Chocolate Chips Galore At Krispy Kreme

Krispy Kreme Ghostbusters Halloween Doughnuts

Enjoy Chocolate Chips Galore at Krispy Kreme

New Java Chip and Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Doughnuts Now Available at Central Florida Krispy Kreme Locations

Chips, chips and more chocolate chips! The new Krispy Kreme® Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough and Java Chip Doughnuts are moist, creamy, and loaded with deliciously sweet chocolate chips. Available now through March 22, 2015 at the following Central Florida locations (while supplies last)

Krispy Kreme Winter Park – Drive thru Open 24 hours

1031 S. Orlando Avenue (17-92), Winter Park, FL 32789

Open 5:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Sunday–Thursday) and

5:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. (Friday and Saturday)

Krispy Kreme Millenia – Open 24 hours

4080 Millenia Blvd., Orlando, FL 32939

Krispy Kreme Kissimmee – Open 24 hours

5310 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway (192 / Mile Marker 11.5), Kissimmee, FL 34746

Pick up a dozen of these sweet treats at your nearest Krispy Kreme shop. A doughnut for the cookie lover in all of us.

The new Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Doughnut is a glazed ring doughnut with a chocolate chip cookie dough flavored Kreme™ center and milk chocolate drizzle on top.
A mocha lover’s dream. The new Java Chip Doughnut is a shell filled with chocolate and coffee flavored Kreme and topped with coffee flavored icing and mini chocolate chips.

Connect with Krispy Kreme at KrispyKreme.com, Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, hotlightapp.com, foursquare and KrispyKremeDoughnuts on YouTube.

Save the Date

Krispy Kreme commemorates 1000^th doughnut shop with global celebration with FREE Original Glazed® doughnut for first 1000 fans at participating shops around the world on February 24, 2015. No purchase necessary. Not available at grocery or wholesale locations.

Ripley’s Florida Attractions Florida Resident Deals

Ripley’s Florida Attractions Offer 50% off to Florida Residents

All the fun for half the price from Dec. 1 – Dec. 20

Florida residents are getting an early holiday gift from Ripley’s Florida attractions with 50% off for all state residents to all of their Florida attractions from December 1 through December 20.

Participating Ripley’s Florida Attractions Include:

Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Orlando Odditorium
Ripley’s Believe it or Not! St. Augustine Odditorium, Red Train Tours and Ghost Train Adventure
Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Panama City Beach Odditorium and 7D Moving Theater
Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Key West Odditorium

Residents will need to show a local photo ID in order to receive the discount. All adults in the party will need to have proof of residency in order to receive the discount.

Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Orlando is conveniently located at 8201 International Drive, and is open daily from 9:00 am to midnight (last entry nightly at 11:00 pm). For more information, please visit www.ripleys.com/orlando or call 407-345-0501.

About Ripley Entertainment
Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Orlando is part of the Ripley Entertainment Inc. (www.ripleys.com) family of worldwide attractions, the global leader in location-based entertainment. More than 12 million people visit its 90-plus attractions in 9 countries each year. In addition to its 31 Believe It or Not!Odditoriums, the Orlando, Florida-based company has publishing, licensing and broadcast divisions that oversee projects including the syndicated Believe It or Not! television show, best-selling books and the popular syndicated cartoon strip, Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, that still runs daily in 42 countries. Ripley Entertainment is a Jim Pattison Company, the third-largest privately held company in Canada.

Tin Roof Coming to Orlando

Tin Roof Brings its “Live Music Joint” Concept to Orlando

Tin Roof selects I-Drive 360 for its first Florida location

I-Drive 360 is about to get a little louder, a little rowdier and a lot more fun with the arrival of Tin Roof, a “live music joint” where people can hang out, enjoy some great food and listen to live music almost every night of the week.

Headquartered in Nashville, the first Tin Roof opened in 2002 near Nashville’s famous Music Row. It quickly became a favorite for both performers and music fans. The parent company, Tin Roof Acquisitions, expanded the concept to other cities. Orlando will be the company’s 14^th location.

“We think Orlando is a perfect fit for Tin Roof, for both tourists and locals,” said William Hodges, Tin Roof Regional Manager. “I-Drive 360 visitors can grab some food or listen to some great music before or after they visit some of the other new attractions there.”

The new Tin Roof – just steps from the Orlando Eye – is expected to open in December.

Tin Roof: The Music

Tin Roof puts a premium on booking top local and regional bands. Music fans will typically find bands playing from 10 pm – 2 am on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, with acoustic sets during the week. Types of music will range from rock to alternative to country.

“We’ll be bringing in all types of bands and singers, and even some national acts for special events,” said Hodges. “We also put a premium on being a place where local bands and musicians can find a home and showcase their talents.”

Tin Roof will not be a ticketed venue, but cover charges will apply at certain times.

httpv://youtu.be/v1EqriA73Q4

Tin Roof: The Menu

Tin Roof will be open for lunch and dinner – but the food goes way beyond the typical bar fare. Guests can choose from a variety of gourmet grub, including these favorites:

Hot Chicken Torta – this Mexican-style sandwich features buttermilk fried chicken, served with pickles and potato salad.

Big Farmer Dave’s Quesadilla – filled with sausage, zucchini, pecan-herb pesto and cheese.

Kentuckyaki Wings – wings like you’ve never had them; the sauce includes bourbon, soy, sorghum, garlic and ginger.

“We can’t wait to open our doors and give people a place to unwind after a day at work or hitting the theme parks,” said Hodges. “We’ll be the place to hear the best live music in town.”

Facts on Tin Roof Orlando

Owners: Tin Roof Acquisitions LLC

Address: 8371 International Drive Suite 100
Square footage: 5000

Seating capacity: 210 (155 indoor, 55 outdoor)

Parking: Both free parking and valet parking will be available

Available for private events: Yes
Number of employees: 25-50

Management: William Hodges, Regional Manager; Patrick Nietzer, GM
Builder: Shaub Construction

Anticipated opening date: December 2014

Richard Petty Fantasy Racing Camp

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Richard Petty Fantasy Racing Camp October 11-14, 2014!

Richard Petty Fantasy Racing Camp will take on THREE NASCAR Sprint Cup tracks!
Designed as the ultimate stock car experience for racing enthusiasts, The Richard Petty Fantasy Racing Camp gives YOU the chance to experience the thrill of driving hundreds of laps on three of NASCAR’s most historic tracks; Charlotte Motor Speedway, Darlington Raceway and Martinsville Speedway over the course of three days, with feedback and coaching provided by industry experts … and legends.

Plus…you and your guest will take in the Bank of America 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Charlotte Motor Speedway from the comfort of a VIP trackside suite.

PROGRAM TRACKS:

The legendary Charlotte Motor Speedway
The historic ‘Lady in Black”, Darlington Raceway
The challenging short track at Martinsville Speedway

CELEBRITY INSTRUCTION AND APPEARANCES BY*:

Dale Inman, winningest crew chief in NASCAR history
Randy LaJoie, two-time Nationwide series champion
Our accomplished team of Petty instructors
… and, of course, rubbing elbows with “The King” himself, Richard Petty!

OTHER HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:

VIP treatment (for camp participant and one guest) during Saturday’s Bank of America 500 race
Lunch and dinner events (for camp participant and one guest)
Luxurious four night accommodations (for camp participant and one guest)
Exclusive tour of original Petty Enterprises race shop in Level Cross, NC hosted by Dale Inman
Great gifts that will include custom apparel, in-car video and commemorative photos
…and the racing tales that our team of legends and experts will share, throughout the camp

The registration fee is $9,500 (plus tax). Experience Rewards members receive a $500 discount.Contact us at 704.454.6224 or rick@drivepetty.com to secure your place!

*Scheduled to appear. Subject to change. Rules and Regulations apply.Visit www.drivepetty.com/FantasyRacingCamp for complete details.

Krispy Kreme Celebrates 77th Birthday!

Celebrating an Original! Happy 77^th Birthday to the Original Glazed at Krispy Kreme

77th Birthday Krispy Kreme Original Glazed

Krispy Kreme Marks 77^th Birthday with 77-Cent Second Dozen Deal on July 11, 2014

July 13, 2014marks the 77^th birthday of Krispy Kreme and the iconic Original Glazed doughnut. On Friday, July 11, in celebration of this sweet occasion, Krispy Kreme is giving its fans the gift of a dozen Original Glazed doughnuts for 77 cents with the purchase of any dozen doughnuts.

“When you hear people talk about having a ‘Krispy Kreme,’ they are most often referring to our signature treat – the Original Glazed doughnut,” said Dwayne Chambers, chief marketing officer for Krispy Kreme. “Made from a recipe dating back to the 1930’s, our uniquely delicious Original Glazed doughnuts help set Krispy Kreme apart from any other sweet treat retailer. We’re excited to celebrate 77 years of sharing delicious tastes and creating fond memories by giving our fans an opportunity to try and share the doughnut that has become famous worldwide.”

Join Krispy Kreme in a celebration of all things original. Follow @Krispy Kreme on Twitter or Instagram and share a pic or a tweet about the #KKOriginalMoment when you first discovered the joy of Krispy Kreme for a chance at a sweet surprise. Follow the birthday fun as we collect worldwide wishes at KrispyKreme.com/OriginalBirthday.

Offer valid at these participating Krispy Kreme locations in Central Florida:

Winter Park – Drive thru Open 24 hours

1031 S. Orlando Avenue (17-92), Winter Park, FL 32789

Open 5:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Sunday–Thursday) and 5:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. (Friday and Saturday)

Millenia – Open 24 hours

4080 Millenia Blvd., Orlando, FL 32939

Kissimmee – Open 24 hours

5310 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway (192 / Mile Marker 11.5), Kissimmee, FL 34746

Get connected to Krispy Kreme and stay up to date on the latest offerings and promotions at KrispyKreme.com,www.hotlightapp.com, Tumblr and Instagram.

Studio 25: Disney’s Hollywood Studios 25th Anniversary Event

Studio 25: Celebrating the 25th Anniversary of Disney’s Hollywood Studios

A WDWCelebrations Commemorative Event

Thursday – Sunday, May 1st – 4th, 2014

WDW Celebrations has put together Studio 25 to celebrate the 25th Anniversary of Disney’s Hollywood Studios May 1-4, 2014, and we are extremely excited about partnering and celebrating with them!

Studio 25 is an amazing four day event around the Walt Disney World Resort designed to bring old and new Walt Disney World enthusiasts together through signature offerings to complement the official Walt Disney World celebrations planned.

The **tentative** schedule includes group dinners, prizes for trivia challenges and scavenger hunts, group rides, and more! I have to say that I am really looking forward to the new interactive game and group rides! You can find the entire schedule on the WDW Celebrations Page here, and with a schedule that is so full of fun events you don’t have to worry about keeping up with any changes or missing things because they have an Event Alert Service.

Registration for the Studio 25 Event by WDW Celebration is open now, and as an extra bonus a good chunk of the registration fee will go towards the WDWCelebrations Charitable Initiative! The Registration Fee for adults (ages 16+) is $10, of which $3 will go toward the charity donation, and the registration fee for children (ages 3-15) is $6, of which $3 will go toward the charity donation.

More information about Studio 25 and upcoming events will be released on the WDWCelebrations.com website, theWDWCelebrations newsletter as well as the WDWCelebrations official fan page on Facebook and theWDWCelebrations Twitter feed.

We are really excited about attending WDWCelebrations Studio 25, and hope to see you there!

V The Velociraptor Testing at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Professor Parker Woodson will be bringing his friend V the Velociraptor to Disney’s Animal Kingdom for a ‘Jurassic Jaunt’ with guests in Dinoland U.S.A. beginning April 19, 2014!

Professor Woodson has hand raised V the Velociraptor from birth, so V is excited to be out meeting people and exploring the world all around him.

You will be able to find Professor Woodson and V the Velociraptor roaming around Dinoland U.S.A for limited time from April 19 to May 3, 2014.

Tentatively the daily 30 minute sets for their explorations are 11:00 am, 12:00 pm, 2:00 pm, 3:00 pm, and 4:00 pm.

While I was never lucky enough to meet Lucky the Dinosaur, I am really excited to have Professor Woodson and V the Velociraptor visiting Disney’s Animal Kingdom’s Dinoland U.S.A at lest for a little while.

And while this may or may not be a permanent addition to the area, I am certainly going to enjoy them while they are here!

We’ll be updating this post with more pictures and videos soon, so keep checking back.

Richard Petty Fantasy Racing Camp Florida

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Richard Petty Fantasy Racing Camp FLORIDA is July 4-6, 2014!

Designed as the ultimate driving experience for racing enthusiasts, The Richard Petty Fantasy Racing Camp FLORIDA gives YOU the chance to experience the thrill of driving two different types of cars and on 3 different tracks, with feedback and coaching provided by industry experts … and legends. In addition to our NASCAR stock cars you will climb behind the wheel of some of the world’s fastest supercars from Exotic Driving Experience.

PROGRAM TRACKS:

‘The World Center of Racing’ Daytona International Speedway – 2.5 mile tri-oval
Walt Disney World® Speedway – 1 mile tri-oval
The Exotics Course at Walt Disney World Speedway – 1 mile road course design especially for Exotic Driving Experience supercars

CELEBRITY INSTRUCTION AND APPEARANCES BY*:

Dale Inman, winningest crew chief in NASCAR history
Randy LaJoie, two-time Nationwide series champion
David Green, Nationwide series champion
Our accomplished team of Petty instructors
… and, of course, rubbing elbows with “The King” himself, Richard Petty!

OTHER HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:

Watch the Coke Zero 400 NASCAR race at Daytona International Speedway as well as visit with Richard and Dale before the race
Dinner events including an awards dinner on Sunday night
Luxurious accommodations: Thursday and Friday nights at the Buena Vista Palace in Orlando. Saturday and Sunday nights at The Daytona Hilton Ocean Walk in Daytona Beach
Great gifts that will include custom apparel, videos and commemorative photos

The registration fee is $10,500 (plus tax). Experience Rewards members receive a $500 discount. Contact us at 704.454.6224 or rick@drivepetty.com to secure your place with us!

*Scheduled to appear. Subject to change. Rules and Regulations apply.Visit www.drivepetty.com/FantasyRacingCamp for complete details.

La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil Discounts For Tables in Wonderland Members

la nouba

Tables in Wonderland Members to enjoy discounted tickets to La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil

Discounts available April 1-May 10 and May 27- June 28, 2014

Performances on Tuesdays-Saturdays

Category 3: $49 plus tax

Category 2: $69 plus tax

Call 407-WDW-SEAT (407-939-7328) or click here to purchase tickets! Tickets may be purchased up to 30 days in advance of show date.

Must show current, valid Tables in Wonderland card to receive discount, when tickets are picked up at La Nouba Box Office Will Call window.

Our Favorite Valentine’s Day Places At Walt Disney World

Happy Valentine’s Day!

We thought that to celebrate the day, we would share some of our ideal places to celebrate at Walt Disney World!

Beth

A fun unique way to spend Valentines Day at WDW for me is to take a stroll around the Boardwalk. Grab some dinner & drinks while taking in a view of Illuminations before ending the night at Jellyrolls for a fun sing-a-long.

Betsy

One of the most romantic things I love to do at Walt Disney World is stroll around with that special someone. I have a few places in particular that I enjoy. One of my favorites is Epcot at night. The parks transforms when the torches are lit before Illuminations and the ambient noise from guests seems the die down. I especially love finding a quiet spot in France by the back gardens or tucked away while everyone else is getting ready for the fireworks and listening to the beautiful French accordion music. Enjoying a toast with an adult beverage or even a snack from the patisserie is a great way to cap off a romantic stroll around World Showcase.

If you are looking for romance outside the parks, also in the evenings I really enjoy walking around the gardens at Port Orleans French Quarter, maybe after enjoying some beignets! After all, the French do seem to know what they’re doing when it comes to l’amour <3! I also would never turn down a romantic walk around the Polynesian with the palms swaying in the breeze, ukelele and steel guitar music gently wafting through the air, sand beneath my toes, and a view of Wishes fireworks from the beach would make almost anyone swoon.

Dining options around Walt Disney World are prevalent, but it can sometimes be hard to picture a romantic place that is quiet and sans children. Of course if I had the choice, I’d pick dressing up with my man to go to Victoria & Albert’s at the Grand Floridian where no children under 12 are admitted and the tones are decidedly hushed. I’d also prefer not to pay that bill ;). Looking for something a bit more affordable, but still with a nice atmosphere, I like Artist Point at the Wilderness Lodge or Flying Fish at the Boardwalk. Both are quieter than most other restaurants I’ve found on property and have a nice ambiance, great food and wine to match.

Gail

There are many restaurants and places to go for Valentines day, depending on how extravagant one is willing to go.

For me, if I’m not planning on going to a restaurant or park, one of my favorite things is fireworks. So my recommendation would be to go to The Polynesian, pick up a coffee and a sweet snack and head down to the beach area. If it’s chilly be sure to take a blanket, which can be used to sit on too.

The view from the beach at the Polynesian is special as you don’t need park access, and the view is stunning as you get the reflections off the lake too. Just be sure to get there around 15/20 minutes before they begin so you can secure a good viewing spot.

Watching the fireworks with your loved one can be so romantic, especially snuggled up with a hot beverage by the beach! Don’t forget a selfie to capture your night!

Jillian

I’d love to spend Valentine’s Day with a nice meal at Yachtsman Steakhouse followed by a night time stroll around Crescent Lake or World Showcase. Then cap the evening off with any of the firework spectaculars.

Kelly Hicks

My ideal Valentine’s Day at WDW would have to be in the World Showcase at Epcot. I especially love wandering around at night when the pavilions are lit up. Maybe grab an ice cream cone at L’Artisan des Glaces in France – my favorite flavor is profiterole! – and do a little window shopping. Of course the night wouldn’t be complete without a viewing of Illuminations!

Kelly Walker

When I think romance (which I hardly ever do in general) around Disney World, I immediately think of Jiko at Animal Kingdom Lodge. Not only is it one of our favorite restaurants, but it tends to be quite one-on-one. It’s normally not loud and while it’s “fancy”, it’s got a laid back feel to it as well. And if you’re not looking to spend a bunch of money on dinner, a favorite of mine is to get a good spot on the train station and watch Wishes from there.

Mike

If I could pick somewhere to spend Valentines Day in Walt Disney World it would have to be experiencing a romantic candlelit dinner at the California Grill located within the Disney’s Contemporary Resort. Not only does this location have excellent food and atmosphere, but it also provides for some of the greatest views of the entire Walt Disney World property. Located on the 15th floor, the California Grill provides views of the Magic Kingdom, the Seven Seas Lagoon, Bay Lake and numerous other landmarks on Disney World property. There’s nothing quite like being able to catch a Florida sunset from the top of the Contemporary Resort while enjoying an excellent glass of wine and top notch cuisine. At the end of the night you can head out onto the balcony and top off your romantic evening with a breathtaking view of Wishes, the Magic Kingdom’s night time spectacular. In my opinion the California Grill is one of the most romantic dining options on Walt Disney World property and an excellent way to spend your Valentines Day.

Shelley

My favorite date night with Dave is a little bit corny, but we love to head to the Magic Kingdom. We have a ‘light’ dinner of appetizer’s at Tony’s Town Square, take a stroll through the park as the sunsets, and then settle into our favorite spot for the rest of the night. We head over to Sleepy Hollow Refreshments to grab a funnel cake and a table near the castle. Sleepy Hollow is an awesome spot, because you can watch the Main Street Electrical Parade and Celebrate the Magic before heading to the castle to watch Wishes! I love our Magic Kingdom nights, because it’s a great chance to slow down and I don’t have to share my treats with Zoe!!!

Wherever you are celebrating today, we hope that your Valentine’s Day is awesome!

Richard Petty Driving Experience Valentine’s Specials

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SPECIAL VALENTINE’S $79 RIDE-ALONG OFFER:

Get their heart racing with our high-speed ride-along experience! Our 3-lap Ride-Along lets them ride shotgun with a professional driving instructor around the track at speeds up to 165mph. Click here and get our limited time $79 Ride-Alongs (retail $99-$135).

SPECIAL VALENTINE’S DRIVING EXPERIENCE OFFER:

Click here to get 25% off a reserved driving experience of your choice. Driving Experiences start at $449- your price only $336.75! This special driving experience offer is also available by calling 1.800.237.3889 with promotion code VD25RPDE.
Your discount will be displayed at time of checkout.

For Valentine’s Offers Click Here

Rules and regulations apply, sales tax applies where applicable. To receive your 25% off a reserved driving experience or $79 Ride-Along please click on the links above or here to continue to our site. Your discount will be displayed at time of checkout. Discounts are not valid on Driver Release fee, gift cards, merchandise, group events or previous purchases. Reservations may also be made by calling 1.800.237.3889 with promo code VD25RPDE. Offers expire 2/14/14. Other rules and regulations may apply.

Vegan Valentine’s Day Restaurant Specials

Although I don’t celebrate Valentine’s day, there are some great options out there for Vegans who want to take their loved ones out for dinner.

Here are some great Vegan Valentine’s Day specials for some great Local Orlando Restaurants!

Kindred Spirits Farm: February 15th! Starting the evening at 5 with a tour of the sanctuary, followed by dinner and desert under the stars

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Ethos Vegan Kitchen: 02/14, 5pm-11pm: Valentine’s Day Dinner. Join us for dinner, drink, and dessert specials starting at 5pm.

Infusion Tea: 2/14 6:30pm seating and 8:30pm seating. Four course dinner for $39.

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Cafe 118: on 2/14 Offering four course dinner Seating Limited RSVP ASAP 407-389-2233
first course
Zucchini Tartar

Second Course
Fennel Velouté with Tomato Seed “Caviar”

Third course
Golden Canelones, Red Pepper Marinara, Thyme-Parsley Pistachio Pesto, Heirloom Tomatoes and Black Truffle Ricotta

Forth course
White Chocolate Mousse Layer Cake with Raspberry Glaze

Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress 30th Anniversary Celebration

Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress

Celebrates 30 Years of Grand Excellence

Anniversary Weekend Celebration Featuring La Coquina Sunday Brunch Encore

and Year-round Resort Stay and Dining Package

Known and awarded for its long-standing grandeur, pristine outdoor recreation, privacy, and uncompromising standard of service, Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress celebrates 30 years of grand excellence throughout 2014.

To celebrate and honor this milestone anniversary, Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress offers several experiences:

30^th Anniversary Weekend

January 31 – February 2, 2014

Enjoy two nights in a deluxe guestroom with a $100 food and beverage credit for use during your stay at the resort’s award-winning restaurants including Cascade American Bistro, Hemingway’s, or the encore Sunday Brunch at La Coquina on February 2, 2014.

Rates start at $396. Use special offer code 1984.

Hemingway’s 30th Anniversary Grand Three-Course Dinner

Friday, January 31 and Saturday, February 1, 2014

$84 per couple (plus tax and gratuity)

Retro Menu Highlights: Coconut Shrimp, Lobster Crusted Sea Bass, Baked Alaska Style Key Lime Pie, Duo Chocolate Covered Strawberries

Open for dinner at 6 p.m. nightly

Call to make reservations: 407.239. 3854 or make reservations online.

La Coquina 30th Anniversary Encore Sunday Brunch

The one-time return of an award-winning classic

Sunday, February 2, 2014

$69 per person (plus tax and gratuity)

Retro Menu Highlights: Florida Greens, Local Tomato Gazpacho, Truffled Pasta Pouch, Terrine of Goat Cheese, Seafood Bar, Beef Wellington, Parsley Crusted Rack of Lamb, Whole Roasted Dover Sole, Breast of Pheasant with Ravioli, Shrimp Scampi on Herb Breaded Tomatoes, Belgian Waffles with Devonshire Cream, Traditional Eggs Benedict, Array of Display of Cakes, Tortes, Petite Fours & Chocolate Truffles

Live entertainment; resort attire preferred

Open for seatings 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Call to make reservations: 407.239.3830

The celebration continues with the 30^th Anniversary Grand Experience Getaway with room rates starting at $198.40 per night to include a $30 food and beverage credit, based on availability through December 20, 2014. Use special offer code RTRO.

“As we celebrate 30 years of grand excellence at Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress, I look forward to capitalizing on the outstanding tradition of exceptional service of Orlando’s original luxury resort,” said Pat Engfer, area vice president and general manager. “Together, our dedicated team will continue to offer families and business travelers the highest quality resort experience in one of the nation’s most popular destinations.”

According to a special section published by The Times, today known as The West Orange Times, the magnificence of Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress was unveiled to the local community, the Central Florida tourism industry, and the world as Orlando’s original luxury resort on February 1, 1984.

“After the decision was made to create a topnotch resort, many months were spent in conferral with architects, engineers, and consultants. Their instructions were to design the best vacation facility in the world.”

Site clearing began in June 1982 and was noted as the most impressive construction project in terms of speed, teamwork, and quality.

“Public response to the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress has been phenomenal. The hotel’s occupancy level during the initial six weeks of operation has far exceeded projections. The future looks very bright for this extraordinary beautiful new resort which is getting underway.”

More than 800 community leaders, elected officials, and invited guests were in attendance on February 1, 1984 for the official ribbon cutting ceremony in the signature atrium lobby to commence the award-winning history in the making of Orlando’s original luxury resort.

Living up to its ‘cool pool’ designation, the lagoon pool remains the signature attraction at Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress surrounded by private lush tropical landscaping, rock formations, modern lighting, and finishing touches. Located along the 1,000 feet of white sandy beach of Lake Windsong, the 800,000 gallon, ½ acre, free-flowing lagoon pool boasts 12 waterfalls, heated and non-heated pools, two whirlpools.

Water Slide Tower Pavilion at Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress SMALL

The new Water Slide Tower Pavilion, new Water Jet Splash Zone, and new children’s Rock Climbing Stations, complement resort favorites including the rope bridge, walking paths, and expansive, wrap-around sundecks, Jack Nicklaus Signature Design golf, the Tennis and Racquet Club, and marked jogging, walking, and biking trails.

“The family vacation experience reaches new heights in Orlando with the new and enhanced activities just waiting for families to experience. Inspired by classic design, coupled with the simplicity of timeless fun, Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress provides guests countless opportunities to make lifetime memories,” Engfer continued.

Family favorite recreation activities include; S’mores pit with fireside marshmallow roasting fun, beach volleyball, tether ball, lounge seating and hammocks, watersports with paddleboats, kayaks, hydro bikes, canoes, aqua cycles and sailboats, old-fashioned, canopied surrey bikes, and Camp Hyatt kids’ activity programs. The 1,500 acre Grand Cypress resort offers families an upscale travel experience with well-appointed guest rooms and suites and a host of new family amenities and activities.

About Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress –

Celebrating 30 Years of Grand Excellence

The award-winning, 1,500 acre Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress is located one mile from Walt Disney World® and close to Universal Orlando® and SeaWorld® Orlando with a host of amenities and activities. Located along the 1,000 feet of white sandy beach of private Lake Windsong, the free-flowing lagoon pool boasts 12 waterfalls, heated and non-heated pools, two whirlpools, new Water Slide Tower Pavilion, new children’s Rock Climbing Stations, new interactive Water Jet Splash Zone, rope bridge, walking paths, and expansive, wrap-around sundecks. New features complement the resort’s favorite activities including; S’mores pit, beach volleyball, tether ball, hammocks, watersports and marked jogging, walking, and biking trails.

Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress is centrally located with convenient access to Orlando International Airport and Interstate 4 off Exit 68 in Lake Buena Vista. The resort’s address is One Grand Cypress Blvd., Orlando, Florida, USA 32836.

For more information; call 407.239.1234; visit GrandCypress.Hyatt.com; like Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress on Facebook; and follow on Twitter at @HRGrandCypress.

Wordless Wednesday: Germany Glass Ornament Artist

Wordless Wednesday:

December 11, 2013

Tips For A Visit To ICE! At The Gaylord Palms

Tips for making the most of

Ice! Featuring Frosty the Snowman

at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center

During the holiday season, the Gaylord Palms Resort and Convention Center is transformed into a Christmas Wonderland filled with perfect poinsettias, more than 2 million twinkling lights, lavish and gorgeous holiday displays, a breathtaking 54-foot-tall majestic Christmas tree, DreamWorks Animation characters Meet & Greet opportunities, spectacular live entertainment, and most of all ICE!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qaeJ_49DD40&feature=share&list=UUxhza5Nkv4ukqKmIFLE9dgA

ICE! featuresmore than 2 million pounds of hand-carved, vibrant ice sculptures bringing to life several scenes from Frosty the Snowman in a 9-degree retelling of this Christmas classic!You’ll want to make sure that you bundle up (you will also be provided with oversize parkas) to keep warm enough to take a few trips on the two-story ice slides!

Preparing for a visit to Ice! at the Gaylord Palms Resort takes a lot of planning, and here are some of my favorite tips and tricks we have learned over the years!

Dress in Layers: I can’t stress this one enough! Make sure that you are prepared for the 9 degrees you will find inside of Ice! by protecting your fingers, nose, and toes! You will be given a nice a long parka to wear inside, make sure that you get one that is extra roomy I will explain in a moment, but it is definitely not sufficient to keep you warm for long periods of time. I over-do my layering, and I have never regretted it!
No Pockets: The parkas that you will be wearing do not have pockets, so I usually carry a small cross-body purse that is loose to wear under my parka to allow for easy access to my phone, Chapstick, and other things that I might need while I am inside.

Phones: Your phones and cameras will get super cold, and even shutdown if you take them out a lot to take pictures. I like to stash my phone on the inside of my gloves to keep it warm and easily accessible. Also, if you are planning to wear gloves make sure that they are gloves that let you work your phone’s touch screen without taking them off. Gloves like this are a lifesaver!!!
Cameras: Going from regular room temperature to cold so quickly can make camera lenses fog up quickly. There is a short movie that you watch before entering Ice! that is a colder temperature than the room before, so use this as an opportunity to get your camera used to the cold. Like my phone, I try to have a warmer spot for my camera when it’s not in use.
Look around: Looking around may seem like a silly tip, but if you take an extra moment to take in the details you will find extra design features and maybe even a slightly hidden ice tunnel! Don’t rush! Take as long as you need in each room!

Slides: If you are 2 or 62, take a moment to slide on the ice slides at least once! The slides are a ton of fun, and you are missing out if you don’t take a turn! Your roomy coat comes in handy here, because to ensure the best slide possible make sure that your jacket is completely underneath you and then lean back as you slide. One of the lovely slide monitors told me about leaning back this year, and it makes for a fast run down the slide!
Little Ones: You will quickly notice that all of the parkas provided by the Gaylord Palms are blue and it can be hard to distinguish since everyone has their hood up. One way that I make sure that I can quickly spot my daughter is by wrapping her in a brightly colored scarf and hat. Also, make sure that you are wearing something that they can easily recognize in the crowds that can form around the slides!

Taking Pictures: You may notice when you first start taking photos that they seem dark. Don’t be tempted to use your flash, because it creates bright spots in pictures and can make the colors all wonky. My best advice, as I am not a master photographer, is to get close to what you are taking a picture of and to use a photo editing app or program afterwards.
HAVE FUN! Ice! is a lot of fun, so make sure that you enjoy it for as long as you can stand the 9 degrees!

Make sure that you check out the 2013 bonus area, the Frostbite Factory featuring Artisans in Action. This live ice-carving zone allows you to get up close to watch a masterful ice carver from Harbin, China, home of the International Ice and Snow Festival, as he creates amazing sculptures before your eyes! He is part of a team of 40 talented artisans who travel from Harbin to work meticulously for more than a month to slice and shave 6,000 blocks of colored and clear ice, each weighing approximately 400 pounds, to carve this incredible experience. This area features great information about how the sculptures are created, too!

ICE! is open daily from Nov. 23, 2013 to Jan. 5, 2014, including holidays. Ticket prices start at $16.99. For more information and to purchase tickets, go to www.ChristmasAtGaylordPalms.com.

The Gaylord Palms Resort is located five minutes from the gates of Walt Disney World at 6000 W. Osceola Parkway, Kissimmee, FL 34746.

Disclaimer: Through a partnership with the Gaylord Palms, I received admission to Ice! and accommodations at the Resort. All opinions are my own.