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Florida Theme Parks & Attractions

4-D SpongeBob Movie and Bikini Bottom Breakfast Make Nick Hotel the Place to Be!

7 May 2013 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

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Lagoon Slide Tower I’ve been a fan of the Nickelodeon Suites Hotel since it first opened (in fact, I stayed there while it was under construction waaay before Zannaland existed). I think the combination of a family suite with bunk beds and a separate adult bedroom, mixed with SO many fun activities and characters that kids know and love, is just perfect for any family visiting the Orlando area.

I recently had the opportunity to attend the Nick Hotel’s new Bikini Bottom Breakfast and see their brand new 4-D movie experience featuring the whole SpongeBob gang. It was a super fun day and I can’t wait to take my kids back to see it first hand. The character breakfast is not your average breakfast with characters coming to the table and that’s it – here they dance, they sing, it’s action-packed and fun for all. The breakfast buffet and omelet station was a great complement to the fun.

The 4-D movie  – The Great Jelly Rescue – was better than some I’ve seen in theme parks! The interactive “4-D” level of sights, smells, and action was spot on and the computer animated version of Bikini Bottom and its inhabitants were enjoyable for all. The Nickelodeon Suites Hotel has a bunch of new things for this summer:

  • Make a splash at SpongeBob’s Bikini Bottom Breakfast. Hula your way to the breakfast buffet and hang out with SpongeBob SquarePants and some of your other favorite deep-sea dwellers. It’s high tide at the Nicktoons Cafe, so catch a wave and come on by! Check out the photos of the breakfast below:

 

Bikini Bottom Breakfast

Bikini Bottom Breakfast

Bikini Bottom Breakfast

Bikini Bottom Breakfast

Bikini Bottom Breakfast

  • Discover Dora’s Friendship Fiesta as Dora takes us on an amazing adventure, exploring everything about friendship on our way to the Meet & Greet Fiesta. With Boots, Team Umizoomi’s Milli and Geo, and other friends, you’ll help find the way to this one of a kind celebration.
  • Dive into SpongeBob SquarePants 4-D: The Great Jelly Rescue! The 4-D Attraction joins SpongeBob with his friends in tow on a rollicking adventure when the villainous Plankton abducts all the Jellyfish with his pollution-belching contraption.  It is up to SpongeBob SquarePants to save the day, free the Jellyfish and destroy Plankton’s terrible machine.  See how SpongeBob’s big heart puts him oceans above the rest! It’s all in digital 3-D with awesome 4-D effects like bubbly bubbles, windy wind and more sensory surprises.
4-D Experience Theater
The grand opening of the new 4-D movie The Great Jelly Rescue!
4-D Experience Theater
Bubbles and more make this movie a must-see!

There’s always something fun happening here, and I was really impressed with the property and especially the “mall” area with different food options (including dinner with the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles), an arcade and shops,  the 4-D movie and of course, SLIME! Definitely add the Nick Hotel to your list of must-sees when you visit Orlando! Here are some photos of the suites:

 

SpongeBob KidSuite
Kitchenette in the suite
SpongeBob KidSuite
The master bedroom, kid-free decor!
SpongeBob KidSuite
Kids room with tv
SpongeBob KidSuite
Bunk beds!
SpongeBob KidSuite
Peeking into the kids suite

 

SpongeBob KidSuite
Kids suite without bunk beds

You can find out much more about the Nickelodeon Suites Hotel, pricing, special packages and costs for the character meals, movies and Double Dare Challenge at NickHotel.com.

Disclosure: I was provided complementary breakfast and 4-D movie showing – my opinions are my own.

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Filed Under: Central Florida Family Entertainment, Disney Movie News & Reviews, Orlando Area Resorts, Reviews Tagged With: bikini bottom, Bikini Bottom Breakfast, breakfast buffet, bunk beds, character breakfast, fun activities, Nick Hotel, nickelodeon, nickelodeon suites hotel, orlando area, SpongeBob breakfast, spongebob squarepants, The Great Jelly Rescue

Kings Bowl Rolls Into Orlando With Flair, Food, and Fun!

25 April 2013 by Suzannah Otis 1 Comment

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Kings Bowl Orlando Last week a new kid on the block opened up over on I-Drive – Kings Bowl, a luxury bowling and dining establishment, hailing from the great city of Boston (proud Boston girl here!) opened its doors to those looking for a fresh spin on a classic pastime. As seems to be the norm with these new, deluxe bowling alleys, the emphasis is on great dining, great drinks, and a place for adults to kick back and enjoy.

Kings Bowl features a really fun atmosphere with a definite adult vibe. 60 Big screen HD TV’s show the latest sports action, two separate 40-seat bars offer unique alcoholic creations and two tables over in the dining area actually feature kegs IN the table, chilled to a perfect temperature, the spinning tap allows you to choose up to 4 of your favorite brews and serve yourself. Truly a unique draw and something I think every beer drinker will want to try. One of the bars is located in an outdoor, climate-controlled patio, perfect for the summer months (or most of the year) here in Orlando.

The food at Kings Bowl was incredible. Definitely not what you’d expect at just any old bowling alley, and I dare say it rivals most dining spots around town. The Steak Tips were my favorite, but the Pulled Pork BBQ and the Buffalo Chicken Wontons were delicious too. I can totally see folks just hanging out here for the food, drinks and atmosphere, but the bowling offers another element to keep the party going. Be sure to try the Fizzy Lifting Drink if you’re up for something stronger!

Kings Bowl Orlando
One of two bars, featuring HD TV’s and a live sports ticker

Speaking of parties, Kings Bowl has two private available to book, accommodating 50 or 100 people. One features a closed-in glass walled area, where you can bowl and have access to the outside bocce court. The other opens onto the billiard and shuffleboard area. This area is also home to the VIP room, where two lanes can be curtained off, with a private back entrance to the building for any celebrities wanting to bowl a few frames. There are 22 full-sized lanes to test your skill on, and yes, there are bumpers for the kids (or grown-ups).

Kings Bowl Orlando
The lighting and decor is swanky and cool

 

I think Kings Bowl is a wonderful addition to I-Drive and the kitchy, 50’s feel to the design makes it a fun experience for all. The place switches over to adults-only (21+) after 6, so leave the kiddos at home after then. Perfect for a date night, girls night or guys night out – there’s something for everyone! Kings Bowl is the first partner to open up in the I-Drive Live project, an area of the burgeoning I-Drive District which will feature a new Madame Tussaud’s wax museum, Sea Life Aquarium,  giant observation wheel, multiple shops, restaurants, and more.

 

Here’s a gallery of photos from the swanky Kings Bowl Orlando (click to enlarge):

Kings Bowl Orlando
Woody, the Kings Bowl mascot!
Kings Bowl Orlando
General admission bowling lanes
Kings Bowl Orlando
Ready to roll!
Kings Bowl Orlando
Kings Bowl…ing ball!
Kings Bowl Orlando
Lucky 13
Kings Bowl Orlando
View from the VIP room
Kings Bowl Orlando
Menus at the bowling tables
Kings Bowl Orlando
VIP room
Kings Bowl Orlando
Table Tap – pick your 4 favorites and keep pouring!
Kings Bowl Orlando
Mac and Cheese bites
Kings Bowl Orlando
Buffalo Chicken wontons
Kings Bowl Orlando
Soy Ginger glazed wings
Kings Bowl Orlando
Hawaiian Pizza
Kings Bowl Orlando
Cheeseburger and Pulled Pork sliders
Kings Bowl Orlando
Steak Tips – so good!

Pricing is as follows:

Bowling Pricing/Shoe Rental

Before 6PM
Every Day – $5.oo
After 6PM
Sun-Thurs – $6.00
Fri & Sat – $7.00

All prices are per person, per game.
There is a two game maximum when on a waitlist.

Shoe Rental – $3.00
Socks – $3.00

Billiards & Shuffleboard Pricing

Before 6PM
Every Day – $8.oo
After 6PM
Sun-Thurs – $10.00
Fri & Sat – $14.00
All prices are prorated to the minute

Bocce Ball Pricing

Before 6PM
Every Day – $20.00
After 6PM
Sun-Thurs – $24.00
Fri & Sat – $32.00
All prices are prorated to the minute

You can follow Kings Bowl on twitter at @Kings_Orlando or facebook at facebook.com/KingsBowlOrlando for the latest happenings and specials, and check out KingsBowl.com for further info. I can’t wait to go back! Let me know if you check it out.

 

*Disclosure: I was invited to a media preview of Kings Bowl Orlando where we were provided with complimentary food, drinks and bowling. My opinions are my own.

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Filed Under: Central Florida Family Entertainment, Disney Movie News & Reviews, Florida Theme Parks & Attractions, Orlando Area Attractions, Reviews, Top Stories Tagged With: adult bowling, bocce court, Boston, bowling alley, city of boston, deluxe bowling, gourmet food, hd tv, I-Drive, I-Drive Live, kings bowl, Kings Bowl Orlando, luxury bowling, Orlando, Orlando bars, Orlando dining, table tap, vip room

SeaWorld’s Aquatica Water Park’s 5th Birthday Celebration

13 March 2013 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

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Aquatica birthday cake Aquatica Orlando celebrated its fifth birthday last weekend, which included a celebration for guests who were in attendance.

In light of the theme, $5 merchandise specials were offered all day that included clothing, Aquatica-themed glasses, and more. There was a special birthday party held in the afternoon with amazing animal ambassador meet and greets and special treats, plus a live DJ raffled off prizes for future visits with Cabanas and all-day-dining. What a great present that was from Aquatica!

Aquatica Vice President Bryan Nadeau addressed the crowd thanking them for making Aquatica a hit over the past five years; he also lead the group in the Happy Birthday song.

Rā whānau is the Maori way to say “Happy Birthday” — Rā whānau, Aquatica!

 

Dolphin Plunge From high-speed water slides and exhilarating wave pools, to tranquil beaches and the remarkable animal habitats that are the hallmark of SeaWorld, Aquatica delights all ages and interests. This waterpark is home to some of the world’s most thrilling water rides, featuring 38 slides, rivers and lagoons and 84,000 square feet of sparkling white, sandy beaches. Aquatica’s exclusive attractions promise unlimited fun, sending guests on amazing undersea adventures and through breathtaking animal exhibits.

My family visited Aquatica for the first time last weekend and had a blast. It’s definitely a water park for the adventurous type with most all of the slides being very high speed and having at least some portion in total darkness. (I’m a scaredy cat and those weren’t my favorite, but there are a few that aren’t in the dark too.) I think the favorite for everyone in our group was Roa Rapids, which is a fast-current not-so-lazy river, where you don’t even need an inner tube to be propelled along the stream and enjoy the scenery.

We also checked out the Waterstone Grill for lunch, which had really great food, and made time to just relax and enjoy the sandy beach and catch some rays. All in all, it was a great day of fun. If you are able to do the add-on from your day at SeaWorld, or visit with the package from Discovery Cove, I’d definitely say head over for some splashy fun. For more info, head to Aquatica’s site.

Dolphin Plunge

 

Aquatica wave pool

 

Taumata Racer

 

Whanau Wave

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Filed Under: Central Florida Family Entertainment, Florida Theme Parks & Attractions, Sea World Orlando Tagged With: animal exhibits, animal habitats, aquatica orlando, aquatica water park, birthday party, cabanas, fifth birthday, lagoons, merchandise specials, remarkable animal, sandy beaches, tranquil beaches, undersea adventures, water park, water rides, water slides, wave pools

Last Weekend for SeaWorld’s Bands Brew & BBQ-a Rockin’ Good Time!

13 March 2013 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

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Bands Brew and BBQ This weekend marks the last for SeaWorld’s Bands, Brew & BBQ season. I love SeaWorld’s special events like this because they are included in the price of regular admission, and you get a little something extra, this time in the form of rockin’ bands, great BBQ, and beer to boot. SeaWorld invited me over to check things out during the weekend when Styx was performing. It was a perfect small venue for a band that used to play arenas and has no less fans 30 years later. The intimate setting ensures every seat is a good one – even ours – the very last row of the stadium.

The BBQ options filled the air with heavenly scents. SeaWorld had its own offerings from its on-site BBQ restaurant, as well as Tony Roma’s, Cecil’s Texas Style Bar B Q and Sonny’s Real Pit Bar-B-Q sharing their finest creations. It was a great mix and easy to sample many locations instead of being locked in to just one place.

The brews were offered individually, or in the form of sampler packages, for those wanting to try it all. The beers offered were mostly craft beers, an excellent complement to the BBQ booths.

Carnival games lined the walkway for the kids, and a display of Harleys from the Orlando Harley-Davidson stores were also on hand.

Harley-Davidsons
Harley-Davidsons at Bands, Brew and BBQ at SeaWorld

It was a great addition to an already fun day at SeaWorld, so if you have the chance, check it out this last weekend, where Rodney Atkins with Uncle Kracker and Sheryl Crow will perform. Here is the full line up from this season so you can get an idea of what to expect in future years:

Tommy Shaw of Styx
Tommy Shaw of Styx

The 2013 Bands, Brew & BBQ concert lineup includes:

  • Saturday, February 9            Chris Young with Jerrod Niemann
  • Sunday, February 10             Merle Haggard
  • Saturday, February 16          The Beach Boys
  • Sunday, February 17             Styx
  • Saturday, February 23         Big & Rich
  • Sunday, February 24            Third Eye Blind
  • Saturday, March 2                Daryl Hall and John Oates
  • Sunday, March 3                  Darius Rucker
  • Saturday, March 9               Michael McDonald
  • Sunday, March 10                Josh Turner
  • Saturday, March 16              Rodney Atkins with Uncle Kracker
  • Sunday, March 17                Sheryl Crow

 

 

For more details about Bands, Brew & BBQ visit www.SeaWorldOrlando.com

 

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Filed Under: Florida Theme Parks & Attractions, Sea World Orlando Tagged With: Bands Brews & BBQ, BBQ, chris young, craft beers, harley davidson, harley davidsons, jerrod niemann, merle haggard, orlando harley davidson, sampler packages, SeaWorld, SeaWorld Orlando, sheryl crow, Styx, texas style, tommy shaw, tony roma, uncle kracker

Gaylord Palms Purrrrrrfect Pajama Party with Puss in Boots and Friends

6 March 2013 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

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Puss in Boots Purrrrrrfect Pajama Party Pack your favorite pajamas to party with the most darling swashbuckler and all around coolest cat in Central Florida! Gaylord Palms invites guests and their families to a brand new DreamWorks Experience, the Puss in Boots & Friends’ Purrrrrrfect Pajama Party. Mark your calendars for Saturday, March 16 because this exclusive event will take place one night only!

Guests have one chance to participate in this purrrrrrfect family friendly adventure. Clad in your party pjs enjoy an exclusive meet & greet with your most admired feline hero, Puss in Boots. Package guests will want to bring their DreamWorks autograph book amenity for this one – and don’t forget a camera! Tap into your creative genius by decorating and customizing your very own Puss in Boots pillowcase while snacking on cookies and leche (milk). The party continues outside at Gaylord Palms’ Cypress Springs Family Fun Water Park as you settle in for a Splash ‘N’ Screen viewing of DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc.’s Academy Award® nominated film, Puss in Boots.

Upon check-in, children will get their paws on some special gifts including their very own magic beans and a memento from DreamWorks’ most recent film, Rise of the Guardians. Additionally, package guests will embark on an adventure like no other in the Rise of the Guardians Adventure Scavenger Hunt. Join forces with Jack Frost and the legendary Guardians to solve exciting puzzles, crack codes and find the clues needed to defeat the evil spirit, Pitch, and his devious plan to engulf the world in darkness and fear. Are you brave enough to take the challenge?

Why let the fun stop there? For an additional charge, guests can start the next day with a ShrekFeast Interactive Character Breakfast. Kids will love becoming an honorary Ogre and joining Shrek and friends for a fairytale feast fit for a king. Tableside hugs included! This experience features a Magic Fountain bubbling over with intoxicating chocolate potions and Shrek-shaped waffles with syrup.

Gaylord Palms St. Augustine Atrium

The feline fiesta is part of The DreamWorks Experience and takes place at Gaylord Palms on Saturday, March 16. Visit www.gaylordpalms.com today to book your Puss in Boots & Friends’ Purrrrrrfect Pajama Party package. Package rates start at $189 per night for a family of four (exclusive of tax, resort fees and parking).

Gaylord Palms Resort is located five minutes from the gates of Walt Disney World at 6000 W. Osceola Parkway, Kissimmee, FL 34746. For more information, visit www.gaylordpalms.com or call 407-586-2000.

Be sure to “Like” Gaylord Palms on Facebook to get the most up-to-date information and promotions!

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Filed Under: Disney Movie News & Reviews, Orlando Area Resorts, Top Stories Tagged With: character breakfast, cypress springs, DreamWorks, dreamworks animation, dreamworks animation skg inc, Gaylord hotels, Gaylord Palms, Orlando area resorts, Orlando hotels, pajama party, Puss in Boots, Puss in Boots Purrrrrrfect Pajama Party, water park

Universal Studios Orlando Celebrates Christmas With Music, Parades and The Grinch!

11 December 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

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Universal Orlando Resort Universal Studios once again brings favorites back for the Christmas season – the Grinch, the Macy’s Holiday Parade and Mannheim Steamroller round out their holiday offerings, all included in a regular ticket for Universal Studios Florida (Macy’s parade and Mannheim Steamroller) or Islands of Adventure (Grinchmas).

The Grinchmas show is always a family favorite, and fits right in to the Suess Landing area of Islands of Adventure. Now through January 1, Guests can watch the heartwarming live show, “Grinchmas Wholiday Spectacular,” featuring The Grinch and the Whos from Who-ville accompanied by an original musical score by Mannheim Steamroller. Guests can also meet The Grinch and the Whos and on select dates, purchase and enjoy a special breakfast with the characters.

 

Universal Orlando Resort Grinchmas
Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular

The Macy’s Holiday Parade over at Universal Studios Florida features classic balloons, straight from the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, including several stationed throughout the park for photo opportunities. Santa Claus ends the parade with a colorful tree lighting.

Universal Orlando Resort
New this year – “Trykaloons”

 

Universal Orlando Resort
Santa Claus appears to light the tree

 

Also in Universal Studios Florida are select performances by Mannheim Steamroller, featuring composer Chip Davis. Mannheim Steamroller performs their holiday classics along with selections from the Grinchmas show, composed by Davis. Performance nights are Dec. 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22 and 23.

 

Universal Orlando Resort Mannheim Steamroller
Mannheim Steamroller performs with singers from the Grinchmas show

All the holiday offerings are included for guests as part of any holiday pass, two-park or multi-day admission to Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure.

 

Universal Orlando Resort
Up close with the Grinch – Yikes!

 

For more information on the Holidays at Universal Orlando, vacation packages and ticket offers, visit UniversalOrlando.com/holidays.

 

Disclosure: my family was provided a complimentary viewing of the events mentioned above. All opinions are my own.

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Filed Under: Florida Theme Parks & Attractions, Theme Park Holiday Events, Top Stories, Universal Orlando Resort Tagged With: chip davis, christmas season, Grinch, Grinchmas, holiday classics, holiday offerings, holiday parade, islands of adventure, macy s thanksgiving day parade, mannheim steamroller, parades, santa claus, suess landing, thanksgiving day parade, universal orlando resort, Universal Studios, universal studios florida, universal studios orlando, UOR

Busch Gardens Christmas Town Delivers Holiday Fun

10 December 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

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There are so many wonderful holiday events at Central Florida theme parks, and this year Busch Gardens Tampa is launching the biggest Christmas celebration ever. For the first time in the park’s 53-year history, visitors to Christmas Town will experience all-new evening attractions, shows and shopping from 6 to 11 p.m. every Friday, Saturday and Sunday night, Nov. 30 through Dec. 23. Christmas Town transforms the park into a nighttime holiday wonderland of wintery surprises and all things Christmas, filling guests’ senses with seasonal sights, sounds and flavors, and creating a beautiful new tradition for Tampa’s families. What’s even better than that? A portion of the proceeds from Christmas Town will benefit All Children’s Hospital here in the Bay area.

Busch Gardens Tampa Christmas Town
Signs letting you know where to find all of the Christmas Town fun

 

Christmas Town is a separate-ticketed night event, and regular daytime admission is not required or included. General admission for Christmas Town is $39.99 plus tax. Busch Gardens annual pass members will receive the deepest discounts with advance online priced at $24.99 for adults and $9.99 for children, and special offers are available for guests wishing to upgrade their paid daily admission to Busch Gardens. Gift cards are available at Bay area Publix locations and additional discounts are offered through promotional codes from Chik Fil-A, Coca-Cola at Wal-Mart and Fantastic Sam’s. Families with children ages 3 to 9 will enjoy a special advance-purchase price of $9.99 for their youngest members.

Busch Gardens Tampa Christmas Town
A “living angel” at Busch Gardens Tampa Christmas Town
I was a little worried that the drive to Tampa and the ticket cost would not be worth it, but Christmas Town was absolutely wonderful. I am a huge fan of Christmas lights, and seeing almost every inch of Busch Gardens covered in colorful, twinkling, beautiful lights, was just magical to me. The lights were all really well done, each area themed separately with unique activities, displays, or shows in each section. Special glasses are provided to make snow flakes appear on each light, making it even more fun.
Busch Gardens Tampa Christmas Town
How the lights look through the special viewing glasses
In addition to the lights, there are several really worthwhile shows going on during the night, as well as being able to ride some of the most popular roller coasters in the park. We really loved the ice skating show; Angels of Peace: A Christmas Journey on Ice, which was so spirited with contemporary versions of Christmas classics and some new songs as well. The Carol of the Bells light and music show on the Crown Colony  restaurant was also a highlight, so fun. The Celebration Village area had holiday snacks and drinks to enjoy while you stroll through the park, along with some of the familiar “Florida snow” we see in other area theme parks (aka soap!). There was also an area with “real” snow, enough to make and throw snowballs and go sliding: Snow World, presented by Coca-Cola.
Busch Gardens Tampa Christmas Town
Enchanted Flamingo Valley was my absolute favorite. SO many pink lights!
I took so many photos of the wonderful lights, I decided to put them all on a Busch Gardens Christmas Town flickr set, because I couldn’t decide which ones to post here. If you are able to make it down, I really think the Christmas Town event is worth it, and I hope it becomes an annual tradition for Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, I know my family will be returning next year! You can find more information on pricing and tickets at the Christmas Town site.
Busch Gardens Tampa Christmas Town
Who knew the North Pole was a disco ball??

 

Disclosure: my family was provided a complimentary viewing of the events mentioned above. All opinions are my own.

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Filed Under: Busch Gardens, Florida Theme Parks & Attractions, Theme Park Holiday Events, Top Stories Tagged With: busch gardens, Busch Gardens Christmas Town, busch gardens tampa, Christmas, christmas celebration, Christmas lights, christmas town, Holidays, ice skating, SNOW!, theme park holidays

Sea World’s Christmas Celebration Lights Up the Season

9 December 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

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Shamu Miracles
Shamu Christmas Miracles holiday show

One of my family’s favorite places during the holidays is SeaWorld – with their wonderful Christmas Celebration, included in the price of regular admission, the spirit of the season is sure to find you there. This year was no different and my children had a wonderful time seeing the shows and experiences SeaWorld has to offer. My favorite is the Sea of Trees, which light up the lake in the middle of the park and are just beautiful.

With everything from elves to Elmo, and from Santa to Shamu, SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration is where the season meets the sea. Events take place on select dates November 17 through December 31, 2012. The best way to experience SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration this season is with a SeaWorld Fun Card, which includes unlimited visits to SeaWorld through 2013, all for the price of a single day’s admission.

Returning Seasonal Favorites Include:

Families and friends can once again enjoy the spirit of Christmas during SeaWorld’s holiday-themed shows and festivities:

  • O Wondrous Night tells the greatest story never told, with more than 30 carols, based upon the Christmas Story and told through the eyes of a variety of live animals. Everyone will be entertained by this touching, light-hearted and glorious celebration featuring a host of angels, animals and the true glory of Christmas.  And new this year, guests will have the opportunity to take photos with some of the stars from the show!
Oh Wondrous Night
Oh Wondrous Night is a spirited retelling of the Christmas story
  • SeaWorld invites guests to experience the grace and beauty of our Shamu family at Shamu Stadium, during the night-time show, Shamu Christmas Miracles. Thrilling seasonal music rings out as whales soar through the air in a performance that will take the audience on a stirring voyage into the heart of the holidays.
  • Winter Wonderland on Ice is an ice skating extravaganza where Christmas comes to life through towering water fountains, magnificent fireworks and some of the most talented ice skaters in the world. This is a don’t-miss, holiday sensation.
  • In addition to the incredible seasonal shows and attractions, the amazing Sea of Trees includes more than 100 massive trees, each sparkling, lighted and choreographed to classic holiday tunes, making a dramatic display around SeaWorld’s center lake.
Sea Of Trees Night
Sea Of Trees
  • All Aboard! At the park’s Wild Arctic attraction, guests embark on a heart-warming journey to the North Pole aboard THE POLAR EXPRESS Experience, based on the film from Warner Bros. Pictures and Shangri-La Entertainment, inspired by the beloved Caldecott Medal children’s book by Chris Van Allsburg. Discover the sights, sounds, and smells of the season as family and friends are immersed in the dazzling wonder of this beloved holiday classic. Upon arrival at the North Pole, guests can meet Santa Claus himself, and encounter astounding animals in a wintery wonderland.
  • Holiday Reflections: Fireworks and Fountains Finale, with soaring fountains, dazzling lights, and festive fireworks, choreographed to joyous holiday musical favorites.  Experience a wondrous SeaWorld Christmas connection that lights the night.

New this year is Show Express, which provides guests with reserved seating at all of SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration’s shows, plus front-of-the-line access to THE POLAR EXPRESS Experience, All-Day Dining Deal and a complimentary holiday photo.  Reserve you spothere.

Clyde and Seamore Christmas show
Clyde and Seamore Christmas show

Clyde and Seamore’s Countdown to Christmas features Santa’s helpers, Clyde and Seamore, who are bringing their own brand of comedy to Christmas this year. Our loveable sea lions, along with a few mischievous otters, a comical elf, and a wintery walrus or two, search for Santa.

A Sesame Street Christmas is a festive and fun musical celebration that will have the little ones smiling all the way home. Through dance, laughter, and interactive sing-a-longs, Elmo, Telly Monster and the rest of Abby Cadabby’s Sesame Street friends teach her what Christmas means to them.

The Christmas Market, located on the park’s Bayside Pathway, features unique artisans and culinary delights. At this festive, bustling market, guests can find one-of-a-kind gifts and dine on scrumptious holiday delights.

Plus, enjoy a delicious dinner of Christmas favorites with Santa and Mrs. Claus during Santa’s Fireside Feast, a charming, warm-hearted holiday experience. Meet Santa himself, and listen to a classic holiday poem told onstage as never before to create Christmas memories that will last a lifetime. This sumptuous, all-you-can-eat seasonal meal takes place weekends of SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration. Reservations are required, and include reserved seating at select holiday shows. To book your reservation, visit SeaWorldOrlando.com.

 

Disclosure: my family was provided a complimentary viewing of the events mentioned above. All opinions are my own.

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Filed Under: Florida Theme Parks & Attractions, Sea World Orlando, Theme Park Holiday Events, Top Stories Tagged With: christmas celebration, holiday events, Orlando holiday, Sea World, Sea World Christmas, Sea World holidays, SeaWorld, SeaWorld Orlando, shamu, theme park holidays, winter wonderland, wondrous night

It’s ICE ICE Baby! – Top 5 Favorite Scenes From Gaylord Palms Merry Madagascar

19 November 2012 by Suzannah Otis 1 Comment

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One of my favorite parts of living in Orlando are the wonderful holiday events and happenings. Gaylord Palms is an absolutely gorgeous resort and it becomes a sparkling jewel for the holidays. My family and I love making ICE! an annual tradition, where over 2 million pounds of ice are carved by skilled Chinese artisans, with a new theme for each holiday season. This year, it’s “Merry Madagascar” and all of your favorites are there; King Julien, Alex, Marty, Gloria, Melman, and of course, MORT! There are SO many amazing things to see at ICE!, I think I took over 100 photos. However, rather than show you everything, I want to share my top 5 scenes, and hopefully entice you to get over to Gaylord Palms and see the rest in person!

My Top 5 Favorite Scenes at Gaylord Palms ICE! – Merry Madagascar

5. Frozen Coconuts!

Gaylord Palms ICE! Merry Madagascar
This is in my top 5 not because of the adorable Mort on King Julien’s lap but because of the coconuts to the right. They are just so cute!

 

Gaylord Palms ICE! Merry Madagascar
See? Coconuts! Out of ice! So fun.

 

4. Sparkly Penguins!

Gaylord Palms ICE! Merry Madagascar
Another of my favorite parts – these little columns the penguins are on were SPARKLY and PINK in person!

 

3. Pink Eiffel Tower and pastel St. Basil’s!

Gaylord Palms ICE! Merry Madagascar
A pink and purple Eiffel Tower in ice?! Yes, please.

 

Gaylord Palms ICE! Merry Madagascar
St. Basil’s Cathedral in the ice slide area is also a favorite – I love the color choices.

 

 2. Super Slides!

Gaylord Palms ICE! Merry Madagascar
The famous ice slides!

 

1. Frozen Waterfall!

Gaylord Palms ICE! Merry Madagascar
This waterfall was my absolute favorite feature. SO beautifully colored and the bubble details are just great.

 

Gaylord Palms ICE! Merry Madagascar
Bubbles detail on the frozen waterfall. So pretty!

 

But there is much more to the holidays at Gaylord Palms than just ICE! Within the ICE! area, there are also special character greeting photo ops and Gingy’s Gingerbread Decorating, as well as a huge selection of holiday and themed merchandise and a cafe serving holiday treats. In addition, the main atrium lobby has breathtaking Christmas decorations and a nightly Christmas show called Luminescence – featuring The Edge Effect, and the Polar Bear Pursuit Scavenger Hunt. Below is a gallery of some more highlights from Gaylord Palms holiday happenings – click any photo to view as a slideshow:

Gaylord Palms holiday lights
Such a beautiful resort all the time, even more so at the holidays!
Gaylord Palms Holiday decor
The lights and tree in the atrium lobby are just gorgeous. The holiday show is wonderful too.
Gaylord Palms ICE!
Gingy with two of my little Christmas elves.
Gaylord Palms ICE!
Gingy! This is Gingy’s Gingerbread decorating area, for an additional cost, you can decorate various types of gingerbread with Gingy!
Gaylord Palms ICE!
More Merry Madagascar merchandise.
Gaylord Palms ICE!
Lots of ICE! themed merchandise is available as well as a wonderful selection of holiday ornaments and decor.
Gaylord Palms ICE!
Merry Madagascar ICE! mugs in the shop after the ice area.
Gaylord Palms ICE!
Also inside the ICE! experience, you can get fun photos with some of your favorite Madagascar characters. ICE! is so much fun, even more so with a group of great friends!
Gaylord Palms ICE! Merry Madagascar
As always, the ICE! presentation ends with a solemn ice nativity scene.
Gaylord Palms ICE! Merry Madagascar
Bubbles detail on the frozen waterfall. So pretty!
Gaylord Palms ICE! Merry Madagascar
1. This waterfall was my absolute favorite feature. SO beautifully colored and the bubble details are just great.
Gaylord Palms ICE! Merry Madagascar
My frozen kids had a blast.
Gaylord Palms ICE! Merry Madagascar
Santa and Christmas are saved!
Gaylord Palms ICE! Merry Madagascar
More of the ice slides.
Gaylord Palms ICE! Merry Madagascar
2. The famous ice slides!
Gaylord Palms ICE! Merry Madagascar
3. A pink and purple Eiffel Tower in ice?! Yes, please.
Gaylord Palms ICE! Merry Madagascar
Ice Kremlin in the ice slide area.
Gaylord Palms ICE! Merry Madagascar
Another of my favorite parts – these little columns the penguins are on were SPARKLY and PINK in person!
Gaylord Palms ICE! Merry Madagascar
MORT!
Gaylord Palms ICE! Merry Madagascar
See? Coconuts! Out of ice! So adorable.
Gaylord Palms ICE! Merry Madagascar
King Julien with Mort (my favorite!).
Gaylord Palms ICE!
The entrance to ICE! with shopping area and a cafe for holiday treats.
Gaylord Palms ICE! Merry Madagascar
Merry Madagascar in ICE!

 

You can see the rest of my photos on my ICE! 2012 flickr set.

The best way to see all of the wonderful holiday offerings is of course, to stay right at the Gaylord Palms. Guests seeking a complete Christmas experience can purchase special “Christmassy DreamWorks Experience” packages starting at $189.99 per room, per night (for a three night stay)! Packages include unlimited visits to ICE! and a number of other activities, including a ShrekFeast Interactive Character Meal, and more!

ICE! is open daily from Nov. 10, 2012 through Jan. 1, 2013, including holidays. Ticket prices for children start at $9.99, and adult ticket prices start at $18.99. Florida Residents — Save an extra $4 per ticket. For more information and to purchase tickets, go to www.christmasatgaylordpalms.com. ICE! is presented by Coca-Cola.

Disclosure: I was provided tickets to attend a media preview of ICE! but my thoughts and opinions are my own.

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Filed Under: Central Florida Family Entertainment, Florida Theme Parks & Attractions, Orlando Area Resorts, Top Stories Tagged With: Christmas at Gaylord Palms, Gaylord hotels, Gaylord Palms, Gaylord Palms ICE!, Gaylord Palms Orlando, Gingy, Gingy's Gingerbread Decorating, holiday events, holiday season, Holidays at Gaylord Palms, ice sculptures, Ice slide, ICE!, King Julien, Madagascar, Merry Madagascar, nativity, nativity in ice, Orlando area resorts, Orlando holidays, penguins

New Video Takes Us Behind The Scenes At SeaWorld’s Antarctica

25 October 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

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SeaWorld Antarctica SeaWorld Orlando is working on an amazing new attraction called Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin, opening in 2013. If you haven’t seen the construction in person or heard what it’s all about, SeaWorld has released a series of YouTube videos with behind-the-scenes info on Antarctica.

SeaWorld Antarctica

The second Behind The Freeze focuses on the stars of our 2013 adventure — the penguins! SeaWorld’s top animal expert, Mike Boos, showcases the species of birds that will make their home at Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin when it opens at SeaWorld Orlando next spring.

Get ready for an epic exploration into an icy world like you’ve never seen before. Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin, the most immersive mega-attraction ever created by SeaWorld – is coming in spring 2013. Set in the majestic grandeur of the icy South Pole, this exhilarating ride will glide, slide and transport your family to the penguins’ surprising world where you can brave a blizzard. Be dazzled by ice and lights. Then it sets you free to explore a one-of-a-kind penguin colony in an expanse that brings you above and below their icy world. It’s an awe-inspiring penguin attraction only SeaWorld could create.

The Antarctica Website provides a way to stay tuned to Behind-The-Freeze webisodes that will continually take fans behind the scenes with the designers and animal experts as they create Orlando’s coolest, must-see 2013 experience, even revealing icy secrets along the way.

After having walked past construction of Antarctica a few times, I’m super excited to experience this attraction in person. It looks like it will be an unforgettable adventure!

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Filed Under: Disney Movie News & Reviews, Florida Theme Parks & Attractions, Sea World Orlando Tagged With: antarctica, Behind the Freeze, Empire of the Penguin, Orlando, penguins, SeaWorld, SeaWorld Orlando, SeaWorld's Antarctica, webisodes

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