New 3-D Star Tours
debuts at
Walt Disney World Resort
The power of the Force and the magic of Disney have combined to create “Star Tours – The Adventures Continue.” The new 3-D attraction opened at Disney’s Hollywood Studios theme park on May 20, 2011.
Based on the Star Wars films, Star Tour takes Walt Disney World Resort guests to multiple Star Wars destinations where they interact with characters from throughout the Saga. And it’s all in 3-D.
With an eye-popping digital presentation leveraging Dolby 3-D to deliver a vivid and realistic experience, a dramatic musical score and motion simulator-based technology, guests are immersed in the Star Wars galaxy like never before on a theme park attraction.
For more on Disney's Star Tours, click here go to: Star Tours
A SCULPTURE FIT FOR A KING:
Disney Parks announces new resort hotel
A SCULPTURE FIT FOR A KING: Disney Imagineer Joni Van Buren sculpts a model of King Triton
from Disney's animated classic "The Little Mermaid." King Triton, in his final form, will
be 35-feet-tall and tower over guests at Disney Parks newest resort hotel, "Disney's Art of
Animation Resort." The new resort at Walt Disney World in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. will feature
themed building exteriors and room interiors that bring to life famous Disney and Disney-Pixar
animated feature films like "The Lion King," "Cars," "Finding Nemo" and "The Little Mermaid."
Disney's Art of Animation Resort is expected to open by the end of 2012.
Plan that amazing new Real Florida Vacation
with our exciting new interactive Calendar
New Festival and Event Calendar
Now planning your vacation or weekend getaway just got easier with Real Florida Vacations Festival and Event Calendar.
Real Florida Vacations has added to our website, a new interactive Festival and Event Calendar. Now instead of searching for upcoming events all over the web, you can find most of them in one place. From the larger theme park happenings to the smaller local festivals, they are on our calendar for you.
Based on the Google® Calendar, you can search an event and date and add to your personal Google® Calendar making it so much easier to plan your weekend vacation or that weekend getaway. Want to find out more about an event, simply click on the calendar for the event and it will expand into a brief description, a link to the event and a map link for directions.
The Real Florida Vacations Calendar will cover events including the Daytona 500 and 12 hours of Sebring, the South Florida Fair, Everglades Seafood Festival, the Hoggetown Medieval Faire, and Walt Disney Marathons, and so many more. To check out the new calendar go to www.realfloridavacations.com/calendar
Posted: January 15, 2012
FOR LEAP YEAR 2012: ONE MORE DISNEY DAY
The Cinderella Castle at Walt Disney World Resort will anchor an unprecedented Disney day
Feb. 29 as both parks open for 24 hours in a bi-coastal salute called 'One More Disney Day'.
One More Disney Day!
Leap Year 2012 Calls for ‘One More Disney Day’ As Walt Disney World Resort Turns Feb. 29 Into 24 Hours of Nonstop Theme Park Magic
Disney Park guests can get the most out of February 29 when Walt Disney World Resort in Florida celebrates Leap Year by keeping the theme park open for 24 hours of nonstop memory-making fun.
For the first time ever, the Magic Kingdom Park will stay open for 24 hours straight as part of a salute called "One More Disney Day." From 6 a.m., February 29 to 6 a.m., March 1, 2012, local time, guests can fill the extra day of leap year with a marathon of Disney magic and fun.
And for 60 days straight - from Jan. 1, 2012 to Feb. 29, 2012 - a daily winner will be chosen in the "Disney Parks One More Disney Day Sweepstakes" to receive a Disney Parks vacation. One entrant each day will win a vacation for four to make memories at either Disneyland Resort in California or Walt Disney World Resort in Florida.
In addition to the extra time, Walt Disney World Resort in Florida will feature a special offer where Guests get one more day and night of memory making, free when they buy a 3-night/3-day non-discounted Walt Disney Travel Co. room and ticket package at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels. The package offer is good for arrivals most nights Feb. 26 - March 10, 2012 and must be booked by Jan. 31, 2012.
Guests can find out more information about other Walt Disney World Resort hotel and ticket offers at www.disneyworld.com. Guests can find out more information about “One More Disney Day” and get official rules for the "Disney Parks One More Disney Day Sweepstakes" at www.OneMoreDisneyDay.com.
Posted: January 6, 2012
At Universal Studios Florida, the Macy's Holiday Parade
will fill the streets every evening with the same iconic balloons
seen winding through New York City.
Holiday Excitement at
Universal Studios Orlando
Start a New Family Tradition This Season at Universal Orlando with Grinchmas, Macy's Holiday Parade, The Holiday Village and Nightly Holiday Music
There's no better place to enjoy the Holidays with your family this year than at Universal Orlando Resort. It's the only place you can come face-to-face with The Grinch and the Whos from Whoville, watch a cheerful holiday parade filled with big, colorful Macy's balloons and sing along to the classic sounds of the season as you stroll through a holiday-trimmed theme park with your loved ones.
The Holidays fanfare runs from now through January 1, 2012, offering guests incredible entertainment themed for the season at both Universal Studios Florida and Universal's Islands of Adventure.
At Islands of Adventure, adults and children alike will be entertained when the popular Dr. Seuss book "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" is brought to life in Grinchmas. Guests can see the heartwarming live stage show, "Grinchmas Wholiday Spectacular," starring The Grinch and the Whos from Whoville with an original recorded musical score by Mannheim Steamroller. Guests will also have the opportunity to meet The Grinch and the Whos, and on select dates, purchase a spot at a special character breakfast with the mean, green one himself.
At Universal Studios, the Macy's Holiday Parade will celebrate its 10th Anniversary of partnership with Universal Orlando by filling the streets every evening with some of the same iconic elements seen winding through New York City each year at the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. The beloved event features colorful holiday characters, fantasy-filled floats - including one specially-designed to commemorate the 10-year milestone - a tree-lighting ceremony by Santa Claus and dozens of larger-than-life balloons. The Macy's Holiday Parade also welcomes select park guests to participate in the procession as real balloon-handlers guiding the helium giants, a truly unique and exclusive experience to Universal Orlando.
Also at Universal Studios, guests can enjoy special holiday-themed versions of their favorite shows, and nightly acapella holiday music in the nearby Holiday Village, which is filled with hand-blown glass ornaments, caramel apples, hot chocolate, roasted chestnuts and a cupcake decorating location.
The celebration continues at Universal Orlando's three on-site hotels - Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel and Loews Royal Pacific Resort – all of which will glisten with holiday decorations. Hotel guests will be immersed in the spirit of the season with tree-lighting ceremonies, special musical performances, holiday pool-side "dive-in" movie presentations and holiday buffets and dining events. Hard Rock Hotel welcomes Santa to The Kitchen restaurant on Fridays in December and Loews Royal Pacific Resort rings in the new year with a family-friendly dinner and celebration.
For more information on Universal Orlando’s holiday celebration offers, guests can visit www.UniversalOrlando.com/holidays.
Posted: December 16, 2011
ICE! Entrance Igloo - Nearly 2,000,000 pounds of ice are used to create ICE!,
a wondrous world of ice at Gaylord Palms Hotel.
Ice™ Storm Takes Orlando
The Gaylord Palms and Dreamworks have teamed up to bring a Frozen Wonderland to Orlando for the Holidays!
It's Christmas at Gaylord Palms with ICE!™ featuring DreamWorks' Shrek the Halls™. Florida's favorite frigid Christmas tradition abounds with over 20,000 square feet of frosty nine-degree bliss played out among a winter wonderland of exciting, colorful hand-carved sculptures. And this year ICE!™ really is all that it's cracked up to be featuring five 30-foot ice slides and an all-new, awe-inspiring tribute to the unforgettable DreamWorks' Animation TV classic Shrek the Halls™. While thawing out from this coolest of attractions, you can bask in the dazzling lights of the magnificent Christmas décor throughout the resort, or catch the spirited Luminescence Christmas show. When you are ready for more, check out the Kung Fu Panda Awesome SNOW in the Valley of Peace where kids of all ages can play in 130 tons of freshly made snow in tunnels, over bridges, and down the 64-foot Pagoda slide. You may feel a chill in the air, but you will feel warmth in your heart as you create wonderful holiday memories that last a lifetime. Open daily, including holidays, from November 16, 2011, through January 2, 2012, with varying hours.
Join the holiday cheer and family fun with DreamWorks Animation, where a number of holiday getaway activities will fulfill all your Christmas dreams, including:
• ICE!™ featuring DreamWorks' Shrek the Halls and Merry Madagascar Tickets to the popular ICE!™ attraction are included in all packages. At Gaylord Palms from November 16 – January 2, ICE!™ featuring DreamWorks' Shrek the Halls™ will delight visitors with its fanciful depiction of the animated holiday television special. The characters will be brought to life through the colorful, interactive ice-sculptures and guests will re-live the heartwarming story as they stroll through delightful depictions of Shrek, Fiona, Donkey, Gingy, Puss in Boots and others.
• Kung Fu Panda Awesome SNOW is open from November 16, 2011, through January 2, 2012. A fun-filled adventure complete with the Furious Five, Po, Tai Lung, and more, awaits all those wishing for a white Christmas, even in Florida. The Taiko inspired drums beckon kids and kids-at-heart to roll and slide into the over three feet deep, 130 tons of fresh, daily made and groomed snow. Show off some kung fu skills and throw snowballs at Lord Shen’s evil henchmen in this amazing 55ºF winter wonderland.
• DreamWorks Interactive Character Meals featuring delectable menu items only an ogre would love. Fairytale photo opps will abound as kids dine with Shrek, Princess Fiona and Puss in Boots, and discover a Magic Fountain bubbling over with chocolate potions.
ICE! Train - To add to the spectacular artistry, lights are frozen
within the ice, creating a magical holiday experience at Gaylord Palms Hotel.
• DreamWorks "Character Passport" Meet & Greets offer a chance for enthusiasts to stroll through Shrek and Princess Fiona's beloved swamp for a face-to-face encounter with the green ogres; explore the island of Madagascar, where Alex the Lion, King Julien and the Penguins call home; and discover China's ancient Valley of Peace where Po has become a true kung fu master. Guests can even meet the star of DreamWorks' newest film – Puss In Boots!
• DreamWorks Themed Scavenger Hunt during which the entire family will enjoy searching the expansive, indoor atriums at Gaylord Hotels on this interactive scavenger hunt. Answers can be entered online to win the grand prize!
• Family Photo A professional photo of each family with their favorite DreamWorks character will be taken and provided to them as a special keepsake of their Gaylord Hotels Christmassy DreamWorks Experience.
• DreamWorks Character Wake-Up Calls The immersive experience continues first thing, with a wacky wake-up call from one of the DreamWorks characters. Guests can choose from a host of their favorites for a fun way to start the day!
• DreamWorks Welcome Amenity at Package Check-In Package guests will receive a special DreamWorks welcome amenity to commemorate their visit.
IMPORTANT: ICE!™ is kept at a frigid 9° Fahrenheit (-13° Celsius). Be sure to dress appropriately: closed-toe shoes and long pants are required. Hooded winter coats are provided for your warmth and comfort inside the attraction and are available in a variety of sizes, including sizes for children. Hats and gloves are strongly recommended.
To make Reservations or for package information, call (407) 586-2000 or Travelers can book their Christmassy DreamWorks Experience by visiting www.DreamWorks ExperienceAtGaylordPalms.com
Posted: December 2, 2011
Disney Premium Experiences
Premium Experiences Deliver Fun Options for Walt Disney World Resort Guests beyond the Theme Parks
Did you know that inside Walt Disney World lies a whole other Walt Disney World Resort? Beyond traditional theme park-going and lounging at resorts, there are options that allow guests to go beyond the Magic to places where Dreams come true. There are a whole “world” of choices that are available to guests booking premium, add-on experiences at Walt Disney World Resort. Not for the budget minded, but for those looking for a once in a lifetime experience, here are a few:
Grand 1, the most luxurious watercraft at Walt Disney World Resort,
offers a VIP boating experience on the waters of Seven Seas Lagoon
and Bay Lake just outside Magic Kingdom
Wild Africa Trek In the newest premium experience, gear up and brace for a safari unlike any other this side of Africa. Guests on Wild Africa Trek crouch along trails, traverse swaying footbridges above crocs and hippos and delve deep into the jungly heart of Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Several times daily, expert guides lead small groups of adventurers on excursions across untracked areas of the park. Extended time is spent observing and learning about the animals while on foot or while over-landing in customized safari vehicles. Trekkers close out their experience at a serene overlook above a wildlife-filled savanna while savoring Africa-inspired food and beverage.
Segway Your Way to Fun! Walt Disney World guests can experience a Segway Human Transporter for themselves, firsthand, as part of three different programs.
- Around the World at Epcot is a two-hour guided tour that allows guests to operate the two-wheeled, one-person transportation device throughout World Showcase before it opens to other park guests.Tours are daily at 7:45, 8:30, 9 and 9:30 a.m.
- The Simply Segway experience is a one-hour beginner’s class that gives guests a product overview, training and indoor riding time at Epcot’s Innoventions area. Simply Segway is offered daily (except Tuesdays) at 11:30 a.m.
- Wilderness Back Trail Adventures is a two-hour tour that lets guests explore the natural beauty of the Florida landscape in and around Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground.
Totally Tubular! Learn to Surf Unschooled in the fine art of surfing? Novices can catch a wave and master the rush of shooting the curls at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon water park. Every 90 seconds, the world’s largest wave machine blasts out walls of surf that can tower up to six feet high. Cocoa Beach Surf School invites guests to learn from professional surfers how to cut, carve and “hang 10.” The 2.5-hour program is available by reservation on select mornings prior to regular park hours. Guests (ages 8 and older)
Go “Grand.” Luxury Yacht Sets Sail on Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake Grand 1, the most luxurious watercraft at Walt Disney World Resort, offers a pampered VIP boating experience on the waters of Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake just outside Magic Kingdom. A personal captain and deckhand launch the 52-foot Sea Ray yacht from the marina at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. Morning and afternoon excursions on the Grand 1 offer guests a spectacular view of Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Wedding Pavilion and several Walt Disney World resorts. For an elegant evening voyage, romantic music sets the mood as the sun sets over the gabled roofs of the Grand Floridian. On select nights, cruisers can view a magnificent fireworks display above Magic Kingdom with on board synchronized audio from the show. For the ultimate cruise, the Grand Floridian private-dining staff can prepare anything from an evening snack to a gourmet five-course meal with fine wine pairings.
Take a Sunrise Safari at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Picture the morning sun rising in the Florida sky, illuminating a landscape rich with animals catching the first light of day. And you have a front-row seat. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge invites Kilimanjaro Club Level guests to an amazing two-hour experience. During an approximately 45-minute safari, guests will have the opportunity to learn more about animal care, the grounds of the theme park and the operation. Included in the cost of the tour is a lavish breakfast buffet in the park, at the Pizzafari Restaurant.
Riding off-road Segways at Walt Disney World, Guests can take the
"Wilderness Back Trail Adventure" at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort
and Campground aboard Segway personal transporters
Afternoon Game Drive Paired with Dinner at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Savannas surrounding Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge offer up a panorama of wildlife as creatures large and small roam the grasses, forage for food and play in harmony. The grounds are home to approximately 200 mammals and exotic birds representing a cross-section of the African palette – bongo, greater kudu, zebra, wildebeest, impala, African spoonbills and Eastern white pelicans, to name a few. Just before sunset, eager adventurers gather outside the lodge with a guide for a thrilling game-viewing safari. Up to 12 persons can board a specially designed vehicle for a bird’s-eye view of a typical North African safari. Safari-goers are wide-eyed as many animals move within feet of the vehicle. The second part of the journey leads to the resort’s signature restaurant, Jiko-The Cooking Place, where a savory South African feast awaits safari-goers. Flavors of Africa fill the air in a memorable multi-course meal served family-style and blending regional spices and grains.The Wanyama Safari is offered to guests (age 8 and up) staying at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge and Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas, seven days a week.
Dine with an Imagineer Here’s a one-of-a-kind opportunity to dine with a real-life Disney Imagineer and enjoy engaging behind-the-scenes conversation over a delectable lunch at the chic Bamboo Room of the Hollywood Brown Derby at Disney’s Hollywood Studios theme park. Up to 10 guests join in stimulating discussion with one of the incredible creative artists who bring the magic to Walt Disney World attractions and resort hotels. Learn from these talented men or women what it’s like working in the most magical place in the world. Guests feast on a four-course meal and will receive a souvenir plate designed exclusively for this experience that can be personalized by the Imagineer. Guests can also ask about dinner with an Imagineer at Flying Fish Café at Disney’s Boardwalk Resort, which offers the same fascinating peek “under the curtain” at Disney’s creative process while being treated to a tantalizing four-course meal.
Grand Pirate Adventure Little buccaneers sail the high seas to exotic “Ports of Call” in search of treasure. Donning pirate garb, kids venture on foot and by sea in search of buried treasure during Disney’s Pirate Adventure, which departs from Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa marina and sails the waters of Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake. Young and eager adventurers visit many exotic “ports of call,” following clues to help lead them to the treasure. During the voyage, children (ages 4-12) enjoy a reading of “The Legend of Gasparilla” (a real Florida pirate), lunch and other surprises. The Pirate Adventure happens Mondays through Saturdays, 9:30 a.m. – 11:30.
Pirates and Pals Fireworks Voyage
Ahoy me hearties, ye be setting sail for fun and adventure with Captain Hook and Mr. Smee on this adventure. Departing from Disney’s Contemporary Resort, mateys receive a true buccaneer’s welcome as they chow down on hearty pirate grub and grog before setting sail on an unforgettable moonlight voyage around Seven Seas Lagoon. Play Disney trivia games, sing songs and sea chanteys and savor “Wishes” fireworks lighting the night sky above Cinderella Castle. On the sail home, your pirate hosts enchant you with the tale of Peter Pan, plus more trivia questions and special prizes. Once tied up, the voyage concludes with a visit from a very special guest. Pirates and Pals Fireworks Voyage is scheduled Fridays through Mondays.
High-Speed Adventure Around Walt Disney World Speedway
The Richard Petty Driving Experience at Walt Disney World Speedway is the place of dreams, offering race fans and adventure-seekers the ultimate thrill of riding in or driving a race car around the one-mile tri-oval Walt Disney World Speedway. Guests are offered several ride and drive experiences as they follow their dream of leaving the grandstands and climbing into a racecar, just like The King himself.
The sessions at Walt Disney World Speedway run daily. Driving experiences are available for those at least 18 years of age with a valid driver’s license and the ability to drive a vehicle equipped with a standard transmission. Fans at least 14 years of age can participate in the Ride-Along Program with proof of identification.
The Richard Petty Driving Experience is for fans of stock car racing, dreams come true
behind the wheel of a high-revving road machine at Walt DisneyWorld Resort
The Couple that ‘Spas’ Together….. What’s more enjoyable or relaxing than a luxurious spa treatment? Imagine sharing it with that special someone. Did you know the Grand Floridian Spa & Health Club, in Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, features a “couples room” where guests can enjoy specialized spa treatments – such as massages and facials – with the one they love?
Commune with Dolphins Imagine getting up close and personal in the water with Atlantic Bottlenose dolphins. The Seas with Nemo & Friends pavilion invites guests on a three-hour, behind-the-scenes experience aimed at providing a keener understanding and heightened appreciation for these marvelous creatures. The 30-minute dolphin interaction takes place in waist-deep waters (maximum 8 guests per day) so guests don’t need to be SCUBA certified or even know how to swim. Signups for “Disney’s Dolphins in Depth” learn about how Disney cares for the dolphins each day, how researchers study and train them backstage, what issues are affecting marine life worldwide – and what we can do about it. Theme park admission is not required or included in this experience.
Want more? Learn to design like a Walt Disney World Resort Florist (Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort)….get made over in full buccaneer regalia at The Pirate’s League (Magic Kingdom)….Tea anyone? Try the Wonderland Tea Party for Children (Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort)…..Treat your child to a first haircut at the Harmony Barber Shop (Magic Kingdom) which comes with its own Barber Shop Quartet (never know when they will stop by)….book a trail ride (Disney’s Ft. Wilderness Resort and Campground) or a romantic horse-drawn carriage excursion (Ft. Wilderness or Disney’s Port Orleans Resort)…
Guests can call 407/WDW-TOUR or go toWalt Disney World Tours for pricing and information. For information on the Petty Driving Experience, visit www.drivepetty.com or call 800/BE-PETTY and for information about spa treatments, call 407/824-2332.
Posted: November 7, 2011
Now Open!
To the delight of youngsters everywhere, the World's largest LEGOLAND park will open Saturday, October 15, 2011
Inspired by America's love affair with all things LEGO®, the new 150-acre theme park will cater to kids ages 2 to 12 with more than 50 "pink-knuckle" rides - from roller coasters to race cars - as well as family focused shows, attractions, restaurants, shows, and beatiful botanical gardens.
Just 45 minutes west of Disney and a 45-minute drive east from Tampa, LEGOLAND Florida rests along the shores of Lake Eloise in the city of Winter Haven. Guests will experience 10 easy-to-navigate and highly-themed zones:
- The Beginning serves as the park's entry and features the Island in the Sky, a 100-foot rotating platform ride that offers a 360° view of the entire park.
- Fun Town offers families a firsthand look at how LEGO bricks are made from factory to finish.
- LEGO Kingdoms is inspired by all things medieval and takes kids back to a time of knights, princesses and dragons.
- Miniland USA is the heart of every LEGOLAND Park, and home to eight remarkably themed areas that represent miniature versions of landmarks found throughout the United States.
- Land of Adventure entices adventurers of all ages to explore this fun-filled zone.
- LEGO® Technic™ is the most "intense" zone in the park.
- LEGO City is the perfect place for youngsters to live out their dreams in a scaled-down town created just for them.
- Imagination Zone is the most hands-on section of the park, emphasizing exploration and creation.
- DUPLO® Village is an ideal area for the youngest set who get to fly a plane, drive a car or explore a whole town designed with their height in mind.
- Pirates' Cove rests along the picturesque shores of Lake Eloise, but alas, has been taken over by a host of swashbuckling LEGO "mini-fig" pirates who star in a live-action, water-stunt show that will bring families nose to nose with all the action.
In addition to the 10 zones, LEGOLAND Florida has taken great care to preserve the soul of the park – the historic gardens established on the grounds of its Cypress Gardens predecessor more than 75 years ago.
A full day of high-energy, memory-making fun awaits families at LEGOLAND Florida, the ideal family vacation getaway with plenty of heart-pounding rides and exhilarating attractions in quite possibly the world's most charming theme park setting.
LEGOLAND Florida is located in Winter Haven, Florida, 45 minutes southwest of Orlando and 45 minutes from downtown Tampa. There is also a new online reservations program to make the vacation booking experience even easier. Travelers can now book tickets, accommodations, airlines and rental cars through the LEGOLAND Florida website.
For more information: www.LEGOLAND.com; Facebook.com/LEGOLANDFlorida and Twitter@LEGOLANDFlorida.
Posted: October 2, 2011
Sitemap
Archive
Contact Us
