Category Archives: Universal Orlando Resort

Plan A Night Out at Harbor Nights at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel

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Plan A Night Out at Harbor Nights at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel

When a weekend trip to Italy just isn’t possible, relish the next best thing during Harbor Nights at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando. Set under the twinkling lights of the picturesque Harbor Piazza, Harbor Nights invites locals and visitors to enjoy the starlit sights, sounds and flavors of Italy without leaving Orlando.

Included in the event’s entrance fee are an array of wines and gourmet foods, which are placed at stations throughout the piazza. The delectable dishes range from classical Italian favorites to more adventurous dishes that will electrify your palette.

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And as if the fabulous food and wine wasn’t enough, the evening is made that much better with the addition of charming musical performances. Dance the night away to dreamy jazz and romantic crooning.  Be sure to keep an eye out, because you just might see an opera singer booming from one of many balconies overlooking the piazza.

Upgrading to Harbor Night’s VIP experience is a must. During a recent visit, we were treated like royalty as we were sat at our own table for two, just a stone’s throw from the stage. We had the option to visit the food stations within the VIP area and beyond, but with the VIP experience, top-notch servers catered to our every whim, making it hardly necessary to leave our seats. Servers kept my Prosecco glass full and brought a constant barrage of delectable small plates.

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There simply isn’t anything to rival Harbor Nights in the Orlando area. Combining ambiance, food, music, and scenery in a way that excites every one of your senses, Harbor Nights is truly a romantic experience that every couple needs to experience at least once.

Want a romantic night out? Harbor Nights takes place seasonally throughout the year, so be sure to find out when you can transport to Italy for your next date night.

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 Snacks at Universal Orlando Resort

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It’s inevitable that you’ll need to stop for a snack as you hike your way around Universal Orlando Resort theme parks. The body needs fuel, and here are my top 5 favorite snacks at Universal to fill up on!

#5 ButterBeer – Wizarding World of Harry Potter

This delicious treat can come in any number of forms. Frozen, Cold, and a few times with Rum… it matters not how you partake of this snack; it only matters that you do. It’s well worth the stop.

#4 Duff Beer – Moe’s Tavern

Who says the parents can’t get lost in Springfield’s most famous tavern? Pull up a bar stool. Push aside Barney and ask for a mug of your favorite beer, Duff!

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#3 Lard Lad Donut – Springfield

Lard and Donut just fit together don’t they? If you’re going to enjoy a donut, why stop at a lighter version when staring at you is a gigantic donut with pink frosting. I can’t say for sure these donuts actually contain lard, but they are pretty sweet and a delicious way to gain energy for the mid-afternoon rush!

#2 Flaming Moe’s – Moe’s Tavern

We’ve heard rumors of a Flaming Homer… I doubt it could stand up to the Flaming Moe’s though. A kid-friendly version of a world-class beverage. People come from miles around to enjoy Moe’s famous cocktail, and now you too can quench your thirst with a Flaming Moe!

#1 Ice Cream Sundaes – Schwab’s Pharmacy

Ice Cream, Ice Cream, We all Scream for Ice Cream…Or something to that effect. Let’s not stop at just ice cream though. Let’s go all the way with an original Schwab’s Pharmacy Ice Cream Sundae! This replica pharmacy location provides all the ooey gooey goodness of an old fashioned sundae. Stop by and treat yourself!

What are your favorite snacks 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. 

Don’t Miss Live Entertainment at Universal Studios Florida

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Don’t Miss Live Entertainment at Universal Studios Florida

I don’t know about you but in-between defying gravity on thrill rides, it can be nice to take a break and walk around taking in the atmosphere of Universal Orlando Resort. Along with Universal’s Superstar Parade, you can now be entertained while you’re on your stroll through Universal Studios Florida with new performances and live entertainment at Universal Studios Florida bringing the streets to life!

From throwing it back to the silver screen with Marilyn & the Diamond Bellas to rockin’ with the Beat Builders, there is incredible entertainment for every Tom, Dick, and Harry.

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My personal favorite is the aca-awesome Sing It! Here, dynamic vocalists compete in a “riff-off”—and enlist your help—in a battle for acapella supremacy. This treat for the ears features hits from summer chart-toppers such as, “Can’t Stop The Feeling” to classics like, “Don’t Stop Believin’”.

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Also in New York, share the silver screen with Hollywood’s Bombshell as Marilyn & the Diamond Bellas perform her classic songs with a Star-Spangled Flair.

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Just on the edge of New York City streets before heading to San Francisco, you’ll find the Beat Builders. This lively percussion group incorporates the materials and equipment from a construction site to create jams that echo through the streets.

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And last, but certainly not least, is the high flying, fish tossing, Flying Fish Market. Located in San Francisco, you can stop by for the Halibut and stay for the acrobatic awesomeness.

Check your Park Map on your next visit for show times to enjoy a performance in the streets.

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 Replaces Universal’s Photo Connect with My Universal Photos

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Universal Replaces Universal’s Photo Connect with My Universal Photos

Vacation pictures really are memories and souvenirs from your travels and adventures over the years. And that is EXACTLY why Universal Orlando Resort is refreshing the look and name of their photo program – say goodbye to “Universal’s Photo Connect” and hello to “My Universal Photos” – because every photo taken is capturing an adventure or moment that is unique to every guest in the parks.

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My Universal Photos, New Photo Program at Universal Orlando Resort

My Universal Photos locations and professional photographers are all over both Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. Whether you’re a ride junkie or you love meeting all of the characters in the parks, we’re ready to capture all of your favorite memories. Even those roller coaster photos you can’t capture with a selfie or a photo with the ENTIRE group instead of someone getting left out of the photo. We’ve got you covered!

My Universal Photos features two photo packages that are a great way to capture and share all of your amazing #UniversalMoments:

  • 1-Day Photo Package: Includes one day of unlimited digital downloads of your theme park photos (character meet & greets, participating attractions, etc.), a themed lanyard and discounts on photo products in the parks. Available for online purchase only.
  • 3-Day Photo Package: Includes all of the above for up to three consecutive days as well as one free 4×6 print, one free 5×7 or 8×10 print, and additional print discounts in the parks.

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For a full list of photo locations and further details on the various photo packages, check out the new My Universal Photos page.

Did you ever use Universal’s Photo Connect during your vacation? Are you planning to try out the new My Universal Photos program during your next visit?

What’s your favorite photo you’ve captured from your Universal Orlando vacation? Share with us in the comments below.

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. 

2017 Dates for Mardi Gras at Universal Orlando Resort Announced

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2017 Dates for Mardi Gras at Universal Orlando Resort Announced

In just a few months, it will be time to let the good times roll as Universal Orlando’s annual Mardi Gras celebration returns to Universal Studios Florida. 2017 Mardi Gras at Universal Orlando Resort will offer a bigger party than ever before with 49 nights spanning from February 4 through March 24, 2017!

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And next year, Universal is changing things up a bit. Mardi Gras will run for a total of 49 consecutive nights from February 4 to March 24.

That means you’ll have 49 nights to catch as many beads as possible during the dazzling Mardi Gras parade.

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…49 nights to interact with Mardi Gras characters and hear live music from bands straight from The Big Easy…

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…49 nights to enjoy the delicious authentic Cajun cuisine in the French Quarter Courtyard, like jambalaya, gumbo and more…

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And on 12 select nights, some of the biggest names in music will take the stage for live concerts. Stay tuned – the concert lineup for Mardi Gras 2017 will be revealed in the next few months.

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Mardi Gras is included in admission to Universal Studios Florida. Will you be in Florida next year to celebrate Mardi Gras 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. 

Loews Sapphire Falls Resort Now Open at Universal Orlando Resort

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Loews Sapphire Falls Resort Now Open at Universal Orlando Resort

It’s not every time you walk into a hotel that you’re greeted by cheering team members, a steel drum band, stilt walkers and a colorful burst of streamers. However, the first family checking into Loews Sapphire Falls Resort at Universal Orlando Resort received fanfare, a special tour of the resort, a complimentary stay, and more.

This brand new Caribbean-inspired property is the fifth on-site hotel at Universal Orlando Resort and will whisk you away to an island state of mind. Here are a few of the “must-do” experiences at Sapphire Falls:

  • Unwind at the pool (which is the largest pool across all of Universal’s on-site hotels!) and take a ride down the water slide.
  • Enjoy a leisurely water taxi after a busy day in the theme parks back to the hotel and take in the incredible view of the waterfalls at the lagoon.
  • Indulge in a Strong Water Tavern grog and our signature mojo-marinated rotisserie chicken from Amatista Cookhouse.
  • Experience incredible views from your room, which is one of 1,000 guest rooms, including 83 suites.
  • And more!

As with all of Universal’s on-site hotels, you’ll also receive a plethora of benefits, including Early Park Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and complimentary transportation to both theme parks and Universal CityWalk.

Whether you come to Universal Orlando Resort in search of fun, relaxation or adventure (or all of the above), you will create lasting memories. Book your next stay at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort and be transported to an island escape on your next Universal Orlando vacation.

Are you going to stay at the new Loews Sapphire Falls Resort during your next visit to 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. 

New Annual Pass Program at Universal Orlando Offers More Benefits and Flexibility

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Universal Orlando Resort’s annual passholders are some of their most loyal fans so they’re always looking for ways to revamp the UOAP program for them. Universal recently began rolling out a new Annual Pass program at Universal Orlando Resort that includes more benefits, a new pricing structure and an all-new pass.

MORE BENEFITS

There are now even more benefits for Power, Preferred and Premier annual passholders to enjoy:

Premier and Preferred annual passholders now have Early Park Admission to enjoy access to Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure one hour before the park opens to the public.

And, they have removed summer blockout dates for Power annual passholders – so now you can access both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure ALL SUMMER LONG.

ALL-NEW SEASONAL PASS

Universal also introduced a new pass option, the Seasonal Pass, to the UOAP program that grants access to the parks seasonally throughout the year.  They’ve added it to their lineup to give you more options so you can choose the best Universal Orlando Resort pass for you. Now there is a pass to suit every need – whether you want to visit the parks just a few times throughout the year or every single day.

Here’s a quick overview of each of Universal’s Annual Passes and the new Seasonal Pass:

ALL-NEW! Seasonal Pass

  • One year of park-to-park admission (blockout dates apply)
  • Discounts on Universal Orlando’s separately-ticketed events – Halloween Horror Nights and Rock the Universe
  • Discounts on Blue Man Group tickets, on-site hotel stays, multi-day theme park tickets purchased at the Front Gate, and more

Power Annual Pass

  • One year of park-to-park admission with fewer blockout dates and access to concerts at Universal Studios Florida
    • NEW! Blockout dates have been removed for summer dates – so you can access both theme parks all summer long!
  • NEW! $10 self-parking – that’s 50% off the regular price
  • Discounts on Universal Orlando’s separately-ticketed events – Halloween Horror Nights and Rock the Universe
  • Discounts on Blue Man Group tickets, on-site hotel stays, multi-day theme park tickets purchased at the Front Gate, and more

Preferred Annual Pass

  • One year of park-to-park admission with NO blockout dates
  • NEW! Early Park Admission to enjoy the parks one hour before opening (blockout dates apply)
  • Free self-parking; $10 preferred parking
  • Discounts on Universal Orlando’s separately-ticketed events – Halloween Horror Nights and Rock the Universe
  • Discounts on merchandise, restaurants, Blue Man Group tickets, on-site hotel stays, multi-day theme park tickets purchased at the Front Gate, and more

Premier Annual Pass

  • One year of park-to-park admission with NO blockout dates
  • NEW! Early Park Admission to enjoy the parks one hour before opening  all year long – no blockout dates
  • Complimentary valet and preferred parking
  • Universal Express access to bypass the regular lines at participating rides and attractions after 4 p.m.
  • Free Halloween Horror Nights ticket on select event nights
  • Discounts on Universal Orlando’s separately-ticketed events – Halloween Horror Nights and Rock the Universe
  • Discounts on merchandise, restaurants, Blue Man Group tickets, on-site hotel stays, multi-day theme park tickets purchased at the Front Gate, and more

Visit the Annual Pass page for more information and pricing for each pass and to see the complete list of benefits and entitlements. And stay tuned to the Universal Orlando blog for the scoop on more updates coming to the UOAP 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. 

The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen Is Now Open

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Over the last three years, Universal Orlando Resort has opened an incredible array of new venues at Universal CityWalk. However, none quite compares to The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen, which is now officially open.

From the very first details revealed about this concept, I knew it was going to be something special. Although there are lots of places where you can get a good meal, there is, literally, nothing like visiting The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium!

Here are a few reasons why your expectations will be blown away when you visit The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen:

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Amazing Theming
From the minute you lay eyes on the steaming smokestacks from across the lagoon, you know you’re in for a treat. Once inside, you’re transported into a steampunk fantasy with brass piping, rich leathers, and mechanical gadgetry.

In our business, we always try to eliminate what we call “blind spots”. That is, places where the theming ends and you’re left just staring at a regular wall or an everyday table. After months of being in here, I haven’t found a blind spot yet. It’s as immersive as stepping into one of Universal’s theme parks. But with great food!

Speaking of which…

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Delicious Dining
That same attention to detail is also found in your meals. Every dish offers a unique take on some of your favorite foods. And with a menu that—literally—is a book, there’s something for the pickiest to the most adventurous of eaters in your family.

And if you haven’t heard about the desserts yet, boy are you in for a treat! While our milkshakes are getting all the headlines, the entire dessert menu is a delight for your taste buds.

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The Complete Experience
But beyond the feel of the place and the incredible food, what really sets this restaurant apart is the personal experience you’ll have. You’ll find wait staff that treats you like old friends. Bartenders that you can spin you a tale while they craft you a drink.

And of course, there’s Penelope and Jacques—our humble proprietor and her trusty robot best friend. You’re in for a treat when they visit your table. Just ask them a question, and you’ll be delighted with tales of her travels, her inventor father, and how Jacques came to be.

Put that all together, and you’ve got a dining experience like nothing you’ve ever had. So come on down and join us. Full-service dining is available for lunch and dinner. The gift shop and Dessert Foundry are open all day, starting at 11am. Enjoy!

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. 

Experience The Walking Dead at Halloween Horror Nights 26

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Experience The Walking Dead at Halloween Horror Nights 26

The bloodthirsty hordes of AMC’s The Walking Dead return to Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights in a whole new way. For this year’s maze, Universal Orlando Resort is taking fan favorite moments and iconic Walkers from all six seasons and packing them into one terrifying maze.

The Walking Dead mazes that Universal has created over the past four years had guests screaming with terror as they found themselves in the most iconic horrifying scenes from the show.

This year, you’ll struggle to escape from the iconic barn, get reacquainted with a macabre Walker collection housed in fishtanks, race through Terminus and end up in the sewers of Alexandria. We’re pulling all of the creepiest environments from our past mazes—like the horde of Walkers in the forest during a lighting storm, which always had guests running and screaming!

Lastly, Universal will tackle this past season, which upped the ante for all survivors. You’ll enter Alexandria from the nasty sewers and find yourself in the middle of the chaotic battle against the ferocious Wolves. And… don’t be surprised if the sounds of whistling Saviors follow you into the night.

Are you going to experience The Walking Dead at Halloween Horror Nights 26?

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 Toothsome Chocolate Emporium and Savory Feast Kitchen Grand Opening September 22

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The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium and Savory Feast Kitchen Grand Opening September 22

I’m incredibly excited to share with you all that Universal CityWalk’s newest full-service restaurant will officially grand open on Thursday, September 22.

The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen will officially open to guests at 4 p.m. on Thursday, September 22, for dinner. The next day will begin standard operating hours, opening at 11 a.m. for lunch and closing at 11 p.m.

Some of you may have had the chance to visit the restaurant during preview to get a sneak peek at the incredible savory dishes, all-day brunch and delectable sweet treats. For those of you who haven’t, here’s a look inside the 19th Century Steampunk-themed emporium to whet your appetite.

With that, let the official countdown begin to The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium and Savory Feast Kitchen Grand Opening on September 22, 2016!

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.