ten Non-Theme Park Things To Do On Your Orlando Vacation
 Every Orlando vacation means hitting the most popular theme parks in the world: the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Disney’s Hollywood Studios at the Walt Disney World Resort; Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure at the Universal Orlando Resort; and SeaWorld or even Busch Gardens in Tampa Bay. But Orlando theme parks are only part of the action you can enjoy on your Orlando vacation. Here are ten Orlando vacation activities that don’t require Orlando theme park tickets:
- Take a boat ride. There are options at several Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort hotels. Or for a real adventure, speed through an airboat outing in Kissimmee.
- Visit the petting zoo or go on a horseback riding trip at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground.
- Shop and stroll along the water at Disney’s Boardwalk Resort. While you’re there, take a tour of Disney’s Boardwalk and Beach and Yacht Club Resorts.
- Do some dining and dancing at one of Universal CityWalk’s hot nightclubs. Not into the bar scene? Grab a bite and catch a flick – Universal has a movie theater too!
- Relive history at the Kennedy Space Center, less than an hour from Orlando.
- Join the locals at an area flea market. There are two air-conditioned indoor flea markets just a few miles from Disney on U.S. 192 in Kissimmee. A little further away, you can choose from a few traditional outdoor flea markets too.
- Drive on Florida’s most famous beach in Daytona Beach, which is only about an hour’s drive away from Orlando.
- Take in an Orlando dinner show like Medieval Times or Arabian Nights, and get a huge bargain on your Orlando dinner show tickets when you get them right here at OrlandoFunTickets.com (along with your Disney tickets, Universal tickets and Sea World tickets too, of course.)
- Get great deals at one of Orlando’s outlet malls, Belz Outlet near the Universal Orlando Resort, or the Premium Outlet near SeaWorld.
- Visit Celebration, Florida, a small community just a few miles from Walt Disney World that began as a Disney-owned residential neighborhood. It has since grown into a full fledged city, but it still has that Disney charm – not to mention a thriving old-time downtown where you will find delicious dining options, an old-fashioned ice cream parlor and even a Starbucks.
Labels: cheap orlando vacation, Discount Disney Tickets, Discount SeaWorld Tickets, Discount Universal Tickets
Night of Joy at Disneys Hollywood Studios
Every September the Walt Disney World Resort opens its doors to the worlds hottest Christian Rock Bands! This world class festival in it’s 25 year history has been helping over one-million families from all over the world celebrate their faith! This year for the first time in its history the Night of Joy is moving from the Magic Kingdom to Disney’s Hollywood Studios! Watch Hollywood Blvd and Sunset Blvd transform into performance venues, listen to the concerts as you plummet on the Hollywood Tower of Terror. Experience all Disney’s Hollywood Studios has to offer with its thrilling attractions, and world class shows, on September 5th and 6th while Disney Hollywood’s Studios is transformed into the Christian Rock capital of the world! Disney has a way of attracting the top talent for all the events that they put on, and this year is no exception! Friday September 5th- Chris Tomlin
- MercyMe
- Rebecca St. James
- BarlowGirl
- Matthew West
- Rush of Fools
- Brandon Heath
- Britt Nicole
Saturday September 6th - Casting Crown
- TobyMac
- Fred Hammond
- Marcos Witt
- Mandisa
- Aaron Shust
- RED
- Pure NRG
As with previous years this years roster of talent is an eclectic mixture of Christian Pop, Gospel, Urban and hip-hop that everyone can appreciate!
With Disney’s Hollywood Studio opening the American Idol Experience this next year it should be no surprise that Mandesa a form American Idol Finalist is performing this year at Night of Joy! Where else in the world could you ride Rockin’ Roller Coaster with Aerosmith, then descend into the Indiana Jones theatre to hear an American Idol Finalist than at the Walt Disney World Resort!
What are you waiting for, come and join in all of the festivities at Disney’s Night of Joy this September 5th and 6th at Disney’s Hollywood Studios at the Walt Disney World Resort!
The Night of Joy is a special event, which means that in order to attend the Night of Joy you must purchase a date specific ticket for this event! Labels: concerts at disney, Discount Disney Tickets, Disney Hollywood Studios, night of joy, orlando concerts, walt disney world events
Summer Days at Disney World
The heat is on in Orlando and Disney tickets are the hottest buy
Summer is one of the most popular times for a Disney vacation. The Disney theme parks are open later, the attractions are running at maximum capacity and everyone is having a blast. In order to help you be prepared for your summertime Disney vacation, here is what the August schedule looks like around the Walt Disney World Resort.
Disney’s Magic Kingdom
The Magic Kingdom is open late all month long, and that means fireworks and nighttime parades! For most of August, you can enjoy the Magic Kingdom until 11 pm, and later in the month, that changes to 10 pm.
The Wishes Nighttime Spectacular fireworks show blasts into the sky at 10 every night. On the later nights you can see the SpectroMagic Parade at 9 pm and 11 pm, so if this is an important part of your Disney vacation be sure to check the schedule before you pick your Magic Kingdom dates. Don’t forget, you need a Disney ticket to get in to see the fireworks and the parade.
Epcot
There is always something special going on at Epcot, and for at least some of August that means the Sounds Like Summer Concert Series, which continues through Aug.10. There are three shows every night, at 5:15, 6:30 and 7:45 pm, at the America Gardens Theater. The line up for August includes: - Captain Fantastic, a tribute to Elton John, performs July 28 – Aug. 3
- The Sounds of the Supremes, a tribute to the Supremes, performs Aug. 4-10
A Disney ticket is required for all Sounds Like Summer concerts at Epcot.
Everyone’s favorite Epcot event is just around the corner. Mark your calendar for the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival – Cities in Wonderland, which starts on Sept. 26 and runs through Nov. 9 this year. Disney tickets are also needed for the Food & Wine Festival.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom
The Animal Kingdom theme park is open late till 8 for most of August. Toward the end of the month they return to regular hours, closing at 5 pm.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Just like the other Disney theme parks, Disney’s Hollywood Studios has late summer hours. They’re staying open till 10 pm until late August when they will start closing at 8. The Sounds Dangerous with Drew Carey attraction is closed for refurbishment from Aug. 1-5. Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, Disney Animal Kingdom Attractions, EPCOT, illuminations, wishes firework show
Mickeys Pirate and Princess Party
 The Walt Disney World Resort has many special events throughout the year that gives guests a reason to keep coming back to all four Disney theme parks. At the Magic Kingdom Park, many of those special events include after-hours parties, where the park actually shuts down early and then transforms into a special-ticket event complete with special activities, character appearances, parades and even a special fireworks presentation. One of these popular celebrations going on right now is Mickey’s Pirate and Princess Party, where, for one night, everyone in the Magic Kingdom can become a Disney princess or act like Captain Jack Sparrow or their favorite pirate! While Mickey’s Pirate and Princess Party is a special-ticket event, meaning that you have to purchase an additional pass that is not included in any Walt Disney World ticket package, you are still going to need tickets to have access into all four Disney theme parks. Here at OrlandoFunTickets.com, we are your No. 1 online source for discounted tickets to all four Disney theme parks and two water parks, as well as the Universal Orlando Resort, Sea World Orlando, local dinner shows and other area attractions. In other words, if you are planning a vacation to the Walt Disney World Resort in the future, be sure to start your vacation planning right here at OrlandoFunTickets.com! On select days until June 4, 2008, guests will have 13 opportunities to attend Mickey’s Pirate and Princess Party. This five-hour party, which runs from 7 p.m. until midnight, includes a whole host of new activities designed to bring out your inner princess or pirate! In fact, there are certain princess festivities and pirate adventures being held around the park that are can’t-miss stops for each and every guest at this special event. The princess festivities include Disney princess meet-and-greets, where Cinderella, Jasmine, Aurora, Ariel, Snow White, Belle and more gather around the park to meet all of the future princesses in attendance. At Ariel’s Court in Fantasyland, you can also dive into Sebastian’s Under the Sea Dance Party, or train to be one of Aladdin’s Royal Guards at Princess Jasmine’s court! Finally, the Dream Along with Mickey show in front of Cinderella Castle holds nightly performances as well, where scores of Disney characters try to stop Sleeping Beauty’s Maleficent from turning dreams into nightmares! If you are not in training to be a Disney princess, however, there are still plenty of activities for you as well with the many pirate adventures! Meet Captain Hook or Captain Jack Sparrow at pirate meet-and-greets, learn how to be a pirate at Captain Jack’s Pirate Tutorial or join Chip ‘n’ Dale and Lilo & Stich for Eclipse’s Dance Party at the Pirate Cove in Tomorrowland. There are also various pirate-themed entertainment stops around the park as well, such as a pirate band and even a breakdancing acrobatic troupe, the Extra Terrestrial Pirates! In addition to these princess festivities and pirate adventures listed above, guests at Mickey’s Pirate and Princess Party will have access to many additional one-of-a-kind events, such as the Enchanted Adventures Parade and the Magic, Music & Mayhem Fireworks show, both of which were created for this special party. And, guests will also be able to enjoy many of their favorite attractions at the Magic Kingdom Park during this celebration, and with so much going on, expect the wait times to be much shorter than during the day! If all of the above sounds like a good time for you and your family of pirates and princesses, then make your way over to the Magic Kingdom Park this Spring for the party of a lifetime! Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, Magic Kingdom Events, Pirate and Princess Party, special events
Orlando for nature lovers
Orlando is home to some of the top attractions and theme parks in the world, but if you are looking to get away from all of the hustle and bustle of the busy tourist market, then don’t worry – Central Florida also has several nature parks and reserves in the area for those who just want to enjoy the untouched areas of the Sunshine State. For a fraction of the price of the theme parks, you can enjoy hiking, swimming and more outdoor activities while also getting an up close view of Florida’s wildlife and natural terrain. One of the most popular state parks around is located about 30-40 miles north of the attractions area in Apopka, Fla. The short drive is well worth it, however, as the Wekiwa Springs State Park offers naturally fresh springs for diving, swimming and one of the parks most popular activities – boating or canoeing. Nature lovers will enjoy the multiple lakes and streams here, and guests can also camp, have a picnic and go fishing as well. Near the Wekiwa Springs State Park is the Rock Springs Run State Reserve. Just as Wekiwa Springs has multiple waterways for your enjoyment, Rock Springs Run has 17 miles of hiking and horseback riding trails, offering views of native Florida wildlife – including black bear sightings! Also located in Apopka is Kelly Park, a family favorite in the area. At Kelly Park, guests can meander down the natural Rock Springs stream, go camping or enjoy one of their many picnic areas. Located in Longwood, Fla., also just north of the Orlando area, is Big Tree Park, one of Florida’s most famous natural landmarks. Only here can you find what is believed to be the oldest-living tree in the United States, a 3,500-year-old Bald Cypress Tree dubbed “The Senator.” Big Tree Park also features a natural marsh lands, a peaceful boardwalk and a large picnic area. If you are looking for something a little closer in proximity, the nearby University of Central Florida campus is home to the UCF Arboretum. This 80-acre preserve is a centerpiece of the campus landscape and is home to more than 600 species of plants, including several distinct ecosystems that are separated by trails for you to explore. Visitors can take a self-guided tour any day of the week from sunrise to sunset, and staff members are available Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. for help and group sessions. Finally, nature lovers are also sure to love the Nature Conservancy’s Disney Wilderness Preserve, located just a short distance from Disney in Kissimmee, Fla. This 12,000-acre preserve protects the headwaters of the Everglades and is home to hundreds of rare Florida wildlife species and a hiking trail for visitors who wish to learn more about the Conservancy’s plants and animals and their efforts to restore and protect them in their natural setting. While these activities above are a good respite for any visitor to Central Florida, don’t forget about all of the fun you can also have at all of the attractions in the area, including Walt Disney World, Universal, Sea World and much more! To see all of these theme parks at a discounted price, look no further than right here at OrlandoFunTickets.com, the largest discounted ticket store in Orlando and your key for unlocking tons of unique fun for your next vacation. Click here to get started on your vacation planning now! Labels: canoeing in Orlando, cheap seaworld tickets, Discount Disney Tickets, Discount Universal Tickets, Orlando Attractions, outdoor activities
Disney and NASA Send Toys to Space
 Disney favorite Buzz Lightyear blasted to infinity and beyond recently aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery, which soared toward the International Space Station from Kennedy Space Center in a picture perfect late afternoon launch on Saturday, May 31. The much-loved Space Ranger is spending several months at the Space Station as part of the NASA’s “Toys In Space” educational program. Buzz’s fellow Toy Story companion Woody was on hand at the Kennedy Space Center when the Shuttle Discovery blasted Buzz back into the sky, but space travel wasn’t the only exciting news at the Walt Disney World Resort. Woody also took the opportunity to begin celebrating the official opening of the Toy Story Mania! attraction, which opened to guests at Disney Hollywood Studios on May 31. “Toys in Space” is part of the “Space Ranger Education Series,” an effort by NASA to make studying science, technology and math (the STEM subjects) more fun and appealing to young students. Buzz’s trip “beyond” is meant to enhance the program developed by NASA and Disney to make space travel more accessible to school kids. “Toys in Space” offers downloadable classroom materials and online learning games to help teachers create a fun atmosphere in which to teach student about space and technology. Buzz will be floating around at the ISS for several months, and during his stay he will be conducting experiments in zero gravity as well as appearing in video downlinks from the Space Station. There will no doubt be another space-tastic celebration when Buzz Lightyear makes his return trip back to earth. Kennedy Space Center is open to the public, and you can get a close-up look by getting a Kennedy Space Center ticket right here at OrlandoFunTickets.com. We are the number one source on earth for cheap Orlando attraction tickets, and we can get you into Kennedy Space Center and Walt Disney World with just a couple of clicks. If you want to see a space shuttle launch for yourself, there are two more space shuttle launches scheduled for this year at Kennedy Space Center. The Shuttle Atlantis is on the calendar for an October 8 launch, and the Shuttle Endeavour is scheduled to blast off on October 16. A Kennedy Space Center ticket is not required to view a space shuttle launch, as there are many amazing viewing sites close to the Kennedy Space Center campus. Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, Kennedy Space Center, New attractions, shuttle launch
How to have fun at Disney for under $ 200 a day
There are lots of way to keep your vacation plans to Central Florida at a cheap rate in fact, you can see Walt Disney World for under $200 a day if you stick to some simple cost-saving tips. For starters, keeping your costs low and your savings high begins none other than right here at OrlandoFunTickets.com, the largest discounted ticket store in Orlando! Here, you can purchase tickets to all of the top attractions in Central Florida, including the Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando, Sea World, other local attractions and dinner shows, at a deeply discounted price. And, with multiple ticket packages available and either delivery or pick-up options, you are sure to find everything you are looking for – and more – right here at OrlandoFunTickets.com. Speaking of tickets, it is also important to note that the larger ticket package your purchase, the cheaper your per-day price will be in the parks. If you plan on only going to the parks for a few days, you can expect to pay more for each day than if you bought a ticket package that included tickets for a week or more. Another way to keep costs down is to purchase a Magic Your Way base ticket package, which allows you to see only one park per day. These are certainly more cost effective than the Magic Your Way park hopper ticket or the Magic Your Way park hopper with the water park and other add-ons, but it still may be worth the extra investment to fork over a few extra dollars to give you and your family more options for your vacation if you would like to skip from park to park during the day and are also interested in the other Disney attractions, such as the two water parks, Pleasure Island, DisneyQuest Indoor Interactive Theme Park and Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex. Another way to keep your family from having to shell out too much money on any given day is to find ways to eat anywhere other than in the parks. You should always have breakfast in your room (Walt Disney World Resort hotels can have a refrigerator placed in your room for only a small fee, and that fee is waived if you have any medications that need to be refrigerated), so it is a good idea to go grocery shopping at one of the nearby stores when you get here for items, or bring them from home with you. If you do want to stay in the parks for lunchtime, then save your dinner meal for one of the local restaurants around town if you have your own transportation. Also, avoid the sit-down restaurants at Disney, as those tend to be more expensive, as do character meals. If you do not have your own transportation and will be eating at Disney all three meals a day, whether it is in your hotel or at a park, you will probably want to strongly consider the Disney Dining Plan, which allows each person in your party one table service meal, one quick service meal and one snack per day at select restaurants all over property for one set price. As you can see, however, you will still need to account for one meal on your own, so you can still plan on eating breakfast in each morning with something simple like doughnuts or bagels and fruit (or cereal and orange juice if you have the fridge!). Also, even though you have one snack allowed on the Disney Dining Plan, always have snacks and even empty water bottles to fill with water from the fountains handy, as a simple snack for the whole family in the parks can add up quickly but can be avoided if you have granola bars or other snacks stored in a backpack and with you at all times. It is also a good idea to set a budget for each person per day, so that everyone in the family has expectations on what can and cannot be bought ahead of time to ensure that no one goes over their allowance. And, don’t forget that if you are a guest at a Walt Disney World Resort, you can save money on transportation and gas by taking their shuttles to and from the parks, but if you are driving you can still show your room key and park at any of the parks for free. If you are not getting a rental car and are staying at Disney, be sure to also take advantage of Disney’s Magic Express, a free charter bus system that will take you to and from the Orlando International Airport for free! If you live by the above tips and purchase your discounted theme park tickets at OrlandoFunTickets.com, there is no reason why you and your family cannot enjoy the Walt Disney World Resort for under $200 a day! Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, discount orlando, Discount SeaWorld Tickets, Discount Universal Tickets
Discover Disney for Couples With Your Tax Rebate Check
 Many people think Walt Disney World is only fun for families and kids. They are wrong. And since your tax rebate check is on its way, now is a great time to find out what a Disney couple’s vacation looks like. For starters, you can get your discount Disney tickets for two right here at OrlandoFunTickets.com. Disney is fun for couples tooDisney does have a reputation for family fun, but it is also the number one honeymoon destination in the United States. Obviously there is something here for couples, and with the extra cash courtesy of your tax rebate check, you can explore the possibilities for yourself. Married folks with no kids can expect a tax rebate check for about $1200, and that can get you an amazing Disney weekend for two. Taking a couple’s weekend at the Walt Disney World ResortDisney’s Value Resorts – the cheapest hotels on Disney property – can be chaotic and overwrought with little kiddies. Not the ideal setting for a couples getaway. But Disney’s Moderate Resorts are much more peaceful and they won’t use up your entire tax rebate check either. Check out these options: - 2 Adult 3-day Magic Your Way Disney tickets good for admission to a different Disney theme park each day. (Total = $405)
- A 3-night stay at either Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter or Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside, will cost about $210 per weekend night. (Total = $420)
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort is kind of off the beaten Disney path, and its ambience is serene and pleasant. It has calming woods, peaceful paths and a winding river, on which you can travel via boat to Downtown Disney and Pleasure Island.
Amazingly, this relaxing couple’s weekend will cost you just over $800, not including food and travel costs.
Make your Disney couple’s weekend even better with La Nouba tickets
If you really want to splurge – and everything about your tax rebate check encourages you to do just that – top off your Disney couple’s weekend with tickets to see Cirque du Soleil – La Nouba. Cirque du Soleil tickets for 2 adults are only $150, and you can get them right here along with your Disney tickets.
So, without blowing your entire tax rebate check, you can get Disney tickets, stay in a Walt Disney World Resort hotel and check out Cirque du Soleil – La Nouba, one of the hottest shows in town. Now that’s what I call smart spending. Labels: cheap orlando vacation, couples in orlando, discount cirque du soleil tickets, Discount Disney Tickets
Universal Orlando Resort Hotels are Committed to Conservation
The Loews Hotels at the Universal Orlando Resort are making it possible for you to keep your conservation hat on while vacationing in Orlando. The recent Earth Day celebration probably has you thinking about how you can stay “green” on vacation. Well, since saving is on your mind, start right now. Save both money and time by getting your Universal tickets, Sea World tickets, Disney tickets and all of your Orlando attraction tickets at OrlandoFunTickets.com, your one-stop shop for Orlando theme park tickets. The Universal Orlando Resort announced a new conservation program last year that persuades Universal employees and Universal theme park guests to “go green.” The Universal Orlando Resort has 3 hotels on property, all adjacent to Universal Studios Florida, Universal’s Islands of Adventure and Universal CityWalk. And all 3 Loews hotels at the Universal Resort have taken a step up to the conservation plate by voluntarily seeking membership in the Florida Green Lodging Program. Universal Resort programs focus on saving energy and recyclingIn its quest for inclusion in the Florida Green Lodging Program, the Universal Orlando Resort has many conservation programs in place, all geared toward energy conservation, waste reduction and environmental protection. Super green Energy Star appliances are used across Universal’s Orlando property in addition to environmentally friendly thermostats and lighting. The Universal Orlando Resort is also concerned about conserving Florida’s diminishing water supply. And they’re doing their part by enabling Universal hotel guests to re-use their linens and towels, thereby cutting down on laundry. The Universal theme parks and hotels save even more water by using low flow dishwashers, washing machines and hot water heaters, and by irrigating their lush landscape with reclaimed water. Staying at a Universal Orlando Resort Hotel has its benefitsGuests at one of the three Loews hotels at the Universal Orlando Resort get special benefits that are not available to anyone else. When you choose to stay at the Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, the Hard Rock Hotel or the Loews Royal Pacific Resort, you have the privilege of Universal Express ride access. You still need a Universal ticket to get into the park, but once there you can legally cut ahead in line by showing your valid room key card from one of the Universal Resort hotels. Conservation is cool. So begin saving today by getting your Universal tickets and all of your Orlando theme park tickets in one place! Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, Discount SeaWorld Tickets, Discount Universal Tickets, green vacations, portofino bay, royal pacific hotel, sustainable travel
Epcot Flower Fest Weekends Continue Through May
 Every weekend the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival sprouts a unique theme to make a Disney getaway even more spectacular adults and kids alike are enthralled by the outlandish displays throughout Epcot during the Flower & Garden Festival. And it’s all included with your Disney ticket. Some of the coolest Flower Fest fun has been saved for the closing month of Epcot’s Flower & Garden Festival. Here’s what your Epcot ticket will get you when you spend a May weekend at Epcot: May 2-4 – Florida Farmer’s Market at the Epcot Flower & Garden Festival - Feel like a Floridian with a visit to the Florida Farmer’s Market at Garden Town.
- Tom MacCubbin, super star of Central Florida gardening, chats with Epcot visitors about edible landscapes as part of the Great American Gardener series.
- Arlo Guthrie (May 2, 3) and The Searchers (May 4) bring groovy live music to the America Gardens Theatre for the Flower Power Concert series.
- And all you need is an Epcot ticket to enjoy!
May 9-11 – Coming Up Roses Weekend at the Epcot Flower & Garden Festival - Check out fantastic floral exhibits from members of the Florida Federation of Garden Clubs on display at Garden Town.
- The Tokens hit the America Gardens Theatre stage to sing that old Pumba and Timon favorite, “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” on May 9 and 10.
- France’s Fragrance Garden is featured in a perfume and plant chat by Raymond Western, a perfume specialist for Guerlain.
- Make Mom’s Disney dreams come true with a Mother’s Day Brunch at the World ShowPlace at Epcot on Sunday, May 11. (Brunch is not included with your Epcot ticket and reservations are recommended.)
- Mom will swoon to the tunes of Davy Jones, who is celebrating Mother’s Day at Epcot’s Flower Power Concert series on May 11.
May 16-18 – A Garden Party Blooms at the Epcot Flower & Garden Fest - Enjoy “whimsical” garden soirees hosted by your favorite Disney characters.
- Visit the World ShowPlace at Epcot for a glance at the artisans of the 20th Teddy Bear & Doll Event (May 17 and 18).
- Jose Feliciano (May 16, 17) and Felix Cavaliere’s Rascals (May 18) hit a nostalgic note during Epcot’s Flower Power Concert series.
- The director of Orlando’s Harry P. Leu Gardens, Robert Bowden, plants himself into Epcot’s Great American Gardener series.
Whatever your garden dreams may be, they can come true at the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival. So get your Epcot tickets today and spend the weekend in the gardens of Epcot. Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, EPCOT events, epcot flower and garden festival, mothers day at epcot, orlando concerts, orlando festivals, teddy bear and doll event
Green Up Your Disney Vacation
 The green folks at the Walt Disney World Resort celebrated Earth Day with a variety of events to commemorate this annual tribute to the world we all share. Everyone can pitch in to help save the planet we inhabit. And you can save money while you save the world when you get all of your Disney tickets here at OrlandoFunTickets.com. Conservation is the Word at the Walt Disney World ResortEarth Day was celebrated all around the Walt Disney World Resort. Some Disney hotel guests were treated to tree planting ceremonies at Disney’s All Star Resorts, Disney’s Pop Century Resort and Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort. Even without a Disney ticket, Walt Disney World resort guests got in on the fun of the conservation message. All of the hotels at the Walt Disney World have recycling programs that give guests the opportunity to recycle instead of throw away. Disney hotel guests can also reuse their guestroom towels instead of sending them to the laundry every day during a multi-day stay. Epcot Flower & Garden Festival is as Green as it GetsThe Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival is a celebration of all things garden green, so it is a wonderful way to celebrate the natural wonders of our world. One Disney ticket gives you access to a truly spectacular array of gorgeous gardens, tips, treasures and topiaries. - Many of the exhibits at Epcot exemplify ways to make your own gardens green and healthy.
- The upcoming “I Dig Bugs” weekend shares the importance of beneficial bugs in keeping your yard and garden healthy.
- Kids get in on the conservation fun too with special displays like Peter Pan’s Never Land Garden and colorful character topiaries all over Epcot.
Walt Disney Company Announces Disneynature
In keeping with the Earth Day theme, the Walt Disney Company announced the opening of its brand new film production company, Disneynature. This new Disney label will work solely on producing feature-length documentary films all about nature and the environment. Disneynature’s first feature film “Earth” is scheduled for release on Earth Day 2009.
Earth Day is a time to think about ways we can work to conserve the world around us, and the best way we know to conserve your money is to buy all of your Disney tickets at OrlandoFunTickets.com!
Labels: conservation, Discount Disney Tickets, Disney's Animal Kingdom, earth day, green vacations
Disneys Animal Kingdom Turned Ten on Earth Day
 Disneys Animal Kingdom theme park turned 10 years old this month on Earth Day April 22 and a lot has changed at this innovative not a theme park and not a zoo attraction that Walt Disney World introduced to guests a decade ago. One thing that never changes is the great deals on Disney tickets you will always find here at OrlandoFunTickets.com! Ten Years of Animal Kingdom Innovation and ExpansionDisney’s Animal Kingdom theme park has added a whole new dimension to the word “attraction” at the Walt Disney World Resort. - Dinosaur crashes Animal Kingdom visitors back 65 million years into some seriously dangerous dino days.
- Kilimanjaro Safaris gives you a never-the-same-trip-twice ride through a real African savannah.
Amazing Animal Exhibits Make Animal Kingdom Much More Than A Zoo
Gorillas have been added in the midst of all of the other African creatures you can discover on your journey through the Animal Kingdom. - Pangani Forest Exploration Trail brings Animal Kingdom ticket holders up close and personal with Nile hippos, exotic birds and fish and a family of gorillas.
Rapids, Tigers and Yetis, Oh My!
Animal Kingdom Asia section has seen a lot of action over the past 10 years with the addition of an awesome tiger exhibit, Expedition Everest, and Kali River Rapids white water rafting ride. - Kali River Rapids plunges you into the swirling waters of the Chakranadi River. Warning: you will get wet.
- The Maharajah Jungle Trek brings you on a one-of-a-kind adventure into the depths of the Anandapur Royal Forest where you can spend time with Komodo Dragons, Tapirs, amazing avian creatures and sulky tigers.
- Expedition Everest is worth the price of your Disney ticket by itself. This innovative coaster has got to be the most unique thrill ride at the Walt Disney World Resort.
Adding to the excitement of this year’s birthday party, Disney’s Animal Kingdom is celebrating a 6% attendance spike in 2007, making the Animal Kingdom the most improved Disney theme park when it comes to park guests.
All you need to say Happy 10th Birthday to Disney’s Animal Kingdom and experience all of its fabulous attractions is a Disney ticket. And we’ve gotcha covered there with the best deals on the Web for all of the Disney tickets you need. Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, Disney Animal Kingdom Attractions, disney's animal kingdom's 10th
Today we continue on our insiders guide to the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World before you do anything get your discount Disney tickets at Orlando Fun Tickets then follow our super suggestions and make the most of your time at Disney’s Magic Kingdom. Our journey has already strolled down Main Street, U.S.A., plundered into Adventureland and splashed through Frontierland. Next on the path is Liberty Square, home to two classic Magic Kingdom attractions. The Hall of Presidents is a themed attraction, awe-inspiring show and history lesson all in one. Every United States President is on stage for this trip into America’s past. You will marvel at the realness of these Audio Animatronic Presidents, and you will love the theatrics that bring them to life. (It’s also an awesome place to cool off on hot summer days!) The Haunted Mansion is a Walt Disney World classic and a Magic Kingdom attraction for your “Must See” list. If you have never been to the Magic Kingdom before, you will no doubt feel the ghouls as you glide through this mischievous mansion on your “doom buggy.” If you have been to Disney World many times, you have to ride again. It’s that good. And the Haunted Mansion underwent a major refurbishment last year, so you may find some new twists and tingles to terrorize you. While you’re here, take a cruise to another era on the Liberty Square Riverboat. This is a “genuine replica of an early American steam ship,” and it brings you on a relaxing journey through the rolling river around Tom Sawyer’s Island. This is a great attraction to take in during super busy times as its large capacity makes for shorter wait times. Along all of the paths throughout the lands of the Magic Kingdom, you will find charming little shops and welcoming eateries. There are old-timey vendors offering popcorn, drinks, and even gigantic turkey legs, if that’s your thing. Make sure you take time as you move from land to land to notice the amazing attention to detail that went into theming each different location, making you feel like you really have transported to another place and time. That is part of the enchantment of the Magic Kingdom, and you don’t want to miss it! Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, Frontier Land, hall of presidents, haunted mansion, liberty square, liberty square river boat, Main Street USA
Orlando Theme Parks are the Best in the World
 Orlando theme parks hold 3 of the top 10 spots on the list of worlds best theme park chains recently released by Themed Entertainment Associates and Economic Research Associates. And we have the discount Orlando theme park tickets you need to see for yourself. Walt Disney World Takes the Top Spot
Walt Disney World is the number 1 theme park chain in the world with 116.5 million 2007 attendance, according to the TEA/ERA report published on March 14. Universal and Anheuser-Busch Parks Also Rank High on ListUniversal Orlando Resort theme parks took third place in the TEA/ERA list of top theme park chains in the world with attendance of 26.4 million. Busch Entertainment parks, which include local favorites SeaWorld Orlando, Discovery Cove, and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay came in sixth with reported attendance of 22.3 million in 2007.  All of Orlando’s Theme Parks Make List of Top 25 Theme Parks WorldwideVirtually every one of the 8 major Orlando theme parks made the top 25 list, and half of them – all Disney parks – were in the top 10. 1 – Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World6 – Epcot at Walt Disney World
7 – Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World8 – Disney’s Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World11 – Universal Studios at Universal Orlando Resort
12 – SeaWorld Orlando15 – Islands of Adventure at the Universal Orlando Resort
19 – Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Grabbing the top spot, Disney’s Magic Kingdom reportedly had a whopping 17 million visitors last year. You can join in that crowd by getting your Disney tickets today! Orlando Water Parks Also Placed Among the World’s BestOrlando water parks nabbed 4 of the top 20 spots on the list of world’s best water parks. Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach, both at the Walt Disney World Resort, placed 1st and 2nd respectively, while Wet N’ Wild came in 4th. Busch’s Adventure Island in Tampa Bay ranked number 15 on the list that included water parks from as far away as Korea and Australia. Attendance was up at all of the Orlando water parks in 2007, but they have some new competition this year with the opening of Aquatica at SeaWorld. Disney’s Animal Kingdom saw the biggest jump in attendance, thanks to Expedition Everest, a crazy coaster that’s worth the price of admission (especially when you get your discount Disney tickets here!). Labels: discount busch gardens, Discount Disney Tickets, Discount SeaWorld Tickets, Discount Universal Tickets, Orlando Attractions, orlando park tickets, theme park attendence
Exploring the Lands of Disneys Magic Kingdom Mickeys Toontown Fair
 We are traveling through the different lands at Disneys Magic Kingdom and giving you great advice on what to do while you are here the first step for every Orlando vacation is to get your Disney tickets at OrlandoFunTickets.com. We are the best source for all of your Disney ticket needs and you will also find great tips for your trip. We have sashayed down Main Street and explored Adventureland, Frontierland, Liberty Square and Fantasyland. Today we will play in Mickey’s Toontown Fair. Tucked behind Fantasyland, this area opened as Mickey’s Birthdayland back in 1988. It got an update and name change in 1996, and now it is a cartoony escapade you won’t want to miss. You may think Mickey’s Toontown Fair is just for the little ones, and it is aimed to a younger crowd. But if you want to get up close and personal with your favorite Disney characters, this is the place to do it. - Toontown Hall of Fame is a huge tent in Goofy’s Wiseacre Farm, and it is one of the best places in the Magic Kingdom to get a photo, autograph and hug from your most beloved Disney pals.
- The Judge’s Tent is a Magic Kingdom “must see” because this is the only place at the Magic Kingdom that offers face time with the “Big Cheese.” Yes, here is where you can share a moment with everyone’s number one Disney superstar, Mickey Mouse.
- Mickey’s Country House and Minnie’s Country House give Toontown Fair-goers a walking tour of where these Disney favorites live. Kids of all ages will get a kick out of Minnie’s tres chic girlish bungalow and Mickey’s more manly digs (complete with game room).
 Littler guests won’t want to miss a chance to zoom over the cornfields in The Barnstormer at Goofy’s Wiseacre Farm and dive aboard Donald’s Boat for a splashing good time, especially on those hot days when a thorough soaking feels so cool!
Mickey’s Toontown Fair is a fun-filled land and the only place in the Magic Kingdom where you can hang with Mickey! And the only place to get your cheap Disney tickets is right here at OrlandoFunTickets.com, so get yours today and start on your way! Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, Judges Tent, Magic Kingdom Attractions, Mickeys House, Minnies House, Toontown fair
Exploring the Lands of Disneys Magic Kingdom Main Street USA
 Get your cheap Disney tickets and discover the Magic Kingdom
For first-time visitors, the Magic Kingdom is like a mysterious maze. Even returning guests get confused about the lands around this world. We’re here to help make your journey to the Magic Kingdom be magically carefree, so to start, we have all the cheap Disney tickets you need all in one place.
Once you arrive, the excitement is palpable; almost a being in itself. Whether its your first time or fiftieth, you still feel that magic when you pass through the archway onto Main Street, U.S.A.
The first thing that hits you is the smell of fresh popcorn. As you walk further and absorb your surroundings, you drift back in time to another era. Except for the hustle and bustle of fellow park guests, you feel transported to turn-of-the-century middle America.
Boutiques line both sides of the street:
- The Chapeau (closed for rehab and expansion through March 18)
- Disney Clothiers
- The Emporium
- Uptown Jewelers (popular pin trading locale)
- Town Square Exposition Hall (film and batteries, just in case)
Immediately overhead as you pass through the entrance gateway is the Walt Disney World Railroad. This true Disney classic has been around since the Magic Kingdom opened in 1971. You can enjoy a 20-minute ride around the park or opt to “disembark” in Frontierland or Mickey’s Toontown Fair.
If you prefer a relaxing ride down Main Street U.S.A., hop aboard one of the Main Street Vehicles. You can be carried through the town in style in your choice of turn-of-the-century transports: Horse car – Omnibus – Jitney – Horseless carriage – Fire engine.
Main Street Tips and Trivia: - Main Street, U.S.A. resembles Walt Disney’s own hometown of Marceline, Missouri.
- The shop names along Main Street, U.S.A. recognize Disney VIPs past and present.
- Don’t want to lug shopping bags around all day? Ask about Package Express Pickup.
- Need cash? There’s an ATM under the Main Street train station.
City Hall (aka Guest Relations) is on Main Street, U.S.A. too. This is a great place for maps, park schedules and general assistance. They are there for your in-park needs, and we are here for your Disney ticket needs.
OrlandoFunTickets.com is the best shop in the U.S.A. for all of your discount Disney tickets! Labels: Discount Disney Tickets, Magic Kingdom Attractions, Main Street USA
Coasting Through Orlando Orlandos Best Roller Coasters and Where to Find Cheap Tickets to Ride Them Part 1
Orlando attractions are known for many things to many people. What you may not realize is that they are a roller coaster nut’s dream come true. Every Orlando theme park has at least one cool coaster thrill to offer, and OrlandoFunTickets.com has the discount theme park tickets to get you there. Here is the run down on what you will find flipping, looping, racing and roaring around the Orlando vacation station: For coaster crazies, the mountain trifecta in the Magic Kingdom Park at the Walt Disney World Resort is the peak of perfection. (The cheap Disney tickets at OrlandoFunTickets.com are at the top of the list too!) Space Mountain is a quintessential Disney classic, but it is also a unique coaster experience. Located in Tomorrowland, this mini space shuttle blasts galactic travelers into outer space, removes all traces of light and then darts in and out among the planets and stars at what feels like hyper-speed because you are immersed in total darkness. Future astronauts must be at least 44” tall to board this ship to space, and wait times can be quite long. A FastPass is recommended due to the popularity of Space Mountain. Back in time and across the Magic Kingdom in Frontierland, Splash Mountain guests cruise along on the adventures of Brer Rabbit in the Briar Patch. Hallowed out logs carry you around twists, turns and mini-dips all while building up to a soaking five-story spill down Chick-a-pin Hill. You will be singing “Zip a Dee Doo Dah” all the way to the dryers in the bathroom by the exit. Visitors to the Briar Patch have to be at least 40” tall, and a FastPass is recommended due to the popularity of Splash Mountain. Just next door a piece, you can join an excavation down the bothersome mines in the old west town of Tumbleweed, but beware. The Big Thunder Mountain Railroad isn’t called the “wildest ride in the wilderness” for nothing. This runaway train transports its passengers through hidden caverns and mountainous peaks and keeps them screaming the whole hootin’ tootin’ way. Miners need to be at least 40” tall to explore these parts. Wait times can be a tad drawn out, so a FastPass is a good idear. So git your cheap Disney tickets now and start coasting through Orlando! Labels: Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Discount Disney Tickets, Magic Kingdom Attractions, Orlando Attractions, Orlando Roller Coasters, Space Mountain, Splash Mountain
Grown Ups Need Fun Too Pleasure Island is Disneys Late Night Kingdom
Daytime in Orlando means theme parks at Walt Disney World, and whether you’re heading to Epcot, Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Disney’s Hollywood Studios (or all four Disney theme parks) you will find the best deals on discount Disney tickets at OrlandoFunTickets.com. When the sun goes down at Walt Disney World, the air starts to sizzle at Disney’s Pleasure Island. An oasis of nightclubbing, this party paradise has something for every taste, and one admission ticket gets you unlimited access to all six clubs, all night long! 8 Trax is bringing the 70s and 80s back. If you like discoing the night away to Donna Summer and getting down with the Village People, get your boogie butt down to this groovy grotto. Catch the act at The Comedy Warehouse and you will be laughing the night away. This live improv show is a crowd favorite so make sure you check show times early in the night. Motion is tricked out with “trendy Top 40 tunes.” So if you want to wiggle it to your current iPod favorites, find a spot in front of their colossal video screen and start moving to the groovin’. The Adventurers Club is probably the most uniquely interesting club at Disney’s Pleasure Island. Audience members help comic explorers recount their hysterical experiences and reveal some of the most unique characters at Walt Disney World. For the hip hop crew, the two-story BET Soundstage™ Club is your hang. Nightly DJs spin the latest rap and throw down some old school R&B along the way. And keep your eyes open. You may be the star up on that video screen thanks to the club’s closed circuit TV cameras. Undoubtedly, the cornerstone club at Disney’s Pleasure Island is Mannequins Dance Palace. The stage here is an enormous, circular dance floor that rotates to the throbbing dance beat coursing through your body. Unique and spectacular, this palace of pure pleasure has to find a place on your Orlando attraction “must see” list. Pleasure Island is a part of Downtown Disney at the Walt Disney World Resort, and it is an adult adventure. You must be 21 or over to get in the BET Soundstage Club, 8TRAX, Mannequins and Motion, so bring a picture ID, have an awesome time, and as always get all of your cheap Disney tickets at OrlandoFunTickets.com! Labels: BET Soundstage, cheap disney tickets, Discount Disney Tickets, Disney at night, Mannequins Dance Palace, orlando for adults, orlando night clubs, Pleasure Island clubs
Adult Adventures Abound at the Walt Disney World Resort
 Disney is not just for kids its for lovers too for daytime dalliances with a romantic edge hit one of the theme parks at the Walt Disney World Resort and celebrate each other with an amorous lunch or dinner. Show yourself some love too by taking advantage of the discount Disney tickets at OrlandoFunTickets.com, your one and only source for cheap Disney tickets! At the Magic Kingdom, get close in the dark on the Haunted Mansion or take the plunge down Splash Mountain. Flavor your romantic Magic Kingdom date with a once-upon-a-time dining experience at the incomparable Cinderella’s Castle. Play the parts of Cinderella and Prince Charming at the “Once Upon a Time Breakfast” or the “Fairytale Lunch” in the private dining hall of the princess’s charming castle. Or share dinner at “Cinderella’s Royal Table” for the ultimate in romance dining. At Epcot, you can cuddle in the dark while checking out the changes on Spaceship Earth, which just completed a months-long refurbishment. Dine back in time at Mexico’s San Angel Inn, or spice it up with the mysterious delicacies you will find at Morocco’s Restaurant Marrakesh. After the sun sets, gaze up at the Eiffel Tower as you take a romantic stroll through the streets of Paris at the France Pavilion. Before you leave, stop by the Boulangerie Patisserie and enjoy a sweet treat for two. Treat your Valentine like a super star, and grace the stage at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. If it’s screaming and grabbing you desire, the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror delivers. Then step into your role as Hollywood glitterati at the Brown Derby. Their famous Cobb Salad replicates the Hollywood original with Oscar-caliber perfection.  For lovers that love animals too, the Animal Kingdom is sure to bring out your wild side. The dark excitement of “Dinosaur” will generate the closeness you desire, while Expedition Everest will rev up your engine and get that heart beating. An exotic Pan-Asian dinner at the brand new Yak & Yeti Restaurant will leave you purring with contentment. All four theme parks at the Walt Disney World Resort have something unique for cozy couples looking for some sizzling Valentine’s Day fun. And whichever Disney theme park you choose, you will fall in love with the discount Disney tickets available at OrlandoFunTickets.com. Our cheap theme park tickets are the heart’s desire of every Orlando vacationer. Labels: adults at wdw, Discount Disney Tickets, Disney Animal Kingdom Attractions, EPCOT attractions, fairytale lunch, Magic Kingdom Attractions, spaceship earth changes, Yak and Yeti
Decadent Disney Dining for Valentines Day
 The Walt Disney World Resort stands out as one of the romance capitals of the vacation world and the options for delicious dining for two abound across the Disney Resort. With Valentine’s Day around the corner, there is no better place to celebrate your love than at one of Disney’s romantic dinner hideaways. And for all of your Orlando Valentine Vacation amusement, OrlandoFunTickets.com has the discount Disney tickets you need to make it memorable. Your love will soar sky high as you perch atop Disney’s Contemporary Resort at the California Grill, one of Disney’s “Signature Dining” experiences. Inspired by the romance of the country’s Pacific Coast, this eatery offers dozens of delectable delights like sushi, brick-oven flat breads, oak-fired pork tenderloin and butterscotch crème brûlée, just to name a few. An award-winning selection of California wines enhances the delicious dinner choices. You will already be delirious from the fine food and drink, but that’s not all the California Grill has to offer. You and your special someone will fall in love all over again as you soak in the birds-eye view of the Magic Kingdom Park. (And if you time it right, Magic Kingdom fireworks viewed from this vantage point are simply the best.) A short boat ride from the Contemporary brings you to Disney’s Wilderness Lodge for another Disney Signature Dining opportunity. Artist Point will be especially apropos for anyone desiring a bit of rustic romance. Enjoy specialties from the Pacific Northwest like Cedar Plank Salmon and Grilled Buffalo (just go ahead and try it), all while discovering the “spirit and romance of the American Frontier.”  If you prefer a New England-style dinner romance, then ship out to Disney’s Yacht Club Resort and dine at the Yachtsman Steakhouse. Here you will set sail on a dining adventure featuring “grain-fed beef prepared on an oak-fired grill in an open kitchen.” The nautical atmosphere of wood, brass and leather will leave you relaxed…and full. The Walt Disney World Resort is not just for kids, and it has so much more to offer than the dynamic theme parks. For an Orlando vacation that includes some romance, dining at Disney will really light your fire. So when you are looking for cheap Disney tickets, look no further than OrlandoFunTickets.com. Then treat the love of your life to a romantic Valentine’s dinner at one of these superb Walt Disney World Resort restaurants. Labels: california grill, cheap disney tickets, Discount Disney Tickets, Disney Dinning, disney resort dinning, romance at disney, romantic dinning, valentines at disney
Declaring Your Love the Disney Way
 Walt Disney World is often thought of as a place for kids, but more and more frequently adults are choosing this vacation kingdom for their time together. In fact, travel industry experts say that the Walt Disney World Resort is one of the top destinations for honeymooners worldwide. So since Valentine’s Day is around the corner, how about trying a little romance Disney style? And if you don’t want to break the bank while you celebrate your love, OrlandoFunTickets.com is the place to get all of your tickets. We say Happy Valentine’s Day all year round with the best discounts on Walt Disney World tickets. You can get all of your cheap theme park tickets here and then join Mickey and Minnie as they celebrate this season for lovers. Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is tops on our list of great places to spend a romantic day or night with the one you love. The “Couple’s Room” at the Grand Floridian Spa & Health Club offers customized massages for two in their romantic, candlelit surroundings. As the folks at Disney say, “the couple that spas together, stays together.”  The hopeless romantics at the Grand Floridian also have their own version of the Love Boat. The Grand I is a 52’ yacht that sails the Seven Seas Lagoon with couples or groups of up to 18 people (if you really want to spread the love). Options like gourmet meals and private butler service are available while cruising Disney’s magical waterways, not to mention a breathtaking view of the “Wishes” fireworks show at Disney’s Magic Kingdom park. Not to be outdone, Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Marina has their own romantic seafarer. The Breathless II, a 26’ mahogany runabout circa 1930, escorts up to six passengers across Crescent Lake to Epcot for a uniquely spectacular viewing of “Illuminations: Reflections of Earth.” If you prefer to stay on dry land, then Disney’s Ft. Wilderness Resort and Campground has a little something to light your Valentine’s campfire. Disney wranglers lead guests on horseback through backwoods trails during 45-minute tours that decamp throughout the day from the Trail Blaze Corral. Want to be alone in the woods? Private horse-drawn carriage rides ramble through the wilderness each evening from their starting point at Pioneer Hall. Bet you never realized a trip to Walt Disney World could be so romantic! Labels: couples in orlando, Discount Disney Tickets, grand floridian, romance at disney, romantic dinning, valentines at disney
Its Disney Hollywood Studios Now
 One of the biggest changes the Walt Disney World Resort has seen in years became final when the new year began. On January 7, 2008, Disney’s Hollywood Studios made its debut, and there are loads of new reasons to visit in the coming year. Before we even get to the changes guests can experience in the park, we have to tell you about the great discount Disney tickets you will find right here at OrlandoFunTickets.com. We are your number one source for tickets to all of the great theme parks and attractions at Walt Disney World. Disney officials said the park’s new name “reflects all that Hollywood has to offer: movies, music, theater and television.” And in keeping with that description, they are adding some great new entertainment to give park visitors an even more interactive and enjoyable experience. Handy Manny joined the cast of characters at The Studios late last year, and next month he and his new friends will team up in a wonderful new live production. The “Playhouse Disney – Live on Stage!” show promises to be fun for the kids and Mom and Dad too, with performances from the Mickey Mouse Club House, Little Einsteins, Handy Manny and more! Springtime at Disney Hollywood Studios will bring the “Block Party Bash,” a brand new parade that will replace the “Disney Stars and Motor Cars” parade. The new traveling show is reported to be the “most interactive parade in Disney history,” and guests will agree as they dance and sing with over 20 characters from their favorite Disney-Pixar Films: “The Incredibles,” “Toy Story 2,” “Monsters, Inc.” and “A Bug’s Life.”  And the excitement keeps on coming. Disney’s Hollywood Studios plans to take interactivity and entertainment to the highest levels this summer when they introduce Toy Story Mania! This “innovative ride-game experience” combines characters, games, 3-D and a carnival midway. With all the excitement promised in the coming year, you know you want to visit Orlando and take in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, the newest park at the Walt Disney World Resort (even if in name only!). Make your Orlando vacation affordable and get all of your Disney tickets at OrlandoFunTickets.com. We always have cheap tickets to Disney’s Hollywood Studios and all of the theme parks at Walt Disney World. We are also your one-stop shop for tickets to other Orlando attractions like SeaWorld and Universal! Labels: Block Party Bash, Discount Disney Tickets, Disney Hollywood Studios, High School the Musical, Toy Story Mania, Walt Disney World News
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The Alice in Wonderland hype is growing fast and we are loving very second of it. Alice and friends can be tough to find in the Disney theme parks. If you go to the Supercalifragilistic character breakfast at the Grand Floridian, she’s there along with Mary Poppins. Over at the Magic Kingdom you can usually find Alice and the Mad Hatter causing trouble by the tea cups. She can also be found over in the UK pavilion of Epcot’s World Showcase. Now, thanks to Tim Burton’s upcoming take on the film, dear little Alice is coming into the spotlight once more and fans of Disney’s biggest “non-Princess” female character couldn’t be happier. Alice has even gone to the runway.
