Category Archives: Universal Orlando Resort

New Universal Orlando Youth Program Offers Interactive Learning Experiences

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What happens when you take your physics textbook and turn it into a roller coaster?

Enter Your Classroom in Motion: A STEAM App Series, the latest Universal Orlando Youth Program.

Several programs make up this new series. Each one is unique and contains three parts:

  • Content-rich, pre-visit classroom lessons
  • Career-focused videos from NBC Learn
  • Thrilling in-park attraction and app-based experiences here at Universal Orlando Resort

And great news for teachers—the lessons all correlate with middle school and high school national and state education standards in STEAM concepts.

(STEAM is an educational approach that uses Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics to guide learning.)

I have had numerous educators confirm that when students are having fun with their work, learning is a natural outcome. To make the most of that, the series consists of the follow learning modules:

  • Transformers ROLL Out: Learn about the engineering principles of the 6 Degrees of Freedom. Then, reconstruct the ride vehicle’s motion sequences on TRANSFORMERS: The Ride-3D.
  • Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit Science: Work in small groups to collect data and measure speed at different points along the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit roller coaster. Then, use the data to prove the law of conservation of energy.
  • Kongtrol Panel: Use engineering principles to maneuver the ride vehicle around Skull Island: Reign of Kong.
  • Mummy Dig Site Detective: Use scientific observation to investigate curious discoveries at the dig site beneath Revenge of the Mummy.
  • Jurassic Paleobotany: Search for foliage in Jurassic Park using a digital map to collect photographic samples of Jurassic-era plants.

Your Classroom In Motion uses innovative software – exclusive to groups participating in the program – to give students hands-on learning lessons throughout Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure theme parks.

For students who love the performing arts, we also enhanced our existing workshop, Sound Design: Music and the Art of Foley. This energetic workshop gives students the chance to experience a day in the life of a working movie musician.

Band, choir or orchestra students can now sync music or choral arrangements and create sound effects and voiceovers to Illumination Entertainment’s Despicable Me and The Lorax.

Universal Orlando Resort is always ready to take students beyond the classroom and bring education to life. Contact us to learn how you can give your students a “day in the lab” like nothing else. Our Universe is your classroom!

If you’d like to bring your school group or band to Universal Orlando Resort, we can help you plan every details from accommodations to time in the theme parks and participation in your Universal Orlando Youth Program.

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. 

10 Unique Treats in Hogsmeade at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

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(Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

10 Unique Treats in Hogsmeade at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

By now, you’re probably familiar with the creamy, butterscotch concoction called Butterbeer. You may have even tossed back a glass or 10, and we don’t blame you – it’s life changing! But the next time you visit The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade at Universal’s Islands of Adventure, keep your wits about you… There are so many other magical things to consume. Here are some of the greatest treats in Hogsmeade at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort.

(Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Pumpkin Juice – The Three Broomsticks, Hog’s Head pub and Honeydukes

Pumpkin. Spice. Everything. Straight from the stories and perfect for winter (and really any season), this drink is also available exclusively at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Let the sweet, sweet pumpkin flavor wash over you as you stare happily at the collectible bottle you’ll be taking home.

(Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Hog’s Head Brew and Dragon Scale Beer – Hog’s Head Pub, The Three Broomsticks

PSA: There are three different beers created especially for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and they’re bloody brilliant! Kick back at the Hog’s Head Pub with Hog’s Head Brew, an Irish red. Or if you’d like an amber lager, try Dragon Scale. And collect them all when you hop the Hogwarts Express to Diagon Alley and take in a Wizard’s Brew.

(Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Something Sweet – Honeydukes

All of the glorious delicacies you fell in love with on paper now exist at Honeydukes for your taste buds’ pleasure!

  • Chocolate Frogs – Encounter the enchanting chocolates from Harry’s first trip to the trolley cart here at Hogsmeade, and start your own card collection. Dibs on Gilderoy Lockhart!
  • Bertie Bott’s Every-Flavour Beans – For the most adventurous of us, these candies ranging from delicious to disgusting provide quite the thrill. You may get lucky with tutti-frutti or marshmallow, you may experience the oddity of grass, or you could end up with – Alas! Earwax.
  • Exploding Bonbons – Next, devour some Exploding Bonbons: white chocolates with crunchy orange and pineapple-flavored centers.
  • Fizzing Whizzbees – Fizzing Whizzbees are milk chocolates with carbonated centers that erupt into a chorus of popping in your mouth.
  • Sherbet Lemons – Dumbledore’s favorite is also here for you to sample. These lemons are covered in sugar that dissolves to leave a tart, sour candy.
  • Cauldron Cakes – A scrumptious combination of cupcake, chocolate mousse and white chocolate, Cauldron Cakes will satisfy your sweet tooth.
  • Pepper Imps – For cinnamon lovers, these small and spicy red candies pack a punch!
  • Jelly Slugs – You might balk at the name, but these fruity, chewy gummies are the perfect addition to your growing armful of goodies.

There you have it! In the comments below, tell us which non-Butterbeer treats you recommend at Hogsmeade.

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. 

15 Unique Treats in Diagon Alley at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

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(Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

15 Unique Treats in Diagon Alley at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

No trip to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter can feel complete without a belly full of Butterbeer. But what if you want to branch out and try something new? Here are some other delectable treats in Diagon Alley that you’ll still be craving when you’re back in the Muggle world.

(Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Pick Your Flavor – Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour

Straight from the books and movies, Florean’s yummy creations live on in Diagon Alley! With so many curious and wonderful flavors, you can’t go wrong.

  • Chocolate Chili Ice Cream – Both sweet and spicy for those who crave the extraordinary.
  • Strawberry and Peanut-Butter Ice-Cream – This flavor will help you relive your school lunch days.
  • Earl Grey and Lavender Ice Cream – Put your pinkies up because now we’re getting sophisticated. Tea lovers can experience their favorite drink in frozen form.
  • Salted Caramel Blondie Ice Cream – Salted caramel mingles with super creamy goodness and Blondie brownie bits to leave you smiling after every bite.
  • Butterbeer Ice Cream – Okay, okay… This isn’t exactly “beyond Butterbeer.”  But who could resist a mouthwatering bite of the Butterbeer flavor in soft-serve form? (No one can resist. The answer is no one.)

(Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Fishy Green Ale – Leaky Cauldron, The Fountain of Fair Fortune and The Hopping Pot

Looking for a drink on another Ordinary Wizarding Level? Fishy Green Ale comes with an oversized straw and a bed of blueberry “fish eggs” at the bottom. The consistency is creamy and the aroma is mint with a hint of cinnamon.

(Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Gillywater – Eternelle’s Elixir of Refreshment

This water is perfect for quenching your thirst on a hot Diagon Alley day. And for those curious about the art of potion-making, our witches and wizards can add such tonics as Fire Protection Potion, Babbling Beverage, Draught of Peace and Elixir to Induce Euphoria.

(Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Tongue Tying Lemon Squash – Leaky Cauldron, The Fountain of Fair Fortune and The Hopping Pot

This isn’t your Muggle’s lemonade. Tart and tangy with a hint of vanilla, your lips will pucker at the mere thought of Tongue Tied Lemon Squash. And your taste buds will thank you after the first sip.

(Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Otter’s Fizzy Orange Juice – Leaky Cauldron, The Fountain of Fair Fortune and The Hopping Pot

A carbonated cup of deliciousness with a hint of vanilla and cinnamon and sugar on the rim. Need we say more?

(Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Peachtree Fizzing Tea – Leaky Cauldron, The Fountain of Fair Fortune and The Hopping Pot

Fresh off its appearance in your favorite Harry Potter films, this concoction has a fizzing volume of a whopping 87%. Peach and a hint of ginger bubble up to the glee of all who thirst for something special and effervescent in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

(Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Wizard’s Brew and Dragon Scale Beer – The Leaky Cauldron, The Fountain of Fair Fortune and The Hopping Pot

Beer is good. Beer made exclusively for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is even better! For those who like something dark, Wizard’s Brew is a sweet stout with notes of chocolate and coffee. Dragon Scale is an amber lager – also sure to please. Take the Hogwarts Express to Hogsmeade to find Hog’s Head Brew and complete the trifecta.

(Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Fire Whisky – The Fountain of Fair Fortune and The Hopping Pot

If you’re wanting the strong stuff, Fire Whisky is the way to go. Cinnamon in flavor, you can order this one in single or double-shot form or get it as a mixed drink. No matter what, it goes down smooth and gives you the liquid courage you’ll need to brave Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts.

(Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Skiving Snackbox – Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes

Next time you’re looking to get out of a meeting or class, Fred and George have you covered. The set includes:

  • Fainting Fancies: sugary citrus gummies
  • Nosebleed Nougat: milk chocolate-covered marshmallow with pistachios
  • Fever Fudge: vanilla fudge with spicy, hot jelly beans
  • Puking Pastilles: sticky green and purple sweets

(Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Sugar Quills – Sugarplum’s Sweetshop

Sugary, lollipop-like quills that actually write, these come in a variety of flavors. Practice the art of sucking on them thoughtfully while pondering your next revelation of a sentence.

(Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Pumpkin Pasties – Sugarplum’s Sweetshop

You know you’ve been wanting to try Pumpkin Pasties, one of Harry’s first wizarding treats. Baked pastries filled with saccharine goodness, these are essential for any fan of pumpkin flavored anything.

As you can see, you will have no trouble finding a feast of fun food and drinks to try at Diagon Alley. Boy are your Muggle friends going to be jealous.

In the comments below, tell us which wizarding world treats you recommend at Diagon Alley.

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. 

Four Ways to Choose the Best Universal Orlando Resort Hotel

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(Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Four Ways to Choose the Best Universal Orlando Resort Hotel

I don’t know about you, but one of my favorite parts of vacation planning is the “oohing” and “aahing” over hotel options. For me, the hotel is a big part of the escape. This is certainly true when I visit Universal Orlando Resort. It offers five spectacular on-site hotels—with a sixth on the way, Universal’s Aventura Hotel—that offer all the comforts of home, terrific theme park benefits and even a few thrills of their own!

With each of them so close to the theme parks and the fabulous dining, shopping and nightlife at Universal CityWalk, vacationers are just a hop, skip and a jump away from the fun. So no matter whether you enjoy the romance of Italy at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, unleash your inner rock star at Hard Rock Hotel, savor the South Seas at Loews Royal Pacific Resort, drink in the flavors of the Caribbean at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort or dive into the ‘50s and ‘60s Florida beach town vibes at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort, you’re going to have a fabulous time.

But which one is right for you? We’ve got a few tips to help you decide!

(Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

1. Factor in the time of year you are visiting.

If you’re visiting during a busier time—such as summer or around holidays—we highly recommend you stay at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel or Loews Royal Pacific Resort. These hotels offer Universal Express access. Universal Express means you can skip the regular lines at participating rides and attractions as many times as you want.

Each person staying at the hotel room receives free Universal Express access for Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure (valid theme park admission is required). After you’ve checked in at one of the participating hotels, head to the lobby where you’ll find the Universal Express kiosk and print your passes. They are valid every day of your hotel stay, including the days you check in and check out.

No matter when you visit, take advantage of Early Park Admission, which is available to guests of all the Universal Orlando on-site hotels.

Hotel guests get one-hour early admission to select attractions at either Universal Studios Florida or Universal’s Islands of Adventure. It will also include one hour early access to Universal’s Volcano Bay, which opened May 25. Valid theme park admission is required.

All the on-site hotels at Universal offer additional benefits, including complimentary transportation to the parks—by bus or boat—resort-wide charging privileges, hotel or room delivery of merchandise purchased in the theme parks and more.

(Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

2. Factor in your party size and how long you are staying.

If you’ve got a larger family or are planning a longer visit, you may want to consider the family suites at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort. These affordable family suites come with mini kitchenettes, double vanity areas, and separate toilet and bath/shower areas. Best of all, they sleep up to six! Plus, Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort just added brand new standard guest rooms and even 2-bedroom suites that sleep up to eight in an expansion consisting of two towers at the south end of the property – where some overlook Universal’s Volcano Bay. Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort also has a dedicated walking path that leads to Universal’s Volcano Bay, so when you are planning water theme park days, it’s the perfect choice.

All of the other resort hotels offer standard rooms that typically sleep up to five with a rollaway bed, so they’re quite comfortable for most families. There are also larger suites available for those looking to stay with more than five people.

(Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

3. Get ready to soak up that Florida sunshine!

When it comes to my family and picking a hotel, nothing is more important than the pool. We often plan pool time right after we check in, then do short “pool breaks” in between theme park time and maybe a little unwind, hot-tub time at the end of the night. If you’re also a family of water lovers, you won’t be disappointed by any of the Universal Orlando on-site hotels.

All of Universal’s hotel pools are perfectly family-friendly with various water features and poolside activities. Still each pool has a distinct vibe:

  • Hard Rock Hotel takes the show outdoors with its rockin’ pool scene. Enjoy the underwater speakers, live music, DJs, sand volleyball and the zippy 260-ft. pool slide.

(Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

4. Decide what else is important to you.

One of the benefits of staying on-site at Universal Orlando’s hotels is that it’s super easy to hop from hotel to hotel via water taxi, shuttle bus or a short stroll. No matter where you stay, you can escape to the Mandara Spa at Portofino Bay or take the whole family bowling at Cabana Bay. Moms and Dads can leave the kids at one of the on-site kids camps and enjoy a date night out. May I suggest Emeril’s Tchoup Chop at Royal Pacific? Plus, there is a dining shuttle that will take you to any of the on-site hotel restaurants.

Here are a few of the major selling points for each hotel:

(Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

  • Hard Rock Hotel Orlando – Music memorabilia throughout the hotel; Sound of Your Stay program which lets you rock out in your room; monthly cocktail concerts in the lobby for Velvet Sessions; it’s closest to Universal Studios.

(Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

  • Loews Royal Pacific Resort – Tranquil orchid court; Emeril’s Tchoup Chop; weekly Wantilan Luau; wide selection of craft beer; Jake’s Beer Dinner offers a five-course meal paired with specialty brews; it’s closest to Universal’s Islands of Adventure.

(Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

(Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

  • Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort – Fabulous food court and on-site Starbucks; original Jack LaLanne memorabilia at the fitness center; bowling alley; closest to Universal’s Volcano Bay.

Now that you’re in the know, it’s time to plan your next escape!

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 5 Places to Buy Sweet Treats at Universal Orlando Resort

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Sticky, decadent sweets are some of the greatest inventions ever. And the bigger, the better, right? Well, did you know that there are some incredible sweet shops in Universal Studios and Universal’s Islands of Adventure? Many people buy sweets here and there in the parks, but there are some wonderfully unique treats in these specialty shops.

Here are the top 5 places to buy sweet treats at Universal Orlando Resort:

  1. San Francisco Candy Factory at Universal Studios: This shop is filled with freshly-made fudge, candy apples, gourmet cookies and bulk candies in every color and flavor. Did you know they make character candy apples? My favorite was definitely the Minion!
  2. Sugarplum’s Sweetshop in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley: Next door to the whimsical Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes, Sugarplum’s lines its colorful shelves with new and tasty sweets like Liquorice Wands, Glacial Snow Flakes, Bing Bong Ginger Snaps, Pumpkin Pasties and their signature treat Butterbeer Fudge. Butterbeer lovers will have another satisfying way to meet their cravings.
  3. Honeydukes at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade: The shelves are lined with all manner of colorful sweets, including Acid Pops, Exploding Bon Bons, Cauldron Cakes, Treacle Fudge, Fizzing Whizzbees, and Chocolate Frogs (which contain a wizard trading card in each box). You can also grab a bag of Bertie Bott’s Every-Flavour Beans and take a chance on what tasty—or not so tasty—flavors you’ll find!
  4. Snooker & Snookers Sweet Candy Cookers Bakery and Candy Store at Seuss Landing: If you’re a fan of peanut butter, then you’ll have to see the chunks of peanut butter in their Chocolate Peanut Butter cookies—they’re huge! But among all the delicious sweets and treats, don’t miss the “Snookers”, over-sized cupcakes that are a definite must have.
  5. Island Market and Export Candy Shoppe in Port of Entry: This tantalizing shop contains chocolate-dipped pretzels, chocolate-dipped marshmallows, chocolate-dipped cookies. They also have homemade fudge, huge brownies, caramel apples, cookies, and lots and lots of candy.

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Where are you favorite places to buy sweet treats at Universal Orlando Resort?

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, Universal Studios 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 10 Things to Eat for Breakfast at Universal Orlando Resort’s Hotels

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Top 10 Things to Eat for Breakfast at Universal Orlando Resort’s Hotels

From the theme parks to the pools and everything in between, there is so much to do at Universal Orlando Resort. One thing is for sure, a great breakfast is essential to checking everything off your to-do list. So before you set sail on the water taxi, or clock in some steps by walking to the theme parks, check out these delicious breakfast options.

Loews Portofino Bay Hotel – Trattoria Del Porto

Loews Portofino Bay Hotel has a twist on the traditional breakfast with an Italian atmosphere. Take in the beautiful views of the Piazza while enjoying a full breakfast buffet or some of their delicious a la carte options! Two of the stand-out dishes at Trattoria Del Porto are the Breakfast Quesadilla and Eggs Beneditto.

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Breakfast Quesadilla – Spinach, Sweet Potato, Onion, Diced Tomato, and Aged Cheddar stuffed in a Tortilla shell. Top it off with two Poached Eggs, Tomato Hollandaise and your choice of Bacon or Sausage.

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Eggs Beneditto – Poached eggs, prosciutto, arugula, ciabatta, tomato hollandaise and potato hash make for one scrumptious dish.

Loews Sapphire Falls Resort – Amatista Cookhouse

Breakfast with a view and Caribbean vibes is what you’ll find at Amatista Cookhouse. You have the option of a lavish breakfast buffet or scrumptious and unique a la carte options. The Latin flair stands out in the Caribbean French Toast and the Egg White and Smoked Turkey Arepa.

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Egg White and Smoked Turkey Arepa – Complete with baby spinach, mushrooms and tomatoes.

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Caribbean French Toast – Caramelized pineapple and toasted coconut for those of you who have a bit of a sweet tooth.

Loews Royal Pacific Resort – Islands Dining Room

The Polynesian vibes of Royal Pacific are echoed in both the décor of Islands Dining Room as well as many of their dishes. Indulge in a full breakfast buffet or delight in their mouthwatering a la carte options. Whether you believe that calories don’t count on vacation and go with the Tahitian French Toast, or are trying to stick to a healthy meal plan and choose the Paleo Smoked Brisket Hash, you are sure to be delighted!

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Tahitian French Toast a L’Orange – Caramelized bananas with a sweet cinnamon butter (can’t get much better than this!)

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Paleo Smoked Brisket Hash – Slowly smoked beef brisket, sweet potato, onion and peppers, two sunny side up eggs and a side of avocado and tomato-arugula salad.

Hard Rock Hotel Orlando – The Kitchen

Eat like the rock star you truly are at The Kitchen. Feast on a seemingly endless breakfast buffet, complete with guitar waffles, or select from one of the many delectable a la carte options. You can’t go wrong with a dish named after The King himself in “The Elvis” French Toast or go with the tried and true breakfast sandwich, The Remedy.

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“The Elvis” French Toast – Start with baguette slices and smother with a caramel sauce, peanut butter and bananas.

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“The Remedy” – Fuel up with a butter toasted kaiser roll, two eggs over hard, applewood smoked bacon and American cheese.

Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort – Bayliner Diner

Whether you’re looking to grab a croissant to go or sit and enjoy the retro commercials while dining on delicious breakfast fare, Bayliner Diner has something for everyone. Bayliner has the breakfast classics down; the Poached Eggs or a Bacon-Egg-Cheese Croissant are just what you need for a jam packed day!

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Poached Eggs on Gouda Swirl – Baby spinach, hollandaise sauce and breakfast potatoes round it out for a hearty dish.

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Bacon-Egg-Cheese Croissant – Add a side of breakfast potatoes for a brunch classic.

The delectable dishes you see here are just a small peek into the bountiful breakfast choices at Universal Orlando’s on-site hotels. Whether you’re looking to indulge in a leisurely breakfast, fit for a king or queen, or to just grab something quick and delicious before heading to the theme parks, we have something for everyone.

*Breakfast at Universal’s on-site hotels is available from 7am – 11am weekly and from 7am-12pm Saturday and Sunday.

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. 

Halloween Horror Nights 2017 Tickets and Vacation Packages Now Available

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Halloween Horror Nights 2017 Tickets and Vacation Packages Now Available

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Halloween Horror Nights 2017 Tickets and Vacation Packages Now Available

All our times will come, and yours is deadly close. In a few months, Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights 2017 will be upon us. Soon we’ll be able to revel in the terror with some of the vilest beings to ever walk the Earth with nine haunted houses, five scarezones and two live shows cut from the most twisted stories in horror history.

I hope that you’re already getting pumped for Halloween Horror Nights this year because all ticket and vacation packages are on sale now. With a record-breaking 34 select nights from September 15 to November 4 and new ticket options, more souls than ever will be able to experience the ultimate Halloween event.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

One great ticket option is the Halloween Horror Nights Flex Ticket, which conveniently allows you to scream your hearts out on any one Sunday through Friday or Sunday through Saturday event night.

One of my favorite vacation packages allows me to have a vacation in the heart of horror at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort for two nights starting at $225. If you are a huge horror buff, being able to stay close to the horror at one of Universal Orlando’s on-site hotels will be an incredible experience that you can’t pass up.

And you know what’s even better? By staying on-site, you’ll be able to get into one of Universal’s theme parks one hour before the park opens with Early Park Admission, as well as get special access to a dedicated Halloween Horror Nights entry gate each event night until 8p.m.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

You can also enhance the horror by adding a R.I.P Tour or Unmasking the Horror Tour to your vacation package. I would recommend the R.I.P. tour because you’ll get priority VIP entry to all the haunted houses!

It’s almost time for you to brave Halloween Horror Nights 2017. Which night will you be visiting?

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. 

See The Shining at Halloween Horror Nights 27 at Universal Orlando Resort

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See The Shining at Halloween Horror Nights 27 at Universal Orlando Resort

(Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

See The Shining at Halloween Horror Nights 27 at Universal Orlando Resort

When bringing iconic horror films to life at Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights, a common question we find ourselves asking is, “How the heck are we going to turn this movie into a haunted house?” But, hey—we’re always up for a challenge. This year is no different. Universal Orlando Resort bringing The Shining to Halloween Horror Nights 27.

There are so many intense and creepy moments packed in the whole film. So we held hands, took a deep breath, and entered the Overlook Hotel.

I just finished looking at some of the house designs and am thrilled by the story we’re telling. It will be the warped psychological thriller you know and love with our own Halloween Horror Nights twist.

We cast the Overlook Hotel as the aggressor and view it as if you have the “shining.” Our goal is to have you constantly doing a double take and give you that, “Did I just see that?” feeling.

After watching this movie for the first time I remember saying, “I would never go into room 237.” So, of course, that’s where we’re going to take you: all the places you shouldn’t go.

You’ll come face-to-face with the murderous, ghostly entities around every corner. And of course, the best part will be trying to escape the sharpened edge of an axe.

I can’t wait for you all to see what’s in store for you with The Shining at Halloween Horror Nights 27. You won’t want to miss it, so make sure to grab your tickets and book your Halloween Horror Nights vacation package now.

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. 

Meet Minions at Universal Orlando Resort with Gru and His Brother, Dru

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(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Meet Minions at Universal Orlando Resort along with Gru and His Brother, Dru

Meet the cast of the new summer blockbuster, Despicable Me 3, in Universal Studios Florida. From now through Aug. 19, you’ll be able to meet Gru, his twin brother Dru, and of course, his Minions.

First, meet the Minions that are trading in their denim for stripes at the Jail Minion Tattoo Parlor near the Despicable Me Minion Mayhem attraction. Here you’ll be able to snap photos with the new Jail Minions from the movie and receive your very own temporary Minion tattoo.

Meet and Greet times are below. *Subject to change.

  • 9:20 AM
  • 10:20 AM
  • 11:20 AM
  • 1:20 PM
  • 2:20 PM
  • 3:20 PM

Next, head over to the KidZone area for a chance to meet Gru, Dru, new Tourist Minions, and Mel. You can take pictures with your favorite new friends, and dance along to the groovy soundtrack from the movie.The Tourist Minions even joined us in celebrating the opening of our new water theme park Universal’s Volcano Bay!

The Tourist Minions even joined us in celebrating the opening of our new water theme park Universal’s Volcano Bay!

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Meet and greet times are below. *Subject to change.

  • 11:50 AM
  • 12:50 PM
  • 1:50 PM
  • 2:50 PM
  • 4:25 PM
  • 5:40 PM

You can even share your photos with the Despicable Me 3 characters on social media using #UniversalMoments.

Do you already have a favorite character? Be on the lookout for all-new merchandise from Despicable Me 3, and take home memorabilia of your favorite characters.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Merchandise is available at the Universal Studios Store and the Super Silly Stuff store in Universal Studios, as well as the Trading Company in Universal’s Islands of Adventure.

Lastly, don’t miss out on the Despicable Me 3 weekend takeover at Universal CityWalk from June 30 – July 2. The Minions are taking over the lagoon stage and turning all-things yellow. Join us for a dance party and bust out your best moves. It will be bananas!

And, be sure to check out what exciting new adventures await Gru and his Minions in this very fun, new animated film. Despicable Me 3, hitting theaters June 30.

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’s Aventura Hotel Opening August 1, 2018 is Now On Sale

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(Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

If you’re looking for a stylish getaway that won’t break the bank, we’ve got the perfect place for you. Universal’s Aventura Hotel – the newest on-site hotel at Universal Orlando Resort – is now accepting reservations and will be ready to welcome you on August 1, 2018.

You’ll feel right at home in one of the hotel’s 600 standard rooms or suites with awesome views of Universal Orlando’s theme parks right out your floor-to-ceiling windows.

(Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

But, my favorite part of this hotel might just be the rooftop bar. Actually…there’s no doubt about it. And here’s why: at Universal Orlando’s first and only rooftop bar you can watch Krakatau – the 200-foot-tall centerpiece of Universal’s Volcano Bay – illuminate with blazing lava while enjoying small plates and yummy cocktails.

In addition to the rooftop bar, Universal’s Aventura Hotel will feature a fast-casual food hall filled with plenty of cuisine options. And if you need a quick pick me up before heading out to the parks, you can stop and grab your favorite beverage at Starbucks, conveniently located in the lobby.

(Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Step outside and you’ll enjoy the resort-style pool and hot tub while the kids have a blast on the splash pad. Later at night, you can lounge by the fire pit and roast some marshmallows or simply unwind after a day in the parks.

Speaking of – at Universal’s Aventura Hotel, you’ll stay in the heart of all the action. You’ll be just steps away from Universal CityWalk our three amazing theme parks and enjoy exclusive perks such as Early Park Admission, resort-wide charging privileges with your room key, access to complimentary transportation across the destination, and more.

And, when you book a stay of four nights, you may be eligible to receive a free $50 hotel dining credit. Or, go all out and book a seven-night stay for a free $100 hotel dining credit. Rates start as low as $97 per night for a seven-night stay and $116 per night for a four-night stay.

It’s never too early to start packing!

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.