|
|
 |
|
 |
Laughs Coming Back at the All-New IMPROV!
 It has been two years since Orlando lost their IMPROV comedy club, and while visitors have still been able to entertain themselves at the Orlando theme parks there’s nothing like enjoying some good food and great laughs. Thanks to Pointe Orlando, comedy fans will once again be able to enjoy live music, amazing food and the hottest comedy acts from across the nation five nights a week at the brand new IMPROV. The menu is going to be centered on Louisiana Creole cuisine with a Gulf Coast/Louisiana-French style of cooking. You can look forward to chowing down on catfish, southern fried chicken and “n’awlins” barbecue ribs or lighter foods like salads. You can check out the full menu on the IMPROV’s website, but it’s still being developed as the club gets ready to re-open. If you’ve never been to Pointe Orlando, it’s a wonderful outdoor group of shops and restaurants that offer everything from casual dining and shopping to the ultimate in luxury items and food. They already have great restaurants like The Oceanaire Seafood Room and Cuba Libre restaurant and rum bar. You can also shop at stores like Bath & Body Works, Armani Exchange and Hollister. For entertainment they have BB King’s Blues Club and a great IMAX theatre where you can catch the latest hit flicks, but once the IMPROV opens up in February of 2010 you will be able to stop by for some amazing comedy stars. We haven’t heard of any upcoming acts just yet, but we’re sure the name dropping will begin a little later in the year or right at the start of the New Year in January of 2010. If you’re currently in the area and looking for nightlife options don’t forget you can check out Universal CityWalk for great shops, bars and nightclubs. CityWalk is located within walking distance of both Universal Studios and Universal’s Islands of Adventure. It’s always great to check out the parks during the day and head over to City Walk to relax for the night and enjoy some cocktails and a great dinner. So keep an eye out for news on the IMPROV and until then check out CityWalk! Labels: comedy, Orlando Attractions, orlando dinner shows, Orlando Events, pointe orlando
Go On an Airboat Adventure with Captain Jim
 There are plenty of ways to experience the natural beauty of Central Florida. Once you have done the Orlando theme parks there are still things the area has to offer than many people overlook. Thanks to the Florida Everglades there are plenty of ways to enjoy the Florida outdoors. You can go hiking, fishing, kayaking, boating or even camping—the choice is up to you. But a great way to really get out into the Florida wild is via airboat. When you ride an airboat you get to experience a lovely breeze and a gentle journey over the waters of the Everglades as the airboat glides past the beautiful scenery nature provides. Captain Jim Passmore has been offering guided airboat tours to visitors of the Central Florida area like no other. This friendly operation is family owned and treats every guest like a close friend. Consider yourself in safe hands when you board one of Captain Jim’s airboats. Each vehicle is licensed, insured and approved by the Coast Guard to ensure the safety of the occupants—meaning you, the guest. Water is provided by Captain Jim’s in case you get thirsty during the one hour adventures and life jackets are given to those that may need it. Outdoor adventures always require two things in Florida: sunscreen and bugspray. Captain Jim doesn’t give those out, so you have to bring your own, and if you get chilly bring a light jacket for the breezy ride. There are three different tour options from Captain Jim, all of them offering various routes through the Everglades that change depending on water levels and animal conditions to give you the best experience and awesome camera opportunities. There’s no telling what kind of wildlife you’ll find on these tours. You can guarantee you will be seeing Florida’s unofficial mascot, the alligator, along with eagles, wild pigs, horses, marsh cows, otters, deer, bobcats and coyotes. You can take a tour during the day if you you want to relax at night, explore the beautiful Florida sunset on a sunset tour or go lights out and explore the Everglades on Captain Jim’s airboat at night with only headlamps to guide your way. Captain Jim’s Orlando Airboat Rides are great fun for anyone at any age. Labels: discount orlando, New attractions, Orlando Attractions, tours
67 Days of Smiles
 Imagine being able to drop everything you are doing right now and hop on a flight to Orlando, Florida to embark on a 67 day adventure through the theme park capital of the world. That is exactly what Kyle Post and Stacy Doornbos got to do when the Orlando Convention and Visitors Bureau chose them as the winners of the 67 Days of Smiles contest. This contest would bring two people with incredible attitudes, a passion for fun and great smiles to Orlando to participate in an advertising campaign everyone would be jealous of. As Orlando’s “Official Smile Ambassadors,” Kyle Post and Stacy Doornbos will get to visit over 100 of Orlando’s best attractions and report on them through various social media forums and popular internet sites like YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, Flickr and their very own blog. Both of the Smile Ambassadors came to Orlando from New York City. Kyle, originally from Holland, is an actor on Broadway. Stacy works with children in East Harlem and both of them have a passion for living life to the fullest. Contestants had to submit videos to the contest in order to be voted on. Kyle and Stacy’s cheery demeanor and ear-to-ear smiles, as well as the story of their childhood friendship, won over the voters and made them a natural choice to become the Orlando Smile Ambassadors. Since winning the trip, Kyle and Stacy have been going on a number of adventures throughout the Orlando area. They’ve been hang-gliding and golfing. They dined at some of the best restaurants and checked out flicks at the nicest movie theatres. They got to wrestle with alligators, swim with the dolphins and check out some of the best theme parks the Orlando area has to offer. That’s the great thing about the 67 Days of Smiles campaign. Stacy and Kyle got to experience things many people overlook when visiting the Orlando area. But that doesn’t mean they skipped over the traditional attractions the city has to offer! Over the duration of their stay, Kyle and Stacy will visit the Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Studios Orlando and Islands of Adventure as their mission of happiness continues. We hope they’re having a blast, because they landed the best 67 day job in the world! Labels: Orlando Attractions, Universal Orlando, walt disney world
La Nouba Livens Up Summer Nights
 While there is never much question about what vacationers can do during the day in Orlando ( Walt Disney World, SeaWorld, Universal Studios, etc., are the usual pastimes), many visitors aren’t sure what options there are in the way of nighttime fun in the city. After a long day of thrills and excitement at Orlando theme parks, visitors to Florida generally want to clean up, have a nice dinner, and then engage in something entertaining but relaxing. For this, we recommend a great Orlando show, such as Cirque du Soleil’s La Nouba. Exciting enough for youngsters who still have plenty of energy at the end of the day, yet a relaxing enough activity for wiped-out adults, La Nouba will entertain everyone in the family and make a great end to a fun summer day. If you haven’t already seen La Nouba, you’ll definitely want to see this quirky and avant-garde spectacle, which is currently returning from a spring hiatus that lasted through a good part of May. Performances resume tomorrow, June 2, in Downtown Disney’s West Side, where the exceptional theater built especially for Cirque du Soleil resides. The only resident Cirque du Soleil show in Orlando, La Nouba is a visually astounding show that will mystify with its daring and incredible acrobatic acts. The title derives from the French phrase faire la Nouba, which means “to party” or “to live it up,” and this is evident in the energetic and colorful show, which keeps the entertainment constant with moving live music, opulent sets, brilliant choreography, and continuous feats of strength and grace. The setting of La Nouba is a wondrous new world where dreams clash with reality, where mundane mixes with the marvelous, and it’s no longer possible to tell where one ends and the other begins. As the show weaves its way through this alternative universe and its characters attempt to make sense of it, audiences will be thrilled by scenes and acts that are threatening and exhilarating, frightening and familiar, and overall, passionate and wonderful. Like all Cirque du Soleil shows, La Nouba is particularly extraordinary for its international cast of acrobats, athletes, and performance artists. Cirque always assembles a phenomenal group of performers, and the women and men that make La Nouba magical are no different; with more than 65 artists representing 15 countries, the show features incredible acts of coordination, balance, and athleticism, from traditional circus acts like the flying trapeze, aerial ballet, and high wire to the German wheels, Diabolos, power track/trampoline, and balancing on chairs. And if you’ve never seen a Cirque du Soleil show before, La Nouba is a great one to start with; it features a loose storyline with recurring characters who will puzzle you, tug on your heartstrings, and make you laugh. By the end of the show, visitors feel the full purpose of the show’s beautiful feats and whimsical characters, which is to prove that even the impossible is possible. A memorable show that will certainly be a highlight of your Orlando vacation, La Nouba is just one of the many great nighttime activities in the city. And as with all your Orlando fun, you can save on discount Cirque du Soleil tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com. Labels: discount cirque du soleil tickets, la nouba, Orlando Attractions, orlando dinner shows
Gatorland Debuts White Alligators
 What is white, over forty feet in length, and has 328 razor sharp teeth? The answer is the newest inhabitants at Gatorland, one of Orlando, Florida’s oldest and most beloved attractions. As the theme park turns sixty this year, it will debut a temporary exhibit featuring four of the world’s largest white leucistic alligators to roam the planet. Ivory in color with blue eyes, these sizable reptiles from the Audubon Zoo in New Orleans can be seen up-close in the world’s largest collection of giant white alligators beginning on February 13. On display for a limited time, these four white alligators are each ten or more feet in length, weight over 500 pounds, and have reflective blue eyes. Folklore in Louisiana’s Bayou County dictates that gazing into the blue eyes of a leucistic alligator will bring a person good luck. “People are awestruck when they see them, and just one look into those icy, blue eyes will give you chills,” says Mark McHugh, President and CEO of Gatorland. “We’re excited to bring these thrilling animals to Florida." The alligators are called leucistic, not albino, because unlike albino animals, they do not lack skin pigment – their pigment is simply white. The gators were collected deep from a Louisiana swamp, where they were part of a clutch of seventeen infants recovered by workers from the Louisiana Land and Exploration Company. They were later brought to the Audubon Zoo, where only a few of the rare reptiles survived. No one knows why this variety of alligators occurs in Mother Nature; their lack of color puts them at a disadvantage in the wild. Gatorland had to build a special, fully covered exhibit for its new residents because, like albinos, they sunburn easily and must remain in the shade. Located along the main walkway, the new 2,500 square-foot exhibit will allow guests to view these incredible alligators from just a few feet away. The swamp-themed space features rustic cypress walkways, glass viewing, and soft lighting. The gators, which haven’t been exposed to direct sunlight in years, were shipped to the park in early January in special, completely dark pens and then transitioned into their new space early on so they could adjust before the exhibit’s opening. Combining “Old Florida” charm with exciting exhibits and entertainment, Gatorland is a 100-acre park and wildlife preserve that opened as a roadside attraction in 1949. One of the most affordable theme parks in Orlando, it provides family fun with thousands of alligators, crocodiles, an aviary, breeding marsh with observation tower, petting zoo, nature walk, educational wildlife programs, a gift shop, a train ride, restaurant, and more. Gatorland also includes the Gator Gully Splash Park and one-of-a-kind reptilian shows like the Gator Wrestlin’ Show, Gator Jumparoo, and the Up-close Encounters Show. If you haven’t paid a trip to the “Gator Capital of the World,” now’s the time to visit some of Florida’s wildest and most popular residents – especially the new Leucistic alligators. Score your discount Gatorland tickets at OrlandoFunTickets.com, and you’ll find out why it’s Orlando’s only park with bite and attitude. Labels: Gatorland, Gatorland discount tickets, Gatorland events, Orlando Attractions
Preview of Disney's American Idol Experience
 As the American Idol Experience gets ready for its official launch on February 14 at Walt Disney World, the new attraction that simulates all aspects of the beloved reality show is currently in preview form at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. And while the attraction is being fine-tuned, we at OrlandoFunTickets.com were able to check out the fun in a special sneak preview. If you’re unfamiliar with the American Idol Experience, it’s a new attraction developed by Disney Imagineers in conjunction with the producers of the hit TV show American Idol. Perfectly in cue with Hollywood Studios, the Experience immerses guests in the authentic feel of a live Idol performance and results show. Like the FOX show, The American Idol Experience takes everyday people visiting the park and gives them a chance at being a star through daily auditions. If Disney decides a guest has that special “star quality,” he or she goes on to perform at one of seven preliminary shows that day. We were on hand for one of those shows in the park’s ABC Theater, which has been beautifully redesigned to look just like the American Idol stage, twirling neon signs and all. TV screens on the left and right provide close-ups of the happenings in the theater, a large screen at center provides unique footage during the show, and another screen behind the audience provides lyrics to the performers. As the show begins, you’ll feel like you’re really on set for the taping of a live show; a friendly, energetic performer comes out at first to warm up the crowd and provide voting instructions. Meanwhile, camera operators weave seamlessly through the theater capturing different angles of the show. And, as things kicks off, three judges and a host (sorry ladies, it’s not Ryan Seacrest) come out to make the Experience complete. The best part of the American Idol Experience and what makes it different from any other Disney attraction is the amount of guest involvement. In the Experience, Disney guests really are the star of the show; a fun or especially talented performer can capture the crowd and create Disney magic on stage. Similarly, the audience is heavily involved in all aspects of the show, and their enthusiasm (or lack of it) can make or break the Experience. Overall, the American Idol Experience is cute, fun, and possesses nearly all the qualities of the TV show. Disney’s famous attention to detail is definitely present; for example, the judges table has three Coca Cola cups on it, just like in the show. And though the judges might not be as entertaining as Randy, Paula, and Simon, the involvement of some famous American Idols in the show mostly makes up for the trio’s absence. If you plan to vie for stardom at the American Idol Experience, head to the park early and be ready to sing a 30-90 second snippet of a song. If Disney staff decides you have what it takes, you’ll audition again in front of a casting director. And if you make it past that, you’ll be taken to hair and makeup and receive a one-on-one session with a vocal coach before hitting the stage for a preliminary show. To audition, you must be age 14 or older. The performers with the most votes in each preliminary all go on to compete in the final performance of the day at 7 pm; the winner of that performance will receive the coveted Dream Ticket, which provides a skip in line and a guaranteed audition at an actual American Idol stadium audition (an American Idol audition FastPass; if you will). To check out the American Idol Experience and be part of someone’s journey to stardom (or start your own!), don’t miss the attraction’s debut on February 14. Start preparing for your close-up now by getting your Walt Disney World tickets at OrlandoFunTickets.com. Labels: Disney Attractions, Disney Hollywood Studios, New attractions, Orlando Attractions
Coming Soon in 2009: Hollywood Rip, Ride, Rockit Coaster
 As the New Year approaches, resolutions will be made, diets will be broken, and vacations will be planned. And as we look forward to a new year full of new starts and experiences, it is important to look forward to what Orlando theme parks have in store for us in 2009. After all, it’s never too early to start planning a great Walt Disney World or Universal Studios Orlando vacation, right? In that spirit, we’re looking ahead to new attractions opening next year, namely the Hollywood Rip, Ride, Rockit Roller Coaster at Universal Studios. This monstrous record-breaking roller coaster is sure to thrill riders with a one-of-a-kind soundtrack. Universal Studios announced their plans for the new Hollywood Rip, Ride, Rockit Coaster back in March. Scheduled to open in spring 2009, the Rockit will be the most technologically advanced roller coaster in the world, combining audio and special effects engineering, on-and-off-board video, and guest personalization for a truly wild wide. On this adrenaline-pumping ride, guests will be able to pick their very own soundtrack to rock out to while riding the coaster. Before the ride launches, guests will be able to choose a song from five musical genres: classic rock, rap, country, pop, and disco. Then the ride starts, a 65 mph whirlwind that takes riders up 17 stories over Universal Studios. And when it’s all over, guests will be able to take home a video of their wild ride, which they’ll even be able to edit and post on YouTube. “This is the perfect intersection of the digital age and theme park entertainment,” said Mark Woodbury, President of Creative for Universal Parks & Resorts. “Hollywood Rip, Ride, Rockit blends roller coaster intensity and guest interaction in a way where no two experiences will be the same.” Hollywood Rip, Ride, Rockit will truly be a unique coaster, the largest of its kind in the world. With a vertical life hill that reaches 167 feet, the Rockit will be the tallest ride in the Orlando area. Ride vehicles will feature bright color changing LEDs, and with up to four on the tracks at any given time, the Rockit will be a visual spectacular from the ground. And though the Rockit will not have any inversions, it will feature several heavily banked turns as well as the world’s first non-inverting loop. Nicknamed the “double take,” this non-inverting loop seems like a regular vertical loop at first. However, the track twists around as riders go up, leaving riders upright as they go down again. Construction began in December on the Rockit, which will be located near Jimmy Neutron’s Nicktoon Blast. Guests going through the park near the Twister attraction might be able to see some of the already constructed tracks reaching into the sky. Roller coaster fans can’t wait for this ride to be unveiled this coming spring, and neither can we! Expect to get more sneak previews on this incredible roller coaster as its opening approaches. In the meantime, be sure to start planning for that May vacation so you can experience the fast, musical fun of the Hollywood Rip, Ride, Rockit coaster. The easiest part will be getting discount Universal Studios tickets – simply check out OrlandoFunTickets.com. Labels: new rides, Orlando Attractions, universal orlando tickets, Universal Studios Orlando
Will Shaq Take Over the Orlando Magic?
 The rumor has been swirling around for ages; beloved NBA player and former Orlando Magic center Shaquille “Shaq” O’Neal has often announced a desire to become General Manager of the Orlando Magic when he retires, possibly sometime after the 2009-2010 season. However, does this idea, which sounds like a drug-induced cockamamie scheme to many Orlando fans, actually have any possibility of coming to fruition? Not anytime soon, but O’Neal is persistent in his claim that it will happen. When Brian Hill was re-announced as head coach in May 2005, O’Neal reportedly said, “It’s good that he’s back. When I buy the team in three years, he’ll be working for me.” He has frequently reiterated this statement in one form or another throughout the years, though the general consensus has always been that he was yanking Orlando’s chain, so to speak. However, O’Neal states that he and fellow Phoenix Sun player Grant Hill are serious about returning to the Orlando Magic. The two have become best friends since becoming teammates in Phoenix last season. After they retire, they plan to go into business together, with O’Neal vying for the position of General Manager of the Magic, and Hill planning to be its President. The only way many people see this happening is if the two buy the team, which they have also talked about, although Magic president Bob Vander Weide says the team’s not for sale. “It’s certainly something we’ve talked about a lot since Shaq’s come on board here,” Hill told the Sacramento Bee. “I think Orlando makes sense because we live there and we both played there. Ownership is something that we’re both interested in. We know people and we have groups and various people who are interested as well…There’s no clear, concrete plan. But it’s certainly something that when we’re done playing we’ll definitely look into.” “I’ve mentioned it to [Orlando Magic CEO and president] Bob Vander Weide and he laughs,” O’Neal added. “But I know they love Grant as president…He’s better looking, better spoken, and can do the president. But I can be the general manager. I can get stuff done.” It will be interesting to see how Orlando reacts if O’Neal and Hill ever return to manage the team, seeing as how there’s still a great deal of animosity among Magic fans against both players; fans are still irked with Shaq for leaving the Magic to join the Los Angeles Lakers after the 1995-1996 season (he was tempted away by a $122 million dollar contract). Some fans are peeved at Hill too, who is also a former Orlando Magic player notorious for not showing much loyalty to the team. Hill spent a large part of his seven years on the team injured and sitting on the bench; after recovering from multiple surgeries, he returned for three-quarters of the 2006-2007 season and then signed with the Suns for $2 million a year. For the time being, a Hill and O’Neal-run team is still a long way off. O’Neal is contracted for two more seasons, and Hill, who is exercising his 2008-2009 option with the Suns, has given no word on when he will retire. And as far as buying the team goes, Vander Weide has a message for the Suns duo: “There will not be any for-sale sign on the Orlando Magic…We have just made a long-term commitment to the city of Orlando and are excited about the new venue and our team.” That’s tough news for Hill and O’Neal, but seeing as Orlando doesn’t seem to want them here all that badly anyway, it’s probably for the best. As Orlando Sentinel blogger Brian Schmitz put it, “The Magic needed them as players, not as a Starsky and Hutch management team.” Labels: Orlando Attractions, orlando magic, sports in orlando
December: Parade of Parades in Orlando
 The holidays are a great time to see things you can not see any other time of year; from incredible attractions at Orlando theme parks such as Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom to the Universal Studios’ Grinchmas, seasonal fun is around every corner. And during the month of December, you can literally see it walking down the street with several incredible parades. From Orlando to Winter Park, Florida is lighting up with these holiday and non-holiday-related city celebrations that you and the family should definitely not miss. The first parade to kick off the seasons this month is the 56th annual Ye Olde Hometown Christmas Parade in Winter Park. Presented by the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce, this yearly parade down Park Avenue showcases holiday themed floats and local figures with a special appearance by the man of the season himself, Santa Claus. The fun starts at 9 am at Canton Avenue and ends at approximately 10:30 am at Lyman Avenue. After the parade, be sure to enjoy Park Avenue’s incredible shops and the beautiful nearby city park. Next up is the Orlando award-winning Christmas Parade, which will feature a totally new look this year. Now a spectacular night parade and festival, “Light Up the Holidays” will feature twinkling floats and the sounds of eight local high school marching bands. The parade will also be filled with celebrities and stellar performances, starting with an opening performance by the cast of the Pirates Dinner Adventure. The event will be hosted by sound effect master Michael Winslow from the film Police Academy, who will narrate a cooking demonstration with Emeril’s Orlando Chef. The two-hour procession will circle Lake Eola Park starting at Robinson Street and Summerlin Avenue in Thornton Park. Lasting from 6 pm to 8 pm, the parade will be aired on ORANGE TV and WRDQ-TV 27 on December 20th. Accompanying the parade will be the Holiday in the Park festival at Lake Eola Park, featuring vendors, retailers, and entertainment. And as a prelude to the Champs Sports Bowl game on December 27th, Winter Park will host the 2nd annual Champs Sports Bowl Parade of Bands on December 26th at 2 pm. School bands and team mascots from the Atlantic Coast Conference and Big Ten Teams will march through downtown and along Park Avenue. After turning west on Garfield Avenue, they’ll perform a “Bandtastic Game Day Preview” in Central Park. Wrapping up the month of parades will be the 2008 Spherion Orlando Citrus Parade presented by Delta Air Lines on December 30th. Since 1999, this annual parade draws people from all over who come to see the unique vegetation-adorned floats. Only in the Citrus Parade can you see floats decorated with more than 100,000 oranges, grapefruits, and tangerines. This year, The Bachelor’s Chris Harrison and Extreme Makeover’s Paige Hemmis will cohost the annual parade, which features Olympic Gold Medalist Ryan Lochte as Grand Marshal and Grammy Award winner Scott Stapp singing the National Anthem. The parade will begin at 11 am at Orange and Robinson Avenue, turn on to South Street, and then end on Rosalind and Robinson Avenue in front of Lake Eola Park. All these great parades happen only once a year, so if you’re a resident or visiting town, you have to catch at least one. So pack a lunch, wear your sneakers, and get ready to see incredible floats, entertainment, and celebrities march down the streets of Orlando and Winter Park. Labels: Orlando Attractions, Orlando Events, orlando festivals
Santa Sightings: St. Nick Comes to Town
 The holiday season has arrived, and so has Santa Claus! Though you would think jolly old St. Nick would be too busy, with the holidays coming up and all, to take a vacation, he’s here in town enjoying the seasonal fun of Orlando – after all, the elves can take care of all the Christmas preparations. And everyone, from families to pets, can track Santa down as he stops at a few Orlando Florida locations to hear a Christmas wish or two. You’ll be able to meet the big man in red, pose for a picture with him, and even sit on his lap, at these Orlando spots. First, since Santa loves to shop for Orlando souvenirs, you can catch him at a few area malls. He’ll be stopping at the Mall at Millenia to take in the spectacular holiday decorations and pose with fans during mall hours (from 10 am to 9 pm on most days). Those who get their picture taken with Santa can opt for a candid color photo or a sepia-hued black and white photo, and every child who visits him receives a complimentary gift. You can also find Santa Claus at the Florida Mall and the Festival Bay Mall, where Santa will be available for pictures and even pets will be able to come and dress up with him on select nights. And since Santa Claus will be doing plenty of sight-seeing during his Orlando vacation, you can see him at different cities throughout the Orlando area. At Old Town in Kissimmee, Santa will be available for photographs Monday through Friday from 5 pm to 8 pm; you can even receive a complimentary photo with him when you make a $5.00 donation to benefit the children of Devereux, Florida. Santa will also be visiting Uptown Altamonte every Tuesday evening from 6 to 8 pm to hear the strolling carolers, as well as Downtown Celebration during its nightly Now Snowing celebration. And on December 13th, Santa will be seeing the animals at the Central Florida Zoo in Sanford, and guests can join him for breakfast or brunch (reservations required). In addition to all these spots, Santa will be stopping at Orlando theme parks during his vacation. You can catch him at Downtown Disney’s "Festival of the Seasons," where he’ll be posing with kids and pets alike from noon to 10 pm daily. However, if you happen to stop by Universal Studios during "Holiday Cheer You Can Only Hear Here" or Disney’s Magic Kingdom during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, you just might also see Santa enjoying some holiday fun. Finally, you can see meet Santa at the Gaylord Palms Resort, where he’s staying during his holiday vacation. St. Nick will be visiting with fans in the convention center daily (hours vary), though shy visitors can also opt to send him an e-mail at a kiosk near the ICE! entrance. If you plan on catching Santa Claus in the parks, be sure to check out OrlandoFunTickets.com for discount theme park tickets. Otherwise, have fun catching Santa during his Orlando visit, and don’t be naughty, or he’ll know! Labels: Christmas Celebration, Holidays in Orlando, Orlando Attractions, Orlando Events, Santa Claus
Arabian Nights Transforms into a Holiday Fairytale
 One of the most celebrated dinner shows in the world, Arabian Nights is normally a magical show filled with beautiful horses, a romantic love story, and incredible sound and lighting effects. However, come holiday season, Orlando’s #1 dinner show transforms into a stunning holiday fairytale with pyrotechnics, snow, special sets, and incredible holiday costumes. If you love Arabian Nights, you can’t miss this special seasonal event. From November 17th through January 1st, Arabian Nights’ beloved storyline will take on a special Christmas twist. Continuing the storyline of the regular show, the Holiday show takes us into the life of Princess Scheherazade and Prince Khalid as newlyweds. It’s Christmastime, and unfortunately, Prince Khalid must depart on a journey, leaving his wife behind to miss him. As a result, the entire court gathers, along with the faithful genie Hocus Pocus, to show the Princess the magic of Christmas and to get her excited for the season. With 60 magnificent horses and a cast of 30 performers, the fantastic Arabian Nights holiday show has been revamped this year with some special new acts. One highlight of the show will be the new "Jack Frost" act, which features a rider on horseback climbing onto silks hanging from the ceiling and performing aerialist feats. There’s also an all new "Gingerbread" act with a special featured horse, a Shetland pony from the American Shetland Association. This fun and frisky addition to the show jumps over lollypops to the audience’s delight. And this year, the Arabian Nights holiday show is featuring all new, custom-made costumes. These incredible and glittering costumes add a magical touch to the show and are sure to make this year’s better than ever. There’s also all-new choreography, as well as holiday music from some of your favorite recording artists, including Andy Williams, Hillary Duff, the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Brenda Lee, Jimmy Buffett, Little Texas, Lone Star, The Philadelphia Symphony Orchestra, and many more. And if you loved the holiday show acts from the past, never fear; some of your favorites will return, including the amazing Winter Wonderland act. This breathtaking segment features male and female riders in beautiful white costumes on white horses as well as four 25-feet tall Christmas trees which descend from the ceiling. The price for the holiday Arabian Nights show is the same as regular admission, so there’s no excuse not to check it out. And from November 18th through December 18th, admission for those in the hospitality industry is only $10 dollars. You’ll love seeing this amazing show, which includes a fantastic dinner made sweeter with a new Peppermint ice cream dessert. So don’t wait to enjoy a holiday show like no other – get your discount Arabian Nights tickets at OrlandoFunTickets.com, and get ready to be whisked away on a magical holiday ride. Labels: Arabian Nights, Orlando Attractions, orlando dinner shows, special events
Baby Wallaby Hops into Cypress Gardens
 Cypress Gardens is home to over 40 rides, a historical botanical garden, a water park, and animal exhibits featuring over 300 feathery, scaly, and furry friends such as alligators, birds, butterflies, and a jaguar. And now, it’s become the home of one new resident, an albino baby wallaby named Mahina. The park’s newest and cutest star, Mahina is now available for viewing at Cypress Gardens on Saturdays and Sundays at the Animal Trax Outpost Shop from 1:15 pm until 1:35 pm. Guests can come and see the furry white wallaby and her keeper, take pictures with her, and even pet her (most likely on the tail area). For safety reasons, guests will not be able to hold her. Mahina is the second albino wallaby born at Cypress Gardens. She emerged from her mother’s pouch on April 19th, a few months sooner than expected, and is still being raised by the animal care staff. Normally, joeys (baby wallabies) stay in their mother’s pouches for seven to eight months, but Mahina was only in her mother’s pouch for four months. Despite this, the Animal Care staff state that nothing is wrong with Mahina and that premature birth sometimes happens in nature with no clear explanation why. Found primarily in Australia and neighboring islands, wallabies possess excellent hearing and sense of smell, though wallaby vision is thought to be quite poor. Though wallabies are typically small to medium-sized, the largest can reach 6 feet. Wallabies use their large, prominent tail for balance when hopping or grazing, and they survive on a diet of grass and the shoots of young plants. While albino wallabies like Mahina are fairly common in captivity, the odds of an albino being born in the wild are extremely rare – about 1 in 10,000. All of the Orlando area had a chance to name newborn Mahina as part of a contest that ran from June 11th through June 30th. Over 400 entries were submitted; some of the names that were considered were Phoebe, Aurora, Mayhem, Aoraki (meaning cloud piercer), Paralla (Aborigine for “the moon”), Mindee, and Nola (meaning fair/white shoulder in Irish). However, the Marketing and Animal Care departments decided upon Mahina as the winning name, which was submitted by Carol Wolfe of Winter Garden. The name means “moon” in Hawaiian. Be sure to head down to Cypress Garden to see this adorable addition to the park! Best yet, it won’t cost you too much – simply score your discount Cypress Garden tickets at OrlandoFunTickets.com to get in on all the hopping good fun. Labels: Cypress Gardens, discount Cypress Gardens tickets, Orlando Attractions, special events
Shop Until You Drop in Orlando
 It is no secret that Orlando is universally a tourism hot spot and perhaps even the tourism capital of the nation. And what tourism capital would be complete without tons of amazing shopping destinations? Luckily, Orlando is certainly not deficient when it comes to stores and malls. In fact, the metropolitan area boasts at least 10 major shopping malls and several large outlet centers. But which ones are the best? Visitors from far and wide might not have time to hit up every one, especially if they’re looking for the perfect souvenirs or just a really great mall with a lot to see and discover. So here at OrlandoFunTickets.com, we’ve done the searching for you and selected the best in Orlando shopping destinations. Biggest and Most Varied Shopping: The Florida Mall
It’s no secret that the Florida Mall, located on Orange Blossom Trail, is Orlando’s biggest and best mall. Though it’s located in what some might consider an unsavory area, if you can only make one shopping trip on your Orlando vacation, make it to the Florida Mall. With 270 stores to choose from, including six department stores, something is bound to catch your eye and entice your wallet, unless you happen to possess a will of steel. There are plenty of stores for the guys here, with 19 stores that carry men’s fashions, and plenty of stores he’ll enjoy just browsing through, such as EB Games, Smoke ‘N Snuff, and Ultimate Sports Fan. The kids will love the Florida Mall too, namely for its four toy stores and the huge M&M’s World, which, though you might not admit it, you’ll love visiting too. Best Outlet Shopping: Prime Outlets
It was a tight race between the Prime Outlets and the similarly-named Orlando Premium Outlets. Ultimately, Prime Outlets, located on International Drive won for its quantity (it has 175 stores while Premium Outlets will have 150 by November) and variety of stores. You’ll find an excellent selection here with high-end brands as well as some more affordable ones. The hours are also incredible – the outlet is open from 10 am until 11 pm Monday through Saturday, and from 10 am to 9 pm on Sunday. Parking is a mess, but it’s to be expected for a shopping center on Orlando’s busiest street. Best Family Shopping / Best Out of the Way Shopping: West Oaks Mall
Though it’s a bit out of the way if you’re staying in the Walt Disney World area (the mall is located in Ocoee), moms will love West Oaks Mall. It especially caters to families with family preferred parking spaces, a carousel ride and play area for the kids, and a nursing lounge. It’s also the second largest mall in the Orlando area with approximately 154 stores. And best yet, you won’t find the heavy tourist crowds that you’ll find at other shopping destinations closer to the Orlando theme parks. Most Unique Place to Shop: Winter Park Shopping District
For a different shopping experience in Orlando without the typical mall hustle and bustle, the Winter Park Shopping District is a great spot often missed by tourists. With several apparel and specialty shops that you won’t find anywhere else, it’s a great place to browse and find truly unique items. It’s also home to two art galleries, three museums, and two gardens, so a trip there doesn’t have to be spent strictly in stores. There are also plenty of tasty places to tempt your palette, with coffee shops, elegant restaurants, and even a chocolate and cheese shop. Most Luxurious Mall: Mall at Millenia
And finally, one of our favorite malls is also the ritziest. At Mall of Milennia, you’ll find 150 high-end brand names and designers in an elegant and sophisticated atmosphere. With brands like Burberry, Gucci, Christian Dior, Tiffany & Company, and Chanel, you’ll find more than enough places in which to satiate your craving for walkway fashions. There’s even a Jimmy Choo store so you can adorn your feet like the stars do. And with valet parking and full-service concierge, you’ll be able to truly indulge during your shopping experience. So whether you’re looking for luxury shopping, a one-of-a-kind gift, or the best place to make a day of it, Orlando has a shopping center for everyone. So go out, have fun, and splurge – you can always say you did it for the economy. Labels: Orlando Attractions, orlando for adults, shopping, top attractions in florida
Gators, Ghosts, and Goblins, Oh My!
 Just when we were starting to think there was not any more Halloween fun to be had in Orlando, Florida, Gatorland proved us wrong. On October 24th and October 25th, one of the oldest theme parks in Orlando will host a Gators, Ghosts & Goblins Gator Hollow tour through Gatorland’s famed swamps. And the fun doesn’t stop there – on October 25th and 26th, the Fall Festival will roll into Gatorland with lots of spooky Halloween fun, fall activities, and plenty of sweet candy goodness. It’s all the Halloween excitement you can expect from an Orlando theme park with Gatorland’s special bite and attitude. During the Gators, Ghosts, and Goblins Gator Hallow Tour, you’ll take a lantern-lit journey through the shadowy bogs and marshes of the Alligator Capital of the World. Quiver in fear as you navigate through the swamps, avoid gleaming eyeballs in the dark, and unearth the secret of All Hallow’s Eve! The tour will begin at Gator Hallow at 7 pm and run until 10 pm each night. The tour is by advanced reservation only, so be sure to book early. You may want to leave the little ones home, as some elements of the tour might be too intense for young children. Masks and costumes are also not allowed – you wouldn’t want to be confused for one of the swamp’s creepies or crawlies! So be sure to bring someone to hold on to as you venture deep into the dark Central Florida Swamp – you just might need to borrow some courage. And for an event that’s less spooky but just as fun, be sure to check out the Fall Festival. Young and old alike will love all the daily activities, which include a Halloween maze and pumpkin patch. Those with a sweet tooth will love all the trick-or-treat candy stations posted throughout the park, and there’ll be plenty of Halloween arts and crafts for the kids, as well as spooky animal encounters! Admission to the festival is free with a regular paid admission to the park, but kids who don their costumes get into the park free when accompanied by a paying adult. So grab the kids and put on your costumes for some Halloween fun you’ll want to sink your teeth into. We’re certainly chomping at the bits to go! And during both events, you can still catch all your favorite Gatorland attractions. Since 1949, Gatorland has provided affordable family fun with its thousands of alligators, crocodiles, aviary, breeding marsh with observation tower, petting zoo, nature walk, Gator Gully Splash Park, and one-of-a-kind animal shows. Some of our favorite shows include the Gator Jumparoo, where your heart will literally jump into your throat as you watch gigantic alligators jump four to five feet out of the water for food, and the Up-Close Encounters Show, where you’ll meet exotic – and sometimes dangerous – creatures from around the world. With all the Halloween fun at Gatorland, you won’t want to wait until the last minute to get your tickets; check out discount Gatorland tickets now at OrlandoFunTickets.com. See you later, alligator! Labels: Gatorland, Gatorland discount tickets, Gatorland events, Orlando Attractions
See Angels Soar at Kennedy Space Center Space and Air Show
 Just in time for the 50th birthday of NASA ,earlier this month, the Space and Air Show will be coming to Kennedy Space Center for the second time, hot on the heels of the Kennedy Space Center Fall Concert Series. On November 8th and 9th, aircraft of all shapes and sizes will take to the skies over the NASA Causeway. The show will begin at 12:30 pm and last until 4 pm, and it will feature precision pilots and veteran astronauts performing some of the most incredible aerial stunts to the delight of all. Be sure to catch the Navy’s elite flight demonstration squadron the Blue Angels in action. They will undoubtedly be the stars of the show, as this will be the second time the Angels have ever performed at KSC, their last visit being over 30 years ago. Other highlights of the show will include military aircraft demonstrations by the F-16 Fighting Falcon, a compact, extremely maneuverable multi-role fighter aircraft; the F/A-18 Super Hornet, the nation’s first true strike-fighter capable aircraft; and the A-10 Warthog, a single-seat, twin-engine jet aircraft designed exclusively for close air support. There’ll also be a 920th Rescue Wing water rescue demonstration, as well as performances by Mike Goulian, a racer in the Red Bull Air Race World Series, and the Air Force Reserve biplane show. Getting to the show no later than 12 pm is strongly recommended in order to get through security and arrive at the air show site on time. The demonstrations will happen over the north side of the NASA causeway with the shuttle launch pads in the background. Since the causeway is not accessible to private vehicles, visitors will be transported to the viewing site by bus from the Visitors Complex (if you purchase regular KSC admission, transportation to the air show will cost an additional $15 per person). Visitors will catch all the in-air action from an open grassy field, so be sure to bring blankets and collapsible chairs for extra comfort. Beach umbrellas and coolers are not allowed, but food and souvenirs will be sold at the viewing site. And when you’re not having fun watching the skies, there’ll also be aircraft displays and space-related exhibits along the air show viewing area. One of the exhibits includes NASA’s Exploration Experience Trailer featuring a virtual model of the moon. Or, take a ride back to the Kennedy Space Center for the Astronaut Autograph & Memorabilia Show featuring astronauts from the Mercury, Gemini, Apollo, and Space Shuttle programs. Visitors to the KSC will have the opportunity to meet and spend time with astronauts, be guided by an astronaut on a tour of exclusive KSC areas, view special exhibits available only that weekend, and acquire rare astronaut memorabilia at the 6th annual Astronaut Scholarship Foundation Auction. And at the end of the day, visitors can even have dinner and drinks with legendary astronauts at Cocoa Beach. Admission to the Astronaut Autograph Show is additional, and is available in multiple packages for prices ranging from $5 for admission to the show to $350 for the full VIP package. And of course, you can take advantage of all the usual KSC exhibits, rides, and attractions if you haven’t had enough fun at the air show. So grab your discount Kennedy Space Center tickets here at OrlandoFunTickets.com, along with some seat cushions, and get ready for an air spectacular that will knock your socks off – and probably your hat, too. Labels: Kennedy Space Center, Kennedy Space Center Events, Orlando Attractions, Orlando Events, special events
The Gaylord Palms
 Located just outside Orlando and right next door to the Walt Disney World Resort you will find The Gaylord Palms Resort and Convention Center. This sister property of the Gaylord Opryland in Tennessee features the best that Florida has to offer. The hotel is divided into three sections. The main atrium is inspired by St. Augustine and features a replica of the San Marcos Castle and the Ponce Leon Fountain of Youth. The Key West atrium offers a refreshing décor with lavish colors and a feeling similar to that of the tropics. This is where you will find Sunset Sam’s Fish Camp featuring seafood and Caribbean inspired dishes. At Sunset Sam's Fish Camp you can have your dinner on the dock or on the SS Gaylord, a 60 ft long sailboat. As you walk through the Everglades Atrium you can imagine yourself walking around rugged wooden pathways, over misty water, in the beautiful Florida Everglades. In the Everglades Atrium you will also find the Old Hickory Steakhouse, their fine dining steak and seafood restaurant known for their wine list and cheese pairing. The famous Canyon Ranch Spa is also located in this section, featuring a state-of-the-art spa and salon. The hotel also features Villa de Flora; with five cook stations offering different dishes from the Mediterranean. It also offers Sora, their brand new South Beach inspired sushi bar. If you are looking for nighttime fun then head out to Auggie's Dueling Piano Bar or H2O Sports Bar. If fun in the sun is what you are after then head out to one of the two refreshing pools. This beautiful resort is complemented with the country’s largest adjoining convention center. The Florida Exhibition Rooms and the two main ballrooms offer conventioneers an excellent location to host their event. The wedding pavilion and the Orange Blossom Ballroom are very popular with couples when looking for a location to have their special day. Overall this resort offers everything you need without leaving property: great dining, entertainment, and the best service Florida has to offer. So head over to the Gaylord Palms and experience Orlando, Florida in a new and different way. Thanks to Ronald Alicea, Shipping and Fulfillment Coordinator for OrlandoFunTickets.com, for this informative article!Labels: Gaylord Palms, Orlando Attractions, orlando hotels
Sports activities in Orlando
You may not believe it, but there are more fun, family outings in Central Florida besides going to the theme parks! In fact, in addition to all of the fun that you can have at Disney, Sea World and Universal, there is professional basketball, arena football and plenty of collegiate athletics that will quench any sports lover’s thirst right here in Orlando! To find out more about how you too can experience the fun of the sports scene in Central Florida, keep reading below! The first stop on any sports fan’s list should be a visit to Amway Arena in downtown Orlando, home to the NBA’s Orlando Magic and the Arena Football League’s Orlando Predators. From October through mid-summer, you can often find one of these two teams battling it out for the hometown fans and many onlookers who are merely passing through the city. The Magic, in their 19th season in the City Beautiful, are steadily climbing the ladder of the NBA’s elite behind All-Star Dwight Howard & Co., including Rashard Lewis, Hedo Turkoglu and first-year Head Coach Stan Van Gundy. With a second consecutive appearance in the NBA playoffs looming this year and with the squad having won the Southeast Division title for the first time since the 1995-96 season, the Magic have nothing but championship aspirations on the hardwood. Over 17,000 raucous fans are on hand to witness 41 home games a year (not counting pre-season and playoffs) from November until mid-April, and then playoff fever strikes in Orlando as soon as the regular season ends. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to see these NBA superstars live and in person at Amway Arena during your next vacation, courtesy of OrlandoFunTickets.com! We are your No. 1 online source for discounted tickets to all of the top attractions in Central Florida, including the Orlando Magic. Whether it is a seat in the upper or lower bowl that you are looking for, we can help you see the Magic for less – just call 866-225-4712 now to purchase your discounted Orlando Magic tickets! As we mentioned above, the Orlando Predators also bring their hard-hitting to Amway Arena seven to eight times a year on weekends from March until early summer, depending how far they make it in the playoffs. Last season, the Predators finished with an 8-8 record and a disappointing loss to the Philadelphia Soul in the Wild Card round of the Arena Football League’s playoffs. But despite the way the season ended, the Predators still managed much success on the field in 2007, including making their league record 15th consecutive playoff appearance, and many individual players also took home personal acclaims of their own. Behind quarterback Shane Stafford, who continues to re-write the Predators’ record books year after year, and Head Coach Jay Gruden, the Orlando squad is looking to return to the ArenaBowl in 2008 and bring the trophy back home to Orlando! If you are looking for more a more intimate collegiate athletics experience, the University of Central Florida is also just a short drive away from the attractions in Orlando. The Knights have 16 men’s and women’s sports team at the university, ranging from football and basketball to golf, volleyball and rowing. In other words, no matter what your favorite sport is, UCF has a team you can root for. In recent years, football at the university has taken on a whole new life thanks to the opening of the school’s on-campus facility, Bright House Networks Stadium. This 45,000+ stadium is home to the team that made it second postseason berth in school history this year when it took on Mississippi State in the Liberty Bowl, falling 10-3 as the SEC squad broke a tie in the game’s final two minutes to take home the title. In addition to a new football stadium, UCF also has a brand new on-campus arena as well, a 10,000-seat venue that opened in the fall of 2007 and is home to the Knights’ basketball and volleyball squads. To experience all of the Division I action going on at the UCF campus in Orlando, head on over on your next vacation to support Orlando’s hometown school! Labels: basketball in orlando, football in orlando, Orlando Attractions, orlando magic, orlando predators, sports in orlando, Universal Orlando 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
Latest News From Your Favorite Orlando Vacation Destinations
Even in this lagging economy, Orlando vacations are still super popular. And if saving money is on your mind, no worries. You can always get the best discounts on Orlando theme park tickets at OrlandoFunTickets.com, the Web’s best Orlando ticket site. No matter where you plan on going during your Orlando vacation, here’s the latest news from around O-Town. Medieval Times Tickets Free For KidsYes, your royal highness, you read that right. At least through the end of May, kids under 12 don’t need a Medieval Times ticket for admission as long as they are with a paying adult. That’s a savings of over $30 per child. Adult Medieval Times tickets are just $39.21, and you can get them right here today! Wheel of Fortune Is Spinning Into SeaWorld OrlandoPat Sajak and Vanna White will be heading south this winter to tape Wheel of Fortune at our very own marine mammal paradise, SeaWorld Orlando. The actual show tapings are scheduled for December 12, 13, 15 and 16, with a rain date on December 17, and they are expected to air sometime in 2009. Wheel will tape 5 episodes per day at Bayside Stadium inside the SeaWorld Orlando theme park. A SeaWorld ticket should be required to be a part of the audience at the tapings in December, since they take place within Sea World. More information will be posted as it is announced. Jungala at Busch Gardens Tampa Partially Closed After Orang EscapeThe newest attraction at Busch Gardens Tampa – Jungala – had to be temporarily shut down after a 10-year-old Bornean orangutan escaped from its habitat by climbing up the windows of the new exhibit. Only the western side of the Jungala area of the park is closed while the folks at Busch Gardens make adjustments to prevent any future orangutan outings. If you want to check out the monkey business for yourself, grab some Busch Gardens tickets, head over to Busch Garden Tampa and get a glimpse of their impish orangs. Miami Dolphins Cheerleaders Meet the Stars Of Discovery Cove
Discovery Cove added some new Dolphin performers to its dolphin collection for awhile last week when the Miami Dolphins cheerleaders showed up for a photo shoot. The pics will be used for next year’s calendar, so check it out if you get the chance. And should you desire a trip to Discovery Cove to click some pics of your own, you can get the best deals on Discovery Cove tickets at OrlandoFunTickets.com right now! Labels: Aquatica at Sea World, cheap disney tickets, Cheap Universal Tickets, Discount Discovery Cove, Orlando Attractions, Sea World, summer in orlando
Ways to Beat High Prices on Your Summer Vacation in Orlando
High gas prices have finally come full circle and we are now seeing the resulting price increases all over in the grocery store at the mall and they threaten to ruin many a summer vacation. If you plan on making Orlando your summer vacation destination, there are many ways to ease the financial burdens higher prices mean to an Orlando vacation. Orlando Vacation Cost Cutter #1The first thing to do if you want to save money on your Orlando vacation is get all of your Orlando theme park tickets at the best one-stop Orlando ticket shop on the Web, OrlandoFunTickets.com. Whether you want Disney tickets, Universal tickets, SeaWorld tickets or tickets to your favorite Orlando dinner theater, OrlandoFunTickets.com has all of the Orlando attraction tickets you need for a cost conscious Orlando vacation.
Orlando Vacation Cost Cutter #2To save money on transportation costs during your Orlando vacation research the options available to get from the airport to your hotel. Many Orlando hotels offer free shuttle service to and from the airport, and there are also transportation companies that will drive you to your hotel for a fee. Choosing either one of these options can save you the cost of a rental car and gas. If you decide to stay at the Walt Disney World Resort in a Disney-owned hotel, you can catch a ride on Disney’s Magical Express. Disney’s complimentary shuttle service picks you up at the Orlando International Airport and drops you in front of your Disney hotel. They also take care of your luggage and return you to the airport at the end of your trip.
Orlando Vacation Cost Cutter #3It’s no secret that the cost to fly anywhere has soared in recent months. No matter where you are coming from, flying into Orlando for your summer vacation has gotten pretty pricey. Before gas prices spiked, driving to Orlando was a valid option, but no longer. Have you considered traveling by train? Amtrak has routes that bring you into Orlando or Kissimmee, and you can easily grab a taxi or shuttle to your hotel from either station. Train travel can be much cheaper than flying or driving– not to mention a lot more comfortable. The important thing to remember when planning your Orlando vacation is to do some research and make sure you get all of your Orlando theme park tickets at the Web’s best Orlando attraction ticket shop, OrlandoFunTickets.com! Labels: cheap disney tickets, cheap seaworld tickets, Cheap Universal Tickets, cost cutting in orlando, Orlando Attractions, orlando dinner shows, vacation tips
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
The Tide of Aquatica is Rushing Into Orlando
 SeaWorld’s new water park is opening soon so get your cheap SeaWorld tickets here today Just about a year ago SeaWorld announced a new tide was rising on the Orlando attraction horizon. And with that a new, one-of-a-kind water park began to emerge. Aquatica isn’t just any water park. No. It is the kind of water park only Sea World can conceive. All you need to get in on this fresh fount of fishy fun is a ticket. And there’s no better place to get your cheap Aquatica tickets than at OrlandoFunTickets.com! Aquatica isn’t just a new Orlando attraction. It is an entirely new concept in water parks, where the water isn’t just for splashing around in. It is also home to sea creatures that you can interact with and observe. “SeaWorld is famous for immersing guests in the mystery of the sea and its animals,” said Jim Atchison, executive vice president and general manager of SeaWorld Orlando. “Aquatica takes this immersion to a new level, inviting guests to play in, over, and under the water itself.”  If you are looking for a wild, wet ride, Aquatica boasts 36 different water slides! The signature attraction propels guests in clear tubes through a lagoon full of Commerson’s dolphins, giving you the feeling of total immersion into the undersea dolphin habitat. Want to sit back and relax? Aquatica has over 80,000 square feet of beach plus six rivers and lagoons, where you can float and sunbathe your stress away. Many of Aquatica’s water attractions do double duty. Two gigantic wave pools offer side-by-side surf experiences: one with 5-foot swells and surf crashing around you; the other with gentle rolling waves you can float atop and enjoy. Nine different wave patterns can be created in the two pools, and they can even compete with “dueling waves.” The delightful rivers streaming through Aquatica offer guests a variety of fun levels too. You can swim and float from “serene to extreme.” One river flows along gentle waterfalls, showcasing exotic birds and ending up in a grotto full of colorful tropical fish. A second river gives guests the ride of their lives through rushing rapids, gushing geysers and crazy currents. Aquatica opens to the public on March 1. You can be one of the first to splash in this pool by getting your discount Aquatica tickets now at OrlandoFunTickets.com! Labels: Aquatica at SeaWorld, Discount SeaWorld Tickets, Orlando Attractions, Orlando Water Park
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
Top 10 Attractions at SeaWorld Orlando
Sea World Orlando may be known around the globe for Shamu the killer whale but what many people do not realize is that this theme park is so much more than a home for marine mammals. Sea World offers a look at sea creatures and land-based animals living in their natural habitats and combines that experience with a little of everything you would expect at Disney and Universal all in one place, with rides, shows and other attractions suitable for the entire family. It is important to note, however, that you need just one thing before you can experience all of the fun at Sea World – theme park admission! Yes, Sea World has a ton of options for you and your family, but if you don’t have any tickets, you won’t get to experience any of it! This is where OrlanfoFunTickets.com can help out – we are your No. 1 online source for discounted Sea World tickets, as well as discounted tickets to the Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort, offering you deals that you can’t get anywhere else. Click here now to see all of our unbelievable discounted prices on these tickets so that you can start experiencing these attractions for yourself! With so much to do and choose from, it is difficult to figure out where to start. So, we here at OrlandoFunTickets.com have compiled a list of the top-10 attractions at Sea World that you definitely won’t want to miss!  10. Wild Arctic – This motion-simulator-based thrill ride takes guests on an unforgettable helicopter ride to a remote research station – Base Station Wild Arctic. This exploration is filled with surprises as your pilot tries to get you to your research base before a major snowstorm hits the area.  9. Dolphin Cove – Located in the Key West area at Sea World Orlando, Dolphin Cove is home to Atlantic bottlenose dolphins in a 700,000-gallon lagoon. You can choose to stay above the water and feed and interact with these creatures, or check them out at the underwater viewing area for a rare look at how they play beneath the surface.  8. Odyssea – This 30-minute show combines acrobatics, athleticism, modern dance, comedy and special effects to create a non-traditional circus that brings the wonder of the seas to life.  7. Clydesdale Hamlet – Home to SeaWorld’s famous Budweiser Clydesdales, guests can get up close and personal with these animals during daily posing and petting sessions or just browse through to witness the beauty of these animals in their stables.  6. Shamu’s Happy Harbor – This play area is a special place for the little ones that includes six child-sized rides, a Sea Carousel and Shamu Express, the park’s first family-oriented coaster. Shamu’s Happy Harbor will provide hours of fun for the smallest Sea World guests and can give parents a much-needed break during the day!
 5. Clyde and Seamore – Clyde and Seamore Take Pirate Island is the daytime show, featuring a sensational tale of lost loot, pirate plunder and misadventure on the high seas. A Sea World Orlando animal trainer and his first mate, Clyde the sea lion, pal around during this new sea lion and otter show. Sea World's comical flippered family teams up on the most elaborate and realistic sea lion set ever built to offer more guest interaction and introduce the newest cast member - a harbor seal - in this hilarious show that is a real can’t-miss attraction. Be sure to arrive early for some pre-show entertainment as well!  4. Journey to Atlantis – This ultimate adventure ride is part-thrill seekers paradise and part-water ride. As you kick off the ride, you will be traveling on water and high-speed rails, being chased by spirits who want to keep you from your destination (which, by the way, is a six-story drop almost straight down!).
 3. Blue Horizons – This one-of-a-kind show combines some of Sea World’s most famous inhabitants with a Broadway-like production. Blue Horizons is based upon the dreams of a child who wishes to fly like the birds and swim like the dolphins. Aerialists dive into the water, while dolphins, whales, their trainers and bungee jumpers perform acrobatic moves in and above the water to make the dreams of the young girl come true.  2. Kraken – Encounter Orlando’s tallest and only floorless coaster at Sea World Orlando on this thrill ride. Kraken takes you up 140 feet in the air, turns you upside down seven times and reaches a bone-chilling 65 mph during its 3-minute, 39-second adventure. Many experts tout this as the best roller coaster in all of Central Florida, and we couldn’t agree more!  1. Believe – How could we make a top-10 list for Sea World and not include Sea World’s famous mascot at the tope? Shamu the killer whale stars in Believe, a captivating and visually stunning new show that allows fans to get a glimpse into what it is like to work with these magical creatures, while also adding in an element of fun (beware of the splash zone!). You will be amazed at the tricks these creatures and their trainers perform and equally as touched by their beauty and grace – if you only believe! Labels: Believe, Blue Horizons, Discount SeaWorld Tickets, Orlando Attractions, Sea World
New Years Eve Club Hopping
 In Orlando, theme parks are the place to be during the holidays. With special decorations, shows, parades and fireworks there is something for everyone to enjoy. New Years Eve is something different altogether. Many like to send out the old and ring in the new with a drink or two, and OrlandoFunTickets.com has all the latest and greatest details on the New Year’s Eve party scene. So not only is OrlandoFunTickets.com your one-stop shop for cheap theme park tickets, we are experts on non-park holiday events too!  The Walt Disney World Resort has been your seasonal headquarters since late November, and for New Year’s Eve the spotlight shifts over to Downtown Disney for the annual year-end party at Pleasure Island. This classic street party features great live music on the streets and in all seven nightclubs, dancing inside and out, a gourmet buffet, party hats, noisemakers and a countdown with champagne toast at midnight when special New Year’s fireworks will light up the sky. This is a separate ticket event, and guests will have the streets and clubs of Pleasure Island all to themselves. All partiers must be over 21. Over at the Universal Orlando Resort, the 21 and up crowd will be reveling in the New Year at Universal’s City Walk, your “ultimate party destination.” This party features admission and live bands performing in all of CityWalk’s clubs, including Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville, Pat O’Briens, CityJazz and more. The one price admission gives guests an all-you-can-eat gourmet buffet with favorites like filet mignon, jumbo shrimp, crab legs, paella and mouth-watering desserts. Party hats and noisemakers will be provided to help guests ring in the new year with the fabulous fireworks show and champagne toast at midnight. And if that all wasn’t enough, this party features special live performances by the B-52s and Foreigner! So, if ending 2007 at one of your favorite Orlando theme parks isn’t what you would prefer, check out the great bar-hopping street parties at Downtown Disney’s Pleasure Island or Universal’s City Walk. If live music and great food is how you think of New Year’s Eve, either one of these parties would be great for you. If the theme park route is more your style, then check out the great discount prices on Orlando theme park tickets at OrlandoFunTickets.com. We are your number one source for cheap theme park tickets during the holidays and all year round! Labels: Dancing, Holidays in Oralndo, New Years at Disney, Nighttime Entertainment, Orlando Attractions, Pleasure Island New Years Eve
Macys Floats Vacationing at Universal Studios
 The holidays are filled with tradition and celebration, and this is even more evident as all of the Orlando area theme parks gear up for their own annual celebrations of the season. The Universal Orlando Resort is no exception, and they have pulled out all the stops to help you celebrate your holiday vacation this year. Decorations and special events can be found literally across the resort, with holiday shows, giant Christmas trees and carolers spicing up that seasonal atmosphere. OrlandoFunTickets.com is joining in the fun too. Everyone wants a good deal while holiday shopping, and discount theme park tickets are our specialty. We are your number one Christmas source for cheap theme park tickets, so let us make your holiday vacation happy and economical! To help make your Orlando holiday trip even more special, Universal Studios has partnered up with one of the most famous names in holidays and shopping. The Macy’s Holiday Parade frolics through Universal’s own New York City streets each night. Guests will recognize the signature Macy’s balloons and authentic floats, as the Parade brings that New York City Thanksgiving feeling right into the heart of your vacation. Unique street performers and a variety of marching bands make this one of the most entertaining holiday events in town. Besides that, this year’s extravaganza features a brand new Simpsons family float and RV in honor of the expected 2008 opening of the new Simpsons attraction at Universal Studios.  Along with the parade, the holidays are celebrated in different ways on the live stages around the park. The Blues Brothers will be jamming to some rock and roll Christmas tunes and the snow will start falling down on Delancey Street. The KidZone Holiday Show has guests dancing and singing along to all of their favorite holiday hits. And the little ones will have their December dreams come true at Barney’s Christmas Show, where they can clap and sing along as Barney and his famous friends perform A Day In The Park With Barney™. The Universal Orlando Resort is lighting up for Christmas and getting ready to party on through New Years Day. Their special holiday celebrations start on December 7 and run right up until January 1. OrlandoFunTickets.com has all of the tickets you will need for Universal and all of Orlando’s theme parks at the holidays and for the rest of the year too!
Labels: Christmas Celebration, Christmas in Orlando, Macy's Holiday Parade, Orlando Attractions, Orlando Tickets, Universal Orlando, Universal Studios Orlando, Universal Tickets
|
|
|
|
