• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • About | Press
  • Up the Waterfall
  • Media Kit

ZANNALAND!

Magical Adventures & Memories

  • Latest News
    • Top Stories
    • Disney News
    • Disney Movie News & Reviews
    • Movie Reviews
  • Places to Explore
    • Walt Disney World
    • Universal Orlando Resort
    • Disneyland Resort
    • Orlando Area Resorts
    • Disneyland Resort Paris
    • Disney Cruise Line
  • Things to Do
    • Disney Dining
    • Disney Special Events
    • D23 Expo
    • RunDisney
    • Travel, Theme Parks, and Resorts
    • Florida Theme Parks & Attractions
      • Universal Orlando Resort
      • Medieval Times
      • LEGOLAND Florida
      • Busch Gardens
      • Sea World Orlando
    • Orlando Area Resorts
    • Central Florida Family Entertainment
  • Up the Waterfall Podcast

Orlando

SeaWorld Spooktacular Offers Family Fun For All – Included In Regular Ticket!

16 October 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Share
Tweet
Pin
Share

SeaWorld Spooktacular SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular has become one of my family’s favorite events each year. Included in the regular ticket price, the Spooktacular takes place each weekend in October from noon until park close. Adults and children alike each get a trick-or-treat bag to collect candy and treats along the way. There are countless photo opportunities and characters roaming around, each with some fun interaction to offer. Sesame Street’s The Count also has a fun show called Countdown to Halloween.

In addition, Penelope’s Party Zone over at Bayside Stadium offers a chance for kids to listen to stories, dance, make crafts, all for free. Kids can also partake in optional activities for a fee, including decorating apples and rice crispie treats, face painting and sand sculptures. Before and after the Party Zone are midway-type games similar to those in Shamu’s Happy Harbor, only with Halloween-themed prizes. For $3, each person is a winner of a small prize, and could win a larger prize too. Snacks, drinks and Halloween merchandise are also available along the Spooktacular Underwater FantaSea Path.

 

SeaWorld Spooktacular
SeaWorld Halloween Spooktacular!

 

SeaWorld Spooktacular
More fun photo ops

 

SeaWorld Spooktacular
Bubbles!

 

SeaWorld Spooktacular
Loved these two witches! Swedish Fish Suzy and Gummy Worm Wanda.

 

SeaWorld Spooktacular
Penelope’s Party Zone at Bayside Stadium

 

SeaWorld Spooktacular
Pumpkin fish on the way to the stadium

 

SeaWorld Spooktacular
These interactive displays on the walkway to Bayside Stadium were genius. My son would’ve stayed there ALL day and been happy. This one made different noises with each button, others controlled the fountains on the lake. So cool!

 

SeaWorld Spooktacular
Dance party!

 

SeaWorld Spooktacular
Make-your-own sand sculpture. We did this last year and loved it. So much fun.

 

SeaWorld Spooktacular
Face-painting is also available for a fee

 

SeaWorld Spooktacular
My little one LOVED the story time offered at Bayside Stadium

 

SeaWorld Spooktacular
Making caramel apple and chocolate-covered rice crispie treats – $5 each

 

SeaWorld Spooktacular
There are times when the character greeting areas are empty, but they are still pretty enough to take a photo of!

 

SeaWorld Spooktacular
Fun stilt walkers

 

SeaWorld Spooktacular
SeaWorld Spooktacular has so many unique character interactions throughout the event area

 

SeaWorld Spooktacular
Another SeaWorld Spooktacular success!

 

We had such a wonderful time, there’s simply no reason not to head to SeaWorld during the Spooktacular weekends. More than Spooktacular, my family just loves spending time at SeaWorld. There is so much to do and it’s such a relaxing, laid-back way to enjoy the day, see amazing sea creatures at every turn, and take in some awe-inspiring shows. While we were there, my youngest son asked why we weren’t “eating with Orcas” (aka Dine With Shamu) so clearly he knows how to get the most out of SeaWorld! I can’t wait for our next visit.

You can find more information at SeaWorldOrlando.com

 

Share
Tweet
Pin
Share

Filed Under: Florida Theme Parks & Attractions, Sea World Orlando Tagged With: countdown to halloween, face painting, free halloween candy, free halloween party, Halloween merchandise, halloween spooktacular, Orlando, sand sculptures, SeaWorld, SeaWorld Orlando, SeaWorld special events, SeaWorld Spooktacular

Why Dine With Shamu is a SeaWorld Must-Do!

28 September 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Share
Tweet
Pin
Share

SeaWorld Orlando recently invited me to try out their Dine With Shamu (Now called Up Close Dining at Shamu Stadium) experience. I really didn’t know anything about it, and had pictured having tables right next to the Shamu Stadium show or something, picturing us all getting splashed at the end of the meal. Well, I was right and wrong. No splashing, and it was a wonderful experience which I would gladly do again, in fact, I can’t wait to go back.

Dine With Shamu
Whale viewing before and after Dine With Shamu

 

The Dine With Shamu experience is actually behind Shamu Stadium. Before heading in for your meal, you can check out the orca whales swimming in the viewing tanks, which provide some great photo opportunities. You are then checked in and escorted to your table. I was a bit surprised when we walked in, as I realized we were actually behind and to the right of the “stage” of the Shamu show. I thought, “well, this isn’t going to be a very good view at all…” but I soon discovered it was the best view of all. (Click to enlarge all photos.)

Dine With Shamu
View from our table at Dine With Shamu, Shamu Stadium in the background

 

The Dine With Shamu times are before or after the Shamu show, One Ocean, so what you actually get is an almost private, interactive display from several whales and their trainers. It is truly an amazing experience and I didn’t want to leave when our time was up. The 90-minute meal gives you plenty of time to enjoy the delicious buffet, watch the trainers and whales and get some one-of-a-kind photos.

Dine With Shamu
Some of the great photo ops at Dine With Shamu!

 

Dine With Shamu
One of the many up-close visitors – literally about 5 feet away (behind glass of course)

 

Dine With Shamu
Waving!

 

Dine With Shamu
Showing us where the whales are weighed

 

Dine With Shamu
Lots of great tricks shown and explained by the trainers

 

The buffet was another pleasant surprise. There were so many choices, even the pickiest eaters (or vegetarians like me) had plenty to try. Tons of breads, salads, pastas, seafood and meats using sustainable, organic, seasonal or locally grown ingredients that aim to minimize environmental impacts to animals and their habitats.. The kids section had mac and cheese, plain pasta, and hot dogs (my 3 year-old was in heaven). And there was what seemed like an endless array of delicious desserts too – and not just little bite-sized options, but giant pieces of cake! My entire group was really impressed with the options.  All-you-can-drink soft drinks were also included, as well as beer and wine.

 

Dine With Shamu
The main buffet, SeaWorld reminds you about their commitment to the environment and its inhabitants throughout the buffet area.

 

Dine With Shamu
Bread choices at the buffet

 

Dine With Shamu
More buffet choices

 

Dine With Shamu
Dessert table!

 

I just couldn’t get over what a wonderful, relaxing, unique experience Dine With Shamu was. A great respite from the heat of the parks, and it’s a small enough space that you don’t feel crowded or rushed or like you are waiting in a huge line for the buffet. The price is only $29 for adults – you really cannot beat that deal.

I left feeling like this was how we had to dine every time we come to SeaWorld. It’s almost silly not to book this experience! Each time I visit SeaWorld, I am continually impressed with how they do things. It is unlike any other area theme park and has quickly become one of my family’s and my favorite places to visit. I urge you to visit SeaWorld Orlando, check out the all-new Turtle Trek (which I finally got to experience first-hand and LOVED) and other great shows, and book a Dine With Shamu meal – you won’t regret it!

Dine With Shamu
We got a good-bye tail wave!

 

Disclosure: my family and I were provided with a complimentary Dine With Shamu meal, but my opinions and thoughts are my own.

Share
Tweet
Pin
Share

Filed Under: Florida Theme Parks & Attractions, Orlando Area Attractions, Sea World Orlando Tagged With: delicious buffet, Dine With Shamu, Must-do, orca, orca whales, Orlando, photo opportunities, Private whale show, SeaWorld, SeaWorld dining, SeaWorld Orlando, shamu show, shamu stadium, VIP experience

Raglan Road Hosts Central Florida’s First Boutique Irish Festival: ‘Great Irish Hooley’

7 August 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Share
Tweet
Pin
Share

It is no secret that Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant is one of my favorite spots at Downtown Disney here in Orlando. I’ve always been a fan of their amazing Chef Kevin Dundon‘s creations as well as the great live music and atmosphere the location offers. Having grown up outside of Boston, the granddaughter of Irish immigrants, I’ve also always had a great love in my heart for Irish music and dancing. Many high school friends took part in Irish step-dancing and I was always amazed by their syncopated movements and talent. Now Raglan Road brings some great Irish culture to all of us here in Central Florida, with their first ever boutique Irish festival called “The Great Irish Hooley” taking place from August 31-September 3 at Downtown Disney.

Here is all the official information about what exactly a Hooley is and what to expect there:

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Labor Day weekend guests at Downtown Disney Pleasure Island can eat, drink, dance and celebrate during Central Florida’s first boutique Irish festival — The Great Irish Hooley — August 31 through Sept. 3.

A traditional Irish social celebration, the “Hooley” combines music ranging from traditional to rock tunes with entertainment and interactive fun for the whole family.  Raglan Road’s Great Irish Hooley will make the long weekend memorable with a mix of great Irish bands, Irish Dance Workshops for anyone in the family, structured set dancing known as the Ceili (pronounced kay-lee), Celtic face-painting Saturday through Monday and authentic food and beverages for all.

“At last, Orlando has its own boutique Irish festival like those found back home in Ireland and in certain other U.S. cities,” says John Cooke, a founding partner of Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant.  “This unique Irish festival will be jam packed with the best of Irish music and entertainment outside of Ireland.”

The four-day party kicks off Friday, August 31 at 5 p.m. and continues through midnight Monday, Sept 3.  The Great Irish Hooley entertainment lineup includes six top Irish bands and a troupe of acclaimed dancers:

o   Full Set, a popular Irish band that released its successful debut album last year.  The band plays the festival Friday through Monday to begin a U.S. tour that includes the Milwaukee Irish Fest.

Raglan Road Great Irish Hooley 'Full Set 2
This Irish band begins its U.S. tour at the Hooley — they recently released their hit debut album

o   Elevation, the U2 Tribute Band.  Elevation will play the pub stage Saturday and a full show under the Florida sky on the patio stage Sunday evening.

o   Creel, Raglan Road’s popular house band, will play all weekend.

o   The Raglan Rogues, here from Dublin with their energetic expression of Irish folk and traditional tunes, will play Thursday through Monday.

Raglan Rogues
This Irish band, The Raglan Rogues, is performing now every Weds. through Saturday evenings on the Raglan Road patio. They are slated to appear at the Hooley, as well, but will return to Ireland in October.

o   Danny Burns brings his unique blend of Irish ballads and contemporary Irish music to Raglan Friday through Monday.

o   Johnny “Snaggs” Norton is a renowned Dublin entertainer in the tradition of the great Irish folk and ballad groups who has toured worldwide with Riverdance.  His performances Saturday through Monday include sing-along songs from the great Traditional Irish Songbook.

o   The Raglan Road Irish Dancers, the resident six-strong troupe of champion Irish dancers plucked from the stages of the most famed Irish dance shows, perform throughout the weekend.

Raglan Road Dancers
Guests can watch this amazing troupe of award-winner dancers almost every evening at Raglan Road. They’ll be part of the Irish Dance Workshops with Ronan McCormack

On Saturday, Sunday and Monday, guests can participate in Irish Dance Workshops — “From Our Roots to Riverdance” — with renowned Irish dancer and choreographer Ronan McCormack of the original Riverdance cast and the Raglan Road Dancers.Ronan will chart and demonstrate the origins and traditional styles of Irish Dance through to the contemporary styles of dance made famous by Riverdance.  And on each of those three afternoons, guests can step up for a two-hour Ceili (kay-lee) – a traditional music and structured set-dancing event that was the precursor to today’s popular country line dancing.

Throughout the Hooley, guests can belly up to one of Raglan Road’s 130-year-old imported-from-Ireland bars or grab a table for authentic fare by Irish celebrity chef Kevin Dundon.  The restaurant, a Diners’ Choice 2012 award winner, is known for its beer-battered fish and chips, as well as its Shepherd’s pie with a contemporary twist, delectable seafood, Kevin’s Heavenly Ham and other popular entrees.  Desserts like the Bread & Butter Pudding and the decadently chocolate Dunbrody Kiss are just as popular.  Raglan Road also offers gluten-free items including scallops, fish and chips, calamari, onion rings and pasta dishes.

Owned and operated by Irish partners and celebrity chef Kevin Dundon – famous for his five-star hotel and cookery school in Ireland – Raglan Road features traditional Irish dishes and new creations with a Celtic twist.  The restaurant’s warm interior of aged walnut and mahogany woods from old Irish bars and churches was built in Ireland and shipped to Orlando.  Live entertainment nightly includes Irish house band Creel (Monday through Saturday) and Irish duo Johnny and Justin (Sundays) plus The Raglan Road Irish Dancers perform seven nights a week.  Lunch is served 11 a.m.-3 p.m.; Dinner 3-11 p.m.; Bar menu 11 p.m.-late.  Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant is located on Pleasure Island at Downtown Disney in the Walt Disney World Resort, 1640 E. Buena Vista Dr., Lake Buena Vista, Fla.  Visit RaglanRoad.com or call 407/938-0300.

Share
Tweet
Pin
Share

Filed Under: Central Florida Family Entertainment, Disney Dining, Disney Movie News & Reviews, Disney News, Disney Special Events Tagged With: central florida, disney pleasure island, Downtown Disney, downtown disney pleasure island, Great Irish Hooley, great live music, irish dance workshops, irish festival, irish hooley, Irish pub, irish step dancing, Kevin Dundon, labor day weekend, Orlando, Raglan Road, social celebration

Locals and Visitors-Win $50 To Use At Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores

3 August 2012 by Suzannah Otis 11 Comments

Share
Tweet
Pin
Share

Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores August is now upon us and back to school sales are filling up the local stores. A great place to get some shopping done for the school year is right around the corner from Walt Disney World – the Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores. I remember when I was little, I always loved going to the outlets up in New England for back to school clothes, shoes, and backpacks. Not surprisingly, consumers recently surveyed by the National Retail Federation noted that shopping smarter and stretching their budget will be a priority. Now, whether you’re a local or a visitor to our fine state, you could win a $50 gift certificate to use at any of the Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores, one of Central Florida’s best-kept shopping secrets where you’ll find savings up to 75% off at select stores.

The village-style center offers a customer-friendly shopping experience and 50 spacious outlet shops with convenient store-front parking, including favorites: Aeropostale, American Swimwear, Carter’s, Converse Shoes, Dressbarn, Eddie Bauer Outlet, Fossil, G by GUESS, Gap Outlet, Izod, Levi’s® Outlet Store, Loft Outlet, NikeFactoryStore, Old Navy Outlet  and featuring outlet exclusives; OshKosh, Reebok, Samsonite, Timberland, Tommy Hilfiger, Travelpro, Wilsons Leather Outlet and many more!

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Tax-free days are now through midnight on Sunday but deals will still be happening throughout the month. Even if you don’t win the giveaway, you can still get in on the savings by downloading a coupon from the Center’s website, then bringing it to Travelpro at the Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores to receive a coupon booklet valued up to $400 in savings. The Center is located at 15657 S Apopka Vineland Rd (SR 535), Orlando, FL 32821.

Shop happy!

 

 

Share
Tweet
Pin
Share

Filed Under: Central Florida Family Entertainment, Disney Movie News & Reviews, Giveaways, Orlando Area Attractions Tagged With: $50 gift certificate, back to school shopping, converse shoes, coupon booklet, eddie bauer outlet, factory outlets, Florida, gap outlet, Giveaway, lake buena vista, lake buena vista factory stores, national retail federation, old navy outlet, Orlando, outlet shopping, outlet store, samsonite, school clothes, shopping, travelpro, wilsons leather outlet

GIVEAWAY: Disney On Ice Rockin’ Ever After Tickets for Orlando Performances

24 July 2012 by Suzannah Otis 2 Comments

Share
Tweet
Pin
Share

Disney on Ice Rockin Ever After We shared Feld Entertainment’s newest Disney on Ice show a few weeks ago -check out video and details at my Rockin’ Ever After post. Now we are giving away FOUR tickets to an Orlando showing of Disney on Ice Rockin’ Ever After! Simply enter below for your chance to win 4 tickets to a show of your choice on the following dates:

Friday, September 7, 2012 at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, September 8, 2012 at 3:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, September 9, 2012 at 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m.

Show takes place at the Amway Center, 400 West Church Street – Suite 200, Orlando, Florida 32801

Winner will be selected July 30 – just enter below using the Rafflecopter widget so you don’t even have to leave this page to enter,  “like” or follow anything! Simply click on the “Do It” buttons in the widget below and follow the instructions that pop up. (You must be logged in to Facebook or enter your email for the widget to work) Good luck!

THIS GIVEAWAY FROM 2012 IS CLOSED

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Here is more info on ticket prices and a special code for discounted tickets –

$52 Front Row, $37 VIP, $27, $22, $15 (Ticketmaster service charges and facility fees notincluded.) All seats are reserved, and tickets go on sale to the public July 20 at 10 a.m. Tickets are available at DisneyOnIce.com or ticketmaster.com, at any Ticketmaster outlet, by calling 800-745-3000, or at the Amway Center box office (phone for information only: 407-440-7900). For group ticket sales and information, call 866-248-8740.

SPECIAL: Get 4 Tickets for just $48 with code MOM12, valid for specific performances!

Belle Be our Guest
See Belle, Ariel, Rapunzel and Merida at Disney on Ice Rockin’ Ever After!

Disclosure: I was provided with tickets for my family to attend a performance in exchange for this giveaway. I love their shows and I hope you do too!

Share
Tweet
Pin
Share

Filed Under: Central Florida Family Entertainment, Disney Movie News & Reviews, Florida Theme Parks & Attractions, Orlando Area Attractions Tagged With: amway, Amway Center, ariel, Belle, discount Disney on Ice tickets, discount tickets, Disney characters, Disney On Ice, Disney Pixar, Feld Entertainment, little mermaid, Merida, Merida on ice, Orlando, princesses, Rapunzel

Miranda Cosgrove Celebrates Despicable Me Minion Mayhem At Universal Orlando Resort

3 July 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Share
Tweet
Pin
Share
Despicable Me Minion Mayhem Grand OpeningPublicity
Celebrity guests Miranda Cosgrove, Dana Gaier and Elsie Fisher – the voices of Gru’s daughters Margo, Edith and Agnes, joined dozens of “minionized” children to celebrate the grand opening of Universal Orlando Resort’s newest attraction, Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, on July 2, 2012.
© 2012 Universal Orlando Resort. All rights reserved.

Yesterday saw the grand opening and “yellow carpet” premiere of Universal Orlando Resort‘s newest attraction – Despicable Me Minion Mayhem at Universal Studios Florida. Stars from the film were on-hand to celebrate the ride and experience the fun for themselves. I can’t wait to get over there myself and check it out, during this “Year To Be Here” –  but in the meantime, here’s all the official news and photos from Universal Orlando Resort:

Based on the blockbuster Universal Pictures and Illumination Entertainment film Despicable Me, the ride was created by Universal Orlando in partnership with Chris Meledandri, founder and CEO of Illumination, and his filmmaking colleagues. The ride places guests in the midst of an original adventure that combines a new storyline, new animation, the latest 3-D technology – and the heart, outrageous humor and memorable characters of the film.

There is something for every guest and every family: a heartwarming family story, hysterical minions and a disco-inspired dance party.

Guests will meet their favorite characters from the film – all voiced by the original cast: Gru (Steve Carell), the world’s greatest super-villain, and his daughters Margo (Miranda Cosgrove), Edith (Dana Gaier) and Agnes (Elsie Fisher). They will enter the ride through the towering façade of Gru’s house, pick up 3-D “minion goggles” in his living room and be scanned for “human germs” in the Minionization Prep Room.

Gru is working on something “really big” and recruits guests for the job, transforms them into minions and
sends them off for minion training. From there, guests go on a wild ride where they evade water sprayers,
giant flyswatters, anti-gravity rooms and more.

Despicable Me Minion Mayhem Grand OpeningPublicity
Celebrity guests Miranda Cosgrove, Dana Gaier and Elsie Fisher see the ride first hand. © 2012 Universal Orlando Resort. All rights reserved.

“We worked to blend the spirit and heart of the film with a great new adventure for our guests and their families,” said Mark Woodbury, president of Universal Creative. “Where else can your family laugh, dance, celebrate and become a minion all at the same time?”

“We’re so excited to introduce an entirely new experience that truly captures all the heart, humor and emotion audiences have come to love about Despicable Me,” said Meledandri. “Fans of the film can now have fun and interact with their favorite Despicable Me characters in a way they haven’t been able to before.”

Despicable Me Minion Mayhem Grand OpeningPublicity
Miranda Cosgrove and other stars enjoy the mayhem! © 2012 Universal Orlando Resort. All rights reserved.

The attraction’s grand opening caps Universal Orlando’s “Year to be Here” – during which Universal debuted more new entertainment experiences across its entire destination than any other year in its history. Despicable Me Minion Mayhem follows the debut of a newly-enhanced Blue Man Group Show at Universal CityWalk, the high-tech re-launch of The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man at Universal’s Islands of Adventure and the spring openings of Universal’s Superstar Parade and Universal’s Cinematic Spectacular – 100 Years of Movie Memories at Universal Studios Florida.

For more information about Universal Orlando Resort, visit www.universalorlando.com.

Despicable Me Minion Mayhem Grand OpeningPublicity
Despicable Me Minion Mayhem is officially open! © 2012 Universal Orlando Resort. All rights reserved.

 

Check out a fun video from InsideTheMagic, showcasing the ride queue, post-queue and merchandise shop:

 

Share
Tweet
Pin
Share

Filed Under: Disney Movie News & Reviews, Florida Theme Parks & Attractions, Universal Orlando Resort Tagged With: celebrity guests, Descpicable Me Minion Mayhem, Despicable Me, grand opening, Minion Mayhem ride, Minions, miranda cosgrove, new attraction, Orlando, Orlando area attractions, steve carell, universal orlando resort, universal studios florida, Year to Be Here, yellow carpet

Meet Otters And Swim Trails at Freshwater Oasis Now Open at Discovery Cove

29 June 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Share
Tweet
Pin
Share

Remember the huge expansion Discovery Cove unveiled last year across from Sea World Orlando? They are now adding another new area – Freshwater Oasis.

Freshwater Oasis Now Open
Otters!
 
Now open at Discovery Cove in Orlando is Freshwater Oasis, an all-new attraction featuring wading adventures and face-to-face encounters with playful otters and curious marmosets.
Designed with a rainforest canopy above and sparkling-clear springs below, Freshwater Oasis is a natural fit within Discovery Cove’s tropical atmosphere. Guests can relax, explore and swim in the water-filled trails. No matter where they turn, guests will find endless discoveries.
Freshwater Oasis is included with admission to Discovery Cove, an all-inclusive tropical day resort where guests can swim with dolphins, snorkel with colorful fish and rays, hand-feed exotic birds and relax on pristine beaches, plus enjoy unlimited admission for 14 days to sister parks SeaWorld and Aquatica in Orlando.
Freshwater Oasis Now Open
How cool would it be to swim with otters?!
Limited to approximately 1,000 guests per day, Discovery Cove requires advance reservations which can be made at DiscoveryCove.com or by calling 1-877-434-7268. Seasonal rates for Discovery Cove’s Dolphin Swim Day Resort Package start at $229 (rates for Day Resort Package without dolphin swim experience and guests ages 3-5 start at $149).
To learn more about Freshwater Oasis, visit DiscoveryCove.com.
Freshwater Oasis Now Open
Marmosets swing above you
Share
Tweet
Pin
Share

Filed Under: Central Florida Family Entertainment, Florida Theme Parks & Attractions, Sea World Orlando Tagged With: aquatica, Discovery Cove, Discovery Cove Orlando, Freshwater Oasis, marmosets, oasis, Orlando, Orlando area attractions, otters, rainforest canopy, Sea World, sea world orlando, SeaWorld, snorkeling, swim with dolphins, swimming, tropical atmosphere

Fogo de Chão Upscale Brazilian Steakhouse Opens in Orlando

23 March 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Share
Tweet
Pin
Share

Chevy Cruze the City Beautiful I was excited to hear about this new restaurant opening, and even more excited because I will get to dine there this Saturday as part of the Chevy Florida “Cruze the City Beautiful” blogger event I’ll be participating in. I’ll be writing up a full review of my experience, but until then, let’s learn a little more about this Brazilian steakhouse:

Fogo de Chão (pronounced fo-go dèe shoun), an authentic Southern Brazilian steakhouse that’s been named one of Zagat’s top U.S. restaurants, opened last week on International Drive. The restaurant’s dining experience is based on the centuries-old gaucho tradition known as churrasco, the art of roasting meats over an open charcoal fire.  A prix fixe menu features freshly grilled meats carved tableside, as well as an extensive salad bar and authentic Brazilian sides.

Fogo de Chao

Fogo de Chão specializes in espeto corrido, or “continuous service,” in which a team of Brazilian-trained gaucho chefs prepare and serve 15 different cuts of beef, lamb, chicken and pork.  Guests dictate both the pace and the portions of their dining experience by using a small, double-sided disc that signals to the gaucho chefs that they are ready for additional service.

Although meats are the primary focus, the restaurant also features a gourmet salad and sides bar with more than 30 selections, including smoked salmon, sun-dried tomatoes, hearts of palm, tabbouleh salad, jumbo asparagus, cured meats, artisan breads and imported cheeses.

The restaurant offers a 200-label wine list, for which it has received Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence for the past eight years.  Guests may also sample the Caipirinha, made from Brazilian liquor cachaça, as well as Guarana Brazilian soda and zesty Brazilian lemonade.  Desserts include the restaurant’s signature Papaya Cream, made with fresh papaya, vanilla ice cream and Crème de Cassis liqueur, as well as South American Flan, Crème Brule, Turtle Cheesecake, Molten Chocolate Cake and Key Lime Pie.

Fogo de Chao restaurant

While the menu and service are traditional, the architectural elements are strikingly contemporary, with a rich color palette of terracotta, oxblood red, tan and cream.   Red clay tile roof accents and crisp, black awnings frame the restaurant’s centerpiece: a multi-storied, cobalt-blue tile tower entrance with a glass-enclosed open flame rotisserie at its foundation.

Fogo do Chão Orlando is located at 8282 International Drive, a quarter mile south of Sand Lake Road and about a mile north of the Orange County Convention Center.

Operation hours and prices are as follows:

Lunch
$26.50 (Salad Bar Only – $19.50)

Monday – Thursday:  12:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Friday: 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

$35.50 (Salad Bar Only – $19.50)

Sunday: 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Dinner
$42.50 (Salad Bar Only – $19.50)
Monday – Thursday: 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Friday and Saturday: 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.

Sunday: 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Children five years of age and under enjoy complimentary dining. Children six to 10 years of age dine at half the prices listed above.  Beverages, desserts, taxes and gratuity are additional.

Known as the premiere Brazilian steakhouse, Fogo de Chão was founded in 1979 in Porto Alegre, Brazil and expanded into the United States in 1997.  Orlando is the 18th U.S. location; there are seven restaurants in Brazil.  For more information, visit www.fogo.com.

Share
Tweet
Pin
Share

Filed Under: Disney Movie News & Reviews, Florida Theme Parks & Attractions, Orlando Area Attractions Tagged With: #ChevyFlorida, Brazilian food, Brazilian steakhouse, caipirinha, churrascaria, continuous service, Cruze the City Beautiful, family dining, Fogo de Chao, International Drive, kids dine free, Orlando, Orlando dining, steak, steakhouse

Gaylord Palms Family Fun Night Package With Shrek & Friends

8 February 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Share
Tweet
Pin
Share

Shrek One of our family’s favorite parts of visiting Gaylord Palms ICE during the holidays was the Dreamworks’ characters. They are so larger than life, it’s impossible not to want to hug them (especially when I see Puss in Boots). Even better, the resort itself is just gorgeous, you could walk around in the atrium and various themed areas for hours, not to mention the wonderful dining options and relaxing spa.

Now Gaylord Palms is offering another DreamWorks Experience package for Saturday, February 18, 2012. Families will have an immersive experience with Shrek, Fiona and Puss in Boots that features dancing, movies, scavenger hunts, crafts and special treats. And best of all, kids stay FREE*!

From $99* per person based on double occupancy, The one-night package includes:

  • Accommodations at Gaylord Palms Resort for a family of up to four (4)
  • Admission to DJ dance party with appearances by Shrek, Fiona and Puss in Boots
  • Admission to a DreamWorks movie shown on a big screen
  • Puss In Boots Quest for the Magic Beans Scavenger Hunt
  • Swamp Juice & Ogre Treats
  • A Family Souvenir Photo
  • DreamWorks craft activity
  • Resort Fee
  • Self-Parking

Guests are encouraged to make it a two- or three-night stay* to take advantage of all the entertainment and extraordinary experiences available. Gaylord Palms Resort features signature, glass-covered atriums that offer acres of sculpted indoor gardens, walkways, and streams that feel like the outdoors but are kept at a pleasant, 72 degrees year round.  Visitors can also indulge in rejuvenating treatments at Relâche Spa & Salon, voted a 4-Star Spa by Forbes Travel Guide; enjoy world-class cuisine at a multitude of award-winning restaurants, including the new Wreckers Sports Bar; and enjoy excellent shopping and nightlife options. Gaylord Palms Resort, located in the heart of Central Florida, is the perfect “home base” for day trips to some of the nation’s most thrilling and exciting attractions and theme parks!

StAugustineAtrium

For a full itinerary, more information and to book the Family Fun Night With Shrek & Friends, visit www.GaylordPalms.com

*Per person based on double occupancy plus tax and Osceola County Assessment Fee for two occupants; up to two children (age 12 and under) stay FREE. Limited availability. Extra nights and atrium upgrades may be available at prevailing rates. Not valid or combinable with other offers or groups.

Shrek, Madagascar, Kung Fu Panda and all related characters and properties © 2012 DreamWorks Animation L.L.C.

Share
Tweet
Pin
Share

Filed Under: Central Florida Family Entertainment, Disney Movie News & Reviews, Florida Theme Parks & Attractions Tagged With: DreamWorks, DreamWorks Experience, family vacation packages, Gaylord Palms Orlando, gaylord palms resort, hotels, immersive experience, Orlando, Orlando area hotels, Orlando area resorts, Orlando hotel package, Puss in Boots, relaxing spa, resorts, Shrek

Cirque du Soleil Presents: Michael Jackson The Immortal World Tour Feb 28-29

20 January 2012 by Suzannah Otis 2 Comments

Share
Tweet
Pin
Share

Michael Jackson Cirque

directed by jamie king

Two Orlando performances from February 28 – 29, 2012

at the Amway Center

I am SO excited about this event coming to Orlando. We are huge fans of the Cirque du Soleil shows as well as the music and dance of Michael Jackson, so my entire family is hoping to see this show. Here are all the details below, I’m sure it’s guaranteed to entertain audiences of every age!

 Cirque du Soleil Michael Jackson

Orlando, FL – The Estate of Michael Jackson and Cirque du Soleil are proud to present Michael Jackson The Immortal World Tour™ in Orlando on February 28 – 29, 2012 at the Amway Center. This once-in-a-lifetime electrifying production combines Michael Jackson music and choreography with Cirque du Soleil creativity to give fans worldwide a unique view into the spirit, passion and heart of the artistic genius who forever transformed global pop culture. Proudly sponsored by Sun Life Financial, the show is written and directed by Jamie King, the leading concert director in pop music today, and features more than 60 international dancers, musicians and acrobats.

Cirque du Soleil Michael Jackson

Tickets are on sale now for Orlando performances of Michael Jackson The Immortal World Tour on February 28 and 29 at the Amway Center. Tickets are $50 to $250 each and are available at www.ticketmaster.com or 1-800-745-3000. For additional information, visit www.cirquedusoleil.com/MichaelJackson.

 

A riveting fusion of visuals, dance, music and fantasy that immerses audiences in Michael’s creative world, Michael Jackson The Immortal World Tour unfolds Michael Jackson’s artistry before the eyes of the audience. Aimed at lifelong fans as well as those experiencing Michael’s creative genius for the first time, the show captures the essence, soul and inspiration of the King of Pop, celebrating a legacy that continues to transcend generations.

Cirque du Soleil Michael Jackson

The Immortal World Tour takes place in a fantastical realm where we discover Michael’s inspirational Giving Tree—the wellspring of his creativity. The secrets of Michael’s inner world are unlocked—his love of music and dance, fairy tale and magic, and the fragile beauty of nature.

 

The underpinnings of The Immortal World Tour are Michael Jackson’s powerful, inspirational music and lyrics—the driving force behind the show—brought to life with extraordinary power and breathless intensity. Through unforgettable performances Michael Jackson The Immortal World Tour underscores Michael’s global messages of love, peace and unity.

Cirque du Soleil Michael Jackson

Writer and Director Jamie King has been called one of the most influential “movers and shakers” in the music industry, and the “Jerry Bruckheimer of tent-pole concert tours” by Variety. A multiple Emmy Award® and MTV Video Music Award® nominee, he has choreographed some of the most popular music videos and directed some of the highest-grossing concert tours of all time. For the past 12 years, he has served as Madonna’s creative director, and most recently directed world tours for Rihanna, Celine Dion, Spice Girls, Britney Spears and Avril Lavigne. King has worked with an array of superstars including Ricky Martin, Christina Aguilera, Mariah Carey, Shakira, George Michael, Elton John, Diana Ross, Jennifer Lopez and even Ellen DeGeneres. This is Jamie’s first show with Cirque du Soleil.

Share
Tweet
Pin
Share

Filed Under: Central Florida Family Entertainment, Disney Movie News & Reviews Tagged With: Amway Center, Central Florida events, Cirque du Soleil, Family entertainment, Florida, Jaimie King, King of Pop, Michael Jackson, Michael Jackson Cirque du Soleil, Neverland Ranch, Orlando, Sun Life Financial, The Immortal World Tour

  • « Go to Previous Page
  • Page 1
  • Page 2
  • Page 3
  • Go to Next Page »

Primary Sidebar

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Twitter
  • YouTube

Subscribe to Our Up the Waterfall Disney History Podcast

Up the Waterfall podcast

Get Some Park Candy!

Park CandyUse code ZANNA at checkout for 10% off your entire order!

FAVORITE VLOG

https://youtu.be/jUQvxcguh9o

Click below to SUBSCRIBE to our latest Vlogs & LIVE Shows!

Recent Posts

  • Disney On Ice presents Let’s Dance! at the Orlando Kia Center-Discount Code!
  • Disneyland Theme Park Offerings for D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event
  • Shopping and Exclusive Merchandise at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event
  • Disney’s Treehouse Villas: Original WDW to Today
  • Disney Announces Programming and Show Floor Lineup for D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event
  • Disney Launches Sweepstakes with D23: The Ultimate Disney Sweepstakes – FANtastic Prizes
  • NEW Wicked Feature Film Featurette
  • New Disney Cruise Ship Named “Disney Destiny” Arriving 2025
  • D23 Expo 2024 Ticket Pricing and Levels Released
  • Disney Treasure Cruise Ship Reveal! Photos and Details of New Spaces and Sailing Info

Zannaland Archives

Recent Vlog

https://youtu.be/aRB70OJelLc
DisneyStore.com

Subscribe to our podcast

Free Shipping on New Kate Spade Collection now at shopDisney.com!

Copyright Zannaland © 2025