Category Archives: United States

Top Six Reasons to Spend a Day at Disney World Water Parks

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Summers in Orlando are HOT so what better way to cool off than by paying a visit to Disney World Water Parks. Whether you’re looking for thrills, relaxation, unique treats or even to learn a new skill, Disney’s Blizzard Beach and Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon have got you covered. So while you prepare for your spring getaway to Walt Disney World Resort, consider these six reasons to add a day at the water parks to your vacation plans.

Awesome Thrill Rides: Get your heart pumping at Blizzard Beach by starting your day taking the plunge down Summit Plummet. At 120 feet high, it’s one of the tallest free-fall water attractions in the world and, by reaching speeds up to 55 mph, it’s a thrilling, downhill rush. At Typhoon Lagoon, Crush ‘n’ Gusher takes riders on inflatable rafts through twists, turns, dips and dives. For more thrills, there’s the Toboggan Racers and Slush Gusher at Blizzard Beach, plus Miss Adventure Falls and Hummunga Kowabunga at Typhoon Lagoon.

The Blizzard Beach Spring Challenge: With obstacle courses, water slide challenges and other interactive games, the Blizzard Beach Spring Challenge, March 10-11 and March 24-25, is the perfect activity for the entire family. And the winners get to take home sweet Blizzard Beach themed giveaways, too!

Unique Lazy Rivers: Castaway Creek and Cross Country Creek are two super relaxing lazy rivers that the whole family can enjoy. Whether floating on inner tubes through ice caves at Blizzard Beach or meandering through a misty rainforest and hidden grotto at Typhoon Lagoon, each lazy river offers an experience you won’t find anywhere else.

Private and Relaxing Cabanas: Disney Water Parks offer a private oasis where you can enjoy the water park in a unique way. The Beachcomber Shack Cabanas and Polar Patio Cabanas are premium spaces that provide shade, comfy seating, private lockers and more. While you relax in your Adirondack seats, a service attendant will look after all your food and beverage needs from an a la carte menu. It’s the perfect way for mom and dad to kick back while the kids enjoy the water parks. For reservations and pricing information, please call (407) 939-7529.

Unique meals and snacks: There are a variety of unique treats that can be found at Disney Water Parks. You’ll find options such as the slow pulled pork on a burger (with grilled pineapple!), Korean beef or chicken rice bowl, crisp salads and seafood baskets. And dessert? You can’t go wrong with the sand pail sundae – chocolate and vanilla soft-serve ice cream, waffle cone pieces, Oreo cookie pieces, sprinkles, hot fudge, caramel sauce, whipped cream and a cherry on top – or the world-famous warm mini donuts!

Learn to Surf at Typhoon Lagoon: Did you know you can book a surf lesson at Typhoon Lagoon? Guests can participate in Learn to Surf at Typhoon Lagoon before the water park opens and spend a couple of hours with professional instructors, trying to catch the perfect wave. Surf lessons come with a light breakfast as well as photography, so you can share your experience with all your friends back home. For more information about how to book surf lessons, call (407) 939-7529.

See you at the Disney World water parks!

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. 

Sneak Peek at the Food and Drinks from Bar 17 Bistro at Universal’s Aventura Hotel

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(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Have you heard? There’s an incredible new restaurant coming with the opening of Universal’s Aventura Hotel on August 16th. Universal’s first-ever rooftop bar and grill – Bar 17 Bistro. And we have a special sneak peek of some of the food and drinks that will be available for you to enjoy!

Perched up on the 17th floor of this stylish and modern hotel, Bar 17 Bistro will be the place to see and be seen. This bright, open-air venue will be surrounded by glass panels, giving you stunning views of all three Universal Orlando theme parks. I highly recommend stopping up during sunset – the most gorgeous time of day to take in the view.

But the real showstopper at Bar 17 Bistro will be the delicious food and unique cocktails. Reminiscent of the small plates and craft cocktails found at trendy hotspots in cities across the globe, Bar 17 Bistro will offer all of this at Aventura Hotel’s Prime Value price point.

Here’s a sneak peek at some of what you’ll be able to find at Bar 17 Bistro when it opens in just a couple weeks!

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

First up, complex frozen drinks. These are freshly-made frozen drinks (no pre-made mixes are used) with unique flavor profiles like rum, matcha and lime or bourbon, maple and grapefruit. They’re a modern take on the traditional frozen drink and I’m sure you’re going to love them.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

There will also be an entire section of the menu that features bao buns, with fillings that range from braised pork belly to lamb satay to tempura baby vegetable. Some guest favorites are expected to be the braised pork belly and the firecracker shrimp bao buns. Why so many baos, you ask? They’re easy to share and will feature lots of textures and colors. They’ll be delicious and they’re pretty to look at, too.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Another favorite on the drink menu is the Firebird. The Firebird is made with tequila, jalapeno, strawberry and cilantro – a refreshing cocktail with just the right amount of kick. Since Aventura is more of a lifestyle hotel, Universal wanted to bring refreshing ideas to the food and drink offerings, while still keeping the stylish vibe of the hotel.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Speaking of refreshing, the salads will showcase some of the best Florida-grown produce from the region. They wanted to have something light, refreshing and citrus-inspired on the menu. These salads are pretty food that’s easy to eat and best of all – this is a guilt free indulgence!

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Not into alcoholic beverages? There are plenty of options for you, too. This pineapple turmeric lemonade will be a featured mocktail on the menu. The flavors come together for a thirst-quenching and revitalizing beverage that’s perfect for a rooftop bar in Orlando.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

The last sneak peek item is the Wagyu beef sliders. This is Universal’s take on burgers. They’re gourmet sliders that will be easy to share. You’ll love the locally-made brioche bun and French cheese. With horseradish mayo, gruyere cheese, roasted pepper chutney and watercress, served with a side of pomme frites, these burgers are something special, and just a little bit adventurous.

Don’t forget – Bar 17 Bistro will open daily at 4:00 pm. Be sure to book your room soon so you don’t miss out on a special limited time offer! If you book a four-night stay or longer, you’ll receive a free $50 hotel dining credit, which can be used at Bar 17 Bistro.

Let me know what you’ll be eating and drinking when you take in these epic views. See you at the top!

Must be 21 years and older with valid identification to purchase or drink alcoholic beverages.

Thanks Universal Orlando Resort Blog! 

 

Go Behind the Scenes at Disney World with the Backstage Magic Tour

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Have you ever wanted to go backstage to see just how the magic is brought to life here at Walt Disney World Resort? On the Walt Disney World Resort Backstage Magic Tour, you can do just that, and enjoy a one-of-a-kind VIP look at the inner workings on an amazing 7-hour journey through The Most Magical Place on Earth.

Here are the top four experiences that you’ll enjoy on the Backstage Magic tour:

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

1. Peek behind the curtains at The American Adventure, where you’ll learn how engineering and artistry come together to create this truly historic show.

2. Unravel the secrets behind creating the dazzling costumes for Disney Characters, as well as show and parade performers, at Walt Disney World Resort’s own Creative Costuming department.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

3. From the smallest details to the most ornate sets, get an up-close look at the unparalleled talent and craftsmanship at work in the Walt Disney World Central Shops.

4. Last, but definitely not least, you can navigate the legendary underground tunnels or “utilidors” used by Cast Members located beneath Magic Kingdom Park.

Backstage Magic isn’t the only tour that gives you an inside look at popular Walt Disney World locales. Later this year, you can embark on the Gardens of the World Tour during the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, or even learn how wintery fun comes to life in the theme parks on both the Disney’s Yuletide Fantasy and Holiday D-Lights tours.

Which of these behind-the-scenes tours are you most excited to experience?

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. 

Top Ten Cold Snacks at Disneyland and Disney California Adventure Park

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Southern California is warm and sunny most of the year – so it’s almost always the perfect season for some cold snacks at Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park! Here are the top 10 best cold snacks at Disneyland Resort.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

10. Bifrosties – Behind Schmoozies at Disney California Adventure park, Bifrosties is serving up flavored shaved ice…but only during Summer of Heroes, which ends September 10. My favorite is Spider Venom (blue raspberry and cherry with condensed milk)!

9. Caprese on Focaccia Bread – Tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, lettuce, citrus aioli, basil vinaigrette and balsamic glaze combine on delicious focaccia bread for a satisfying summer lunch at Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe in Disneyland park.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

8. Lobster Roll – If you haven’t yet found this gem at Harbour Galley in Critter Country, you are missing out! Chilled lobster salad is served on a toasted, buttered roll for a filling – but not too filling – meal.

7. Gourmet Cheese Plate and Cold Cut Plate – Enjoy these nibbles with a chilled glass of Chardonnay at Sonoma Terrace in Disney California Adventure park for a relaxing afternoon.

6. Flo’s Classic Chocolate Shake – I love a chocolate milkshake, especially when it’s topped with “Road Gravel.” And Flo’s V8 Cafe has one of my favorite outdoor dining locations in all of Disneyland Resort, where you can chill out in the shade with your shake and a spectacular view of the Cadillac Mountain Range.

5. Fanta Orange Float – Two Scoops of Vanilla Ice Cream plus Fanta Orange soda equals heaven in a cup. Creamy, refreshing and colorful, this drink always has other guests asking me, “What’s that?!” That’s when I point them in the direction of Gibson Girl Ice Cream Parlor on Main Street, U.S.A.

4. Ahi Poke – You can find this traditional Hawaiian dish at a variety of locations throughout Disney California Adventure park, but I’m recommending Tangaroa Terrace at Disneyland Hotel as a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of the theme parks. Order up a serving and sit in the outside dining area, overlooking the retro-themed pools and waterslides.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

3. World Famous Hot Fudge Sundae – At Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop, I ask for mine with a scoop of Cookies ‘n Cream and a scoop of Cookie Dough ice cream.

2. Cobb Salad – Hands down, without question, the Cobb Salad at Plaza Inn on Main Street, U.S.A., is my favorite salad. Not just at the Disneyland Resort – anywhere. I don’t know if it’s some magic with the salad itself or the iconic location, but in my opinion, you can’t beat it.

1. Boysen Apple Freeze – Sharing the top spot with Red’s Apple Freeze (its cousin at Disney California Adventure park), Boysen Apple Freeze wins the top spot for me because it is refreshing and a bit lighter – made with frozen apple juice, a hint of wild berry and topped with passion fruit foam.

What are your favorite cold snacks at Disneyland Resort on a hot day?

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. 

Book Your 2019 Vacation at Universal’s Endless Summer Resort Now

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(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Get ready to kick back, relax and step into the free-spirited lifestyle of surf culture. You can now be among the first to book reservations and stay at Universal’s newest and most affordable hotel, Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites, opening August 2019.

With the addition of this all-new Value category hotel, Universal now offers a hotel for every style and budget. This means that at Surfside Inn and Suites you’ll experience a quality and seamless Universal Orlando vacation, all at a value that can’t be found anywhere else.

Studio Rendering, Inc. is an award winning Visual Communication studio specializing in 3D computer graphics for the design industry.
As artists, designers, film-makers and creative consultants, we partner with the world’s leading designers and creative thinkers on some 400 projects every year. These projects can be as small as a single rendering or as large as a full scale production of a film / animation.
Our work reflects an enduring commitment to photo-realism and the belief that a visual is one of the most powerful tools to communicating design.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

As Universal’s first Value category hotel, the bright and beach-themed rooms at Surfside Inn and Suites introduce their most affordable price point yet:

  • Standard Rooms start at $73 per night
  • 2 Bedroom Suites start at $111 per night

Speaking of 2 Bedroom Suites, Surfside Inn and Suites is the perfect home-base for the entire family because half the rooms at this hotel are spacious suites that sleep up to six people. These suites feel like a beach retreat and feature two bedrooms: one room with two queen beds and the other with a single queen bed. There will also be a kitchenette area, a cool picnic table for meals and hanging out, and a bathroom with separate shower and vanity areas, so the whole family can get ready at the same time.

Studio Rendering, Inc. is an award winning Visual Communication studio specializing in 3D computer graphics for the design industry.
As artists, designers, film-makers and creative consultants, we partner with the world’s leading designers and creative thinkers on some 400 projects every year. These projects can be as small as a single rendering or as large as a full scale production of a film / animation.
Our work reflects an enduring commitment to photo-realism and the belief that a visual is one of the most powerful tools to communicating design.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

You’ll also enjoy the exclusive benefits that only come with staying at a Universal Orlando Resort hotel. Make the most of your day with Early Park Admission—allowing you to enjoy the theme parks each morning an hour before park opening—as well as free shuttle transportation to and from our three incredible theme parks and Universal CityWalk.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

And when you aren’t out having a blast at the parks, you’ll be basking by the pool or lounging at the pool bar. You’ll also enjoy the hotel’s food court, fitness center, Universal Studios Store and a coffee bar. Just kick back and surrender to the calming rhythm of the tides at Surfside Inn and Suites where it’s flip-flops, sun-kissed hair, sparkling water and open blue skies, all year long!

SONNY+ASH is an award winning Visual Communication studio specializing in 3D computer graphics for the design industry.
As artists, designers, film-makers and creative consultants, we partner with the world’s leading designers and creative thinkers on some 400 projects every year. These projects can be as small as a single rendering or as large as a full scale production of a film / animation.
Our work reflects an enduring commitment to photo-realism and the belief that a visual is one of the most powerful tools to communicating design.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

If you’re just as excited as I am about staying at Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites make sure you book your room soon. At such a great price, rooms will fill up fast!

Thanks Universal Orlando Resort Blog!

Contact us today for your free, no obligation quote at siera@destinationsinflorida.com. Plus, receive our Guide to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter as our free gift to you when you book your Universal Orlando Resort vacation with us!

Ten Best Burgers at Disney World

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Who doesn’t love a good burger? Luckily, there are dozens of delicious, juicy burgers to be found across Walt Disney World Resort! Here is a list of the ten best burgers at Disney World!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Southern Burger, D-Luxe Burger at Disney Springs
A D-Luxe Burger Signature beef blend (brisket, angus, chuck and short rib) patty, topped with fried green tomato, pimento cheese, lettuce, grilled onion and bacon. Be sure to treat Dad to a salted caramel gelato shake too!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Vegetarian Falafel Burger, Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant, Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Our favorite meat-free burger, this crispy chickpea falafel patty is topped with arugula, tomato, Tzatziki sauce and red pepper aïoli on a brioche bun.

Grilled Wagyu Beef Burger, The Hollywood Brown Derby at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Available during lunch, this wagyu beef patty is topped with Gruyere cheese, pastrami, heirloom tomato, avocado, fried egg and cognac-mustard aïoli on toasted brioche, served with hand-cut steak fries.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Southwest Burger, ABC Commissary at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
A premium patty topped with pepper jack cheese, guacamole, bacon, lettuce, tomato and cheddar jalapeno poppers, served with steak fries.

Island-style Beef Burger, Kona Café at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Say aloha to this pressed beef burger topped with char siu pork belly, soft-poached egg, mustard greens, spicy mayonnaise and pickled onions served on a pineapple brioche bun.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Bison Cheeseburger, Geyser Point Bar & Grill, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Topped with Tillamook cheddar, sweet onion straws, lettuce, tomato and Marion berry barbecue sauce, this burger is best paired with gorgeous views of Bay Lake, which can be enjoyed from the patio of Geyser Point Bar & Grill.

Wagyu Beef Burger ‘Oscar,’ Le Cellier Steakhouse, Epcot
Part of the prix-fixe lunch menu, this burger is topped with Maine lobster, Blue Crab and Bernaise and is served with truffle fries, choice of appetizer (famous Cheddar Cheese Soup anyone?) and dessert.

Smokehouse Burger, ESPN Club at Disney’s BoardWalk
Who doesn’t love eating a burger while cheering on your favorite sports team? This burger features a grilled angus beef patty is topped with smoked Tillamook cheddar, chipotle aïoli, onion straws and smoked bacon, served on an onion bun. Be sure to ask your server about the weekly special, too!

Patty Melt, Beaches & Cream Soda Shop at Disney’s Beach Club Resort
A 7-ounce pressed angus beef patty, served on Rye bread with Swiss cheese and grilled onions, complimented with a creamy garlic-peppercorn ranch. Bonus points if you treat Dad to his favorite sundae after dinner.

Lobster ‘Thermidor’ Burger, Grand Floridian Café at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
This 7-ounce artisanal burger patty is topped with lobster-parmesan thermidor sauce on a seared brioche bun and is served with Café’s signature seasoned French fries.

Where do you think you can get the best burgers 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. 

Fall Into Disney Magic with Special Experiences September 3-8, 2018

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Kick off fall with the ultimate fall into Disney magic vacation from September 3-8, 2018! You can enjoy a stay at one of the Walt Disney World Resort hotels and exclusive experiences planned just for you in all four parks! From a special dinner during the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival to exclusive time in the brand new Toy Story Land, this will be a vacation you won’t soon forget!

Here’s a sneak peek at what this unique itinerary includes:

  • Tuesday, September 4, 2018: an exclusive “Welcome to Fall” dinner at Epcot inspired by the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival
  • Wednesday, September 5, 2018: a nighttime Kilimanjaro Safaris tour followed by an exclusive showing of Rivers of Light at Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park after park closing
  • Thursday, September 6, 2018: two hours of exclusive evening access to Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
  • Friday, September 7, 2018: tickets to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom park

The ultimate Fall into Disney Magic package starts at just $149 per person, per night, for a family of four in a Standard Room at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, for a total package price of $2,980*.

Book now through August 19, 2018―and get excited for a vacation packed with adventure and spook-tacular memories!

*Price based on two adults, one junior, and one child. The number of packages allocated for this offer is limited. Valid Theme Park admission required to attend Theme Park events included with this offer. Theme Park tickets with Park Hopper Option must be used within 14 days of first use. First use must be on or before Dec. 31, 2018. Cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion. Offer excludes three-bedroom villas.

Top 5 Wizarding World of Harry Potter Shows You Have to See at Universal Orlando

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(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

When most people think of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort, they think rides, robes, and copious amounts of delicious Butterbeer. Those are, of course, some of my favorite things. But they’re far from all there is to experience.

One of my favorite things to do is to kick back for a bit and watch one of the five Wizarding World of Harry Potter shows in Diagon Alley or Hogsmeade. (Usually with Butterbeer in hand though, let’s be real.)

Here’s a quick look into each show that you won’t want to miss.

Hogwarts Frog Choir:

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

It’s just like your high school a capella choir, except with, ya know, several frogs filling in the bass section. This choir, performing at Hogsmeade in Universal’s Islands of Adventure, has a representative from each of the four Hogwarts houses and some soothing ribbits that will be sure to get stuck in your head all day. What more could you want?

Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees: 

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

You might know the sensational Celestina Warbeck as Molly Weasley’s favorite singer. But anybody who’s seen her live in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley in Universal Studios Florida knows she’s SO much more than that. I dare you to not dance along to her live show.

Triwizard Spirit Rally: 

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

We have spirit for the Triwizard Tournament at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade where students from Hogwarts, Beauxbatons, and Durmstrang lead the excitement in celebrating their international magical cooperation. It’ll have you wishing your school was this cool.

The Tales of Beedle the Bard: The Tale of Three Brothers

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Ah, the theater! There’s nothing quite like relaxing in Diagon Alley as students from the Wizarding Academy of Dramatic Arts perform two storiesfrom The Tales of Beedle the Bard. You’re probably familiar with The Tale of Three Brothers from the Deathly Hallows, but you’ve never seen it quite like this. Watch as the story comes alive featuring props designed by Emmy-award-winning designer Michael Curry.

The Tales of Beedle the Bard: The Fountain of Fair Fortune

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

The second Beedle the Bard fable you can catch the Wizarding Academy of Dramatic Arts performing in Diagon Alley is The Fountain of Fair Fortune. Much like The Tale of Three Brothers, this show also features some seriously impressive puppets, and even more impressive performances by our local Diagon Alley theater troupe.

What’s your favorite show at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter? Tell us in the comments below. See you at a future show!

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. 

Fourteen Best Roller Coasters at Disney Parks Around the World

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Not everyone thinks of thrill rides and roller coasters when they think of Disney World or any of the Disney Parks, but when it comes to immersive, high-energy thrill rides – Disney Parks do it better than anyone. Millions of our guests “get their coaster on” at Disney Parks around the world every day. Although it’s hard to narrow down our favorites, here are the fourteen best roller coasters at Disney Parks all over the world!

  1. Space Mountain – A classic. From Disneyland Resort in Anaheim to Hong Kong Disneyland and everywhere in between, this indoor coaster has dipped and tripped guests on a one-of-a-kind outer space adventure. At Disneyland Paris, you can find the Star Wars version of the attraction, Hyperspace Mountain; and a ghoulish version shows up at the Disneyland Resort during Halloween called Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy.
  1. TRON Lightcycle Power Run – An ode to the hit Disney films, “TRON” and “TRON: Legacy,” guests of Shanghai Disney Resort hop on the iconic lightcyles and Experience high-speed thrills and chills as the Grid comes alive in a heart-pounding race for survival. And we just announced its inclusion in Magic Kingdom Park here at Walt Disney World – VERY exciting!
  1. Barnstormer, Featuring the Great Goofini – Much more my speed. Located in Storybook Circus at Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort, The Great Goofini is known for his aerial expertise and high-flying stunts. Perfect for smaller visitors, Barnstormer has guests rolling through some of his most iconic swoops and swirls – at a graceful pace.
  1. Seven Dwarfs Mine Train – a HUGE hit at Magic Kingdom Park and now the toast of Shanghai Disney Resort. Guests “rock” and “roll” through scenes from Dwarfs’ mine – showcasing characters and songs from the iconic film “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.” You haven’t lived until you’ve heard “Heigh Ho” sung in Mandarin!
  1. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad – Amid rugged bedrock and desert cactus, venture inside a nearly 200-foot mountain to the Big Thunder Mining Company, established in the early days of America’s Gold Rush. Traipse down into an abandoned mine shaft and discover a mysterious 5-car locomotive waiting to take you on a journey inside an abandoned shaft. Guests around the world love this attraction with versions at Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, Disneyland Paris, Tokyo Disneyland and Hong Kong Disneyland.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

  1. Expedition Everest – A trek through the Himalayas and “The Forbidden Mountain,” no coaster tour of Walt Disney World Resort would be complete without a ride on Expedition Everest. Walt Disney Imagineers spent years researching legends and myths of Southeast Asia to be able to accurately immerse guests into this world. The views from the climb to the top are some of the most exquisite on Walt Disney World Resort property. It makes you anticipate and appreciate the inevitable thrills and chills as you fall even more.
  1. California Screamin’ – One of the icons of Disney California Adventure park, this ode to the classic wooden roller coaster can be seen for miles around. With Mickey Mouse’s cute face watching, guests almost forget going through the 120-foot plunge to 360-degree loop. Almost.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

  1. Indiana Jones et le Temple du Peril – Guests of Disneyland Paris can re-create their favorite mine car scene “Temple of Doom”-style as they twist and turn through dark, cursed ruins.
  1. Crush’s Coaster – Guests of Walt Disney Studios Paris join Crush and friends in Toon Studio®, where they board turtle shells and prepare for a ride through memorable moments from the the Disney•Pixar film, “Finding Nemo.” This is a REALLY cool ride for younger and young-at-heart guests alike.
  1. Raging Spirits – A hallmark attraction of Tokyo DisneySea, this is a high-speed rollercoaster attraction racing through the excavated ruins of an ancient ceremonial site. This thrilling ride will turn your world upside down – literally.
  1. Matterhorn Bobsleds – Another Disneyland classic – taking guests twisting and turning through the Swiss Alps. As guests swoop in and out of shadowy caves and along jagged rocky ledges; throttle through icy chutes and around frozen precipices, the “real” danger is not in the landscape. I won’t spoil it for newbies who haven’t ridden yet. Opening in 1959, the Matterhorn Bobsleds was the very first tubular steel roller coaster in the world.
  1. Water Coasters – Those looking for a wetter coaster experience look no further than Disney Parks. Crush ‘n’ Gusher at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon water park pushes and splashes guests through 400-foot-long tubes with uphill climbs and a plunge into Hideaway Bay at the end. And we can’t forget the water coasters aboard our Disney Cruise Line ships – the AquaDuck aboard the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy and the AquaDunk aboard the Disney Magic give Disney Cruise Line guests a ride they will never forget.
  1. Gadget’s Go Coaster – Another attraction for the entire family, this engaging “coaster” is based on the work of the character Gadget Hackwrench from the Disney animated series Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers. Guests of both Disneyland Resort in California and Tokyo Disney Resort can enjoy its family-friendly twists, turns, humps and bumps.
  1. Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, Starring Aerosmith – A game changer in indoor rollercoasters, Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster features one of the fastest rides at Disney Parks paired with a one-of-a-kind soundtrack. Guests of both Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Paris know to “hang on” when the 0-to-60-MPH launch starts.

Which of these do you think are the best roller coasters at Disney Parks? Be sure to let us know in the comments!

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 Delicious Dining at Urban Pantry at Universal’s Aventura Hotel

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(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

I hope you’re hungry! Universal’s Aventura Hotel is about to introduce something new and different to Orlando’s theme park food scene.

Urban Pantry will be Aventura Hotel’s modern food hall. Here your taste buds will be hit with diverse flavors, fresh ingredients and globally inspired dishes. Best of all? This eclectic collection of amazing eats will all be available at Universal’s newest Prime Value hotel.

Inspired by world-famous food halls and markets found in major cities like San Francisco and London, Urban Pantry fits perfectly into the contemporary and stylish vibe at Aventura Hotel. While you may want to enjoy the rooftop bar and grill, Bar 17 Bistro at night, Urban Pantry will be the perfect gathering spot for breakfast, lunch and dinner. With plenty of seating and large floor-to-ceiling windows, you can take in the natural sunlight and enjoy a view of the pool while you eat.

Here’s a sneak peak of some of the delicious options you’ll find at Urban Pantry.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

The Roast Station will feature entrees like cuts of lamb and prime rib, plus chicken, salmon and paella. You can pair these dishes with sides like quinoa, couscous, roasted marble potatoes, spinach and seasonal veggies.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

At the Pizza Station you can watch chefs create mouthwatering pizzas topped with gourmet ingredients like prosciutto and smoked salmon. These are baked in high-temperature stone ovens with seating designed to let you watch your pie in the making. For dessert, indulge in a gelato sandwich, a pressed sweet bread bun filled with hazelnut chocolate and gelato.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

The Wok Station lets you customize a hearty, healthy bowl of fresh ingredients. Choose stir fry or ramen-style, then pick your protein like steak, chicken, shrimp or tofu and top it off with your choice of vegetables. This station will also offer a selection of sushi and appetizers like tuna poke, crab spring rolls and dumplings.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

The Burger Station serves delicious handhelds with your choice of grass-fed beef, Black Angus beef, turkey burger or vegetarian burger garnished with an assortment of cheeses and toppings like aged Gouda, bacon and fig jam, and roasted mushrooms. If you’re craving seafood, dive into the Florida Grouper sandwich. Don’t forget to add a pickle, French fries and savory dipping sauces.

You’ll also have the option of pairing your Urban Pantry dish with a perfectly paired drink. Each food station will serve wine and beer themed to the cuisine and designed to complement the flavors of your meal.  For example, you can get Asian beer and sake at the Wok Station.

Almost everything at Urban Pantry will be made from scratch, which means you’ll get the highest-quality, best-tasting food. Not only will the food taste delicious – with select organic and all-natural ingredients, it will be good for you, too! And if you have special dietary needs, you can talk directly to the chef cooking your meal, so it’s made just right.

I can’t wait for you to try all the amazing food and drink at Universal’s Aventura Hotel. Be sure to book your room soon so you don’t miss out on this limited time offer! If you book a four-night stay or longer, you’ll receive a free $50 hotel dining credit so you can try all of this mouthwatering food.

Check back soon for all-new details on the highly-anticipated Bar 17 Bistro. This rooftop experience featuring unique food and drinks will soon be a must do on my list and I’m sure, yours as well. And tell us in the comments below what your first stop will be when you visit the Urban Pantry.

Thanks Universal Orlando Resort Blog!