Category Archives: Florida

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

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(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

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

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

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

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

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

Try Tasty Treats at The Incredible Tomorrowland Expo at Magic Kingdom

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Get your super suits ready (but not your capes!) and fly on over to Tomorrowland at Magic Kingdom Park to try these deliciously SUPER treats! The Incredible Tomorrowland Expo is happening now, and in addition to exciting entertainment and merchandise, there’s some pretty SUPER food offerings (hang on tight, these INCREDIBLE puns aren’t ending anytime soon)!

Let’s get this started by DASHing to Tomorrowland Terrace Restaurant, where you can find the Dash Pizza (Sicilian-style cheese or pepperoni pizza), as well as tasty burgers, chicken tenders, sandwiches, and salads.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café already has a pretty INCREDIBLE menu with burgers, chicken nuggets, rotisserie chicken, sandwiches, and salads, but they’ve STRETCHED out their menu even more to include a Super Foods Salad and a Super Stretchy Burger inspired by Mrs. Incredible! The Super Foods Salad is a kale and spinach salad with quinoa, avocado, blueberries, and pico de gallo. The Super Stretchy Burger has flame-grilled angus beef that’s piled high with deep-fried mozzarella sticks, American cheese, bacon, and garlic ranch sauce.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

If you’re in the mood for some sweets, then Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodie’s is the place to go. Here you’ll find ice cream, smoothies, sundaes, and some fashion advice? That’s right, they’re cooking up Edna Mode’s “No Capes, Just Crêpes” Crêpe Sundae! Make sure to leave your capes at home, because these sundaes are SUPER and you won’t want to miss them. The first is a chocolate-hazelnut crêpe topped with ice cream and berries, and the second is a blackberry-lavender jam crêpe topped with ice cream and fruit-flavored cereal.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

At The Lunching Pad, you definitely won’t be able to DISGUISE your excitement for the Mrs. Incredible Pretzel Mask – this soft pretzel comes topped with black salt and is INCREDIBLE with cheese sauce or some yellow mustard! And for those little-super heroes, they’ll love the Jack-Jack Cookies, freshly baked mini-chocolate chip cookies that are perfect for an on-the-go snack.

And at the Snack Carts around Tomorrowland, in addition to Mickey Pretzels, popcorn, and churros, there’s also a new sno-cone that will have you FROZEN in your tracks! Frozone’s Sno-Cones are blue raspberry-flavored and are sure to cool you down on those warm summer days.

This SUPER exciting Incredible Tomorrowland Expo starts today and runs through September 3, 2018. In addition to all of this INCREDIBLE food, you can also celebrate all things SUPER with exclusive merchandise and characters from Disney•Pixar’s “Incredibles.” Tomorrowland will even be decked out with Incredibles décor, sounds from the film, and a SUPER dance party on the Rockettower Plaza Stage 2-7pm daily.

And of course, don’t forget to see “The Incredibles 2” in theaters June 15 and check out all of the exciting things happening for Incredible Summer at Walt Disney World Resort!

(Thanks Disney Parks Blog)

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. Call her at 734-771-1290 or email her at siera@destinationsinflorida.com for your free, no obligation quote. 

Enjoy Happily Ever After with the New After Fireworks Dessert Party

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Do you love fireworks, especially the incredible new Happily Ever After spectacular? Do you love dessert? Are you a fan of MAGIC? Well, then, I have good news for you! Due to the popularity of the Fireworks Dessert Party at Magic Kingdom Park, there will now be an additional option to enjoy some treats and the incredible fireworks – the After Fireworks Dessert Party starting on May 28, 2018.

Now you can experience the legendary fireworks over Cinderella Castle from a special viewing area in the Plaza Garden, and afterwards, head on over to Tomorrowland Terrace Restaurant and indulge in a delicious array of all-you-care-to-enjoy desserts!

On the menu for this sweet experience are treats inspired by each of the lands of Magic Kingdom Park. Among the offerings are the S’mores Action Station (Frontierland), Pineapple Delights (Adventureland), Ooey Gooey Toffee Cakes (Liberty Square), Macarons (Fantasyland), a Cookie Table (Tomorrowland), and Strawberry Tarts (Main Street U.S.A.).

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

But there’s more than just desserts! Savory snacks include cheese cubes, spinach dip with crackers, and house-made mini eggrolls. Fresh fruit is also available along with refreshing beverages such as sparkling apple juice, coffee, tea, and milk.

In addition, on July 3-4 and select nights during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, guests can enjoy special themed holiday treats as well as holiday fireworks.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Guests can make reservations for the After Fireworks Dessert Party by phone or online in their My Disney Experience account. Pricing is $69 for adults and $41 for children.

(Thanks Disney Parks Blog!)

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. 

The Best Wizarding World of Harry Potter Food at Universal Orlando

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(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

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

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

Hogsmeade to Diagon Alley…

1. Traditional English Breakfast from Three Broomsticks

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

2. Fresh Fruit from The Magic Neep Cart

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

3. Three Broomsticks Shepherd’s Pie

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

4. No-Melt Ice Cream from Honeydukes

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

5. The Leaky Cauldron Fish & Chips

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

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

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

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

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

Diagon Alley to Hogsmeade…

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

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

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

Friday, Sept. 7

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

Saturday, Sept. 8

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

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

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

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

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

Top Five Thrill Rides at Volcano Bay at Universal Orlando Resort

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(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

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

1. Krakatau Aqua Coaster

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

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

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

2. Ko’okiri Body Plunge

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

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

3. Honu ika Moana Slides

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

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

4. Ohyah & Ohno Drop Slides

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

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

5. Kala & Tai Nui Serpentine Body Slides

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

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

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

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

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

98 Degrees, Hanson, and More Coming to 2018 Eat to the Beat Concert Series

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Disney recently announced many of the artists performing at the 2018 Eat to the Beat concert series for this year’s Epcot International Food and Wine Festival, coming this fall.

New to this year’s concert series will be percussionist extraordinaire and singer Sheila E and ‘80s Canadian rockers Glass Tiger. 98 Degrees – featuring brothers and “Dancing With the Stars” alums Nick and Drew Lachey – also bring their smooth harmonies to the festival. Maybe they’ll sing “True To Your Heart” from Disney’s “Mulan”? And, if that weren’t enough, entertainer Jim Belushi brings his rhythm-and-blues band The Sacred Hearts to the festival this year.

This year’s lineup also will include two Contemporary Christian music artists: MercyMe, who successfully branched out from music this year with the hit film based on lead singer Bart Mallard’s life called “I Can Only Imagine”; and former “Royal Tailor” front man Tauren Wells, who has found mainstream success this year, touring with Mariah Carey and Lionel Richie.

Returning favorites include ‘80s pop stars Tiffany and Billy Ocean, ’90s hit makers like Hanson and Everclear; and swing-meisters Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, who close out the festival as they have for the last couple of years.

The lineup so far is:

  • 8/30-31 – Blue October – “Into the Ocean”
  • 9/1-3 – Tiffany – “I Think We’re Alone Now”
  • 9/4-5 – MercyMe – “I Can Only Imagine” NEW
  • 9/6-7 – Glass Tiger – “Don’t Forget Me (When I’m Gone) NEW
  • 9/8-9 – Tauren Wells – “Hills and Valleys” NEW
  • 9/10-11 – Postmodern Jukebox
  • 9/12-13 – TBD
  • 9/14-16 – Baha Men – “Who Let The Dogs Out”
  • 9/17-19 – TBD
  • 9/20-21 – Living Color – “Cult of Personality”
  • 9/22-23 – Sheila E – “The Glamorous Life” NEW
  • 9/24-26 – Sugar Ray – “Every Morning”
  • 9/27-28 – David Cook – “Light On”
  • 9/29-30 – Jeffrey Osbourne – “On The Wings of Love”
  • 10/1-2 – Jim Belushi & The Sacred Hearts – Various Hits
  • 10/3-4 – Everclear – “Santa Monica”
  • 10/5-7 – Mark Wills – “19 Somethin’”
  • 10/8-10 – Air Supply – “All Out Of Love”
  • 10/11-12 – TBD
  • 10/13-14 – TBD
  • 10/15-16 – 98 Degrees – “Give Me Just One Night (Una Noche)” NEW
  • 10/17-18 – 38 Special – “Hold On Loosely”
  • 10/19-21 – Devon Allman Project – “Ragged and Dirty”
  • 10/22-23 – TBD
  • 10/24-25 – Billy Ocean – “Get Outta My Dreams”
  • 10/26-28 – Starship featuring Mickey Thomas – “We Built This City”
  • 10/29-31 – Hanson – “MMMBop”
  • 11/1-2 – TBD
  • 11/3-4 – Taylor Dayne – “Prove Your Love”
  • 11/5-7 – Boyz II Men – “End Of The Road”
  • 11/8-9 – The Hooters – “And We Danced”
  • 11/10-12 – Big Bad Voodoo Daddy – “Go Daddy-O”

The Epcot International Food and Wine Festival’s 23rd year runs from August 30 to November 12, 2018.

For more information on the Festival, check out TasteEpcot.com and stay tuned for updates on this year’s celebrity chef events, “Eat to the Beat” dining packages, special events and other fun.

(Thanks Disney Parks Blog)

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. Call her at 734-771-1290 or email her at siera@destinationsinflorida.com for your free, no obligation quote. 

Ten Fun Facts About Blue Man Group at Universal Orlando Resort

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(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

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

1. Experiencing Universal – Blue Man Style

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

2. You Can Meet a Blue Man!

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

3. Keepin’ It Fresh

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

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

4. Autism Speaks

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

5. They Have Their Own Ice Cream

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

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

6. Shake Your Booty – 65 Different Ways

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

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

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

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

8. Speaking of Paint…

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

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

9. Marshmallows, Cereal and Chocolate, oh my!

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

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

10. That’s One Big Drum

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

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

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

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

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

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

Bar 17 Bistro Will Offer Sky High Views Atop Universal’s Aventura Hotel

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(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Universal is going to take you all the way to the top of Universal’s Aventura Hotel (17 floors up to be exact) to give you a sneak peek at the rooftop bar and grill, Bar 17 Bistro.

Bar 17 Bistro will open in the evenings, so guests can soak in the beautiful Florida sunsets. When the bar is open, there will be a dedicated elevator in the lobby to take you directly to the rooftop. Since Bar 17 Bistro will be open to all Universal Orlando guests (not just those staying at Aventura) and locals, Universal wanted to make it easy and convenient to get there.

The same contemporary design and style used throughout the hotel will carry into the design of the rooftop venue. When you step off of the elevator and into Bar 17 Bistro, you’ll feel like you’ve arrived at the city’s newest hotspot with sky-high views of Orlando like you’ve never seen before.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Bar 17 Bistro will offer breathtaking views of all that Universal Orlando Resort has to offer. You’ll see all three theme parks, Universal’s other resort hotels, and even the downtown Orlando skyline. One of the best views is of Universal’s Volcano Bay, especially at night. Seeing the blue lava erupting out of Krakatau is stunning!

The sunset views from Bar 17 Bistro are especially gorgeous.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Let’s not forget about what truly matters though – the food and drinks. Bar 17 Bistro will offer an assortment of small plates that range from unique options like Bao Bun dishes inspired by global destinations, to classic favorites like nachos, sliders, and salads.

And you’ll definitely be excited for the cocktails that are designed to pair with the international flavors on the menu. We partnered with an expert mixologist and bar consultant who also helped create our drink menu at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort’s Strong Water Tavern – so you know these drinks will be amazing!

Universal’s Aventura Hotel will open August 2018, but I suggest booking your stay now because the rooms will fill up fast. Plus, if you reserve your room before June 15th, you’ll receive a free $50 hotel dining credit on a stay of four to six nights. Or if you want to enjoy more food and drinks at Bar 17 Bistro, book a seven-night stay and receive a free $100 dining credit.

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. 

Sneak Peek of Woody’s Lunch Box Menu in Toy Story Land

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

In the toy-filled backyard that is Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, guests “shrink” to the size of a toy and explore the world of Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and friends. In the middle of all the fun, Andy has taken his vintage Woody-themed lunch box and propped it open with a thermos, turning it into a walk-up window where his toys can grab a bite to eat. From a nearby tower, green army men stand at the ready, keeping watch for Andy’s return. Opening June 30, Woody’s Lunch Box will dish up all sorts of sandwiches and sides that blend classic flavor combinations with a modern twist, plus nostalgic soda floats and specialty beverages.

Here is a peek into Woody’s Lunch Box!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

S’more French Toast Breakfast Sandwich – Oozy goodness in a chocolate ganache- and marshmallow-stuffed French toast topped with graham cracker crumbles. Inspired by the classic American campfire treat.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Smoked Turkey, Eggs, Swiss, Peppers, and Onions on Sourdough – The perfect hand-held stack of breakfast goodness.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Breakfast Bowl – The green army men line up for this hearty bowl of potato barrels, brisket-country gravy, and scrambled eggs.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

BBQ Brisket Melt – With a nod to cowboy Woody, this Texas-style smoked brisket features cheddar, Monterey Jack, pickles, and BBQ sauce on garlic butter-grilled sourdough.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Monte Cristo with Raspberry Jam – Woody’s version of this classic sandwich has layers of ham, turkey, Swiss, and raspberry jam…and is grilled to a golden brown.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Totchos – Potato barrels, corn chips, chili, and cheese – what’s not to love??

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Sides include tomato basil soup, vegetable macaroni salad, and potato barrels. Mini Babybel snack cheese, the official snack cheese of Walt Disney World Resort, is also an option to eat with your meal or as an on-the-go snack.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Raspberry Lunch Box Tart garnished with Icing and Dried Fruit and Chocolate-Hazelnut Lunch Box Tart garnished with Icing and Caramelized Bacon – Even toys need a sweet treat! Inspired by breakfast toaster pastries, this modern interpretation, with its uniquely delicate crust, is the perfect hand-held pastry.

The littlest toys can enjoy a grilled cheese sandwich or turkey sandwich, both served with potato barrels and mandarin oranges. For toys looking for more lighter options, they can grab one of these tasty bites at Woody’s Lunch Box or check out the many other healthful offerings available at Disney’s Hollywood Studios including fresh fruits and vegetables, salads, and grilled meats and fish.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Banana Split Yogurt Parfait – Layers of banana-vanilla Greek yogurt (with a hint of honey), fresh bananas, strawberries, and pineapple topped with granola and chocolate chips. A delicious and healthful way to start the day!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Smoked Turkey, Tomato, and Lettuce on Multigrain Bread – This quintessential lunch box sandwich is a light and fresh option. And to give it a kick of flavor, we add a creamy Dijonnaise.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Soda Floats – All toys would agree that a refreshing soda float is the perfect nostalgic beverage!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

The adorable Alien Sipper may be purchased and filled with any fountain drink or the signature Mystic Portal Punch – Powerade Mountain Berry Blast with flavors of lemon-lime and tangerine.

The big kids can enjoy the backyard with Grown-Up’s Lemonade cocktail (cherry vodka, Odwalla Lemonade, and black cherry purée), beer, or hard cider.

Check out the full menu of lunch box favorites here. See you June 30!

(Thanks Disney Parks Blog!)

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. Call her at 734-771-1290 or email her at siera@destinationsinflorida.com for your free, no obligation quote.