Category Archives: Universal Orlando Resort

How to Get From Disney to Universal Orlando Resort

With the new Wizarding World of Harry Potter, many guests staying at Walt Disney World Resort Hotels or Orlando area hotels want to spend a day at Universal Orlando Resort. Disney does not provide transportation to Universal Studios from the Disney Hotels, so how do you get from Disney to Universal Studios? The most convenient and affordable way to get from Disney to Universal is by purchasing a Universal ticket that includes a round-trip shuttle!

We offer a one or two day park to park ticket that includes shuttle transfers from any of the Walt Disney World Resort hotels. The shuttle transfers are on board Mears Transportation. It is an easy process. Once you book your ticket, you call about 24 hours before you are visiting Universal Studios to schedule your pickup time. Then, you are picked up outside your hotel for your day at Universal Studios.

Once you are done playing at Universal Studios, you call the same number to schedule your pickup time to head back to your Disney Hotel. The shuttle can run until 2 AM, which means that you can stay and play at CityWalk after your day at Universal Studios and then take the shuttle back to your resort.

The shuttle transfers saves you from $90 on transportation from Disney to Universal Studios. Plus, this ticket is also saving you $10 per person off the regular gates prices. One more HUGE perk, you do not have to wait in line at the ticket windows. You walk right up to the electronic kiosks to pick up your tickets. This can easily save you 30 minutes!

Here are the prices for these Universal Orlando Resort ticket & transfer combos:

2-Day Park-to-Park theme park ticket with Round Trip Transportation

$284.69 per adult/$274.04 per child (ages 3-9), including tax

1-Day Park-to-Park theme park ticket with Round Trip Transportation

$190.28 per adult/$184.95 per child (ages 3-9), including tax

Call Siera today at 734-771-1290 or email her at siera@destinationsinflorida.com to book your day (or two) at Universal Orlando Resort so you can experience the Wizarding World of Harry Potter!

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and Universal Studios Travel Agency of the Year 2010, 2011, & 2012. She would love to help you plan your next Universal Orlando or Disney World 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.

Scare Zones and Original Houses at Halloween Horror Nights 26 Revealed

Leave a reply

16-18442 HHN16 PR Original Content Houses 072816 Tomb of the Ancients Haunted House elements of each house Sprung tents 1 & 2

Universal has finally revealed all the details on the five killer scare zones, two outrageous live shows, andthree terrifying houses at Halloween Horror Nights 26.

ORIGINAL HOUSES

Lunatics Playground 3D – You Won’t Stand A Chance

While Jack’s away, Chance has unleashed the horrors of her imagination. Her twisted delusions and reality are continuously blurred in a 3D playground of carnage. When the music box plays, the world shifts to her sinister theatre of the mind. But when the alarm starts ringing, Chance is thrown back into the brutal reality of her incarceration.

Ghost Town – The Curse of Lightning Gulch

When lightning strikes, the curse of Lightning Gulch comes to life and this ghostly town appears. These doomed souls—who once went searching for gold—found death and destruction. And now they seek others to join them. As thunder cracks, flashes of lightning will lead your way through this treacherous wild west nightmare. Good luck!

Tomb of the Ancients

An ancient evil has surfaced and immortal beings from the past have returned to rule mankind. It was only a matter of time until “The Ancient Ones” were unearthed. Now these makers of chaos are loose from the pits of hell—and the whole world will pay.

SCARE ZONES

Survive or Die

A global catastrophe has ruined Earth’s atmosphere. One group of survivors secured a machine that provides clean air. The two other surviving groups are on the hunt to gain control of the machine and are recruiting new members to help them. You can either join them or feed their starving ranks. Which will you choose?

Lair of the Banshees

Travel deep into the forest where evil spirits and horrific creatures of the ancient world roam free. Mother Nature’s magical barrier of vines has been torn away and the modern world has found the entrance to this corrupted grave.

Dead Man’s Wharf

When a fishing vessel named Annabel Lee never returned to the harbor and was lost forever, the wharf was left uninhabited as a memorial to her. Now, a strange fog has rolled into the village. And the long-lost fishermen’s spirits seek to punish the town that left them.

Vamp 1955

Welcome to Hollywood High School’s 1955 Homecoming Parade. Everything is in place, until the greasers roll into town with fangs instead of switchblades. It’s a procession of chaos with vampires ready to take a bite out of anyone in sight.

A Chance In Hell

Get ready for the audition of a lifetime. Chance may be locked away, but that hasn’t stopped her. As the alarms ring and the bloody remains of those who tried to stop her lie around, she’s busy recruiting cellmates to join her biggest act yet. (I hope I get chosen!)

And we can’t forget about the two spine-chilling shows this year:

Academy of Villains: House of Fear

Join this high energy performance troupe of inmates in an explosion of insanity that will thrust you into a realm of mayhem and maniacal terror featuring dance and specialty acts. The Show Must Go On!

Bill and Ted’s Excellent Halloween Adventure

No Halloween Horror Nights would be complete without these “excellent” dudes! The Wyld Stallyns return with an all-new Halloween adventure.

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.

Halloween Horror Nights 26 Welcomes Back Michael Myers

Leave a reply

Michael Myers Returns to Halloween Horror Nights 26

The original Halloween maze that Universal Orlando Resort created for Halloween Horror Nights 24 was a massive success. For fans of the original film, it was an opportunity to walk through the scenes of a revered horror film and be pursued by horror icon Michael Myers.

Just like the movies, Universal has been inspired to continue the story. You’ll have the chance to experience the final scene of 2014’s maze at Halloween Horror Nights 26 and immediately walk in-between the homes of Haddonfield. You’ll be attacked by Myers the entire way before seeking refuge within the hospital. Universal is recreating all the iconic events from the story, including Myers’ fiery “end”.

Many fans who grew up with the original Halloween loved and appreciated that its sequel was simply titled, Halloween II. It literally picked up the events within seconds from where the previous ended. What fans thought was the end was merely the first half of a horrific story!

The sequel continued Myers’ terror on the town of Haddonfield. And instead of a sleepy neighborhood, we were placed into the confines of Haddonfield Memorial Hospital. It’s a cold, stark setting, but also—just like the original—very familiar.

And just like in 2014, Universal couldn’t be happier to be collaborating with Malek Akkad, producer of so many installments of the Halloween franchise.

Hell has indeed returned to Haddonfield. And Halloween Horror Nights.

Are you planning to go to Halloween Horror Nights 26? Vacation packages are still available! Contact us today to start planning your adventure!

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 Volcano Bay at Universal Orlando Resort Opening in 2017

Leave a reply

Universal’s goal for Volcano Bay was lofty, to create a water park unlike any else in the world. However, they took everything they already know about crafting amazing theme park experiences and designing luxurious resorts, and then used that to create a one-of-a-kind water theme park in Universal’s Volcano Bay.

One of Universal’s first goals for Volcano Bay was to eliminate hassles for guests so they can focus on the fun. So, they found a way to get rid of long lines and even made it so you don’t have to carry your tube. They also spread amenities like dining throughout the park, so you won’t have to hike up to the front of the park for a bite to eat. And Universal brought the mindset of designing a world-class resort to create a water paradise.

Spanning 28 acres, Volcano Bay will transport you to a lush, tropical oasis inspired by the Pacific isles. Every step while you’re here can be filled with thrills, indulgence or rejuvenation.

Thrill seekers can enjoy unique experiences like surprising drop slides and our white-water action river. Or if you’re looking for a more relaxing experience, you’ll be able to enjoy a soothing winding river, serene beaches and two-story private cabanas.

Volcano Bay is made up of four incredibly themed areas with Polynesian influences ranging from Easter Island, Hawaii, New Zealand and more. Here’s what you’ll find in each area.

Krakatau:
At the heart of the park, you’ll see the 200-foot-tall volcano called Krakatau. By day, you’ll see its majestic waterfalls. And by night, the volcano will illuminate with blazing lava.

Three distinctive body slides are found at the rear of the volcano, and each starts off with surprise doors that drop out from beneath you:
- Ko’okiri Body Plunge: A racing, 70-degree drop that will plummet 125-feet through the center of Krakatau. It will be the world’s first slide to travel through a pool filled with guests.
- Kala and Ta Nui Serpentine Body Slides: Two intertwining slides where you’ll fall freely along 124 twisting feet.
Punga Racers: A high-speed race through four different enclosed slides featuring manta-shaped mats.
Secret Attraction: I can’t talk about this one yet, but it’ll be like nothing else in the park.

Wave Village:
Located at the base of Krakatau, Wave Village is a perfect place to soak in the sun and relax on the sandy shores. It includes:

Waturi Beach: A sparkling, multi-directional wave pool where you can swim, relax on the sand or indulge in private, one- or two-story cabanas.
The Reef: An adjacent leisure pool with calmer waters and exciting views of riders speeding through the Ko’okiri Body Plunge.

River Village:
River Village offers several family-friendly attractions and experiences and features:

Kopiko Wai Winding River: A gentle, winding river that passes through the volcano’s hidden caves, featuring spontaneous water effects and a journey through the cave of starlight.
Tot Tiki Reef: A whimsical toddler play area with spraying Maori fountains, slides and a kid-size volcano.
Runamukka Reef: A three-story water playground inspired by the coral reef overflowing with twisting slides, sprinklers and more.
Honu: An adventurous, multi-passenger raft ride that will soar across a dual wall.
Ika Moana: A twisting, multi-passenger raft ride that will glide across bubbling geysers.

Rainforest Village:
Rainforest Village features an incredible assortment of attractions for thrill-seekers, including:

Maku: North America’s first “saucer ride”, sending multi-passenger rafts speeding around three saucer-shaped curves.
Puihi: A breath-taking multi-passenger raft ride that will plunge you into darkness before bursting into a funnel and launching into a zero-gravity drop.
Ohyah and Ohno Drop Slides: Two twisting, adrenaline-pumping slides that launch you four- or six-feet above the water at the end.
TeAwa The Fearless River: An action-packed, racing torrent river where you’ll have to hang tight in your inner tube amidst roaring, whitewater rapids.
Taniwha Tubes: Four unique Easter Island-inspired slides with rafts for single or double riders.
Puka Uli Lagoon: A tranquil pool where you can swim and relax.

As you can see, Universal’s Volcano Bay will be a water park unlike any other! We can’t wait to check it out next summer! How about you? Will you visit Volcano Bay when it opens in 2017?

Skull Island: Reign of Kong Now Open at Universal’s Islands of Adventure

Leave a reply

The moment that has been years in the making is finally here… Skull Island: Reign of Kong at Universal’s Islands of Adventure is officially open!

You can now venture into the dark jungles of Skull Island. You’ll encounter hostile natives and fend off vicious predators. Finally, you’ll come face-to-face with the mythical beast himself: King Kong.

When the ride opened for the first time, guests were treated to a special celebration marking the opening before they embarked on their adventure.

If you’re not familiar with this attraction, you can check out Universal Orlando Resort’s full description below:

“Enter the ruins of a primal realm and journey into the dark heart of an island filled with untold dangers. Vicious, ancient predators and unspeakable monstrosities rip into your crew and swarm from every side. Then, in an act of sheer ferocity—or monstrous bravery—King Kong charges between you and certain doom with an earthshaking fury. With each thundering roar and each chest-pounding thud, one colossal truth comes clear.

This is his home, his kingdom. Only he reigns.”

Then, be sure to grab yourself a ticket to Universal Orlando Resort and experience Skull Island: Reign of Kong!

Meet Kubo and The Two Strings Characters at Universal Orlando Resort

Leave a reply

Meet Kubo and The Two Strings Characters at Universal Orlando Resort

Telling larger than life stories is one thing, but living them is another. Now you can meet Kubo, Beetle and Monkey from Kubo and the Two Strings at Universal Studios Florida this summer for a limited time through August 19.

From the creators of The Boxtrolls and Paranorman comes a story of Kubo, a scrappy, shamisen-shredding 12-year-old with magical powers he’s only beginning to unlock. Kubo joins forces with Beetle (part samurai, part insect and all warrior) and Monkey (a loyal guardian and fierce protector) on a quest to save his family.

Kubo, Beetle and Monkey make daily appearances at the Character Party Zone, just outside Universal Orlando’s Horror Make-Up Show in Universal Studios, as well as on the title float during Universal’s Superstar Parade at 7pm each night.

Be sure to check out the face paint stations throughout Universal Studios and Universal’s Islands of Adventure, where you will be able to choose from designs of each character and rock your favorite all day long!

Kubo didn’t choose how his story began. But on August 19, he will decide how it ends. While you’re waiting for the quest to begin, enjoy the trailer below then come out to meet Kubo and his friends at Universal Studios Florida.

Are you going to meet Kubo and The Two Strings Characters at Universal Orlando Resort this summer?

Top 5 Spots for Happy Hour at Universal Orlando Resort

Leave a reply

The end of a day at the parks sometimes calls for a celebratory cocktail. Maybe you were able to conquer your fears and ride Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit. Or you’re just toasting the lasting memories you’ve just created. And sometimes, you just need to lower your revolutions after an excitement-packed day.

Whatever the case may be, you’re in luck. Universal Orlando Resort has several fun happy hours to choose from, all with top-notch service and beautiful settings.

Here are our top five favorite spots for happy hour at Universal Orlando Resort:

Emeril’s at Universal CityWalk – Daily, 4:30 p.m.–6:30 p.m.
It’s Mardi Gras every day at this New Orleans-inspired eatery. You’ll find half-priced well cocktails and bottled beers, and special prices for glasses of wine (red and white), specialty cocktails (changing seasonally) and a delicious selection of small plates.
The Kitchen at Hard Rock Hotel — Monday–Saturday, 1 p.m.–5 p.m., All day Sunday
Happy hour includes a selection of draft beers, house wines and some specialty martinis and yummy Bloody Mary’s.
Orchid Court Lounge and Sushi Bar at Loews Royal Pacific Resort – Located on the lobby level overlooking the pool area, Orchid Court Lounge is furnished with hand-carved furniture and adorned with beautiful orchids. Its sunset Sake and Sushi happy hour is a must after a day of rides.
Jake’s American Bar at Loews Royal Pacific Resort – Daily, 3 p.m.–5 p.m.
This bar is a temple to craft beer. During happy hour, enjoy $3 off all craft bottled and canned beers and $2 off all draft beers, including Jake’s American Red Lager.
Swizzle at Cabana Bay Beach Resort – Daily, opening – 7 p.m.
This retro-themed bar, located in the hotel lobby, offers a unique take on classic cocktails from a bygone era. Happy hour includes specials on house wines and well cocktails, as well as some specialty liquors.

These specials are subject to availability. Don’t hesitate to call any of the bars to confirm. But do it soon and try these out. We all deserve more happy hours in our lives. Cheers!

Where is your favorite spot for happy hour at Universal Orlando Resort?

The Texas Chain Saw Massacre at Halloween Horror Nights 26

Leave a reply

The Texas Chain Saw Massacre at Halloween Horror Nights 26

The Texas Chain Saw Massacre at Halloween Horror Nights 26 will be an all new haunted maze in 2016. The entire creative team of Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights has a library of films that have permanently etched their initials in our collective psyche. Tobe Hooper’s The Texas Chain Saw Massacre is certainly one of those films and this year, we’re bringing the original 1974 classic to life in an all-new haunted maze.

It’s a film that if made identically today, it wouldn’t compare to the original. Yes, today’s version would be gorier and with artistic camera moves and edits. But the 1974 original’s grit and journalistic style is what makes it so terrifying; it’s what makes it feel so real.

And I’d be willing to bet this film is the reason a chainsaw’s iconic roar is frightening to so many people.

The film features very little gore, instead focusing on the psychological nature of this warped family. I’ll never forget watching it over at my buddy’s house in middle school. Sally’s ordeal of being captured by this maniacal family is never more pungent than when the family’s near-dead, corpse-like grandfather is attempting to limply bash Sally in head. The family’s sheer joy at this sickening display was indelible.

But nothing can equate to the late, great Gunnar Hansen’s portrayal of the killer, Leatherface. You can see the maniac but also the layers of innocence deep down, that this chainsaw-wielding murderer is a product of his upbringing. Leatherface is a feral character with hints of sadness and humanity. Gunnar brought this to the role and no one has yet to duplicate his performance.

As creators of Halloween Horror Nights, we have the privilege of bringing to life many popular horror films. Every now and then, we are able to replicate one that forged the reason horror has become such a factor in many of our lives. The original The Texas Chain Saw Massacre is undoubtedly on that short list.

Like all of you, the horror fan in me is looking forward to reliving this story and entering that dilapidated Texas farmhouse. The anticipation of coming face-to-face with a horror legend and having my screams drowned by that saw blade is just as prevalent now as when I first witnessed this amazing horror film decades ago.

Are you attending Halloween Horror Nights 26? Halloween Horror Nights vacation packages are now on sale!

Contact Siera at 734-771-1290 or siera@destinationsinflorida.com today for more information or your free, no obligation quote.

New Experiences from The Secret Life of Pets at Universal Orlando Resort

Leave a reply

I don’t know about you, but I can’t wait to see Illumination Entertainment and Universal Picture’s newest comedy The Secret Life of Pets. I have always wondered what my pets think about or do when I’m not home and I’m so excited to get a glimpse into their life! Plus, now through July 10, we can enjoy new experiences fromThe Secret Life of Pets at Universal Studios Florida at Universal Orlando Resort.

All of the fun starts at the Animal Actors on Location! show where you’ll be treated to an exclusive trailer of the movie during the pre-show. You’ll also get an exclusive scene from the movie featuring Gidget—a 50% fluff, 110% tough Pomeranian. She may be fluffy and cute, but she is one fierce diva!

After the show, be sure to check out the The Secret Life of Pets photo booth, located in front of the Animal Actors theatre. You’ll be able to snap pictures with your favorite characters from the movie and be able to post and share them on your social media channels.

End your day with Universal and their new pet friends at the Universal’s Cinematic Spectacular nighttime show. Before the show, you’ll be able to watch a special trailer and see your favorite characters from the movie in the form of water silhouettes!

Plus, you can grab your The Secret Life of Pets merchandise during your visit. Stop by the Universal Studios store in either Universal Studios or Universal CityWalk for your keepsakes.

Are you going to see The Secret Life of Pets when it comes to theaters next weekend? If you’ll be at Universal Orlando Resort before July 10, don’t miss The Secret Life of Pets at Universal!

Loews Sapphire Falls Resort Brings a New Paradise to Universal Orlando

Leave a reply

We’re just weeks away from the arrival of first guests at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort, and let me tell you, this place looks absolutely remarkable! Today, the time has arrived to give you an inside look at the inspiration and story behind this tropical oasis. So let your worries wash away and ease into island time.

From cascading waterfalls and massive stone turrets to vintage rum and fresh ceviche, we’ve always been drawn to the history and allure of the Caribbean. Imagine, in the middle of a secluded island, we stumble upon a winding river leading to a beautiful, sapphire-blue swimming hole surrounded by ancient stone ruins and dense palms – the perfect environment to reshape into your exclusive island hideaway.

The resort is directly inspired by magnificent landmarks and architectural ruins from islands throughout the Caribbean – towering stone turrets, beautiful rock walls and a spinning waterwheel accent the tropical landscape and waterway twisting through the property.

In fact, you’ll never be far away from crystal-clear, serene water when you’re here. You’ll be greeted by waterfalls cascading into a sparkling pond upon arrival, which is your first glimpse of the amazing water features throughout the resort. There’s a gorgeous pool, surrounded by two sand beaches, a quintessential Caribbean waterfall – inspired by Jamaica’s iconic Dunn’s River Falls – and a breathtaking lush lagoon. It’s from this lagoon that you can hop on a water taxi to travel to our theme parks, CityWalk and our other on-site hotels.

The wide expanses of the Caribbean Sea inspired us to do something grand – design the largest pool at any of our resort hotels. But we didn’t want to just make a bigger pool, we wanted to do things that we’ve never done before. That’s why the Sapphire Falls pool has random and slightly varying depths to mimic the sea floor. There’s also a huge fire pit for the entire family to enjoy after the sun sets. Those are just a couple of the many unique features you’ll have some fun exploring.

With every step you’ll escape deeper into that distinctive attitude of island living. The beautiful new rooms in our Caribbean-inspired guest houses are designed to envelop you with a sense of relaxation from the moment you arrive. You’ll find it easy to let go and enjoy your incredibly themed private retreat. And just outside awaits the excitement and adventure of Universal Orlando’s two incredible theme parks.

Vacation is as much about great drinks and dining as it is about the journey itself. That’s why we’ve created Strong Water Tavern, a stylish hangout with reclaimed wood, mahogany leather and exposed brick throughout. Let our rum captains take you on a one-of-a-kind cocktail journey, or enjoy the many variations of fresh ceviche available throughout the resort.

At nearby Amatista Cookhouse, you can indulge your appetite with waterfront dining and watch our chefs at work preparing delightful dishes highlighting the freshest ingredients.

Both experiences will give you a true taste of Caribbean flavors and define all that is unique and special about Sapphire Falls!

All of this and more can be yours in just a few weeks. Book a stay now to be one of the first to enjoy all this island escape has to offer! Plus, you can sample all the flavors of Sapphire Falls with a limited-time offer that includes a free dining credit to make your stay with us even more special.

We’ll see you in paradise soon!

Spreading Magic

Travel Agent Specializing in Family & Romance Travel

Category Archives: Universal Orlando Resort

How to Get From Disney to Universal Orlando Resort

Scare Zones and Original Houses at Halloween Horror Nights 26 Revealed

Halloween Horror Nights 26 Welcomes Back Michael Myers

Universal’s Volcano Bay at Universal Orlando Resort Opening in 2017

Skull Island: Reign of Kong Now Open at Universal’s Islands of Adventure

Meet Kubo and The Two Strings Characters at Universal Orlando Resort

Top 5 Spots for Happy Hour at Universal Orlando Resort

The Texas Chain Saw Massacre at Halloween Horror Nights 26

New Experiences from The Secret Life of Pets at Universal Orlando Resort

Loews Sapphire Falls Resort Brings a New Paradise to Universal Orlando