Many families plan a day off from the parks during a Disney World vacation to let the kids rest and relax. There are lots of great activities that you can enjoy like shopping at Disney Springs, horseback riding at Fort Wilderness, carriage rides through Port Orleans, and swimming at your hotel’s pool. With so many resorts to choose from, you may be wondering which Walt Disney World Resorts offer the best pools. Here is our list of our five favorite Disney World pools.
Stormalong Bay at Disney’s Beach & Yacht Club Resorts: Disney’s Beach Club Resort and Disney’s Yacht Club Resort have the best pool at the Walt Disney World Resort. They share Stormalong Bay, a three acre “water wonderland.” Stormalong Bay features a lazy river, a pirate ship water slide (one of the tallest water slides at Disney, by the way), a sand-bottomed pool, beach area for the kids to build sand castles, and so much more. The whole family will love splashing and playing at Stormalong Bay.
The Lava Pool at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort: The Lava Pool will let you feel like you’ve traveled to Hawaii for the day. Relax under the waterfall while the kids slide down the volcano themed water slide or play on the new tiki-themed water playscape that was built just for them. Plus, the Lava Pool offers a great view of Magic Kingdom’s nighttime fireworks spectacular, Happily Ever After!
The Big Blue Pool at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort: Disney’s Art of Animation Resort features the largest non-waterpark pool at Disney World, the Big Blue Pool! Your kids will love the Finding Nemo theme of the Big Blue Pool, complete with its own underwater soundtrack with voices of their favorite characters from the movie. There’s also a splash pad and zero depth entry in the main pool, making it a great choice for families with little ones on a budget.
Fuentes del Morro Pool at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort: The Fuentes del Morro pool at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort is a pirate’s paradise centered around an old Spanish fortress. Swashbucklers of all ages will love the two water slides, water cannons, and zero depth entry pool while the littlest pirates can splash and play at the shipwreck themed water play area full of mini water slides, crow’s nest, and tipping bucket.
The Dig Site at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort: The Dig Site at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort is home to The Lost City of Cibola Pool and waterslide. The complex is centered around a 50 foot pyramid, resembling ancient Mayan ruins, with water rushing down the steps. You’ll also find the largest outdoor hot tub at Disney World here, with room for up to 22 guests!
The Lava Pool at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
What are your favorite Disney World pools? Be sure to let us know in the comments!
Thinking about a Disney World vacation? Call Siera at 734-771-1290 or email her at siera@destinationsinflorida.com today for help planning your Disney World vacation at no cost to you!
Thrill seekers, it’s time to seize the day on your next vacation. Below are the top thrill rides at Universal that will make your heart rate spike during your visit to Universal Orlando Resort.
1. The Incredible Hulk Coaster
Let’s start this list with a Hulk Smash. The Incredible Hulk Coaster at Universal’sIslands of Adventure has an intense launch and multiple exhilarating loops. This is a thrill seeker’s dream roller coaster and a cannot miss.
2. Krakatau Aqua Coaster
Krakatau Aqua Coaster at Universal’s Volcano Bay is an incredible technological achievement. This 4 person canoe slides through mists and will take you through Krakatau, the mighty fire and water Volcano.
3. Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit
Yes, you can choose your favorite song. However, it’s all about the 90-degree climb into the sky on Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit. I rode this ride at Universal Studios Floridamultiple times to write this list, you know, for research purposes.
4. Jurassic Park River Adventure
“Hold on to your butts” because Jurassic Park River Adventure at Islands of Adventure has a T-rex, raptors, and an 85 ft evacuation drop.
5. Ko’okiri Body Plunge
Have you ever dropped straight down from a Volcano? This is your chance. Ko’okiri Body Plunge at Volcano Bay features a 70-degree angle descent via trap door. This is a real test of courage.
6. Doctor Doom’s Fearfall
One enormous drop for man, one giant launch to the sky for mankind. Doctor Doom’s Fearfall at Islands of Adventure is a glorious treasure. Not only is it fun, but the view from the top—185ft high, to be exact—is enough to make any thrill seeker’s must do list.
7. Ohno of Ohyah & Ohno Body Drop Slides
This drop slide at Volcano Bay does not disappoint when you are an adrenaline junkie. I recommend you don’t miss Ohno (purple) which is a higher drop then Ohyah.
8. Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
Now, Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts at Universal Studios Florida has a tilt drop that will test your ability to not yell in fear, so this ride makes the list.
9. Honu of the Honu Ika Moana
Honu means Sea Turtle (blue slide) but don’t let that fool you—this ride at Volcano Bay is a rush. This is a multi-person raft so get a few of your friends and get terrified together.
10. Revenge of the Mummy
Revenge of the Mummy is an indoor coaster at Universal Studios Florida and is a fan favorite for a reason. You’ll encounter mummies, beetles, fire, and a curse (which, of course, is real)
11. Tai Nui of Kala & Tai Nui Serpentine Body Slides
This body slide at Volcano Bay is the definition of a rush. This drop slide seats atop of the volcano sending you down fast before reaching the bottom for a glorious splash. Just remember Tai Nui (green) is my recommendation for anyone seeking extra excitement. The anticipation before you drop is what thrills are made of.
12. Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls
I know what you’re thinking, is Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls in Islands of Adventure thrilling? Well, one: “danger, dynamite.” Two: you WILL wet your pants.
So now it’s time for you to live your most thrilling life at Universal Orlando Resort.
Are you still reading? What are you waiting for? Let’s go!
Sushi is a very popular food among guests of all backgrounds so if you’re a sushi lover, you may not want to go your entire vacation without any. There are a number of places where you can order sushi at Disney World, but today we’re going to share with you the top seven spots. It’s that small ball of vinegar-flavored cooked rice with fish (usually raw) or vegetables that makes sushi, well, sushi. Rolls count too.
Female sushi chefs are onstage at Tokyo Dining at the Japan Pavilion in Epcot, rolling out favorites such as the Fire Cracker Roll with tempura shrimp, a touch of jalapeño and Sriracha drizzle, or the Tropical Roll with salmon and avocado topped with fried plantain and mango-sweet chili coulis. You can be more straightforward with nigiri (raw salmon, scallops, sea bream and other fish) on a small ball of rice with a dab of wasabi. Open daily for lunch and dinner.
(Quick Tip- If you are just looking for a quick snack of sushi at Disney World, stop by the kiosk just outside of the Japan pavilion or even Katsura Grill!)
(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)
California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort counts sushi as one of its top appetizers (or we can make a meal of it). From a California Combo Roll with jumbo lump crab, avocado, cucumber and shrimp tempura to a snazzy Truffle-Scented Tofu Roll with avocado, jicama, quinoa, crispy fingerling potatoes, silken tofu and truffle emulsion, there are six inventive rolls on the menu. Dinner daily.
At Disney’s Polynesian Resort, Kona Island offers sushi for lunch and dinner in a casual setting in the upstairs lobby. We like the vegetable nigiri, six pieces of seasonal veggies on vinegar-flavored rice. Or try the Hamachi Tuna-Cilantro roll or classic California Roll with lump crab, citrus mayo, cucumber and avocado. Lunch and dinner daily.
(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)
Disney Springs has two spots for sushi: Morimoto Asia and Splitsville. The chefs put on a dazzling show at the sushi bar at Morimoto Asia with favorites like the Spider Roll with tempura soft shell crab, spicy mayo, and asparagus; Eel and Avocado Roll, and the Spicy Salmon Roll. But the pièce de résistance is the Sushi and Sashimi Platter for four to six guests that includes chilled whole lobster, Alaskan king crab, oysters, shrimp, nine pieces of nigiri and 14 pieces of sashimi. Splitsville Luxury Lanes (yes, the luxury bowling lanes) has two sushi bars and offers 10 rolls – try the Ninja Crunch with fried salmon, krab, tempura crunch and salmon drizzled with spicy mayo and eel sauce. Both locations are open for lunch and dinner daily.
Kimonos at the Walt Disney World Swan Hotel offers one of the largest selections of sushi at Walt Disney World Resort, with seven cooked sushi rolls and 10 raw sushi rolls. From tempura asparagus to a Cajun Roll with spicy crawfish, there’s something for every palate. Open daily for dinner (nightly karaoke too!).
Where is your favorite place to get sushi at Disney World? Let us know in the comments below.
Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next 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.
Wait, what do you mean you don’t have a wand? You don’t know where to get them? You know what they do though? What?! Okay, come with me and I will guide you along your journey.
What do the interactive wands look like?
Let’s start off simple, there are 22 interactive wands in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter inspired by the wands of your favorite characters from the Harry Potter film series.
Pretty awesome, right? And (in case you needed even more options) there are also interactive wands that are not based on a character and are instead unique to the witch or wizard’s personality.
Now that you are torn between 2 or 3 different wands, let me show you where you can find them in our parks.
Now that you have your interactive wand, you are now ready to cast spells all along your journey!
In total, there are 16 spells you can cast in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley and 9 in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade.
Inside your interactive wand box is a double-sided map that comes with the details of all the spell casting locations.
Photo: Universal Orlando Resort BlogPhoto: Universal Orlando Resort Blog
At the location, a gold medallion shows wizards and witches where to stand as well as the correct wand movement for the spell.
Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog
With some practice, you’ll be creating magic in no time. Here’s a quick glimpse of Reparo, one of the many spells you can cast. This charm fixes something that has been broken.
Now you’re all set! You’ve got your robe, Butterbeer, and an interactive wand! Which wand is YOUR favorite all throughout #WizardingWorldOrlando? Tell us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook or in the comments below!
Disney has finally announced the dates that we’ve all been waiting for! Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will open at Disneyland Park on May 31 and at Disney’s Hollywood Studios on August 29, 2019!
Batuu is the home of Black Spire Outpost, the location you will visit when you arrive at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, which has become a haven for the galaxy’s most colorful — and notorious — characters.
There will be several locations in Black Spire Outpost to satisfy the appetites of most rogue adventurers:
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo – A multi-purpose transport shuttle docked on top of the large hangar will beckon guests into this fast-casual restaurant, a designated location for traveling food shuttles. Chef Strono “Cookie” Tuggs is in much demand for his culinary skills, so he moves from site to site in a modified Sienar-Chall Utilipede-Transport that becomes a mobile kitchen and restaurant – like an intergalactic “food truck.” His travels across the galaxy allow him to fill his pantry with exotic ingredients he uses to make new and unusual dishes inspired by the fare he created during his time working for Maz Kanata in her castle on Takodana. Now, “Cookie” is proud to share his cuisine with visitors at Tuggs’ Grub, a “traveling diner for diners traveling.”
Cookie’s food shuttle, now docked on the roof of the hangar bay, has lowered a series of pods into the hangar, carrying precious cargo – Chef Tuggs’ finest ingredients gathered from across the galaxy. Situated inside Docking Bay 7, other pods from Black Spire Outpost provide other produce, provisions, and equipment for all incoming freighters to the hangar. Guests may choose to dine indoors in the hangar bay or outside in a shaded courtyard.
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will feature innovative and creative food and beverage offerings that enhance the immersive storytelling of the various dining establishments located in Black Spire Outpost. Throughout the outpost, guests will encounter familiar flavors but sometimes with unexpected and surprising colors and textures. The unique presentation takes Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo to the next galaxy.
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
One of the new dishes that you’ll be able to try at Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo is the Ithorian Garden Loaf, a plant-based “meatloaf” that comes served with roasted vegetable mash, seasonal vegetables, and mushroom sauce.
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
Another hearty option at Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo is the Smoked Kaadu Ribs. These country sticky pork ribs come with a unique blueberry corn muffin and cabbage slaw.
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
Ronto Roasters – A recycled podracing engine fires up a spit of exotic meats, meticulously turned by a former smelter droid, 8D-J8. Guests can even sample some of the tasty Ronto fare.
Milk Stand – The place to go to get your farm-fresh blue milk or green milk, direct from Bubo Wamba Family Farms.
Kat Saka’s Kettle – One of the many street market stalls, this grain vendor sells the ever-popular Outpost Mix (sweet and salty popcorn snack with a hint of spice).
For those looking to purchase in-story Star Wars merchandise and rare finds from across the galaxy, you need to look no further than our many different Outpost stores and market stalls.
Dok-Ondar’s Den of Antiquities – For those in the know, Dok-Ondar is the Ithorian you seek for selling and buying rare and uniquely-valued items from across the galaxy and spanning all eras.
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
Savi’s Workshop – Handbuilt Lightsabers – Guests come to the workshop to meet with the Gatherers – a secretive group of people who have dedicated their lives to restoring balance in the galaxy by passing on their knowledge of Jedi lore and the Force. The workshop Master guides guests to customize and build their own unique lightsabers, and instructs them on the ways of the Jedi.
Droid Depot – Visitors to Mubo’s workshop can choose parts and construct their own individual astromech droids to accompany them on their journey, and then take them home with them.
First Order Cargo – A spaceport hangar bay serves as the temporary base and landing spot for the First Order. First Order officers have brought in crates of gear, uniforms and other supplies to win the hearts and minds of locals and visitors to Black Spire Outpost.
Resistance Supply – Resistance members and local sympathizers oversee a makeshift stall that supplies Resistance uniforms, pins, badges, hats, helmets, jackets, maps, tools, training supplies, food rations and other items.
There are also several market stalls which sell a variety of merchandise such as:
Spring is upon us and that means the 2019 Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival is about to begin! Starting March 6, join us for fun, flowers, and most importantly, FOOD! This year’s festival features 17 Outdoor Kitchens and several other locations through the park that will be offering delectable festival bites and libations.
Special dining packages are also available for the Garden Rocks Concert Series. This concert series runs for 90 nights and features over 270 performances by tons of popular artists. This dining package allows you to have either breakfast, lunch, or dinner at nearly any table-service restaurant in the park and grants you guaranteed seating at one of three concert performances that day. Be sure to reserve these early to savor every single minute! For more information and to make your reservations, visit the Garden Rocks Dining Packages web page.
I have to say, this year’s menus are incredible and you won’t want to miss out on any of these delicious bites! In addition to the returning Outdoor Kitchens like The Honey Bee-stro, the festival has four new Outdoor Kitchens this year: Arbor, The Citrus Blossom, Trowel & Trellis, and Flavor Full Kitchen! Fried green tomatoes, tuna tataki, blood orange aqua fresca, and grilled street corn on the cob are just a few of the new mouthwatering items featured on the menus. Check out these and all of the offerings on the 2019 Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival menus! The festival runs March 6–June 3, 2019.
(GF) Gluten/Wheat Friendly Menu Selections (V) Vegetarian Menu Selections
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
ARBOR (Located at The Gardeners Terrace in The Odyssey Center) Food:
Fried Green Tomatoes with Blue Crab-Fennel Salad, Remoulade, and Smoked Paprika Oil
Smoked Salmon Stack with Avocados, Tomatoes, Sour Cream, Caviar, and Focaccia Crostino
Mixed Berry Buttermilk Cake with Apple Cider Sorbet (GF, V)
Beverages:
Original Sin Brewery Black Widow Hard Cider, New York, NY
Florida Beer Company Caribé Strawberry Rose Hard Cider, Cape Canaveral, FL
3 Daughters Brewing Key Lime Apple Hard Cider, St. Petersburg, FL
Karbach Brewing Lemon and Ginger Radler Houston, TX
Seadog Brewing Company Sunfish Ale, Clearwater, FL
Shipyard Brewing Company Grind the Rind Watermelon IPA, Portland, ME
Cider Flight
Beer Flight
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
LA ISLA FRESCA (Located in Showcase Plaza East) Food:
Jamaican-braised Beef with Pigeon Pea Rice and Micro Cilantro
Sugar Cane Shrimp Skewer with Steamed Rice and Coconut-Lime Sauce
Tropical Mousse Cake: Layers of Passion Fruit Cake, Coconut Mousse, and a Tropical Fruit Glaze with Fresh Pineapple
Beverages:
Simply Tropical Freeze (non-alcoholic)
Golden Road Brewing Tart Mango Cart Wheat Ale, Los Angeles, CA
Simply Tropical Freeze with Mango Rum
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
THE CITRUS BLOSSOM (Located near Refreshment Port) Food:
Lobster Tail with Meyer Lemon Emulsion and Grilled Lemon (GF)
Tuna Tataki with Spicy Yuzu Glaze, Mango, Avocado, and Pappadam Crisp
Crispy Citrus Chicken with Orange Aïoli and Baby Greens (GF)
Orange Cream Slushy in a Souvenir Orange Bird Sipper (sipper only available while supplies last) (non-alcoholic)
Islamorada Beer Company Coconut Key Lime Ale, Fort Pierce, FL
First Magnitude Brewing Lemon Hefeweizen, Gainesville, FL
Heavy Seas Brewery TropiCannon Citrus IPA, Halethorpe, MD
Orange Sunshine Wine Slushy
Beer Flight
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
PINEAPPLE PROMENADE (Located near Refreshment Port) Food:
Spicy Hot Dog with Pineapple Chutney and Plantain Chips
Pineapple Soft-serve Ice Cream (V)
Beverages:
Frozen Desert Violet Lemonade (non-alcoholic)
Pineapple Soft-serve Ice Cream with Fanta (non-alcoholic)
Coastal Empire Beer Co. Coco Piña Gose, Savannah, GA
Maui Brewing Co. Pineapple Mana Wheat, Kihei, HI
SweetWater Brewing Company Goin’ Coastal IPA with Pineapple, Atlanta, GA
Playalinda Brewing Company Violet Lemonade Ale, Titusville, FL
Florida Orange Groves Winery Sparkling Pineapple Wine, St. Petersburg, FL
Pineapple Soft-serve Ice Cream with Coconut Rum
Pineapple Beer Flight
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
THE HONEY BEE-STRO Hosted by National Honey Board (Located near Refreshment Port) Food:
Roasted Cauliflower with Buckwheat Honey Carrot Purée, Wild Rice Pilaf, Asparagus, Honey-blistered Grapes, Sunflower Brittle, and Coriander Flowers (GF, V)
Honey Tandoori Chicken Flatbread with White Cheddar Cheese, Charred Vegetables, Clover Honey Sour Cream, and Micro Citrus Greens
Local Wildflower Honey-Mascarpone Cheesecake with Orange Blossom Honey Ice Cream garnished with Fennel Pollen Meringue Kisses and Petite Lavender Shoots (V)
Beverages:
Honey-Peach Cobbler Freeze (non-alcoholic)
Goodwood Brewing Company Brandy Barrel Honey Ale, Louisville, KY
TASTE OF MARRAKESH (Located in the Morocco Pavilion) Food:
Harissa Chicken Kebab with Dried Fruit Couscous Salad
Fried Cauliflower with Capers, Garlic Parsley, and Chili-Ranch Sauce
Walnut Honey Baklava
Beverages:
Casa Beer
Larroque Chardonnay, Meknes
White Sangria
Desert Rose: Sparkling Wine topped with Pomegranate Liqueur
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
HANAMI (Located in the Japan Pavilion) Food:
Frushi: Fresh Pineapple, Strawberry, and Melon rolled with Coconut Rice, sprinkled with Toasted Coconut, Whipped Cream with Raspberry Sauce on the side (V)
Chilled Soba Noodle Salad with Pan-seared Tuna and Wasabi Dressing
Chicken Karaage with Nanban Sauce: Japanese-style Fried Chicken served on a bed of Shredded Cabbage and topped with a Soy and Vinegar-based Dressing
Beverages:
Kirin Draft Beer
Sayuri “Little Lilly” Nigori Sake
“Ichigo Sun” Strawberry Lemonade Cocktail with Sake, Strawberry Purée, and Lemonade
FUNNEL CAKES (Located in The American Adventure)
Key Lime Funnel Cake topped with Crumbled Graham Cracker and Whipped Cream
Lexington Brewing Company Kentucky Vanilla Barrel Cream Ale, Lexington, KY
Short’s Brewing Company Local’s Light Lager, Bellaire, MI
Dogfish Head Brewery American Beauty Pale Ale, Milton, DE
Brooklyn Brewery Defender IPA, Brooklyn, NY
Golden Road Brewing Pineapple Cart Wheat Ale, Los Angeles, CA
3 Daughters Brewing Hard Rosé Cider, St. Petersburg, FL
Beer Flight
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
THE SMOKEHOUSE: BARBECUE AND BREWS (Located in The American Adventure) Food:
Pulled Pig Slider with Coleslaw
Beef Brisket Burnt Ends and Smoked Pork Belly Slider with Garlic Sausage, Chorizo, Cheddar Fondue, and House-made Pickle
Shredded Beef Brisket with Smoked Potato, Chorizo Fondue, and Green Tomato Relish
Warm Chocolate Cake with Bourbon-salted Caramel Sauce and Spiced Pecans (V)
Beverages:
Frozen Simply Lemonade (non-alcoholic)
Central 28 Brewing Company Sunshine Greetings Orange Hibiscus Wheat Ale, DeBary, FL
3 Daughters Brewing Phantasmas Spicy Double IPA, St. Petersburg, FL
Shipyard Maple Bacon Stout, Clearwater, FL
Boneshaker Zinfandel, Lodi, CA
Frozen Simply Lemonade with Blackberry Moonshine
Beer Flight
FIFE & DRUM (Located in The American Adventure)
Short’s Brewing Company Soft Parade Shandy, Bellaire, MI
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
PRIMAVERA KITCHEN (Located in the Italy Pavilion) Food:
Pizza Toscana: Rustic Italian Flatbread with Sweet Sausage, Caramelized Onion, Mozzarella, Asiago, and Parmesan Cheeses
Pomodori Verdi e Mozzarella: Fried Green Tomatoes, Mozzarella Cheese, and Balsamic Reduction
Tri-colored Cheese Tortellini, Sage Butter, and Chicken Veloute
Advertising b-roll shoot.
Despicable Me Interiors/Exteriors with characters.
One of the best parts of a Universal Orlando Resort vacation is never knowing who you might run into while roaming the streets. This complete guide to all of the characters at Universal Orlando Resort will help you know exactly where to find your favorite friends. Just think about how great your Instagram will look with all of these famous faces!
Meet the mischievious clown and his sidekick… straight from The Simpsons television show, one of the most groundbreaking and innovative entertainment franchises, recognizable throughout the world.
Next to the Knight Bus, which stranded witches and wizards use for emergency transport, you can chat with the bus conductor and the talkative shrunken head hanging over the steering wheel.
Location: Next to the Knight Bus in London near The Wizarding World of Harry Potter –Diagon Alley
Gringotts Goblin
Before trading in your cash for Gringotts bank notes, ask him a question and see what he has to say.
One of the easiest ways to catch a ton of Universal characters is at Universal Studios Florida’s Superstar Parade. Every day, the streets of the park are transformed into a giant stage for interactive experiences with all of your favorites: SpongeBob SquarePants, Max and Duke from The Secret Life of Pets, Gru and the Minions, Dora and Diego, and more! Check your park map for times.
ISLANDS OF ADVENTURE
Hogwarts Express Conductor
The amiable conductor of Hogwarts’ famous train is here to greet you.
Location: Next to the Hogwarts Express right inside the entrance to Hogsmeade
Students of Beauxbatons and Durmstrang
The Triwizard Spirit Rally gives you a chance to meet these visitors from other wizarding schools.
Location: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade near Flight of the Hippogriff
Marvel Super Heroes: Spider-Man, Captain America, Wolverine, Cyclops, Storm, and Rogue
Want to do some extra schmoozing with your favorites? Or maybe you just want to ensure you get to meet the character of your dreams. Share a meal with Universal characters at one of the following dining events.
In-Park and Seasonal Character Dining require reservations.
In-Park Character Dining:
Marvel Character Dining Characters: Captain America. Spider-Man, Wolverine, Cyclops, Storm and Rogue Dinner Thursdays – Sundays (5:00 – 7:00pm) Location: Cafe 4 in Islands of Adventure
Hotel Character Dining:
Put a little mayhem in your meal! No reservations required, but dining tickets must be purchased at least 24 hours in advance.
Loews Royal Pacific Resort Characters from Despicable Me Saturday Seating at 8:00am, 9:30am, and 11:00am Location:The Tahitian room
And please note: appearance of characters listed is subject to change without notice, and not all characters listed are guaranteed to appear at the same time, or on the same day.
That’s it! All you need to know about the endearing cast of characters at Universal Orlando Resort. Who are you most looking forward to meeting on your next trip?
There are too many must-do experiences at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter that simply can’t be covered in a brief blog post. It’s one of those things in life that you truly have to immerse yourself in and experience for yourself.
There is so much to see and do that we have highlighted the top 14 must-do Harry Potter experiences for you to enjoy on your next visit to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando.
And trust me, if you’re anything like me, you’ve been dreaming of these must-do experiences since you first read the book!
There is something about that moment you first step foot into Diagon Alley and stand there in awe at something that can only truly be described as out of this world. When this moment happens, take your time, soak it in, and get your camera ready when you hear the Dragon on top of Gringotts Bank begin to rumble!
Whether on the field or in the stands, Quality Quidditch Supplies has everything you are looking for including brooms, Golden Snitches, Bludgers, house sweaters, and more!
Do you have a mischevious sibling that pranks you every chance they get? Well, you can pick up some pretty great pranks at Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes to help even the score.
…but be careful, I’ve heard escaping is impossible.
Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog
9. Pass through the brick wall to Platform 9 3/4 and board the Hogwarts Express.
Get ready to journey to Hogwarts on the Hogwarts Express! Certainly the ideal way to transport yourself from Diagon Alley to Hogsmeade and back again.
Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog
10. Honeydukes is a surefire way to cure your sweet tooth!
Honeydukes is an ideal first stop in Hogsmeade. Not sure which colorful sweet to try first? I highly suggest you try the delicious Chocolate Frogs, each box also includes a special card celebrating a famous witch or wizard.
Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog
11. Pick up some letter writing supplies at the Owl Post.
Don’t forget to pen your friend back home – they’re sure to appreciate a letter, especially one with a special Hogsmeade postmark!
Filch is always sticking his nose in Hogwarts students’ business. But hey, by raiding his confiscated goods you can find some really great items.
Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog
14.My ideal way to end a magical day at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter—Butterbeer at Three Broomsticks.
Personally, I love a mug of cold Butterbeer at the end of a long day. Did you know there are 6 Butterbeer treats in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter?
Make sure to share your The Wizarding World of Harry Potter must-do’s on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram with #WizardingWorldOrlando.
If you love catching countless beads from vibrant parade floats, eating delicious authentic N’awlins style food and listening to some of the biggest names in music then Mardi Gras 2019 at Universal Orlando is the place for you.
The best part Florida Residents? You don’t have to fly to New Orleans to have that authentic Mardi Gras celebration because it’s right in your backyard.
1. Live Concerts with Some Of The Biggest Names In Music
Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog
First and foremost, on select nights, you can watch some of the biggest names in music take to the Music Plaza stage in Universal Studios Florida for unforgettable performances including…
February 9 – BUSH
February 16 – Gavin DeGraw
February 17 – Dan + Shay
February 23 – Macklemore
March 2 – Sabrina Carpenter
March 9 – Becky G
March 10 – Sean Paul
March 16 – Steve Miller Band
March 17 – Ziggy Marley
March 23 – NF
March 24 – Pitbull
March 30 – Bazzi
March 31 – To be announced
*Blockout dates apply for Seasonal Passholders on all concert event nights at Universal Studios Florida. You will still receive access to Universal’s Islands of Adventure.
Insider Tip: Head over to the Music Plaza stage early to get up close and find a nice spot in the grass for the nightly concert. Visiting with a group? Take turns grabbing your fill of N’awlins inspired food & spirits for the best picnic ever.
2. Universal Mardi Gras Parade
Get ready to unleash your wild side with this year’s parade theme –– Party Animals! You will experience returning fan-favorites and new vibrant floats with lively characters decorated in animals from around the world including the jungle, arctic, swamp and more.
Passholders can also enjoy the parade from a special viewing area in front of Mel’s Drive-In™. Don’t worry! No matter where you’re viewing the parade from, be prepared to catch beads by the handful.
Interested in riding and tossing beads from the Mardi Gras parade floats? Passholders can sign up for a chance to be a Mardi Gras float rider with up to five guests! Visit the sign-up page here.
Insider Tip:Love catching and collecting Mardi Gras beads from the parade floats? Make your way towards the Horror Makeup Show to catch both the beginning and the end of the parade.
3. Dig Into N’awlins Style Delicious Food
Make your way to the French Quarter Courtyard located in the New York area, loosen up your belt and get ready to try a wide variety of mouthwatering bite-sized Cajun favorites including jambalaya, shrimp gumbo, Andouille sausage, sugary-sweet beignets, and more!
Quench your thirst with our refreshing Mardi Gras themed specialty beverages, featuring slushies, a wide variety of craft beer selections and delicious cocktails including the Ragin Rumbalaya, Carnival Cocktail and Vicious VooDoo.
Stay tuned for more mouthwatering details.
Must be 21 years and older with valid identification to purchase or drink alcoholic beverages.
5. Live Entertainment and Performers
Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog
Visit the French Quarter Courtyard and join in the Mardi Gras celebration as you encounter stilt walkers, dancers, colorful parade characters and more wandering the streets.
Don’t forget, not only do the Mardi Gras characters carry extra beads, they love to interact with you and take photos. So make sure your camera is handy and don’t be shy to ask for a photo.
6. Big Easy Tunes in the French Quarter
Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog
Now that you have a full stomach and a drink in hand, stick around the French Quarter to hear the signature sounds of these authentic Big Easy bands.
February 9 – 17: Dirty Bourbon River Show
February 18 – 27: Naughty Professor Brass Band
February 28 – March 18: Free Agents Brass Band featuring Honey Bannister
March 19 – April 4: New Breed Brass Band
7. Have The Time Of Your Life!
Whether you’re coming for a day of family-friendly fun, or to wild out with friends, start the countdown now and for a limited time, take advantage of great Universal Orlando Annual Pass Deals to help throw the party and get up to 6 months FREE.
Get ready to find your inner party-animal with us at Mardi Gras!
Tell us about some of your favorite experiences at Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras 2019 in the comments below. And make sure to share your Mardi Gras 2019 moments on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram with #UniversalMardiGras.
Gran Destino Tower opens this summer, and sitting atop this grand new expansion to Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort is Toledo – Tapas, Steak & Seafood. The unique restaurant will offer a menu featuring dishes and small plates inspired by the flavors of Spain. Guests of Toledo will enjoy a surrealistic rooftop dining experience along with classic tapas, steaks, seafood, and delightful desserts.
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
An on-stage tapas kitchen will serve charcuteríá and cheeses as well as pintxos (small plates) and cazuelas (soups). House boards include a cured meat selection, an artisanal manchego cheese selection, and a grand platter of signature artisanal meats and mixed cheeses.
The pintxos selections feature an array of items like Salt Cod-stuffed Piquillo Peppers with goat cheese and toast, Olive Oil-poached Tuna, and Tortilla de Día wrapped in jamón serrano. Cazuelas include options such as Shrimp Pil Pil, Charred Octopus with romesco and chimichurri, and Rioja-braised Chorizo with field onions..
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
If you’re looking for larger appetizers, you can enjoy several selections including Heirloom Tomatoes with stone fruit and farmer cheese, Jamón Serrano with compressed melon, and Savory Churros.
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
For the entrées, guests can enjoy Wine-braised Chicken and steak lovers can savor the Hanger Steak with crushed new potatoes or the Manhattan Filet. There’s also the Rib-Eye For Two – an aged, hand-cut 32-ounce Spanish chuletón for two.
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
The restaurant will serve 100% sustainable seafood with options such as Scallops with hummus, olives, and roasted carrots and Golden Tile Fish with petite potatoes and cauliflower. There’s also a creative plant-based take on a seafood platter that includes mushroom scallops, calamari, and ceviche as well as hearts of palm crab cake.
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
For a sweet ending to your meal, try one of several unique signature desserts created by Disney’s Master Pastry Chef: Classic Crema Catalana with Valencia oranges and chocolate tuile, “Café con Leche” Choux with dark chocolate mousse and vanilla “nata montada,” and “The Toledo Tapas Bar” – a progressive bite-sized sweet tasting, tapas style, featuring a crunchy chocolate bar with bite-sized flavors of Spanish coffee mousse, chocolate cake, “frambuesa” raspberry mousse, and lemon curd. Kids can also enjoy Mickey-shaped raspberry mousse topped with yummy strawberries.
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
There’s even a plant-based dessert option on the menu. The Chocolate Avocado Mousse with strawberry-basil sorbet and coconut crumble is a decadent option that you definitely won’t want to miss out on.
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
The beverage menu shines the spotlight on Spanish and California wines with over 75 selections hand-selected by our Master Sommelier. Other drinks include handcrafted cocktails such as the “Gin Tonic” with house-made saffron tonic and sangria as well as beers and ciders from Spanish and American Craft Breweries, a selection of non-alcoholic artisanal cocktails, and dinner beverages showcasing Spanish coffees, brandies, and dessert wines.
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
Reservations are now open for Toledo – Tapas, Steak & Seafood for bookings starting in July, when Gran Destino Tower opens at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort. For more information and to book reservations, visit the Walt Disney World Resort website or call 407 WDW-DINE (407 939-3463).
For more information and to book hotel reservations for Gran Destino Tower, visit the Walt Disney World Resort website or call 407-W-Disney (407 934-7639) or your travel agent.
