|
 Central
Florida Guide - Your Disney Vacation Resource
Welcome to our Central Florida Guide. Here you will
find information for vacation planning on your magical
gathering in Florida!Here you will find information
on a wide range of subjects, all relating to vacationing
in the WDW area.
Attractions
It’s All About Timing
Besides seasonal considerations, certain days of the
week are slower at the theme parks, usually Tuesday
through Thursday. Arrive early to avoid crowds –
timing your arrival can set the mood for the whole day.
Strategy-planning begins before you
enter the gate. Study Web sites and maps to plot your
priorities. Pre-purchase tickets if possible (multiple-day
passes and Orlando Flex Tickets save time and money).
Keep in mind that weather, crowds, ride availability
and other factors can affect your plan, so be flexible.
Do the most popular rides early in the morning, moving
to the back of the park first. Use peak times in the
early afternoon for eating, shopping and shows. Recharged,
you’ll step out into the park ready for more thrilling
fun. Ride lines often slack off toward late afternoon,
so save the big attractions you missed in the morning
for later.
Disney parks issue a FASTPASS outside
some of the best rides (available to all guests at no
extra charge). FASTPASS tickets set an appointed time
for you to return to an attraction via special, shorter
lines. Universal’s similar program is Universal
Express (available at an additional charge; or free
to guests at Universal Resort properties). Universal
Express allows you to take the “express”
line to some of the most popular rides, and does not
require that you come at an appointed time.
If you’re willing to split up
your group, opt for quicker Single Rider lines. Afterward,
comparing the thrills of the ride with your family and
friends is almost as much fun as the ride itself.
Mickey and friend at Disney's Magic Kingdom Walt Disney
Company
Comfort & Safety
Wear comfortable shoes, sunscreen and quick-drying clothes.
Consider dressing small kids in swimsuits underneath
their clothes so they can enjoy the wet play areas.
Rather than a purse, a small backpack is a good easy-carry
option. If you love the “soak” attractions,
bring towels and extra clothes, and rent a locker. Ask
store clerks about the convenience of free package pickup
or delivery at some theme parks. You’ll want to
be unfettered as you enjoy the parks’ attractions.
The Family Way
Before entering the park, prepare your little ones.
Explain that, just like in cartoons, most of what the
theme parks have in store is not real. If you have children
who tend to race ahead or wander off, pin information
about the parents/guardians (and a cell phone number)
to their clothing. As you enter the park, decide upon
an easily identifiable landmark where you can meet should
anyone in your family get separated or lost. If you
do decide to split up, set up a meeting point that is
easy to get to and has comfortable seating in the shade.
Walkie-talkies seem to be a popular accessory for groups
in the park (Space Mountain? Roger that. 10-4.).
Don’t try to do it all with young
kids, or everyone ends up cranky. If you’re staying
at a nearby hotel, take a mid-afternoon break from the
park for a meal or swimming and return later. Don’t
forget to get a hand stamp for free re-admission. A
relaxed pace makes for a relaxed day.
Don’t push your kids when they’re
reluctant or scared. At any age, most children can sense
what experiences they will be comfortable with. Let
them explore at their own pace. If this is their first
time, everything is wonderfully new.
Best Beaches For...
With 1,100 miles of beaches, it’s
no wonder Florida has one to suit every visitor.
Best Beach for Birding: Shell
Key, St. Pete Beach
More than half of the 180-acre Shell Key is a bird sanctuary,
but the beaches are accessible to human visitors. There
are no buildings, no trash, no cars or telephone lines,
just coconut palms, Australian pines, white sandy beaches
lined with gentle, clear emerald surf and dunes topped
with sea oat whiskers.
Best Tropical Beach: Bahia
Honda State Park
In this paradise of a
Models love South Beach Robin Hill
park, palms wave in the breeze over pristine, sandy
beaches. Widely considered to have the Keys’ best
beaches, Bahia Honda Key is a sheer tropical heaven,
with mild, clear water and more than one lush and cozy
beach from which to choose.
Best Beach for Surfing: Sebastian
Inlet State Park
Sebastian Inlet, south of Melbourne Beach, is the capital
of East Coast surfing. The waves along this three-mile
stretch of beach divided by the Sebastian River are
consistent, hollow and fast. If any surf is breaking
on the East Coast of Florida, it will be at Sebastian
Inlet.
Best Beach for Feet: The Beaches
of South Walton
If you plant your soles on the glistening sands of the
beaches of South Walton County, you will instantly become
a spoiled-rotten sand snob. The grains are so fine,
so white that you’ll feel you are on packed sugar.
The sand’s secret is that it’s almost pure
quartz, washed down from the Appalachian Mountains over
the years.
Best Beach for Treasure Hunting:
Vero Beach
A Spanish fleet cracked open upon the reefs of Florida’s
East Coast in 1715, spilling its treasure into the sea.
Sea Grape Trail in Vero Beach has proved lucrative for
treasure hunters combing its sands. Finding a gold doubloon
is rare because they are often so encrusted by the sea
that it’s hard to recognize them.
Best Beach to See a Millionaire:
Palm Beach
Rent a Jaguar and drive to Palm Beach if you really
want to see how “the Donald” lives. This
14-mile stretch has a well-deserved reputation as a
playground for the rich and famous. But you don’t
have to be a millionaire to tan beside one here, second
home to the likes of the Kennedy clan.
Best Beach for Shelling: Sanibel
Island
With more than 400 varieties of shells, Sanibel Island
is so popular with shell seekers that it holds an annual
three-day Sanibel Shell Fair and Show in the spring
and has a name for the shell seeker’s posture:
“The Sanibel Stoop.” Sanibel is equally
respected for its beauty and the community’s commitment
to preserving it.
Best Beach to Find Sharks Teeth:
Venice Beach
Venice Beach is the spot for finding fossilized shark’s
teeth from thousands of years ago. The beach concessionaire
even rents out metal mesh scoops to aid in the process.
Small teeth, the size of a Chihuahua’s, are easy
to find while walking along the shoreline and larger
teeth by snorkeling along a ridge just offshore.
Best Beach to Be Pampered:
Ponte Vedra Beach
Ponte Vedra Inn and Club is one of the best places to
find delicious spa treatments along a Florida beach.
The resort sits on a beach lined with high dunes and
towering palms. The roaring surf makes for exhilarating
body surfing or a comforting bedtime song after a day
of pampering.
Best Place to Feel Small: Canaveral
National Seashore
The Canaveral National Seashore, 24 miles of undeveloped
coast, is lined with dunes, beaches and a range of wildlife.
It’s not unusual to see a blue heron on the seashore
while a bald eagle soars over the shoulder-high marsh
grasses. Bordering Kennedy Space Center, the seashore
may also allow you to glimpse an equally astounding
flight.
Best Snorkeling Beach: Dry
Tortugas
For colorful fish and living coral reefs, pack your
snorkeling gear and head to the Dry Tortugas National
Park, about 70 miles west of Key West, reachable by
ferry or seaplane, but well worth the trip. This cluster
of seven islands, made of coral and sand, includes Garden
Key, home to historic Fort Jefferson.
Best Beach for a Getaway: St.
George Island
Seaside, view of the beach Visit Florida
A remote beach that comes with the comforts
of Southern cooking, personal service, rocking chairs
and a view of the Gulf, the St. George Inn is a quaint
inn with double-decker verandas only minutes from what
may be the most uninhabited beach in Florida, Dr. Julian
G. Bruce St. George Island State Park.
Best Boardwalk Beach: Hollywood
Beach Broadwalk
An Atlantic City-type boardwalk, the Hollywood Beach
Broadwalk, just south of Fort Lauderdale, is a 2.5-mile-long,
27-foot-wide concrete promenade bordered by shops, hotels,
game rooms, taverns and an outdoor amphitheater. Often
live music competes with the surf. The beach is certified
as "Blue Wave" for its outstanding cleanliness
and safety.
Best Beach for Romance: Lovers
Key
On Lovers Key, explore the mangrove wilds of the west
coast Florida by kayak or foot in Lovers Key State Park.
Lounge beside a waterfall in a lagoon-style pool at
the Lovers Key Beach Club & Resort, a posh all-suite
resort. At sunset, dine overlooking Estero Bay. Soak
in the spa tub-for-two in your suite.
Best Beach to Watch a Sunset:
Naples Municipal Beach & Fishing Pier
Naples Municipal Beach & Fishing Pier (built in
1888 as a freight and passenger dock) shines as an all-time
sunset favorite. When the sun begins to set low on the
western horizon, beachgoers, fisherman, locals and tourists
fill the narrow pier in anticipation of the daily show
as the sun melts into the Gulf.
Best Beach for a Drive: Daytona
Beach
You can watch surfers catch a wave as you drive along
the sands of Daytona Beach. The 18-mile stretch of firm
sand along Daytona Beach is one of the few remaining
beaches in Florida where cars are still allowed. For
$5, cruise it all day, but don’t floor it: The
speed limit is 10 mph.
Best Beach to Loaf: New Smyrna
Beach
New Smyrna Beach is a laid-back beach town, where Orlando
co-ed's come for sun, and top surfers come for waves.
There are no high-rises along the beach, only low-rise
motels and condos giving it a comforting feel. These
13.2 miles of beach is so relaxed even the currents
are laid back here.
Best Beach for a History Lesson:
Fort Pickens
At Fort Pickens, brick archways and fortifications topped
with cannons, a piece of American history, hug the white
sand and aquamarine waters the Gulf of Mexico. This
massive fort has protected America from the early 1800s
until after WWII. During the Civil War, Union soldiers
occupied the fort to prevent Confederate shipments into
Pensacola.
Best Beach for Paws: Fort De
Soto Park
Fort De Soto Park is a canine paradise – beaches
are undeveloped, except for a former fort that can be
explored by paws (as long as Rover is leashed), dogs
can roam freely along a prime stretch of beach near
the park's pier. There's also an adjacent fenced field
complete with dog facilities – fire hydrants and
garden hoses with spray nozzles.
Best Beach to Giddy Up: Amelia
Island
On Amelia Island, fulfill that fantasy of riding along
the beach, with your windswept hair tickling your face
as your horse leaves hoof prints in the sand. At Kelly
Seahorse Ranch, experienced riders can canter their
steeds along the waves, and actually go into the surf
with their horses. These are freedoms most stables won't
allow.
Best Beach for Kids: Siesta
Public Beach
When it comes to family beach spots, nothing tops Siesta
Public Beach in Sarasota – gradual slopes, shallow
waters, lifeguards, a playground, gentle waves, fine
white sand and translucent waters. It continually makes
several of America’s Top 10 lists of best beaches
based on sand, water quality and facilities.
Best Beach to See and Be Seen:
South Beach
If you enjoy a beach scene, go to South Beach, and look
in any direction. Lounge on the beach among serious
sunbathers in European-style swimsuits who are as likely
to chat in French or German as in English. Watch shirtless
guys prove themselves on the sand volleyball courts.
On the other side of Ocean Drive there are pastel Art
Deco buildings house sidewalk cafes, trendy nightclubs,
posh shops and groovy hotels.
Family Restaurants
If you live in the USA you will already be familiar
with most of the names of these businesses and how the
system works, be patient with us as we try to explain
them all to our international visitors.
One of the more popular categories of restaurants, this
section will give you an overview of those that cater
to family dining.
Family Restaurant definition - Basically, a restaurant
that is 'kid' friendly. Catering for the family group
as a whole. Usually a very relaxed atmosphere with no
specific dress code, other than you having some, at
least!
Kids are usually allowed & encouraged
to 'do their own thing' as long as you keep them under
some sort of control. They will usually have a special
menu for the younger party members with some inclusive
deals.
Among some of the favorites are the Ponderosa Steak
Houses and Golden Corral Restaurants both offer a reasonably
priced buffet. More information on these restaurants
can be found under our Buffet sub-grouping
There are also Denny's Restaurants,
Perkins Restaurants and Shoney's Family Restaurants
among others throughout the area. Some hotels also have
a major franchise restaurant 'on-site'. We know of at
least one that has a Shoney's as part of their Amenity
Package.
No matter where you stay in the area,
you'll always find a restaurant of this type nearby.
For some good old 'Country Style Cooking', two restaurants
come to mind, Bob Evans and the Cracker Barrel Country
Store. Both are well known for their Southern Hospitality
and the quality of their offerings.
One of the area restaurants sometimes
overlooked is the Morrison's Cafeteria, located in the
Osceola Square Mall. This is a restaurant that is definitely
worthy of your attention. The selections are usually
first-class and are relatively reasonably priced.
Yet another family favorite of the
area is the International House of Pancakes, commonly
referred to as IHOP. But don't let the name fool you,
though they may specialize in pancakes and related items,
they also serve up a pretty good selection of American
favorites for both lunch and dinner.
In a similar situation are the area
Waffle House Restaurants. Though the name implies their
specialty, they do offer other American favorites. The
atmosphere here is a little less cozy than some of its
counterparts, as its environment is more suited to the
traditional 'diners' of the past. But if you're on a
tight budget, it may be a place that you'll want to
explore.
For those who remember the USA of the
50's - 70's HoJos' is now known by it's family name
of Howard Johnson's.
Steak Restaurants
First, let's mention that most restaurants that are
clearly Steak are also some of the finest Seafood establishments.
On this page we will concentrate on Restaurants that
advertise themselves as Steak...
Steak Restaurant Definition - Specializing
in or seeing the sale of Steak based meals as the primary
business of the restaurant. Offering a selection of
cuts cooked to order, to you personal preference.
There are a variety of different types of Steak Restaurants
- The more traditional Steak House will be based on
the a la carte' format while many of the Buffet style
will offer 'all you can eat' menus.
Many of these restaurants will offer
a variety of meal choices, which may include a separate
buffet offering an assortment of family style entree,
including several variations specific to breakfast,
lunch and dinner. All will offer steak as one of the
main entree during the afternoon and evening hours.
The more traditional steak houses in the area include:
Cattleman's Steakhouse, Kissimmee Steakhouse, Kobe Japanese
Steakhouse, Longhorn Steakhouse and the Outback Steakhouse.
Reservations are recommended.
Among the national chain restaurants
that offer steak as part of their specialty are - Black
Angus Restaurants, Ponderosa Steakhouses, Sizzler Restaurants
and Western Sizzling Steakhouses.
All offer a buffet in addition to an
individual selection of various steak cuts. The 'steak'
in your meal will not be part of the buffet, it has
to be ordered separately as an Entree?and it's purchase
will usually include access to the buffet...
Quality and selection may vary, as
they are not as specialized as the more traditional
steakhouses.
With their family-type dining environments,
these restaurants will generally offer a breakfast,
lunch and dinner buffet. For this reason, more information
on these types of restaurants will be found in our Buffet
section.
If your looking for a really good steak,
you would be well advised to keep with the traditional
Steak Houses.
Seafood Restaurants
Though there are many Steak and Seafood
restaurants throughout the area, in this section we
will attempt just to focus on those restaurants that
specialize in the Seafood side. This restaurant type
is more likely to be privately owned than part of a
national chain. The quality of service is often very
high...
As you travel around the Orlando area you will probably
see the roving landmark of the Boston Lobster Feasts
- 'Larry' the Lobster, a 12-foot caricature who sits
atop a Volkswagen Beetle and roams the tourist corridors.
One of the few restaurants that specialize in 'Maine
Lobsters', the Boston Lobster Feast is actually a wholesaler
to many of the area restaurants.
Naturally there are other restaurants
including Red Lobster - always an American favorite.
For something a little a more local there's Shells Seafood
Restaurants, which operates a chain of restaurants from
Daytona Beach all the way to both the West
Coast of Florida and on the east side of Miami.
Nearby you can also find Calico Jack's
Oyster Bar and Seafood Restaurant, which is located
in the La Ramada Plaza.
A hidden treasure in Kissimmee and
housed in an unassuming location is Pounders Fresh Fish
and Lobster House, just off of West Vine Street on Central
Avenue - Over 10,000 lobsters can be viewed here, which
all adds to the dining experience.
A little further east, and just down
the road in the quaint community of St. Cloud you can
find some additional favorites. Among these is a local
gem called Evelyn's New England Seafood Restaurant,
which features a décor to match their name not
to mention great food at prices you can afford.
A personal favorite of our American
editor, this place is so good - we will give it a recommendation.
Evelyn's can be found as you enter St. Cloud. Look for
the Checkers restaurant on the left, and the restaurant
will be found approximately ½ block off the highway,
on the opposite side.
For another local landmark, there's
also the Catfish Place Seafood Restaurant, which specializes
in fresh caught catfish from Lake Okeechobee - Florida's
largest lake (and the third largest in the USA). In
addition to this, you'll also find local game specialties
that include frogs legs, gator, turtle and fried lobster.
All of which are part of their southern-style selections.
We must mention the Sea Queen Restaurant as you near
the outskirts of St Cloud, as this restaurant has long
been another area favorite of the local residents.
Bar & Grill Restaurants
There are Sports Pubs, British Pubs
and the traditional American Bar & Grills to choose
from in the area, we'll try to cover just a few of the
tourist related ones in this section.
Some are a little more specialized
on the beverage side while offering food such as Buffalo
wings, fish n' chips, light sandwiches or an assortment
of appetizers.
Others may provide you with a wide
variety of appetizers and entrées.
Many are local favorites such as Chili's
Bar & Grill and TGI Friday's. Of special note is
the Roadhouse Grill, which provides you with free peanuts
that you simply shell and throw on the floor (Why not,
your on vacation). To say the least, it does provide
a unique experience!
For British Pubs, there are several
- London Bridge Tavern, Scottish Corner Pub and Harry
Ramsbottom's, located in Liberty Village just east of
Polynesian Blvd on US192.
For our American viewers, here's a good opportunity
for you to try some authentic British Fish N' Chips.
Sports Pubs are dotted throughout the
area, most are found either on West Irlo Bronson Memorial
Hwy. or in the West Vine Street area.
They specialize in bringing televised
sporting events to their patrons and will also act as
hosts to the area darts competitions. They play an important
role in providing a celebratory meeting place following
an Area Sporting Event.
Area bowling alleys could also provide you with a similar
location.
For a truly unique environment, you
might just want to stop in at the 'Big Bamboo Lounge',
just east of Hwy. 535 on the north side of 192.
This area landmark was one of the few businesses that
was located on US192 prior to Disney's introduction
to the area and the commercial development that followed
it. This lounge has truly stood the test of time and
it still remains a novelty among the businesses of the
area. They don't serve food but you can bring a 'Carry
Out' with you...
Buffet Diners
Buffet Diners defined - Many restaurants
will choose to advertise a buffet as an 'all-you-can-eat'
experience, while others may call it an 'all-you-care-to-eat'
experience, which sometimes takes on the same meaning
and sometimes not.
Some of the other area restaurants
will ride on this popularity by advertising an 'all-you
care-to-eat' entrée
They are all just trying to say the
same thing using slightly different words. They are
simply referring to a very hearty meal.
We thought we knew at one time which
one was which but lately, we're not sure! It can be
quite confusing, so the best thing to do is to ask.
Generally, if a restaurant is advertising
a buffet, it usually means an 'all-you-can-eat' menu,
which may vary from a few main entrées to an
unlimited selection. The actual Buffet will be a bar,
or series of bars, where you can choose from the traditional
trimmings - potatoes, breads, salads, a selection of
specialties (Mexican, Italian etc.) and fruits as well
as unlimited beverages. Oh yes, don't forget desserts.
Though their prices can be quite enticing, please keep
in mind that the quality of the food and the experience
can vary greatly from location to location, even within
the same chain.
Just to confuse the situation even more, many restaurants
will also offer either a 'one-plate' selection from
the salad bar or an 'all-you-can-eat experience', which
becomes a meal in itself.
This is one of our American editors
favorites. Healthy, and one of the better values available
to you -
Restaurants that offer this are numerous
but the salad bar at many Pizza Hut Restaurants is well
worth a visit...
Probably the best known of the area buffets are the
Ponderosa Steakhouse and Golden Corral Restaurants but
there are many more to choose from. We are attempting
to put together a comprehensive list of them all.
There are a lot of Chinese Buffets,
probably the location of Splendid China is helping in
this. There's China Pearl, Dynasty Buffet, Emperor's
Wok and the Pagoda Restaurant. Further East there is
the Regent Chinese Restaurant, located at the east end
of Irlo Bronson Memorial just before the Florida Turnpike,
on the south side of the road. See our Ethnic section
for a more detailed view...
For a more American choice, you can
consider the Las Vegas Buffet. Though a little more
expensive, the variety that's offered here is a sight
to behold!
Additionally, restaurants such as Boston
Lobster will also offer the 'all-you-can-eat' experience.
In this particular example, lobsters and seafood in
general.
Breakfast - All You Can Eat.
Can't forget the first meal of the
day...
You will find even more places that
serve unlimited breakfast than the major locations e.g.
Ponderosa & Golden Corral. Many hotels and larger
motels will have an 'all you can eat breakfast' that
is open to none residents.
Use them wisely -
Eat well here and skip lunch at the
theme parks to save money! Usually! Kids under 10 eat
free with a paying adult. Watch out for seasonal specials.
There's much more waiting to be discovered in the area.
These are only a few examples.
Pizza Restaurants
This section will try to encompass
the many, many pizza joints and pizzerias of the area.
A fiercely competitive segment of the restaurant sector,
most offer free delivery to your home or hotel. Though
these businesses may provide a delivery service, it
is important for you to know that it is customary in
the US to tip the driver a least 20% of the total purchase.
Many places will also offer a barrage
of weekly specials and coupon offerings, which can be
found in the myriad of coupon booklets for the area.
We hope that in time, we will also be able to list a
few of these offers here ...
Most of the areas pizza restaurants will generally specialize
in either take-out or delivery service with very few
of these offering sit-down facilities
However, an exception to this would
be the Pizza Hut Restaurants as well as some of the
other larger pizzerias.
One to offer a full service is the
Pizzeria Uno Chicago Bar & Grill Restaurant serving
a full menu of other items such as steak, chicken, fish
and 'baby back' pork ribs, which they claim in their
advertisements "just fall off the bones".
Ummm….
Pizzeria Uno is located just west of
the junction of Polynesian Blvd, but there are also
several others to choose from with names like Guiseppes's
Italian Restaurant & Pizza, Mickey's Pizzeria and
Romano's Pizzeria.
Of the more traditional take-out and
delivery service restaurants (no sit-down service available),
are the Godfather's Pizza, Flippers Pizza and Hungry
Howies Pizza shops. More dominant of these (at least
judging by the number of their locations) are the many
Dominos & Papa Johns Pizza that dot the 192.
There always seems to be one of these
close by, regardless of where you are staying.
Fast Food Restaurants
When it comes to fast food choices,
you certainly have a lot to choose from in the USA.
No different when it comes to the US Hwy 192 area.
In this section we'll try to give you
an overview of the selections available.
Most predominant in this section will be the many Hamburger
restaurants, which will include all the famous names-
McDonald's, Wendy's Restaurants, and Burger King. Plus
our local 'Checkers'.
Although mostly known for their burgers
these restaurants generally do offer an additional selection
such as chicken or fish sandwiches - some even offer
salads and other specialty items.
A few even offer breakfast, such as
McDonald's and Burger King.
Most will always offer a daily special
which may include 2 sandwiches for $2.00 or just a $.99
special on one of their featured items. Though the offers
may change from time to time, the concept does not.
If you're looking for Seafood specialties, Long John
Silvers is the place to go. You'll find them located
on West Vine Street just west of Hwy 441.
When it comes to Chicken specialties,
there are two area favorites that take the top honors,
Popeye's Fried Chicken and KFC (Kentucky Fried Chicken).
Popeye's Fried Chicken can be found
only on West Vine Street, whereas KFC outlets can be
found throughout the area.
For a little more taste that's south of the border,
try the Mexican specialties of the Taco Bell restaurants.
These can also be found along US Hwy 192.
Ethnic Restaurants
Foods from many parts of the world are showcased in
the Kissimmee area. We'll try to list a few of these
here.
Chinese Restaurants
There are many Chinese Restaurants
in the area.
Some offer buffets, some offer delivery
and take-out service, but all offer an oriental environment
to please any palate. Egg Rolls, Won Ton Soup; Chicken,
Pork & Beef Chow Mein and Fried Rice Dishes to name
but a few.
You'll find names such as the China
Pearl Restaurant, Emperor's Wok, Regency Chinese Restaurant,
Taste of China and Twin Dragons Restaurant.
For an authentic Chinese Dinner and
Show you may want to consider spending an evening at
the nearby attraction of Splendid China. Owned and operated
by the Peoples Republic of China, they offer a 90-minute
live-stage production featuring over 40 of China's top
performers.
The Chinese are well known for their
grace and beauty of movements combined with their award-winning
acrobatics.
At one time, Splendid China offered
the Dinner and Show separately, however, at the time
of publishing this page, general admission to the park
included this as a complimentary feature.
Italian Restaurants
Several come to mind-
Probably the largest of these is the
Olive Garden Restaurant, a popular local favorite.
There's also Carrabba's Italian Grill
at Formosa Gardens.
Antonio's at Celebration, also known
as the Café D'Antonio, is on Front Street overlooking
the lake.
For a local family owned and operated
restaurant, you may want to try Francisco's at the junction
of Hwy. 535 or Pacino's Italian Ristorante, located
directly across from Old Town...
There are many more to choose from.
We'll try to list them all here in time.
Japanese Restaurants
There's the Kobe Japanese Steakhouse
and Sushi Bar located near Interstate 4 and Parkway
Blvd, the Take Japanese Restaurant located at Maingate
West or the Yoji Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Bar located
approximately 1-mile east of Hwy. 535.
Other restaurants for this section
include - Middle Eastern, West Indian and East Indian
Restaurants.
We will include them all here in the
fullness of time...
Traveling With Kids
Having traveled with kids, here are just a few tips
we found made our holiday that little more relaxing.
Before you go, buy some Disney Dollars from the Disney
Stores and keep giving them as their pocket money –
this way they have some money to spend on that huge
cuddly toy that every child has on the plane trip home.
Disney caters for everything for children, there are
Baby Services – private rooms with seating and
low lighting for nursing mothers, feeding rooms with
highchairs, bibs, plastic spoons and nappy changing
rooms. Baby-care products such as disposable nappies,
pull-on rubber pants, formula and teethers are for sale
- remember these will be US milk and “diapers”
so whilst great for an emergency, obviously have your
own supply.They even have nappy changing areas in the
men’s room so no excuses for Dads!
In-park stroller rental ($6 a day plus $1 refundable
deposit) makes traveling through the theme parks easy
so no need to worry about taking your buggy, although
you will have to carry your child from the car park.
Take a swimsuit and possibly a change of clothes for
the kids to the parks, kids will love playing on Donald's
Boat & in the water fountains around all the parks,
& will inevitably get very wet!
"Kid Switch" policy gives both Mom and Dad
a chance to enjoy the latest attractions without the
wait. Here's how it works. One parent waits in line
with a small child while the other parent rides the
attraction. The first parent returns to the loading
area and takes the child while the second parent rides.
Make sure your child knows what to do if he/she gets
lost - tell them that cast members wear name badges
& to go to one of them immediately if he/she gets
lost; or for older kids arrange a place to meet if they
get lost. Introduce them to one of the Cast Members,
they are always happy to chat to the kids to make them
feel at ease and tell them to come straight to someone
who wears the same uniform as them. If your child has
pockets put their name on a piece of paper just in case.
Disney does has special name tags for very young children.
Guests can get them at - City Hall or Baby Care Center
(Magic Kingdom); Guest Relations or Baby Care Center
(Epcot); Guest Relations (MGM & Animal Kingdom).If
you do lose your child, report to Guest Relations/City
Hall, Baby Care Center, or tell a Cast Member.
Character Meals are great for youngsters – make
sure they eat all their food otherwise the characters
won’t visit with them!!!! Works wonders for those
fussy eaters.
If your son hates having his haircut, wait until your
holiday and take them to Harmony Barber Shop on Main
Street, Magic Kingdom.
Be prepared for the Florida sunshine. Bring extra sunscreen,
a hat, umbrella, plus a jacket/cardigan for chilly,
air-conditioned theatres.
Buy an autograph book for your child to get character's
autographs and a big pen for the characters to hold
– there hands are too large for small pens and
always have the autograph books open ready to save time
for everyone.
Try to get your child used to the different characters
before you get there by watching Disney movies. Explain
that the characters will be bigger than them & there's
no need to be scared. If your child does get scared
when meeting a character, don't force them into it just
because you want a picture of them with Mickey Mouse!
So many parents seem to push their kids up the characters
when it is obvious they are terrified – don’t
worry, they do grow out of this practically the next
year.
Kids under 3 are admitted to the parks for free. Kids
over the age of 9 are considered adults in Disney's
eyes, & so have to pay adult rates for tickets &
passes.
And don’t forget when they get tired, take them
back to the villa for a nap and return later.
MAGIC KINGDOM
Magic Kingdom Overview
The Magic Kingdom theme park -- Disney's first theme
park in Florida -- has seven themed lands featuring
attractions built around wonder, fantasy and fun. It
also features food locations and merchandise locations.
History
The Magic Kingdom Park opened Oct. 1, 1971, and soon
after was dedicated on Oct. 25. Many celebrities were
on hand for the festivities, as well as Walt Disney's
entire family. Arthur Fiedler conducted the World Symphony
Orchestra at the base of Cinderella Castle. Roy O. Disney
stood with Mickey Mouse in Town Square and read the
dedication plaque. The park opened with six themed lands:
Main Street, U.S.A.; Adventureland; Frontierland; Liberty
Square, a land originally planned for Disneyland; Fantasyland;
and Tomorrowland. (Mickey's Birthdayland was created
in 1988 to honor Mickey Mouse's 60th birthday, and eventually
changed its name to Mickey's Starland in 1990. In 1996,
the land changed again to Mickey's Toontown Fair.)
Eventually, all the lands came together with their own
unique themes. Ordinary buildings were cloaked with
intricately designed exteriors and interiors. Details
were installed and the final coats of paint were put
on. Imagineers used an architectural trick called "forced
perspective" to make buildings look taller than
they actually are. They shrunk windows, balconies and
even furniture on the second floors and shrunk any third
floors even further to achieve the illusion of tall
buildings climbing far into the sky. To complete the
feeling of being in a three-dimensional movie, background
music was created for each particular land, as if it
was part of any film's soundtrack. In the end, it took
more than 9,000 workers to build the world's most famous
vacation resort.
Location
The Magic Kingdom park occupies 107 acres. It is located
off Interstate 4 on Walt Disney World Resort property,
Lake Buena Vista, Fla., approximately 22 miles southwest
of Orlando.
Dining & Merchandise
Food locations are situated throughout the Magic Kingdom
park, with character dining opportunities located at
The Crystal Palace at Main Street, U.S.A.; Liberty Tree
Tavern at Liberty Square; and Cinderella's Royal Table
at Fantasyland. Priority seating for full-service restaurants
can be made at City Hall on the day of visit or in advance
by calling 407/WDW-DINE.
Merchandise locations offer quality items from clothing
to collectibles.
Major Attractions
Walt Disney World Railroad (1971): A grand circle-tour
of the Magic Kingdom park aboard an authentic steam
train.
Mad Tea Party, Dumbo the Flying Elephant, Snow White's
Scary Adventure and Peter Pan's Flight (all 1971): Attractions
inspired by animated Disney film classics.
It's a Small World (1971): Hundreds of doll-like figures
sing and dance in their native costumes.
Jungle Cruise (1971): Board from a last-outpost river
landing to observe curious gorillas, playful Indian
elephants in their daily bath and frolicking hippos
created in life-like realism by Disney artists.
Country Bear Jamboree (1971): The zaniest troupe of
singing bears ever assembled celebrate old-time music
with a foot-stompin' beat.
Hall of Presidents (1971): The most impressive moments
in American history are presented in life-like realism
with all of the nation's chief executives on a single
stage through the three-dimensional magic of Audio AnimatronicsÆ.
Diamond Horseshoe Saloon Revue (1971): Where dance-hall
ladies and elegant gents sing and dance.
The Haunted Mansion (1971): The liveliest collection
of ghosts ever assembled for all to see as they travel
through ancient rooms.
Pirates of the Caribbean 1973): Aboard buccaneer launches,
adventurers travel through mysterious grottos, then
plunge down a waterfall and into the midst of a pirate
battle for control of a harbor town.
Tom Sawyer Island (1973): Log rafts take guests across
the river where Injun Joe's Cave, the Magnetic Mystery
Mine and old Fort Sam Clemens await exploration.
Space Mountain (1975): Action, speed and perpetual motion
await as guests "blast off" into night skies
for a twisting, diving "return-to-earth" aboard
miniature space shuttles.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad (1980): A wild ride on
a runaway mine train.
Splash Mountain (1992): A log-flume ride with one of
the world's longest flume drops -- a five-story, 47-degree
descent reaching speeds of nearly 40 mph.
The ExtraTERRORestrial Alien Encounter (1995): A mysterious
corporation from a distant planet, X-S Tech, displays
a new teletransportation device that brings the audience
face-to-face with an alien.
The Timekeeper (1995): A hysterical blast through time
in a Circle-Vision 360 format.
The Barnstormer (1996): A kid-sized roller coaster zips
and zooms through Goofy's Wiseacre Farm in crop-dusting
biplanes.
Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin (1998): Board your
star cruiser, grab hold of your laser cannon and help
Buzz defend the universe from the Evil Emperor Zurg.
The Enchanted Tiki Birds-Under New Management (1998):
Hollywood featherweights Iago, from Disney's animated
feature "Aladdin," and Zazu, from "The
Lion King," have become the new landlords of this
classic attraction, creating a witty, upbeat show filled
with old and new choreographed musical numbers.
The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh (1999): The whole
gang's here, joining guests on a journey into the Hundred
Acre Wood.
The Magic Carpets of Aladdin (2001): Genies, flying
carpets, magic lamps and Middle East mystique inspires
this new attraction.
Entertainment & Shows
Daily entertainment in every "land" includes:
"Share a Dream Come True" parade celebrating
Disney's 100 Years of Magic.
"Cinderella's Surprise Celebration," a singing
and mingling "party" at Cinderella Castle
featuring more than 20 Disney characters.
"SpectroMagic" nighttime parade with spectacular
lighting effects.
"Fantasy in the Sky" fireworks presented nightly
above Cinderella Castle.
The Dapper Dans barbershop quartet on Main Street, U.S.A.
The Pedaling Piano Bike -- a piano that can be played
anywhere you can pedal a bicycle to!
Character greetings at Mickey's Toontown Fair and throughout
the park.
Themed holiday entertainment.
High school bands, dance and musical groups from throughout
the world.
MGM STUDIOS
History:
The idea for a park based on favorite movie themes originated
with Walt Disney more than 40 years ago when “backlot
tours” were limited to a privileged few. He first
considered a park on his own backlot, then looked across
the river from the Disney Studios in Burbank on land
adjacent to Griffith Park. Lack of enough land combined
with potential traffic problems caused him to look elsewhere;
namely, Anaheim. The result was Disneyland. In the mid
'80s, a greatly expanded production schedule for the
Walt Disney Company demanded more facilities. Rather
than buy expensive land in California, the company realized
it had plenty of land in Florida and the opportunity
to combine its new production facilities with a chance
for Walt Disney World guests to see behind the scenes
of movie and television production.
Location:
One mile southwest of Epcot on Walt Disney World Resort
property, Lake Buena Vista, Fla., approximately 22 miles
southwest of Orlando.
Employment:
Theme park, 5,100; Production and animation, 400 plus
additional technical support as required by individual
producers’ needs.
Major Attractions:
- “Who Wants To Be A Millionaire – Play
It!” : The thrill and excitement of the hit
ABC-TV game show plays out every day in an all-new
attraction. All guests get to play for points with
a chance to win exclusive “Play It!” merchandise.
- “Fantastic!” : Another dream comes
true at Walt Disney World Resort, only this time it’s
Mickey Mouse’s dream that comes to life in a
brilliant display of lights, lasers, fireworks and
water animation.
- Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith : A
“super-stretch limo” catapults guests
through a series of unexpected twists and turns. Five
specially recorded Aerosmith soundtracks echo throughout
this indoor roller coaster.
- The Twilight Zone Tower Of Terror™ : A thrilling
journey through the eerie corridors of the Hollywood
Tower Hotel, culminating when guests plummet 13 stories
twice -- faster than free-fall -- in a breathtaking
finale.
- “Bear in the Big Blue House - Live On Stage!”
: Meet Bear, Ojo, Tutter and the rest of the gang
as they perform some of your favorite songs from the
whimsical Disney Channel series.
- “Jim Henson’s Muppet*Vision 3D,”
presented by Kodak: Three-dimensional film spectacular
in a 584-seat theater starring Jim Henson’s
famous Muppets and featuring explosive in-theater
effects.
- “Disney’s Doug Live” : Doug Funnie
comes to life through a mix of live performances and
animation in this original story. Lucky audience members
are chosen to play parts in each performance.
- “The Hunchback of Notre Dame - A Musical
Adventure” : Colorful costumes and magical music
highlight this 32-minute stage show based on the hit
animated film, “The Hunchback of Notre Dame.”
Performances daily at the Backlot Theater.
- The Great Movie Ride , presented by Coca-Cola:
20-minute journey into the movies aboard 70-passenger
vehicles; stars a cast of Audio-Animatronics®
characters re-creating memorable movie moments, including
“Wizard of Oz,” “Indiana Jones,”
“Alien,” “Casablanca.” “Indiana
Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular!” : 35-minute live
show in 2,000-seat amphitheater; daring stunt artists
and thrilling special effects, re-creating spine-tingling
motion picture stunts.
- The Magic of Disney Animation : 25-minute tour;
features include animation gallery, 9-minute motion
picture in 172-seat theater, view of animation unit
at work, and 5-minute motion picture in 140-seat theater
showcasing Disney Classics.
- Disney-MGM Studios Backlot Tour : 25-minute tour
aboard 200-passenger shuttles through studio backlot
including costuming, scenic shop, Residential Street
and New York Street and Catastrophe Canyon.
- “Honey, I Shrunk the Kids” Movie Set
Adventure : Based on the hit film “Honey, I
Shrunk the Kids,” the movie set adventure playground
features an ant the size of a pony, grass blades 30
feet tall and mushroom caps three stories tall.
- Star Tours , presented by Energizer: “Space
journey” in a 40-seat advanced flight simulator
from the creative forces of Disney and George Lucas,
the ultimate “Star Wars” adventure.
- “Beauty and the Beast -- Live on Stage”
: A delightful musical stage show based on the hit
Disney movie, “Beauty and the Beast.”
Performances daily in the Theater of the Stars.
- “Voyage of the Little Mermaid” : Based
on the hit animated film “The Little Mermaid,”
the show features dazzling special effects which combine
with puppets, Audio-Animatronics figures, live performers
and favorite clips from the film to tell the tale
of Ariel.
- Film and Television Production:
The HBO series “From the Earth to the Moon”:
A 13-part drama was in production in two sound stages
throughout 1997.
- Films shot at the studios include: “Marvin’s
Room,” “Passenger 57,” “Oscar,”
“Quick Change,” “Ernest Saves Christmas,”
“Splash Too,” “Separate But Equal”
(Emmy-winning TV mini-series) and “Instinct.”
- TV shows taped at the studios include: “Sheena,”
“Full House,” “Wheel of Fortune,”
“World Championship Wrestling,” “ESPN
College Football Awards,” “Talk Soup,”
“Step By Step,” “Barbara Walters
Special” and “Live! With Regis & Kathie
Lee.”
- Celebrity Visits:
Among the hundreds of actors, comedians and entertainers
who’ve appeared at the studios are: Charlton
Heston, Dustin Hoffman, Bette Midler, Ann-Margret,
Sylvester Stallone, Tom Hanks, Liza Minnelli, Billy
Joel, Kevin Bacon, Michael J. Fox, Gary Sinise, Samuel
L. Jackson, Lou Gossett Jr., Drew Carey, Oprah, Susan
Lucci and Britney Spears.
- Restaurants, Snack Bars and Lounges:
The Hollywood Brown Derby : 236 seats, full-service;
features world-famous Cobb Salad, steaks, seafood,
pasta specialties, fine International wines.
50’s Prime Time Cafe/Tune In Lounge : 225 seats,
full-service restaurant and 52-seat lounge; features
peanut butter and jelly milkshakes, sundaes, delicious
fried chicken, old-fashioned meat loaf, chicken pot
pie.
- Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant : 252 seats, full-service;
features cosmic concoctions ranging from salads and
sandwiches to linguini and fresh fish entrees. Diners
watch the big screen for the best science fiction
scenes.
- ABC Commissary , hosted by Kikkoman: 562 seats,
serving creative fast food with an international flair.
Selections include vegetarian stir fry noodles, fish
and chips, and Brazilian feijoada (traditional Brazilian
black bean stew).
- Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano : 250 seats,
full-service; featuring gourmet pizza baked in wood-burning
brick ovens. Mama Melrose brings old-fashioned Italian
cooking to a restaurant with an upscale feel. Delicious
pasta dinners and seafood are available.
Hollywood & Vine : 468 seats (80 seats on outside
patio) “all you care to eat” buffet features
fresh salads, pasta, rotisserie meats, and vegetarian
selections
- Backlot Express , hosted by Coca-Cola: 600 seats,
counter service; features custom-broiled hamburgers,
grilled hot dogs, marinated chicken breast sandwich
and salads.
Min & Bill’s Dockside Diner : 140 seats
on patio, counter-service; features fruit, yogurt,
beverages and snacks.
- Sunset Ranch Market (featuring Rosie’s All-American
Café and Catalina Eddie’s ): 400 seats
covered outdoors; hamburgers, hotdog's, individual
pizza, baked potatoes, and turkey legs. Beer is available.
- Dinosaur Gertie’s Ice Cream of Extinction
: Snack bar, features ice cream.
Starring Rolls Bakery , hosted by Nestlé Toll
House: 48 seats on patio; bakery; features muffins,
cookies, pies, cakes, pastries.
- Studio Catering Co. , hosted by Coca Cola: 496 seats
outdoors (328 covered); deli stacked sandwiches and
soft-serve ice cream
- Anaheim Produce : Produce stands featuring fresh
fruit, vegetables and beverages.
- Dining Priority Seating:
Available for full-service restaurants; can be made
at Hollywood Junction Red Car Station (corner of Hollywood
and Sunset) on the day of visit for the Hollywood
Brown Derby, 50’s Prime Time Cafe, Sci-Fi Dine-In
Theater Restaurant and Mama Melrose’s. Priority
seating can be made in advance by calling 407/WDW-DINE.
- Merchandise:
Crossroads of the World : Souvenirs, film, sunglasses,
post cards, rainwear, sundries.
Oscar’s Classic Car Souvenirs : Car-themed memorabilia.
Oscar’s Super Service : Stroller, wheelchair
rental.
- Sid Caheunga’s One-of-a-Kind : One-of-a-kind
Hollywood celebrity collectibles, autographed photos,
movie and television props.
- The Darkroom : Camera sales and rental, film, camera
accessories, film processing.
- Cover Story : Guest photos are put on magazine covers.
- Celebrity 5 & 10 : Studio logo souvenir variety
goods.
- Keystone Clothiers : Adult Disney fashions, accessories
and jewelry.
- L.A. Prop Cinema Storage : Children’s Disney
character apparel, toys, costumes, souvenirs.
- Mickey’s of Hollywood : Character apparel,
plush characters and other themed toys and souvenir
items.
- Golden Age Souvenirs : Walt Disney World Resort
logo merchandise.
- Animation Gallery : Animation cels, original art
and collectibles.
- The Disney Studio Store : Disney animated films
merchandise.
- Tatooine Traders : Souvenirs and collectibles featuring
characters from “Star Wars” films.
- Indiana Jones™ Adventure Outpost : Clothing,
hats and souvenirs based on the adventures of Indiana
Jones.
- Stage 1 Company Store : Muppets and “Sesame
Street” souvenirs.
- It’s a Wonderful Shop : Holiday items and
decorations.
- In Character...Disney's Costume Shop : Princess
costumes and accessories.
- AFI Showcase Shop : TV-and-Disney-movie related
merchandise.
- Legends of Hollywood : Pooh and the gang clothing,
toys and accessories.
- Sunset Ranch Souvenirs : Disney character hats and
accessories.
- Sunset Club Coutures : Limited edition and one-of-a-kind
watches drawn by Disney artisans; jewelry and clocks.
- Tower Hotel Gifts : The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror™
logo apparel, hats and souvenirs.
- The Writer’s Stop : Books, gifts, snacks.
Epcot Overview
Epcot, the Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow,
opened in 1982. It was conceived by Walt Disney to "take
its cue from the new ideas and new technologies that
are now emerging from the creative centers of American
industry." This concept is best exemplified by
Spaceship Earth, the glistening geosphere that has become
Epcot's icon.
Epcot consists of two themed areas,
Future World and World Showcase. Future World features
attractions that focus on energy, communication, health,
the land and our environment, the ocean, imagination,
transportation and space exploration. "Spaceship
Earth" traces the history of communication as it
evolved over the centuries. The "Universe of Energy"
humorously transports you back to prehistoric times
to find the origin of energy as we know it today.
Over at "The Land" Timon,
Pumba and Simba are your hosts at the "Circle of
Life" film that deals with the environment. The
"Living With The Land" boat ride takes you
on a fascinating tour of greenhouses and fish-production.
"Food Rocks" has a cast of animatronics Kitchen
characters who will rock you while you learn about nutrition.
The "Living Seas" is a 5.7
million gallon aquarium that is home to thousands of
fish including sharks, sea turtles and dolphins. It
features all of the characters from "Finding Nemo"
with hands-on activities, a wonderful interactive chat
with "Crush" and displays of the fish that
inspired this amazing move.
At "Imagination!" you can take a fun filled
look at the senses on your "Journey Into Imagination
With Figment". The terrific 3-D film "Honey
I Shrunk The Audience" transports you into the
zany world of that loveable professor Wayne Szalinski,
famous for "Honey I Shrunk The Kids". Test
Track" takes you on an unforgettable ride as you
learn about the rigors of auto testing. "Mission
Space" simulates a realistic launch into space
as you and your crew pilot your capsule to Mars.
The "Wonders of Life" is currently only open
seasonably.
Centered around a beautiful reflective
lagoon is Epcot's "World Showcase". Eleven
countries are represented, each providing fascinating
glimpses into their unique culture. You can sample the
cuisine, shop for native wares and enjoy performances,
exhibits, movies or rides that reflect the heritage
of each nation. Strolling from one land to another,
you'll find yourself immersed in the distinct atmosphere
that each country offers.
Every evening Epcot presents "IllumiNations:
Reflections of Earth". This spectacular presentation
is centered around the World Showcase Lagoon where fireworks,
lasers and dancing fountains combine in a choreographed
display performed to an inspirational musical score.
ANIMAL KINGDOM
Walt Disney World Resort's fourth
and newest theme park celebrates one amazing adventure
after another with wild animals, exciting attractions,
lavish stage shows and lovable characters! Highlights
include an authentic African safari, a whirling white-water
raft ride and a thrilling race back in time to prehistoric
worlds.
Location: From Walt Disney World property:
take World Drive to Osceola Parkway West. From off Disney
property: take I-4 to Exit 25B (U.S. 192 West), to World
Drive North, to Osceola Parkway West, to Disney's Animal
Kingdom parking plaza.
Size: More than 500 acres
Parking: For 6,000 cars
Project Announced: June 5, 1995
Construction Began: August 1995
Grand Opening: April 22, 1998
Employees: More than 4,500 cast members
to date
Animals: About 1,500, representing
250 species -- most acquired from zoos accredited by
the American Zoo and Aquarium Association.
Landscaping: More than 4 million trees,
plants, shrubs, vines, grasses, ferns, etc. representing
3,000 species.
Entry Garden: The Oasis -- A lush botanical
garden designed for guests to explore habitats of fascinating
creatures including iguanas, tree kangaroos, several
species of colorful birds and other animals.
Major "Lands":
Africa -- Journey through the "wild"
savannah that seems to put you in the heart of Africa
with lions, zebra, giraffes and other magnificent animals
roaming freely. There's also an authentic African village
filled with sights and sounds of the mysterious continent.
Camp Minnie-Mickey -- The site to meet
many of the lovable Disney characters, including Mickey
Mouse and friends from classic Disney films. Live shows
include "Festival of the Lion King."
DinoLand U.S.A. -- Here's where the
world's fascination with dinosaurs and jungles comes
to life: race back in time to save the last dinosaur
on the thrill ride DINOSAUR; The Boneyard Dig Site lets
kids dig, swing and giggle through a prehistoric playground;
and the live stage show "Tarzan Rocks!" keeps
the jungle jamming. DinoLand U.S.A. is presented by
McDonald's.
Discovery Island -- The park hub and
home of the towering icon, The Tree of Life, which houses
within its trunk "It's Tough to be a Bug,"
a humorous 3-D and special-effects show in the Tree
of Life Theater. Discovery Island also features gifts
and food emporiums and the bright tropical colors of
hand-carved animal architecture.
Asia -- Home of Kali River Rapids,
a white-water raft adventure through a threatened rainforest;
Maharajah Jungle Trek, a surprising walking journey
past Asian ruins and live exotic animals; and the thrilling
"Flights of Wonder" exotic bird show.
Attractions:
- The Boneyard (DinoLand U.S.A.)
- DINOSAUR (DinoLand U.S.A.)
- Cretaceous Trail (DinoLand U.S.A.)
- Character Greetings (Camp Minnie-Mickey)
- Kali River Rapids (Asia)
- Maharajah Jungle Trek (Asia)
- Kilimanjaro Safaris (Africa)
- Pangani Forest Exploration Trail (Africa)
- Wildlife Express (Africa/Rafiki's Planet Watch)
- Rafiki's Planet Watch (near Africa)
- "It's Tough to be a Bug!" (Discovery Island)
- The Tree of Life (Discovery Island)
Shows:
- "Festival of the Lion King" (at 1,375-seat
theater/Camp Minnie-Mickey)
- "Pocahontas and Her Forest Friends" (at
350-seat Grandmother Willow's Grove/Camp Minnie-Mickey)
- "Tarzan Rocks" (at 1,500-seat Theater
in the Wild/DinoLand U.S.A.)
- "Flights of Wonder" (at 1,000-seat Caravan
Stage/Asia)
Where To Eat:
- Flame Tree Barbecue (quick dining, outdoor seating/Discovery
Island)
- Kusafiri Coffee Shop and Bakery (quick-service
counter/Africa)
- Pizzafari (quick dining/Discovery Island)
- Rainforest Cafe (full-service/Entrance Plaza)
- Restaurantosaurus (quick dining/character breakfast/DinoLand
U.S.A.)
- Sundowner Terrace (cocktails/Africa)
- Tamu Tamu Refreshments (snack shop/Africa)
- Tusker House Restaurant (quick dining/Africa)
Essential Services:
- Baby Care Center (Discovery Island)
- Banking ATM (Entrance Plaza)
- First Aid (Discovery Island)
- Guest Services (Entrance Plaza)
- Kennel (Entrance Plaza)
- Lockers (Entrance Plaza)
- Lost and Found (Discovery Island)
- Lost children (Discovery Island)
- Package pickup (Entrance Plaza)
- Stroller rental (Entrance Plaza)
- Wheelchair rental (Entrance Plaza)
Introduction
to Universal Studios Florida
Even with fast-paced grown-up rides based on blockbusters
such as Twister, Terminator, and Men in Black, Universal
Studios Florida is a ton of fun for kids. And, as an
added plus, it's a working motion picture and TV production
studio, so occasionally there's some live filming done
at Nickelodeon's sound stages or elsewhere in the park.
Even if there isn't a film or show in production, you
can see reel history displayed in the form of some 40
actual sets exhibited along Hollywood Boulevard and
Rodeo Drive. And there are plenty of action shows and
rides including Twister . . . Ride It Out, Earthquake
-- The Big One, Back to the Future . . . The Ride, Jaws,
Terminator, and the just-opened Revenge of the Mummy.
After a period of quiet on the expansion
front, 2003 saw Universal add two new attractions --
Jimmy Neutron's Nicktoon Blast, and Shrek 4-D -- and
2004 saw the debut of Revenge of the Mummy, a ride based
on the hit film, The Mummy.
Universal Characters & Shows,
Too--Universal Studios Florida has a host of street
characters and shows to entertain the crowds that flock
here. The lineup includes: Extreme Ghostbusters: The
Great Fright Way, a revised show that has Beetlejuice
and The Ghostbusters singing and dancing to hits from
the '60s through the '90s; Lucy and Ricky, in which
Lucy pulls guests into an impromptu conga line; Sarita
and Rico, two Latin characters who get guests singing
and dancing to high-energy tunes such as "Hot,
Hot, Hot" and "Mambo #5"; and the Men
in Black show, in which the agents know there are a
lot of aliens in the park, and they must put unsuspecting
guests through a humorous screening test. Note: Characters
rotate or appear seasonally.
Introduction
to Islands of Adventure
Universal's second theme park opened
in 1999 with a vibrantly colored, cleverly themed collection
of fast and sometimes furious rides. At 110 acres, it's
the same size as its big brother, Universal Studios
Florida, but it seems larger and it's definitely the
Orlando park for thrill-ride junkies. Roller coasters
roar above pedestrian walkways, and water rides slice
through the park. The trade-off: There are few shows.
Expect total immersion in the park's various "islands."
From the wobbly angles and Day-Glo colors in Seuss Landing
to the lush foliage of Jurassic Park, Universal has
done a good job of differentiating various sections
of this $1 billion park (unlike Universal Studios Florida,
where you ease into the next area and all of a sudden
you realize that you're in San Francisco, not New York
any more). It's also done an outstanding job of differentiating
Islands from Disney or any other Orlando park. The closest
competitor in Florida is Busch Gardens in Tampa, but
this park clearly has the edge on the ride front.
The adventure is spread across six islands: the Port
of Entry, a pass-through zone that has a collection
of shops and restaurants, and five themed areas -- Seuss
Landing, The Lost Continent, Jurassic Park, Toon Lagoon,
and Marvel Super Hero Island. The park offers a concentration
of thrill rides and coasters, plus it has generous play
areas for kids.
Introduction
to Sea World
This popular 200-acre marine park explores the mysteries
of the deep in a format that combines wildlife conservation
awareness with plain old fun. While that's what Disney
is attempting with its latest park, Animal Kingdom,
the message here is subtle and a more inherent part
of the experience.
Sea World's beautifully landscaped
grounds center on a 17-acre lagoon and include flamingo
and pelican ponds and a lush tropical rainforest. Shamu,
a killer whale, is the star of the park along with his
expanding family, which includes baby whales. The pace
is much more laid-back than at either Universal or Disney,
and it's a good way to break up a long week trudging
through the other parks. Close encounters at feeding
pools are among the real attractions (so be sure to
budget a few extra dollars to buy fishy handouts for
the sea lions and dolphins, which make begging an art
form).
Sea World manages a few thrills and
chills. Journey to Atlantis is a high-tech water ride
similar to Splash Mountain at Disney's Magic Kingdom
and Jurassic Park River Adventure at Universal Orlando's
Islands of Adventure. And Kraken is a floorless roller
coaster that sports seven inversions, much like coasters
such as Montu and Kumba at SeaWorld's sister, Busch
Gardens in Tampa. But this park doesn't try to compete
with the wonders of WDW or Universal. Instead it lets
you discover the crushed-velvet texture of a stingray
or the song of the seals.
BUSH GARDENS
Attractions
How to See Busch Gardens--You can save a few dollars
and avoid waiting in long lines by buying your tickets
to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay at the privately owned Tampa
Bay Visitor Information Center, opposite the park at
3601 E. Busch Blvd., at North Ednam. Owner Jim Boggs
worked for the park for 13 years and gives expert advice
on how to get the most out of your visit. He sells slightly-discounted
tickets (buying here will also save you from standing
in line to buy tickets at the parks) to Busch Gardens,
Adventure Island, and other attractions, and he will
book hotel rooms and car rentals for you, often at a
discount. The center is open Monday through Saturday
from 10am to 5:30pm, Sunday from 10
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