Orlando

Disney On Ice Brings “Frozen” to Life This Fall

20 May 2014 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Just announced today is the news that many Disney On Ice fans knew was coming – Disney’s Frozen is coming to Disney on Ice. A whole new show has been created around everyone’s favorite snow-bound sisters, which is sure to excited Frozen fans young and old. Disney on Ice presents “Frozen” will be touring the country, but information about the Orlando dates and tickets are below, from Feld Entertainment:

Feld Entertainment, Inc., the worldwide leader in producing live touring family entertainment, today announced that its 34^th Disney On Ice spectacular will bring the Academy Award^®-winning and number one animated feature film of all time,Disney’s “Frozen,” to life. Disney On Ice presents “Frozen” visits Orlando from September 5 – 7 for seven performances at the Amway Center. Tickets go on sale to the general public on Tuesday, June 3 at 10 a.m. The Academy Award^®-winning tale will be told live for the first time in this production, capturing the dynamic between two royal sisters, Anna and Elsa. Anna, a girl with an extraordinary heart, embarks on an epic journey to find her sister, the magical Elsa, who is determined to remain secluded as she finally feels free to test the limits of her powers. Rugged mountain man Kristoff, his loyal reindeer Sven, the lovable and hilarious snowman Olaf and the mystical trolls help Anna along the way in this story about love conquering fear. Audiences will get to sing along with such musical masterpieces as “Let it Go,” “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?” and “Fixer Upper.”

Producer Nicole Feld with the Disney On Ice Frozen set model

In Disney On Ice presents Frozen, Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse take the audience through the magical story based in Arendelle, with special appearances by beloved Disney princesses and favorite characters from Disney/Pixar’s “Toy Story” and “Finding Nemo” and Disney’s “The Lion King,” who come together to prove that true love is the greatest power of all. Director Patty Vincent says, “Our goal is to showcase these heartwarming characters in a way that allows the audience to cheer and sing along throughout this emotional journey.” To create a completely immersive experience for the audience, the set design will encompass the space from the ice surface up through the air, drawing everyone into the story and closer to the characters. Families will feel that they are trekking up to the North Mountains with Anna, Kristoff and Sven, and they will tangibly experience the storm inside Elsa. Elsa’s magic will be enhanced by state-of-the-art special effects, while her emotions will be conveyed through powerful skating. Visit the Disney On Ice website for more information, (http://www.disneyonice.com) and stay current on the latest developments through social media, including instructions on how to access pre-sale codes for tickets, as early as today, May 20: {Edit: use pre-sale code “tweets” for tickets now!}

Facebook (www.facebook.com/DisneyOnIce)
Twitter (@DisneyOnIce)
YouTube (www.youtube.com/DisneyOnIce)

Dates and Times at the Amway Center: (400 West Church Street – Suite 200, Orlando, Florida 32801)

Friday, September 5 at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, September 6 at 11:00 a.m., 3:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.
Sunday, September 7 at 11:00 a.m., 3:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

TICKETS: $16, $22, $30, $39 (Premium) & $65 (Front Row). Group sales, call 866.248.8740. Buy tickets at amwaycenter.com, Chase Box Office at Amway Center, Ticketmaster retail locations, charge-by-phone at 800.745.3000 or at Ticketmaster.com. All dates, act(s) and ticket prices are subject to change without notice. All tickets are subject to applicable taxes, service, handling and facility fee charges. For Amway Center box office and ticket information, visit amwaycenter.com (phone purchases are not available through the Amway Center box office). The Amway Center is located at 400 West Church Street and the box office is located on the north side of the Amway Center, near the intersection of Church Street and Hughey Avenue.

SeaWorld’s Just for Kids and 50th Anniversay Sea of Surprises

31 March 2014 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

SeaWorld has always been a local favorite for my family, and with the recent 50th Anniversary Celebration and Just for Kids events, they make it more fun than ever to enjoy. This kid-centric festival brings families together to enjoy fun rides, adorable animals and an all-new party zone. “Just for Kids” is included with park admission and takes place Saturdays from March 22 – April 12.

During “Just for Kids”, SeaWorld’s year-long 50^thCelebration will be in full swing. Park pathways will come to life with oceans of spontaneous entertainment. Guests will enjoy a Sea of Surprises featuring new interactive experiences and shows, even more up-close animal encounters and the SeaWorld “Surprise Squad” treating park guests with prizes and special experiences every day.

Here are some photos of our recent visits to celebrate the 50th Anniversary and during the Just For Kids event:

[flickr_set id=”72157643570291023″] Photos in this set are ©Christian DiMarzio

Just For Kids Festival Highlights:

ALL-NEW! Rockin’ Rockhopper Party

Starting at 11 a.m., families can experience warm-hearted whimsical fun and make lasting memories as they dance along to family-friendly DJ’s at the Rockin’ Rock Hopper Party in Antarctica – Empire of The Penguin®, play games, such as Rock Hopper Ring Toss and Penguin Plunge, enjoy live penguin appearances, snow moments, snacks, face painting, caricatures and meet the one and only Puck, star of Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin.

ALL-NEW! SEA Garden

Share the wonder of close-up encounters with amazing animal friends and learn how we care for our natural world at our all-new SEA Garden.

Shamu Dance Party

Dance the night away with Shamu & crew at the Shamu Dance Party at the Village Square located at the front of the park. The party begins one hour prior to park closing with a stilt walker emcee who fills the square with music that the whole family can dance to, including popular line dancing songs and party favorites. The Shamu Dance Party continues until 30 minutes after park closing.

Ocean Adventures Kids Program

Kids can go on an educational, card collecting program, also included with admission, starting at 11 a.m. Children will look for the Sea Star icons inside the park, where they’ll discover fun, educational activities. At each location they will collect a stamp and a limited edition Explorer’s card. Once they visit all four locations, they’ll receive a coupon to redeem at select gift shops for a special SeaWorld prize. Limit one prize per participating child.

The best way to experience all of the fun, music and treats at “Just for Kids” and SeaWorld’s 50^th Celebration is with an Annual Pass, starting at just $13 per month for Florida Residents. Pass Members can enjoy all four Saturdays of “Just forKids” fun and all of the amazing special events throughout the year, plus the unforgettable animal encounters, world-class thrill rides and family fun found only at SeaWorld.

Follow SeaWorld on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for the latest details about SeaWorld Orlando’s “Just for Kids” Festival. Join the conversation by using the hashtag #JustForKids.

Medieval Times Social Media Exclusive Offer-All Seats $28!

28 March 2014 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Medieval Times is celebrating March Madness by offering a ticket sale of $28 for all seats! (This offer expires 3/31/2014 and is not valid at the New Jersey or Dallas castle.) I was able to enjoy Medieval Times here in Orlando when they premiered a new show a couple of years ago, I think it’s time I go back! We had a wonderful time and the food was great too. It’s hard not to enjoy the action and be a part of the show, cheering for your knight. You can check out the photos from that visit on my Zannaland Facebook page album page (and feel free to “LIKE” my Facebook page while you’re there!).

This offer expires in just a few days on 3/31 so use code 28MM right now and get ready to joust!

Find more info at MedievalTimes.com and book your visit today online or by calling 1-888-WE-JOUST.

You can also find Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament on Facebook and Twitter.

Facebook Fans Name Busch Gardens Tampa’s Lion Cub Sisters

5 July 2013 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

FACEBOOK FANS NAME BUSCH GARDENS’ LION CUB SISTERS

Shaba and Shtuko - Lion Cub Sisters - Busch Gardens Tampa 3

Tampa, Fla.– Busch Gardens® Tampa recently welcomed three lion cubs to the park, one male and two unrelated females. After a week long poll, 6,000 Busch Gardens Tampa Facebook fans voted to name the two lion cub sisters. The winning names for the three-month-old cubs are Shaba, meaning “brazen”, and Shtuko, meaning “twitch”.

The Busch Gardens animal care team has started introducing the cubs to the Edge of Africa attraction at the park, where guests can see the cubs all summer long and beyond.

[portfolio_slideshow id=12254]

More information and updates about the progress of the new cubs will be posted on BuschGardensTampaBlog.com.

SeaWorld and Southwest Airlines Partner and Unveil the Penguin One Aircraft

3 July 2013 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Southwest and SeaWorld revealed the aircraft at a ceremony a few weeks ago at Orlando International Airport (MCO) with real penguins, Southwest and SeaWorld Employees, community members, and executives, including Southwest Airlines Chairman, President, and CEO Gary Kelly, and SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment President and CEO, Jim Atchison. The plane, filled with Southwest and SeaWorld employees, will be making stops in two other SeaWorld cities, San Antonio and San Diego.

The partnership between the two companies dates back to 1988, which began when SeaWorld opened in San Antonio. Southwest and SeaWorld launched their partnership in a high-flying way—with the introduction of a new Boeing 737, Shamu® One!

The featured penguin species on the aircraft is a gentoo, one of the species found at SeaWorld Orlando’s new Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin™. The attraction includes a first-of-its-kind family ride that transports guests into the penguins’ icy world.

SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment President and CEO, Jim Atchison, and Southwest Airlines Chairman, President, and CEO Gary Kelly christen the new aircraft, Penguin One, revealed earlier this morning.

SeaWorld Orlando penguin experts Jill Lewis and Sharon Jarvis brought actual penguins to the reveal of Penguin One, along with SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment President and CEO, Jim Atchison, and Southwest Airlines Chairman, President, and CEO Gary Kelly.

New SeaWorld-themed fleet, Penguin One, made its debut this morning at Orlando International Airport in celebration of the 25-year partnership between SeaWorld and Southwest Airlines.

Penguin One takes off from Orlando International Airport and heads to San Antonio for more festivities.

Celebrate Fourth of July at Busch Gardens Tampa-Extended Hours and Fireworks All Week

3 July 2013 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Extended Hours and Nightly Fireworks Lets Guests Celebrate All Week Long!

Tampa, Fla. – Don’t wait until July Fourth to celebrate Independence Day. Get a head start on the Fourth of July festivities at Busch Gardens® Tampa.

Summer Nights lets guests celebrate the red, white and blue all day, and even after dark, all summer long with an energetic acrobatics show, live entertainment and much more.

And test your courage as you take on Busch Gardens’ world-class roller coasters in the dark, including Florida’s first triple-launch coaster Cheetah Hunt®.

Plus, Busch Gardens lights up the sky during Summer Nights, including July Fourth, with an incredible nightly fireworks display. The best views are in Gwazi Park, right after the nightly Kinetix show, but the fireworks are visible from all over the park.

Additionally, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment™ is honoring the men and women of the U.S. armed services through its Waves of Honor™ military salute program. Waves of Honor provides one complimentary admission per year to one of the SeaWorld® or Busch Gardens® Parks, Sesame Place®, Adventure Island® ,Water Country USA® or Aquatica® San Diego (weekdays only) for the service member and as many as three of his or her direct dependents through 2013.

Any active duty military, activated or drilling reservists, or National Guardsman representing any of the five service branches is entitled to one complimentary admission to one of the participating parks under the program. For more information and to register for the program, visit wavesofhonor.com.

While you’re at Busch Gardens, take in all the excitement of brand-new shows and animal encounters, including:

Madagascar Live! Operation: Vacation

Madagascar Live! Operation: Vacation is Busch Gardens’ newest live musical featuring DreamWorks Animation’s beloved characters Alex the Lion, Gloria the Hippo, King Julien, Mort and everyone’s favorite cohort of penguins. Located in the newly-renovated and air-conditioned Stanleyville Theater, the original musical showcases singers, dancers and a live band that will join the Madagascar characters on their full-throttle Busch Gardens adventure.

Lion Cubs

Busch Gardens roars with excitement this summer with its newest additions. Three lion cubs, two females and one male, arrived at the park in May, and guests can see them at various times throughout the summer in the Edge of Africa area. Busch Gardens’ Facebook fans recently voted to name the sisters Shaba, meaning “brazen”, and Shtuko, meaning “twitch”.

Park hours for Summer Nights are extended until 9 p.m., and Summer Nights is included with daily admission or any annual pass. For more information on Summer Nights and Busch Gardens, visit buschgardens.com or call 1-888-800-5447.

The hottest ticket this summer is the 3-Park Summer Sizzler. This new, limited-time offer lets guests enjoy unlimited admission to Busch Gardens Tampa and unlimited weekday (Monday – Friday) admission to Adventure Island™ and Aquatica, SeaWorld’s Waterpark™ Orlando, now through Labor Day for only $99. Florida’s best resident summer value is valid from the date of purchase through Labor Day, Sept. 2, 2013. Valid for Florida residents only (photo ID required); price is $99 plus tax. Take advantage of the Summer Sizzler online at Buschgardens.com, by calling (888) 800-5447, or at the front gates at Busch Gardens, Adventure Island™ and Aquatica, SeaWorld’s Waterpark™.

SeaWorld’s 50th celebration will be a Sea of Surprises!

3 July 2013 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Eighteen-month celebration kicks off on March 21, 2014 at all three SeaWorld parks

SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment™ announces a multi-park celebration to commemorate a key event in the company’s history. The original SeaWorld® park opened its gates for the first time in March 1964 on Mission Bay in San Diego.

SeaWorld’s 50th Celebration will feature a Sea of Surprises™ starting March 21, 2014. SeaWorld parks in San Diego, Orlando and San Antonio will share the excitement throughout an 18-month celebration that highlights some of the most memorable SeaWorld experiences.

For nearly five decades, SeaWorld has surprised and amazed guests with unique entertainment, thrilling rides and up-close encounters with marine animals. During SeaWorld’s 50^th Celebration visitors will be invited to take part in the celebration through new interactive experiences, shows and pathway performances, even more up-close animal encounters throughout the park and the SeaWorld “Surprise Squad” treating guests with prizes every day.

Just a few weeks ago, SeaWorld Orlando opened Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin™, an all-new realm that combines 30-degree temperatures, upclose encounters with more than 250 penguins and an all-family adventure ride to create the coldest theme park attraction in Orlando and a thrilling, chilling experience of a lifetime.

SeaWorld Orlando will continue to make news later this year when the park announces what’s new for 2014. Details will be shared this fall.

SeaWorld’s 50^th Celebration Sea of Surprises™ Highlights

SeaWorld San Diego will celebrate 50 years with a new interactive entrance plaza. The area will be called Explorer’s Reef™ and will open in March for the celebration kick-off. The 16-month construction project will transform the existing front gate area through sculptural and design elements inspired by waves crashing over a reef, as well as up-close encounters with marine life. The new front gate concept will replace existing ticket booths with a beach-themed, concierge-style ticketing area that will provide guests with a single location to purchase admission, as well as sign up for tours, animal interactions and dining experiences.

From the moment they enter the park, guests can connect with the sea through multiple touch pools featuring shark pups, stingrays and cleaner fish. Explorer’s Reef encompasses more than three acres, including new and innovative retail and culinary opportunities for guests. The multi-million dollar renovation effort will not only make entering the park faster and more efficient, but will significantly enhance the arrival experience.

As part of SeaWorld’s 50th Celebration, there will be more surprise encounters with animal ambassadors throughout the day. A pair of Magellanic penguins, a lemur, or even a parade of flamingos could surprise guests at any moment at all three SeaWorld locations.

What’s a celebration without surprises? The SeaWorld “Surprise Squad” will roam the SeaWorld parks giving away prizes and special gifts. Guests could receive exclusive access to rides or behind-the-scenes experiences, celebration t-shirts or Shamu-themed merchandise, reserved show seating and more.

SeaWorld is known for amazing animal shows and each park will have something new for the 50^th celebration. Even park pathways will come to life with spontaneous entertainment at unexpected moments, including performers with sea-inspired costumes and props, a bubble brigade and splash mob.

To underscore SeaWorld’s commitment to the environment and passion for protecting the ocean, a series of giant sea life sculptures will be displayed throughout the parks. SeaWorld commissioned environmental art group Washed Ashore for the large-scale art created from ocean debris. The works serve as a reminder that our animal friends need healthy environments.

As part of its continuing commitment to new technology that enhances the guest experience, SeaWorld’s 50th Celebration will include new ways for fans to connect to the parks and each other though digital devices. The parks will be launching a variety of enhancements, from interactive apps that provide fun new ways to experience the park to new games and video content.

For more information and continuing news about SeaWorld’s 50^th Celebration and the Sea of Surprises, visit www.seaworld.com/celebration.

Celebrate the Fourth of July at SeaWorld Orlando’s Summer Nights

3 July 2013 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Celebrate the Fourth of July at SeaWorld Orlando’s Summer Nights

Celebrate Independence Day at SeaWorld® with a special Fourth of July extravaganza and even more Summer Nights fun next Thursday, July 4!

During Summer Nights, SeaWorld is open from 9 a.m. until 10 p.m. so there’s plenty of time to explore the sea’s mysteries, learn about amazing animals, challenge thrilling rides and watch incredible shows.

What better way to celebrate the holiday than with traditional American fare? From July 3-6, a variety of all-American food will be served along Bayside Pathway, including bacon cheeseburgers, foot-long hot dogs, BBQ pulled pork sandwiches and kid meals, too.

And guests can enjoy the park even later on the Fourth of July. SeaWorld Orlando will be open until 11 p.m. giving families more time to experience the all-new Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin, ride the coasters under the stars and enjoy the amazing Summer Nights shows, Sea Lions Tonite and Shamu Rocks.

There’s no other place to get your fireworks fix than at SeaWorld’s Fourth of July celebration during Summer Nights!

Beginning at 9:30 p.m., there will be an extraordinary performance at SeaWorld’s Bayside Stadium by SeaWorld Celebration Singers, an ensemble group of singers and a nine-piece band, who will perform a variety of popular music ranging from traditional marches and patriotic tunes to classical favorites. The Fourth of July celebration culminates with awe-inspiring fireworks at 10 p.m.

Additional details:

Headlining Summer Nights is the all-new Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin, where guests can experience the epic world of Antarctica through the eyes of a special hero penguin named Puck; and Sea Lions Tonite, a hilarious, satirical show featuring Clyde and Seamore spoofing the other daytime SeaWorld shows that will have everyone in stitches.

New this year! Join the Party with Shamu & Friends as they dance the night away at the front of the park’s Village Square. The Party features an emcee on stilts who fills the square with music that the whole family can dance to, including popular line dancing songs and party favorites. With countless bubbles floating overhead and music wafting through the air, this celebration of summer is sure to provide non-stop fun for all ages! The Party begins every night one hour prior to park close and continues 30 minutes after park closing.

Rock the night away with Shamu during a spectacular killer whale show with more flash – and certainly more splash – than a rock concert! Shamu Rocks is a high-energy celebration of unprecedented proportions, combining awe-inspiring killer whales with a stunning light show, water fountain display and music from some of the hottest rock stars in the industry. And new this year is an electrifying twist on this classic favorite! The final Shamu Rocks show of the night includes a rockin’ fireworks finale will light up the night sky.

For more information go to SeaWorldOrlando.com.

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

25 April 2013 by Suzannah Otis 1 Comment

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).

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):

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.

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

25 October 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

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.

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!