From popular film franchises Frozen and King Kong to Orlando’s tallest, fastest and longest roller coaster, the theme park capital of the world is a destination where unique experiences mix with activities specifically for kids and families.

While Orlando has long been known as home to seven of the top theme parks in the world, Disney, Universal and SeaWorld constantly evolve each year with one-of-a-kind attractions, resorts and retail, dining and entertainment complexes.

With vehicles diving into movie magic and immersive themed environments, Orlando’s newest openings set the stage for another year of millions of unforgettable guest experiences that can only be found in Orlando.

Things to Do in Orlando in 2016

• Walt Disney World Resort will complete a multi-year transformation of Downtown Disney into Disney Springs. Featuring an eclectic and contemporary mix from Disney and other noteworthy brands, this new expansion will double the number of shops, restaurants and other venues for guests to explore, to more than 150 establishments. The new area will include already announced restaurants:

• The Edison, similar to its sister location in Los Angeles, is the third new venue announced to open at Disney Springs. With a theme that centers around a 1920s-period electric company with live entertainment, classic American food and craft cocktails, the industrial gothic space will have 35-foot ceilings and a number of themed areas.

• Frontera Fresca also opens at Disney Springs, the creation of celebrity Chef Rick Bayless, a six-time James Beard Foundation award winner. Known for his authentic Mexican cuisine, Bayless’ menu includes specialties such as hand-crafted tortas, tacos, salads, fresh-made guacamole and classic Mexican braised meat entrees, all crafted with his time-honored recipes.

• Homecoming: Florida Kitchen and Southern Shine is celebrity Chef Art Smith’s new restaurant opening in summer at Disney Springs. The James Beard Foundation award winner was born and reared in the town of Jasper, Fla., and after 25 years of preparing award-winning meals for celebrities and heads of state and appearing on television, he is making Florida his home once again. The rustic-chic restaurant will feature Southern classics and whimsical cocktails, punches and coolers.

• STK planned to open in early in the year, an upscale steakhouse that blends two concepts into one-the modern steakhouse and a chic lounge. Features include a live DJ, high-energy atmosphere and a sleek environment designed to encourage guests to interact and mingle.

• Universal Orlando Resort announced a new groundbreaking attraction opening in summer at Universal’s Islands of Adventure. “Skull Island: Reign of Kong” will honor one of the most monumental figures in movie history, King Kong. Guests will board large vehicles and explore ancient temple structures while encountering hostile natives and fending off unspeakable terrors.

• SeaWorld Orlando announced plans for Mako, a brand new 200-foot-tall coaster opening in summer. Named for one of the ocean’s fastest known sharks, it will be Orlando’s tallest, fastest, and longest roller coaster, reaching speeds of 73 mph as it races along 4,760 feet of steel track. SeaWorld’s new hypercoaster will be the centerpiece of the newly themed two-acre plaza. The surrounding realm will be fully shark themed, providing guests with the opportunity to learn about the impact humans have on sharks and why these animals are critical to the environment.

• Universal Orlando Resort and Loews Hotels & Resorts have announced plans to build the Loews Sapphire Falls Resort. It will be the fifth onsite hotel at Universal Orlando Resort, featuring 1,000 rooms and suites with a casual Caribbean theme, built around a lagoon and towering waterfall. The resort is expected to open in the summer.

• Epcot guests will be able to visit the kingdom of Arendelle when the highly anticipated attraction “Frozen Ever After” opens in the Norway Pavilion. The family adventure welcoming guests to the magical world of “Frozen” will feature the popular story of the royal sisters, hit songs and new technology for an icy trek that is sure to warm hearts. Once onboard their boat, guests will visit Arendelle for the Winter in Summer Celebration.

• On Soarin’ Around the World guests on board the popular Soarin’ attraction will journey to far-flung lands and fly above some of the world’s most unique natural landscapes and man-made wonders when the new Soarin’ Around the World makes its debut at Epcot.

• Sunset Kilimanjaro Safaris, the popular Kilimanjaro Safaris attraction at Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park will be extended for a new nighttime adventure. Guests will travel through the African savanna amid the magically extended orange glow of the setting sun and discover two species new to the attraction: African wild dogs and hyenas.

• “Rivers of Light” is an innovative experience unlike anything ever seen in a Disney park, combining live performances, floating lanterns, water screens and swirling animal imagery. “Rivers of Light” will magically come to life on the natural stage of Discovery River, delighting guests and truly capping off a full day of adventures at Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park.

• “The LEGO® Movie^TM 4D A New Adventure” is premiering at LEGOLAND® Florida Resort on Jan. 29. The new 4D animated film will feature the popular characters from The LEGO® Movie^TM and use elements such as wind, water, smoke and special lighting effects. The larger-than-life experience will bring the film’s main characters, Emmet and Wyldstyle, back together with their friends for another awesome adventure.

• Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex announced the addition of a new attraction, Heroes and Legends. Heroes and Legends will feature the U.S Astronaut Hall of Fame and showcase the heroism of America’s early space pioneers by inviting guests to vicariously experience the thrills and dangers of America’s earliest missions through high-tech elements and special effects, including simulated holograms and augmented reality.

• DoveCote in downtown Orlando is the next project for James Beard nominated chefs, James and Julie Petrakis, who also own Winter Park’s Ravenous Pig, Cask & Larder and Swine & Sons, set to open in spring. A twist on the Classic French brasserie, Chef Clayton Miller, a past winner of a “Best New Chef” award from Food & Wine magazine, who also worked under Thomas Keller at French Laundry, will oversee the kitchen.

• Cask & Larder at Orlando International Airport. Another expansion for the Petrakises, the airport outpost for the popular Winter Park restaurant that was named one of Esquire magazine’s Best New Restaurants in America in 2014, will open in the summer. The first restaurant at the airport to specialize in seasonally driven cuisine and locally sourced ingredients.

These are just a few of the things to do in Orlando in 2016!

As you know, we are huge Disney fans! Not only do we love the Disney Theme Parks, but we love the Disney Movies. We were so excited to hear about the new movie called Zootopia! This new movie is released on March 4 in a theater near you.

Check out this preview…it will make you giggle!

To get your family excited about Zootopia, we have some snowflake activity sheets. Have fun!

Zoo-Flake Flash

Zoo-Flake Yax

Zoo-Flake Judy Hopps

Zoo-Flake Nick Wilde

Are you excited to see Zootopia?

Universal Orlando… Isn’t that now called Hogwarts? Not quite, but The Wizarding World of Harry Potter has certainly been a major enhancement to Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. With such a renewed interest in visiting not only Harry Potter, but Springfield from the Simpsons TV show, The Transformers, Marvel Superheroes Island, and so much more.  With all of that, you will need to know some time-saving tips for your next visit!

#5 – Multiple Day plus Park to Park Tickets:

With The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at both Universal’s Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida, you will want a Park to Park Pass. This allows you to visit both parks on the same day. It also gives you the chance to ride the Hogwart’s Express train between the two parks. If you can fit it in, please ride the train both directions. It’s two completely different experiences. Additionally, if you have availability, schedule, at least, 2 days or more at Universal Parks. This will allow you to experience it all, including perhaps a Flaming Moe in Springfield.

#4 – Visit During Off-Peak Times

This is a tip that is easier to suggest then accomplish. It’s no surprise that the busiest times to visit are during the Summer, Christmas Break and Spring Break. With that said, I take my son out of school when he’s settled into his rhythm, and I am confident some time away won’t harm his education. I’m a true believer that life experiences are also education experiences. We aim for late September/Early October for most of our visits to Universal Orlando Resort.

#3 – Have a Show Plan!

This is key, along with planning your visit to Harry Potter (see tip #2) – you will want to immediately grab a park map and show times guide. Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure shows are once per day (generally) and you will want to plan your rides around the shows you want to see.

#2 – Strategize your visit to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is split between both Universal’s Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida You can experience Hogwarts Castle and the village of Hogsmeade in Univeral’s Islands of Adventure and Diagon Alley in Universal Studios Florida. Planning is the key to making sure you can get to do everything. The best time to visit Harry Potter is first thing in the morning and then late afternoon and evening.

#1 – Express Pass

The best tip I can give you is to stay at one of Universal Orlando’s on-site resorts. By staying on-site, you receive many perks such as one-hour early entry to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Additionally, at Hard Rock Hotel, Portofino Bay and Royal Pacific you’ll receive Unlimited Express Passes during your stay. These passes allow you to skip the lines at most rides (Harry Potter rides are not included) thereby allowing you to visit most rides quickly and get back to Hogwarts!

When Daniel isn’t sharing Planning and Time Saving Tips about Universal Studios, other Orlando Vacations and beyond, he can be found planning Vacations. Contact him today!

 

Disney World Pictures:  Disney Monorail

Aside from Cinderella Castle and Epcot’s Spaceship Earth, few attractions are more iconic to Walt Disney World than the monorail. Though it is primarily a mode of transportation around the World, the monorail can be an attraction in itself. Who doesn’t love to hear that safety announcement on board – Please stand clear of the doors. Por favor manténgase alejado de las puertas.

It’s even something you can do for free on a day when you don’t have park passes. Ride the monorail through some of the deluxe resort hotels and hop on and off as you like. My favorite part is heading to Epcot. You actually travel above some of the park on your way into the station, giving you a very special vantage point of the park.

The monorail has been open at Walt Disney World since day one, connecting the Ticket and Transportation Center with several hotels and the Magic Kingdom. A separate line was built to Epcot when that park opened. It may not be the fastest form of transportation around the World, but it is one of the most fun and unique. A trip to Disney is not complete for many until after a monorail ride.

Now, who’s with me in wishing that Disney will someday soon connect all four parks with the monorail?

Want to experience the monorail for yourself? Laura can help! Laura creates lasting memories by planning customized vacations all over the world. Not only does she find you the BEST accommodations with the BEST value, but she will fill in all the blanks for you, all at no cost to you. Traveling is her passion! Passing that magic on to your family is what fuels that passion! If you are ready to save on your next vacation, book with Laura at Laura@DestinationsInFlorida.com.

Walt Disney World’s Polynesian Resort Kiki Tiki’s

Experience a tropical bounty of magical activities for all ages, including expanded pool areas, a thrilling waterslide, white sandy beaches and spectacular views of nighttime firework spectaculars at the Magic Kingdom from Disney’s Polynesian Resort!

Splash down at the Lava Pool or lounge the day away around the leisure pool. The Lava Pool area was enhanced and expanded for 2015. A brand new feature added during the expansion is Kiki Tiki’s Splash and Play area. Designed for kids under 48 inches in height, Kiki Tiki’s at Disney’s Polynesian Resort includes playful tiki characters, bubbling jets, sprinkling fountains, a water slide and much more! Take a look with this brief tour:

For kids over 48 inches, adults and the whole family, experience island life at its most dramatic by frolicking in the sparkling waters around this active “volcano” in a 120,000 gallon, heated pool. Slip and slide your way down a 142-foot tubular waterslide that curves around the volcano. The expanded pool area features lush surroundings, a larger deck area and a whirlpool spa—plus special features like in-pool seating.

Disney’s Polynesian Resort Lava Pool has zero-depth entry design featuring gradual beach-style slope into the water instead of traditional pool steps, enhancing enjoyment by little ones and Guests with disabilities. Pool lifts and a specialized water wheelchair are available for guests with disabilities or limited mobility.

Nestled in a garden, the all-ages leisure pool offers a more tranquil swim for those looking to relax and unwind.

Hours and lifeguard availability vary by pool and are subject to change.

All Star Sports Resort Front Desk Tour

You will feel like the MVP when you walk the red carpet at Disney’s All Star Sports Resort! Every guest is welcomed like an all star when they enter the lobby to check in for their Walt Disney World vacation at Disney’s All Star Sports Resort.

Take a tour of the front desk with us:

About Disney’s All Star Sports Resort:

Get in the game at this Resort hotel that salutes the world of competitive sports, including baseball, basketball, football, surfing and tennis. Go the distance and don’t be afraid to celebrate your inner fan amid sporty décor starring some of your favorite Disney characters.

Giant-sized surfboards line this sprawling pool area perfect for catching some rays or taking a dip. For the little ones, a kiddie pool is located nearby.

Grand Slam Pool, an additional pool shaped like a baseball diamond, features a Goofy fountain that squirts water at swimmers.

Sack your hunger with a preset line-up of fan favorites—pizza, nachos, hot dogs, smoothies, gelato and more—or create your own burgers and pasta, all while TVs play popular Disney cartoons and sporting events amid ample indoor seating at the End Zone Food Court.

Complimentary movie screenings under the stars are available to Guests of Walt Disney World Resort hotels.

Complimentary bus transportation is available to transport you and your family to most areas on Walt Disney World property.

Enjoy complimentary transportation and luggage delivery to and from Orlando International Airport. Advance reservations are required. The Disney’s Magical Express bus stop is located just in front of the lobby.

Complimentary WiFi and parking are also available to all guests.

Disneyland Holidays Decor

The season sparkles even brighter during the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration, as holiday excitement meets Disney magic. Take a look at the special Disneyland Holidays decor throughout the Disneyland Parks!

Discover Special Delights just for Disneyland Holidays!

During the holiday season, Disneyland Park comes alive with fanciful decorations and enchanting attractions. ‘Tis the season to enjoy these sensational special highlights:

• A Christmas Fantasy Parade – Gather ‘round to watch some of your favorite Disney Characters—including Disney Princesses—join Santa and his reindeer for a merry, musical holiday salute.
• Jingle Cruise – We’re decking the hulls… and decks, as the iconic tropical excursion gets a fun and festive twist with lights, decorations and special Christmas-themed experiences.
• “it’s a small world” holiday – Marvel at the brightly decorated façade. Then sail through a world of joyous yuletide traditions and messages of goodwill from around the globe.
• Haunted Mansion Holiday – Tour the delightful, frightful mansion featuring a Christmas makeover courtesy of Jack Skellington from Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas.
• Paint the Night Parade – A million glowing lights, dazzling special effects and a host of Disney friends make spirits bright in a wondrous spectacle that will take your breath away.
• Disneyland Forever Fireworks – Get ready for an incredible immersive experience as Disneyland Park becomes the backdrop for spectacular sights and sounds. Watch in amazement as favorite Disney stories come alive all around you!
• Meet Santa Claus at Pooh’s Thotful Spot in Critter Country – at various times throughout the day.

Disney California Adventure has it’s share of special holiday touches too! Don’t miss the decor at Radiator Springs!

Key West and the Florida Keys is the southernmost place in the USA. The southern tip of Key West is about 90 miles from Cuba. The Florida Keys begin in Biscayne Bay and stretch southwest before ending at Dry Tortuga. There are 42 bridges that connect these different keys. The two largest islands are Key Largo and Big Pine Key.

Other well-known islands found in the Florida Keys are Islamorada, Marathon and Key West.

The Keys are very calm, serene and laid back place to visit. This is a great place to relax and rejuvenate your spirits. Key West is quaint and classic. Key West has a lot to offer with its great fishing, art, theater, Hemmingway’s Home, shopping, fine dining and lots of entertainment.

There are plenty of accommodations to choose from such as the best camping spots located in the country, luxurious resorts, quaint bed and breakfasts to rustic, family-owned lodgings.

Key Largo is known as the Diving Capital of the World since it has the most dazzling underwater parks and reefs.

Islamorada is known as the Sports Fishing Capital of the World. Plus with the variety of fish in the waters makes Islamorada a favorite of divers too.

Barbara Roach is your Personal Travel & Cruise Concierge. I have been organizing travel for years. We know the where to find the best deals, what really constitutes “value” and how you can make your vacation dollar stretch, especially when it comes to planning travel with kids.??Regardless of your destination, my goal is to exceed your every expectation and deliver you to a most enchanting vacation. We’re here for you too – just a phone call away; before, during and after your travel. For information concerning Disney or any other destination, please contact me at 401-323-1294 or email me at barbararoach@destinationsinflorida.com 

Universal Mardi Gras Concert Schedule Announced

Let the good times roll at Universal Orlando Resort’s 2016 Mardi Gras celebration. On select nights Feb. 6 through April 16, guests can top off their day in the theme parks with a family-friendly version of the famed “N’awlins” celebration at Universal Studios Florida – featuring delicious Cajun cuisine, a dazzling parade and 14 nights of exhilarating concerts from some of the biggest names in music.

This year’s star-studded concert lineup features a diverse array of talent with something for everyone to enjoy. Headliners include rock band Fall Out Boy, teen pop sensation Shawn Mendes, GRAMMY-nominated recording artist Adam Lambert, country singer-songwriter Hunter Hayes and legendary entertainer Diana Ross. For the complete line-up, see below.

This year’s Mardi Gras parade features 12 vibrant floats, including four new additions that celebrate different cultures and festivals from around the world – Venetian Carnival, Oktoberfest, 4^th of July and Rio de Janeiro Carnival. All of the exquisitely detailed Mardi Gras floats are engineered by Blaine Kern Artists, the same company that has been hand-crafting floats for the iconic New Orleans celebration since 1947.  Plus, guests can visit Universal Studios Florida’s very own French Quarter Courtyard to enjoy authentic Cajun cuisine and see performances by bands pulled straight from Bourbon Street.

The excitement of Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras celebration is included with admission to Universal Studios Florida. Guests can take advantage of a vacation package including the all-new Cabana Bay Beach Resort starting from $149 per adult, per night, tax inclusive. The package includes 3-night on-site hotel accommodations, a 2-day Park-to-Park ticket, Early Park Admission and more. For more information on this vacation package and Mardi Gras, visit www.universalorlando.com/mardigras.

2016 MARDI GRAS TALENT LINE-UP
Mardi Gras Event Dates	Headliners (performing in the Music Plaza)	New Orleans Bands (performing in the French Quarter)
February 6	Hunter Hayes	Rockin’ Jake
February 13	Diana Ross	Mississippi Rail Company
February 14	Barenaked Ladies	Mississippi Rail Company
February 20	Nate Ruess	Naughty Professor
February 27	Fall Out Boy	Cha Wa
March 5	Kool & the Gang	Beth McKee & the Sliders
March 12	The Fray	Soul Project
March 13	Adam Lambert	Soul Project
March 19	Shawn Mendes	The Big Easy Playboys
March 20	3 Doors Down	The Big Easy Playboys
March 26	REO Speedwagon	Gravy
April 2	T-Pain	Dirty Bourbon River Show
April 9	Jessie J	Daddy Mack Blues Band
April 16	Yandel	Big Al and The Heavyweights

Macy’s Holiday Parade at Universal Orlando

For many of us, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade® is a TV tradition this time of year. But most of us will never see the Macy’s Parade in person – or will we? Once the legendary New York City parade ends, many of its breathtaking balloons and floats are sent straight to us for Universal Studios Florida®’s very own holiday spectacular featuring marching bands, clowns, and an appearance by Santa himself! Afterwards, enjoy the spectacular tree lighting ceremony with music and a dazzling display of lights!

Watch the 2015 Macy’s Parade at Universal Studios Florida here:

Universal Studios Florida® comes alive during the holidays with balloons and floats beyond your imagination, marching bands, Santa, and seasonal sing-alongs for the little ones.

The fun continues with Grinchmas™ at Universal’s Islands of Adventure®, featuring the Grinchmas™ Who-liday Spectacular. Stay in the heart of the holidays at one of our spectacular on-site hotels. From special holiday buffets to visits from Santa and everything in between, there’s something cheerful for everyone to enjoy. Plus, on-site hotel guests enjoy exclusive theme park benefits that are sure to make your visit a merry one.

What do you think is the best part of the Macy’s Parade at Universal Studios Florida?