Category Archives: Universal Orlando Resort

Enjoy Delicious Dining at Urban Pantry at Universal’s Aventura Hotel

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(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

I hope you’re hungry! Universal’s Aventura Hotel is about to introduce something new and different to Orlando’s theme park food scene.

Urban Pantry will be Aventura Hotel’s modern food hall. Here your taste buds will be hit with diverse flavors, fresh ingredients and globally inspired dishes. Best of all? This eclectic collection of amazing eats will all be available at Universal’s newest Prime Value hotel.

Inspired by world-famous food halls and markets found in major cities like San Francisco and London, Urban Pantry fits perfectly into the contemporary and stylish vibe at Aventura Hotel. While you may want to enjoy the rooftop bar and grill, Bar 17 Bistro at night, Urban Pantry will be the perfect gathering spot for breakfast, lunch and dinner. With plenty of seating and large floor-to-ceiling windows, you can take in the natural sunlight and enjoy a view of the pool while you eat.

Here’s a sneak peak of some of the delicious options you’ll find at Urban Pantry.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

The Roast Station will feature entrees like cuts of lamb and prime rib, plus chicken, salmon and paella. You can pair these dishes with sides like quinoa, couscous, roasted marble potatoes, spinach and seasonal veggies.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

At the Pizza Station you can watch chefs create mouthwatering pizzas topped with gourmet ingredients like prosciutto and smoked salmon. These are baked in high-temperature stone ovens with seating designed to let you watch your pie in the making. For dessert, indulge in a gelato sandwich, a pressed sweet bread bun filled with hazelnut chocolate and gelato.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

The Wok Station lets you customize a hearty, healthy bowl of fresh ingredients. Choose stir fry or ramen-style, then pick your protein like steak, chicken, shrimp or tofu and top it off with your choice of vegetables. This station will also offer a selection of sushi and appetizers like tuna poke, crab spring rolls and dumplings.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

The Burger Station serves delicious handhelds with your choice of grass-fed beef, Black Angus beef, turkey burger or vegetarian burger garnished with an assortment of cheeses and toppings like aged Gouda, bacon and fig jam, and roasted mushrooms. If you’re craving seafood, dive into the Florida Grouper sandwich. Don’t forget to add a pickle, French fries and savory dipping sauces.

You’ll also have the option of pairing your Urban Pantry dish with a perfectly paired drink. Each food station will serve wine and beer themed to the cuisine and designed to complement the flavors of your meal.  For example, you can get Asian beer and sake at the Wok Station.

Almost everything at Urban Pantry will be made from scratch, which means you’ll get the highest-quality, best-tasting food. Not only will the food taste delicious – with select organic and all-natural ingredients, it will be good for you, too! And if you have special dietary needs, you can talk directly to the chef cooking your meal, so it’s made just right.

I can’t wait for you to try all the amazing food and drink at Universal’s Aventura Hotel. Be sure to book your room soon so you don’t miss out on this limited time offer! If you book a four-night stay or longer, you’ll receive a free $50 hotel dining credit so you can try all of this mouthwatering food.

Check back soon for all-new details on the highly-anticipated Bar 17 Bistro. This rooftop experience featuring unique food and drinks will soon be a must do on my list and I’m sure, yours as well. And tell us in the comments below what your first stop will be when you visit the Urban Pantry.

Thanks Universal Orlando Resort Blog!

Six Things for Couples to Enjoy Without Kids at Universal Orlando Resort

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(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Universal Orlando Resort may be known as a family destination, but with a handful of top-notch hotels and a diverse dining and bar scene, it’s also a place primed for couples. Headed there for your a special occasion or just a fun time out together? Here are six things that we think couples will enjoy without kids at Universal Orlando Resort.

Stay at the Hard Rock Hotel

Universal Orlando has five unique hotels to choose from (and a sixth coming in August). But the sexiest of all – and, perhaps more importantly, the one that seems to attract fewer small children – is the Hard Rock Hotel. With its music memorabilia-lined interior and sophisticated boutique vibe, it’s a rock ‘n roll getaway like nothing else.

The 12,000-square-foot pool has regular live music and is equipped with an underwater sound system. The Palm is a great spot for dinner, and the Velvet Bar appeals to the late night crowd looking for a libation or midnight snack. Big fan of rock ‘n roll? Check out “The Sound of Your Stay” program, where the hotel will loan you an electric guitar or bass to jam out during your stay, or let you borrow a turntable with a selection of records.

In between exploring the theme parks and enjoying the pool, you can browse the hotel’s music memorabilia, all artfully woven into the interior design plan.

Pro Tip: Plan your visit to overlap with the last Thursday of the month from January through October, then book your ticket for a Velvet Session. The lobby of the hotel is transformed into an intimate live music venue where world-famous bands come to play.

Get an Exclusive Tour of the Parks

 Want to experience Universal Orlando  just the two of you with a private tour guide? Book a VIP Experience, and you’ll be assigned a personal guide to escort you through the parks. You’ll get exclusive perks like private entrances at attractions throughout Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure, gain insider information and see parts of Universal that many park-goers never get to see.

Pool Hop Around the Resort

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

If you’re staying on-site at one of the Universal Orlando’s hotels, you can use the other hotels’ amenities, too. Take advantage of that and spend the day hopping from hotel to hotel. Check out Loews Sapphire Falls Resort‘s water slide, Cabana Bay Beach’s 50s retro poolside fun, Loews Royal Pacific Resort‘s sparkling lagoon and the private, adults-only pool at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel.

Get Your Pamper On

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

What better way to signal you’re on a real vacation than checking into Mandara Spaat Loews Portofino Bay Hotel for a couples’ treatment? The Italian-inspired property conceals a 13,000-square-foot spa that’s outfitted with 14 private treatment rooms, two couples’ rooms, a hydro-therapy pool and more.

Go Out on the Town

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

One of the many perks of staying on-property at Universal Orlando is the easy access to Universal CityWalk, which is a quick stroll from the Hard Rock Hotel.

There, you can sip margaritas at Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food, indulge in a feast for your taste buds at The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen, and finish the night taking the stage at Rising Star, where a full band backs your karaoke efforts.

Embrace Your Inner Child

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

So you don’t have children? That doesn’t mean you can’t be the kid yourself – at least for a short time. You’re on vacation now: Lower your inhibitions, order that Waturi Fusion ice cream at Universal’s Volcano Bay and let loose while you soak up hours, if not days, of theme park fun with your significant other in tow.

Have you enjoyed Universal Orlando Resort as a couple? Share with us what some of your favorite things to do together during your visit.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, Universal Studios Travel Agency of the Year 2010, 2011, & 2012. She would love to help you plan your next Universal Orlando vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Enjoy Cotton Candy at Honk Honkers at Universal’s Islands of Adventure

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(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Can you imagine cotton candy bigger than your head? Today is your day—you’re off to a scrumptious new place to play! Honk Honkers is the sweetest new addition to Seuss Landing in Universal’s Islands of Adventure. This new store contains a special treat that’s almost too cute to eat: gourmet cotton candy.

The best part is that each sweet bundle of spun sugar is completely customizable to your heart’s desire. You’ll begin by choosing between a unicorn pop or a paper cone as your base.

Next you pick your flavor. There are six delicious flavors to try including:

  • Blue Raspberry
  • Pink Vanilla
  • Jolly Berry
  • Apple
  • Grape
  • Birthday Cake

Finish off your gourmet cotton candy by topping it with rock candy, sprinkles, animal crackers, marshmallow bits, chocolate bites, chocolate cookies or chocolate sprinkles.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Come one, come all and experience the spectacle that is Honk Honkers! The new store is located next to Snookers & Snookers Sweet Candy Cookers and includes a wide variety of candy in addition to the scrumptious cotton candy.

Will you succeed in trying the new gourmet cotton candy? Yes! You will, indeed!

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, Universal Studios Travel Agency of the Year 2010, 2011, & 2012. She would love to help you plan your next Universal Orlando vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Kids Will Love the New Jurassic World Kids Suites at Loews Royal Pacific Resort

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(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

If you have dinosaur loving kids, they probably dream of walking amongst dinosaurs after watching the Jurassic Park films. It can became reality when they ride Jurassic Park River Adventure and visit the Jurassic Park Discovery Center at Universal’s Islands of Adventure. Plus, there’s now a new Jurassic World experience for kids to enjoy at Universal Orlando Resort.

Cue the music… The new Jurassic World Kids Suites at Loews Royal Pacific Resort will transport little ones right to the island of Isla Nublar from Jurassic World and allow them the opportunity to sleep among the dinosaurs! The second you open the paddock door, you have entered the world where Velociraptors, Pterodactyls and even the Indominus Rex roam.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

When your kids lay down in bed, they’ll feel as if they have stepped right into their very own gyrosphere ride, maneuvering through the jungle terrain. The carpet will help guide them as it looks like the valley map with trail markings the gyrospheres followed. And the bedding is made to look like a test tube that was used to create new species of dinosaurs just like in Jurassic World. I wonder which new dinosaur species they’ll come up with in the new Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom movie…

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

The kids’ suites sleep up to five with one king bed, two twin beds and an option for a rollaway bed. Mom and dad can have a little privacy, while kids can have some fun in their own attached themed room. The kids’ room only opens into the adults’ room, connected via a door modeled after the dinosaur enclosure.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Now, you can take a prehistoric adventure 65 million years in the making by experiencing Jurassic Park inside Islands of Adventure and have your kids sleep among the dinosaurs in these new Jurassic World kids’ suites. One of the benefits of staying at Loews Royal Pacific Resort is that you’ll also receive a Universal Express Unlimited two-park pass for everyone in your party, which allows you to skip the regular lines on rides like Jurassic Park River Adventure.

Click here to discover more about the Jurassic World Kids’ Suites and don’t miss out on watching Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom, in theaters June 22, 2018.

And remember… If something chases you… run.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, Universal Studios Travel Agency of the Year 2010, 2011, & 2012. She would love to help you plan your next Universal Orlando vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Top Ten Reasons to Stay at a Universal Hotel at Universal Orlando Resort

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(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

It truly pays to stay where you play. Here are the top ten reasons to stay at a Universal hotel during your next Universal Orlando Resort vacation, which will make you never want to leave.

1. Immerse Yourself into a Themed New World

Just because you’ve left the parks doesn’t mean you have to go back to reality. Keep living your best vacation because our hotels are themed to perfection:

Loews Portofino Bay Hotel – relax within an Italian seaside village.

Hard Rock Hotel – live like a rock star.

Loews Royal Pacific Resort – escape to a South Seas paradise.

Loews Sapphire Falls Resort – unwind in a Caribbean island retreat.

Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort – revel in retro fun with a Florida twist.

COMING IN 2018: Universal’s Aventura Hotel – experience a new, modern lifestyle.

2. Earn that Unlimited Free Universal Express Access

Three of the five hotels on property—Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel, and Loews Royal Pacific Resort—include Universal Express Unlimited access with their stay. They’re valid at all attractions at Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure. That means you get to skip the regular lines and ride more rides during your time in park.

3. Quick and Easy Transportation

Whether you’re taking the famous water taxis, shuttle bus or walking, you’re never more than a few minutes away from all the action of Universal Orlando’s three theme parks. That extra hour of sleep in the morning will work wonders.

4. Three Words: Early Park Admission

…Or don’t sleep in and take advantage of Early Park Admission. Each day, one or more theme parks and their most popular attractions open an hour before the scheduled time for on-site hotel guests. Those parks and their attractions include:

Universal Studios Florida

Despicable Me Minion Mayhem

Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts

Universal’s Island of Adventure

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey

Flight of the Hippogriff

Universal’s Volcano Bay

Volcano Bay rides, slides, and attractions are available during Early Park Admission.

5. All the Amenities

It’s true – we’ve got all the things you didn’t know you needed. Looking to rejuvenate at the spa? Got it. Want to work off the big dinner you had last night? We have complimentary fitness facilities. Craving some friendly competition? Step into our game room, my friend.

6. Afternoons at the Pool

After a long morning of exploring the parks, it’s about time to grab a drink and pull up an inner tube. Our refreshing hotel pools will help you rest up before heading back out for the evening’s festivities.

Pro Tip: spend a day pool-hopping and see every resort’s oasis, from the sand-entry at Portofino Bay Hotel all the way to the lazy river at Cabana Bay Beach Resort.

7. Surprises only Universal Orlando can Provide

Name another hotel where you might be greeted by a Minion… We’ll wait…

8. Free Delivery of that Merch You’ve Been Eyeing

And don’t worry about carrying large, heavy bags. Have your souvenirs delivered directly to your hotel.

9. Dance the Night Away at Universal CityWalk with a Complimentary Party Pass

If you’re looking for a night out, your room key gets you club-to-club access at Rising Star, the groove, and Red Coconut Club in CityWalk throughout the duration of your stay. No cover charge!

10. Are You Not Entertained?!

As if all of the above wasn’t enough, staying on-site puts you right in the heart of the best entertainment Orlando has to offer.

Feast and hula at Loews Royal Pacific Resort’s Wantilan Luau, party island-style during the Caribbean Carnaval dinner show at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort, watch a live show at Hard Rock Hotel’s Velvet Sessions, enjoy an evening out under the stars at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel’s  Harbor Nights, or head over to CityWalk and dance to the beat of the famous Blue Man Group.

There’s no question you’re going to be staying here during your next vacation. Which resort is the object of your affection?

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, Universal Studios Travel Agency of the Year 2010, 2011, & 2012. She would love to help you plan your next Universal Orlando vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

19 Must Do’s in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando

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(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Are you planning to visit The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort? If you are, you’re probably already planning how to spend your days.

Which one do you go to first: Hogsmeade in Universal’s Islands of Adventure or Diagon Alley in Universal Studios Florida?

As you start the countdown to your visit, make sure to add to your list these 19 things that are must do’s in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort.

    1. Stand outside 12 Grimmauld Place and keep an eye out for Kreacher.
    2. Enjoy traditional British food including cottage pie, fish & chips, and bangers & mash at Three Broomsticks or Leaky Cauldron.
    3. Marvel at the multitude of jokes, gags, and gifts at Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes.
    4. Trade your Muggle money for Gringotts bank notes.
    5. Enjoy scoops of soft serve ice-creams at Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour.
    6. Face off with You-Know-Who on Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts.
    7. Catch live performances throughout the day in Carkitt Market.
    8. Try all 20 flavors of Bertie Bott’s Every-Flavour Beans.
    9. Have a chat with with the Knight Bus Conductor and Dre Head.
    10. Travel on the Hogwarts Express.
    11. Enjoy the Great Feast at Three Broomsticks in Hogsmeade.
    12. Try tasty sweets at Honeydukes or Sugarplum’s Sweetshop.
    13. Keep your ears open to the cries of Moaning Myrtle.
    14. Mail letters with a special Hogsmeade postmark from the Owl Post.
    15. Make your way through the corridors of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
    16. Fly above Hogwarts on Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey.
    17. Try a Butterbeer treat.
    18. See a wand choose a wizard at Ollivanders.
    19. Repeat.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, Universal Studios Travel Agency of the Year 2010, 2011, & 2012. She would love to help you plan your next Universal Orlando vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

The Best Wizarding World of Harry Potter Food at Universal Orlando

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(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Whether you’re headed to Hogsmeade or Diagon Alley, you can experience a magical culinary journey in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter! The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is full of unique snacks, meals and even desserts that will place you right into the story! Here is a complete list of the best Wizarding World of Harry Potter food that you have to try as you eat your way through Universal Orlando Resort.

Outlined below is a route fit for a wizard on a break from school headed home for holiday. You’ll start in Hogsmeade at Universal’s Islands of Adventure and then venture by way of the Hogwarts Express to Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida. There is so much to try along the way!

Hogsmeade to Diagon Alley…

1. Traditional English Breakfast from Three Broomsticks

Schools out and you feel like royalty. Step into Three Broomsticks for your usual: the Traditional Breakfast. And don’t forget your Hot Tea. 

2. Fresh Fruit from The Magic Neep Cart

Fruit makes for a refreshing snack to hold you until lunch and keep you cool as you run any last errands while you’re in town.

3. Three Broomsticks Shepherd’s Pie

Leaving to board the train for Holiday means you won’t be back for a while so you might as well have a satisfying send off. Nothing beats the Shepherd’s Pie at Three Broomsticks.

4. No-Melt Ice Cream from Honeydukes

What better delicacy to tip towards the castle than the mysterious pumpkin-flavoured No Melt Ice Cream? Every bite stays fluffy and creamy as you wait for the train!

5. The Leaky Cauldron Fish & Chips

A plate of crispy Fish & Chips makes for a warm welcome home.

6. The Leaky Cauldron Butterbeer Potted Cream: While you’re at the Leaky Cauldron, don’t forget to end your dinner with a proper dessert. A mason jar full of Butterbeer Potted Cream is sure to please every Butterbeer enthusiast. 

7. The Fountain of Fair Fortune Otter’s Fizzy Orange Juice: Diagon Alley makes for the perfect evening stroll and is even better with a drink in hand. Swing by The Fountain of Fair Fortune for both non-alcoholic and alcoholic varieties. Pictured above is the Otter’s Fizzy Orange Juice (non-alcoholic).

8. Say Goodnight with a Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes Skiving Snack Box: Three drawers full of delicious treats to munch on as the night comes to a close. Sweet dreams traveler, you’re home.

Or… in this route below, you can follow in the footsteps of a wizard heading from Diagon Alley and London to Hogsmeade and the Hogwarts castle, eating and snacking along the way.

Diagon Alley to Hogsmeade…

1. Egg, Leek & Mushroom Pasty at Leaky Cauldron: A warm biscuit like pastry filled with scrambled eggs and veggies is a delicious way to start the day. 

2. Sugarplum’s Sweetshop Butterbeer Fudge & Chocolate Fudge: It’s only fitting that you dip into Diagon Alley for last minute school supplies. A few morsels of Butterbeer and Chocolate Fudge are perfect to snack on while you shop.

3. Ploughman’s Platter at the Leaky Cauldron: Is it lunch, or perhaps brunch? Either way, Ploughman’s Platter serves up a fresh array of cheeses, bread, veggies and even scotch eggs (hard-boiled eggs covered in crispy sausage—yes, these exist!).

4. Florean Fortescue’s Earl Grey & Lavender Ice Cream: Afternoon tea, ice cream style. This is the last stop before you exit Diagon Alley, so why not leave on a sweet note?

5. Jacket Potato from London Taxi Cart: London is home of the Jacket Potato. Choose from Loaded, Broccoli and Cheddar, Bean and Cheese, or Shepherd’s Pie topping. It’s the perfect pre-train snack, or enjoy it while on the train!

6. Chocolate Frog from Honeydukes: Welcome to Hogsmeade! Grab a sweet treat to hold you until dinner. After your train ride, you just might be craving a chocolate frog!

7. Great Feast Platter from Three Broomsticks: Gather around the table with your traveling companions. The Great Feast is piled high with both chicken and ribs, separated only by morsels of roasted potatoes and vegetables. Don’t forget it comes with salad too!

8. Three Broomsticks Fresh Baked Apple Pie: Warm spiced apples under a sweet drizzled crumble. Big enough to share…or keep to yourself and be very happy.

Travel Tip: Refer to this guide next time you’re in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort and want an authentic dining experience.

Must be 21 years of age or older with valid identification to purchase or drink alcoholic beverages at Universal Orlando Resort.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, Universal Studios Travel Agency of the Year 2010, 2011, & 2012. She would love to help you plan your next Universal Orlando vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Universal Orlando’s Rock the Universe 2018 Tickets Now On Sale

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(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

I’m so excited to share that tickets for Universal Orlando’s Rock the Universe 2018 are on sale! Now is the time to start making your plans to attend Florida’s biggest Christian music festival featuring two spectacular days of uplifting music and worship, September 7 and 8, 2018 at Universal Studios Florida. Throughout the weekend, you can enjoy live concerts by 12 of Christian music’s biggest names, attend autograph sessions with some of the artists, experience some your favorite attractions and so much more.

To catch all the action, your best bet is to take advantage of the 2-Park Rock Your Weekend Park-to-Park Ticket. For less than $43 per day (plus tax), this amazing deal enables you to visit Universal Studios Florida or Universal’s Islands of Adventure (one park per day) during the day, and enjoy inspiring tunes each night from some of the top artists in Christian music. Casting Crowns, TobyMac, Jesus Culture,  and more are set to take the stage. Here’s the full lineup for Rock the Universe 2018:

Friday, Sept. 7

  • TobyMac
  • Jesus Culture
  • Lauren Daigle
  • Red
  • Zach Williams
  • Trip Lee

Saturday, Sept. 8

  • Casting Crowns
  • For KING & COUNTRY
  • Family Force 5
  • Brandon Heath
  • Andy Mineo
  • Ryan Stevenson

Several other ticket options are also available to ensure you can rock out at Rock the Universe 2018, including 1 and 2-night event tickets, discounted tickets for Annual Passholders, and special rates and packages for youth groups.

Plus, don’t forget to add a Rock the Universe Express Pass so you can skip the regular lines at all your favorite attractions.

I can’t wait to see you at Rock the Universe 2018. It’s going to be a blast! With Disney no longer offering Night of Joy, you won’t want to miss Rock the Universe 2018!

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, Universal Studios Travel Agency of the Year 2010, 2011, & 2012. She would love to help you plan your next Universal Orlando vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Top Five Thrill Rides at Volcano Bay at Universal Orlando Resort

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(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Looking for thrills this summer? Universal’s Volcano Bay is perfect! Sure it’s a great place to rent a cabana, bring a book, enjoy the wave pool at Waturi Beach, and let the kids play at Runamukka Reef and Tot Tiki Reef. However, there are a number of exciting adventures awaiting for you, too! Here are the top five thrill rides at Volcano Bay at Universal Orlando Resort.

1. Krakatau Aqua Coaster

17-27295 VB17 Volcano Bay Assets 100417
Krakatau Aqua Coaster
Universals Volcano Bay VB

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

When you arrive at Volcano Bay (right when the park opens, of course), head straight for the Krakatau Aqua Coaster. It’s one of the most popular rides at Volcano Bay. Is it a raft ride? Yes! Is it a coaster? Yes! It’s a truly unique combination of the two, and no matter how many times you experience it, the thrills never get old.

2. Ko’okiri Body Plunge

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

After conquering the aqua coaster, head around to the Ko’okiri Body Plunge. Climb to the top of the volcano, get into a capsule, and wait for the drop door to open. Scary, but how can you not do it? The 125-foot drop is over in a flash, but it’s one of the most thrilling attractions at Volcano Bay.

3. Honu ika Moana Slides

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Honu and ika Moana are actually two different, multi-person slides that depart from the same platform. The green slide is ika Moana. It’s great for kids and people looking for moderate thrills. Just sit down, enjoy the twists and turns, and get wet! Honu offers pure exhilaration though, as it sends you up two massive walls!

4. Ohyah & Ohno Drop Slides

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Have you always taken it for granted that water slides deposited you into a shallow pool at the end – a nice, graceful exit? Not Ohyah and Ohno! You exit Ohyah four feet above the pool, and Ohno drops you six feet! Make sure you experience at least one on your next visit.

5. Kala & Tai Nui Serpentine Body Slides

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Just past Ohyah and Ohno are the Kala and Tai Nui Body Slides. If you liked the Ko’okiri but wished that it was longer and curvier, you’re set! Walk up to the top of the slides, stand over the trap door, listen to the drums get louder and louder, and then drop and twist all the way down. Always my favorite way to end the day – one last splash before heading back to Waturi Beach to dry off.

Those are just the top five thrill rides at Volcano Bay. You’ll love the rest of the park as well – even if the thrills are slightly more subtle. The Punga Racer mat slides and Taniwha Tubes – Tonga & Raki are always fun, as are the Maku Puihi round raft slides – especially Puihi, where gravity seems to disappear briefly.

Summer is the perfect time to unleash your inner thrill seeker. Which ride do you want to go on first?

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, Universal Studios Travel Agency of the Year 2010, 2011, & 2012. She would love to help you plan your next Universal Orlando vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Ten Fun Facts About Blue Man Group at Universal Orlando Resort

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(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

The past 10 years have been an exciting decade withBlue Man Group at Universal Orlando Resort. The partnership and creative collaboration between these two teams has brought incredible experiences to life for their guests. Blue Man Group’s nightly show in Universal CityWalk draws you into their world of unique music, art and humor and leaves you wanting more. Here are 10 things that you may not know about Blue Man Group at Universal Orlando Resort.

1. Experiencing Universal – Blue Man Style

Blue Man Group has gone beyond the theater at CityWalk and across our destination throughout the years. From hanging out on top of the globe, to riding Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, and most recently, checking out Universal Orlando’s on-site hotels.

2. You Can Meet a Blue Man!

As part of the Blue Man Group VIP experience, you can come face-to-face (watch out for the paint) with a Blue Man and get a photo with them backstage!

3. Keepin’ It Fresh

One of the great things about Blue Man Group is that, thanks to the guest interactions, every show is different. Over the years, the show has constantly evolved to keep the content fresh.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

4. Autism Speaks

Blue Man Group has given back to the community throughout the years, including their work with Autism Speaks. Every year, they perform sensory-friendly shows for individuals and families affected by autism. The next autism-friendly performance here in Orlando is on Dec. 9. Get more info here.

5. They Have Their Own Ice Cream

The 10-year milestone has even found its way to the Cold Stone Creamery in CityWalk with a special Blue Man Group ice cream. Swing by after the show and grab a cup of this sweet treat, Blue Man Scoop, consisting of cotton candy ice cream, white chocolate chips, yellow cake and marshmallows (of course).

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

6. Shake Your Booty – 65 Different Ways

Over 65 different words are used for “butt” in the show finale. Educational and fun all wrapped in one. Some of my favorites: “Bubble Pop”, “Sonic Boom”, and “Your Carry-On Luggage”.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

7. Maintaining That “Just-Stepped-Out-Of-A-Painting” Look

The Blue Men wear a specially-colored grease paint on their heads, which never dries. This allows them to keep a wet and gooey appearance throughout the show. They use 60 cakes of makeup each week, totaling over 3,100 cakes each year!

8. Speaking of Paint…

One of Blue Man Group’s specialties is the art they create with paint during their show. They use over 12 gallons of tempera paint each week, totaling 624 gallons each year. Fun tip: You can purchase a paint-splattered drumhead that’s been used in the show.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

9. Marshmallows, Cereal and Chocolate, oh my!

The Blue Men definitely have a sweet tooth. They use around 300 marshmallows per week, or over 16,000 each year; over 20 boxes of cereal each week, totaling over 1,000 boxes each year; and they eat 30 pieces of white chocolate per week, 1,560 throughout the year.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

10. That’s One Big Drum

When you think of Blue Man Group, the first thing that comes to mind is probably music.

Resident Musical Director Dave Traver has been with Blue Man Group for 18 years and part of the Universal Orlando show since it opened. “The creative spirit that surrounds the show still hasn’t escaped me and continues to inspire me,” Traver said. “After all these years, the music still resonates with me and I love playing off the energy of our diverse audience here at Universal Orlando.”

To create this epic music, 47 instruments are used in the show, 26 of which are drums. The Big Drum in the show is 60” in diameter, and the mallets that are used are custom built in-house.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Cheers to 10 years of cereal and marshmallows, late arrivals, paint splatters, and rockin’ music! Ten years’ worth of Universal Orlando visitors know what Blue Man Group is really about.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, Universal Studios Travel Agency of the Year 2010, 2011, & 2012. She would love to help you plan your next Universal Orlando vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote.