Central Florida Attractions Archives - Page 8 of 12

ICE! at the Gaylord Palms Sneak Peek

DISCLOSURE: I was an invited guest of the Gaylord Palms Resort to find out about their holiday celebrations and to step inside the ICE! tent, but all opinions and overuse of exclamation points are all my own!!!

You know that the holidays are in full swing when the Gaylord Palms Resort welcomes a team of artisans from China to Kissimmee to begin the month-long carving for ICE! featuring The Polar Express.

Gaylord Palms team members gathered in the lobby to greet the artisans like celebrities with a standing ovation.

Welcoming ice artisans to Gaylord Palms 2019

The ICE! attraction is crafted each year onsite at Gaylord Palms by these artisans from Harbin, China, home of the world’s largest ice and snow sculpture festival, who travel more than 6,000 miles to Florida. They hand-carve more than two million pounds of colorful ice, creating larger-than-life sculptures.

This year, as guests explore the attraction, they will discover more than ten favorite scenes from “The Polar Express,” along with the event’s two-story ice slides and the popular Frostbite Factory live ice carving showcase. The ICE! experience concludes with a separate area dedicated to a traditional Nativity created with crystal clear ice.

And after we welcomed the artisans, it was time to put on our blue parkas and take our first steps inside the tent where ICE! is created!

It’s absolutely amazing to see how these ice artisans bring these giant blocks of ice to life, and I couldn’t think of a better holiday story to feature than the Polar Express!!!

ICE! and Christmas at Gaylord Palms opens on November 25 and runs daily until January 5, and you can find more information about the festivities here.

The Spirit of Christmas is Alive at The Holy Land Experience

This winter, guests can celebrate Christmas in a unique, heartwarming and authentic way at The Holy Land Experience, which kicks off its holiday season November 26.

Heart of Christmas The Holy Land Experience

Visitors will experience a full schedule of original theatrical productions, an exciting live Nativity scene and interactive holiday-themed shows and displays throughout the park — all designed to cheer every heart with the splendor of the season while reinforcing the powerful message of faith at the heart of Christmas.

“We’re thrilled again this holiday season to offer our unique Christmas experience to guests here at The Holy Land Experience,” said General Manager and Vice President Mike Everett. “As they do every year, our creative team and talented actors have combined some unforgettable stories with rich costumes, settings and music to bring the glory and life-changing spirit of this season to all our guests.”

This season, the popular and highly acclaimed musical, The Heart of Christmas, returns to the park’s state-of-the-art, 2,000-seat Church of All Nations theater, taking guests on a fascinating journey back in time to experience the joy and glory of Christmas from past generations. This Broadway-style production follows a pair of families from two very different times as they take a journey of hope, love and sacrifice and diligently search for the true spirit of the Christmas season.

Guests will enjoy a number of live and colorful interactive Christmas productions throughout the park, where they’ll witness firsthand the angel Gabriel’s extraordinary encounter with Mary, the mother of Jesus, and her joyous visit with her cousin Elizabeth. They’ll also join Mary and Joseph on their journey to Bethlehem and at the lowly stable where Jesus will be born. Finally, they’ll be on hand as the shepherds and wise men worship the newborn King, and as the elderly Simeon realizes his long-held dream of beholding the Savior.

Also returning is the park’s popular live Nativity scene, where guests of all ages can step into a busy Bethlehem, meet its residents — including a few furry friends — and feel as if they stepped back in time.

In addition to the holiday productions, guests will enjoy the park’s many historical and life-changing exhibits, including the Wilderness Tabernacle, the heart of worship for the children of Israel after their exodus from Egypt; the Great Temple, a magnificent representation of the Jewish holy place that once stood on hallowed Mount Moriah in First Century Jerusalem; and the world-renowned Scriptorium, a combination museum, library and research center housing a collection of priceless manuscripts, scrolls, biblical antiquities and artifacts.

“Christmas has always been an extra-special time for us here at The Holy Land Experience,” said Everett. “Every member of our team is committed to help fill the hearts of our valued guests with the warmth of the holiday season. We look forward to welcoming families from all over the world to share the joy and spirit of Christmas this year.”

The 2019 Christmas season at The Holy Land Experience premieres Nov. 26 and runs through January 4, 2020. The Holy Land Experience is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day.

Special Limited Time Offer:

Now through the end of the year, guests can experience two different seasons at The Holy Land Experience with the 2 Days, Any Day offer. When guests purchase a one-day ticket, they’ll received a second day for 50% off.

Visitors can experience the newest production David: The King of Jerusalem and receive 50% for the Christmas season. The second ticket must be redeemed within 60 days of the first day visit.

For more information, visit: https://holylandexperience.com/bogo50

New in 2020: SeaWorld Orlando and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

SeaWorld Orlando and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay have revealed details regarding new attractions coming to the parks in 2020.

This marks the first time in four years that both parks have launched new coasters in the same year.

Iron Gwazi – Opening Spring 2020 at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

A NEW legend is surfacing in 2020 at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay with the evolution of Iron Gwazi, North America’s tallest, and the fastest, and steepest hybrid coaster in the world. Manufactured by Rocky Mountain Construction, Iron Gwazi will be 206 feet tall, feature a 91-degree drop, and reach top speeds of 76 miles per hour. The journey will include three inversions and 12 airtime hills as it races along more than 4,075 feet of purple steel track. With a 48” height requirement, Iron Gwazi will be an exciting thrill attraction that families can take on together.

“Iron Gwazi is the evolution of a classic wooden coaster into a modern icon,” said Stewart Clark, Park President of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. “From the bones of the original Gwazi, a new legend rises, reaching taller heights and faster speeds, delivering the next-level thrills that our coaster fans crave and expect from Busch Gardens.”

While elements of the former wooden attraction will be integrated into the new ride, the steel track and reimagined layout of Iron Gwazi present an entirely unique experience that tells a different story. Iron Gwazi will highlight the best of both worlds — the classic nostalgia of a wooden coaster and the bold innovation of a steel coaster.

Thriving and adapting over millions of years, this evolutionary crossroad is perfectly represented in the crocodile, the largest living reptile and the animal inspiration for Iron Gwazi.

Solar Vortex – Opening Spring 2020 at Adventure Island

Spin and splash at Adventure Island on Solar Vortex — America’s first dual-tailspin water slide.

This thrilling family raft slide combines high-banking rotations and rapid descents, sending sliders on a swirling journey through two open tailspin features. Manufactured by Whitewater, Solar Vortex will also include three dynamic AquaLucent elements — harnessing the power of the Florida sun into colorful patterns that shine through the slide as riders reach speeds of up to 20 miles per hour.

Solar Vortex will be an electrifying new ride for families next year when it opens with the 2020 Adventure Island season.

Ice Breaker – Opening Spring 2020 at SeaWorld Orlando

Making its debut in spring 2020, riders will shiver through family friendly adventures on SeaWorld Orlando’s first launch coaster: Ice Breaker.

Named after the icy Arctic summits, Ice Breaker will feature four launches, both backwards and forwards, culminating in a reverse launch into the steepest beyond vertical drop in Florida — a 93-foot tall spike with 100-degree angle.

Located near the Wild Arctic Attraction, the ride’s theme is reflective of this area with a nod to Ice Breaker’s conservation partner, Alaska SeaLife Center. Primarily dedicated to marine research, education and wildlife response, the Alaska SeaLife Center mission matches closely to SeaWorld Orlando’s, making them a perfect partner to help educate riders about the Artic and its inhabitants.

“The Alaska SeaLife Center is excited to grow our partnership with SeaWorld. For many years, SeaWorld has been a stalwart supporter of the Center, and particularly our Wildlife Response program,” said Tara L. Riemer, President and CEO of Alaska SeaLife Center. “We are grateful for SeaWorld’s contributions of funding and staff over the years to further our mission. This new collaboration will continue efforts to highlight Arctic rescue and conservation stories.”

The opening of Ice Breaker is the perfect addition to SeaWorld’s ever-growing ride portfolio. From the roller coaster thrills of Mako, Manta and Kraken, to the water rapids of Infinity Falls and the flume fun of Journey to Atlantis, Ice Breaker joins the park’s famed attractions as a must-do experience in Orlando.

Best value for Floridians – Enjoy all NEW rides with an Annual Pass!

With three ALL-NEW attractions to enjoy, there has never been a better time to be a SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Annual Pass Member. Upon the launch of each attraction, Pass Members will enjoy EXCLUSIVE RIDE TIME on Iron Gwazi, Ice Breaker and Solar Vortex.

For 2020, the best value for Floridians is the FOUR PARK PASS, which includes admission to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, Adventure Island, SeaWorld Orlando and Aquatica Orlando. In addition to exciting NEW rides coming next spring, guests who purchase an annual pass today can enjoy fan-favorite events included with their park admission in Orlando and Tampa.

For more information on Fun Cards, Annual Passes, and daily admission, visit SeaWorldOrlando.com and BuschGardensTampa.com

Christmas at the Gaylord Palms 2019

The Gaylord Palms will be bursting with the magic of Christmas during the resort’s signature holiday experience from November 25 – January 5, 2019!

Christmas at the Gaylord Palms will feature new and returning holiday fun as well as “The Polar Express” is featured inside the nine degree ICE!

All Aboard for Ice!

A Christmas classic, Warner Bros.’ “The Polar Express” arrives at Gaylord Palms as an all-new theme for ICE!, presented by DEI.

A truly heart-warming tale, “The Polar Express” will come alive for guests in a world made from more than two million pounds of ice, hand-carved into sculptures and interactive features to recreate iconic scenes from the film about a magical adventure to the North Pole full of lessons on friendship, bravery, and the true spirit of Christmas.

“We can’t wait to debut ‘The Polar Express’ as this larger-than-life attraction,” said Johann Krieger, General Manager for Gaylord Palms Resort. “Christmas is a truly magical time here at Gaylord Palms, and this film embodies the magic and wonder of the season. We know guests of all ages will love experiencing ICE! this year to feel that holiday joy.”

The ICE! attraction is crafted by artisans from Harbin, China, home of the world’s largest ice and snow sculpture festival, who travel more than 6,000 miles to hand-carve more than two million pounds of colorful ice, creating larger-than-life sculptures.

This year, as guests explore the nine-degree attraction, they will discover more than ten favorite scenes from “The Polar Express,” along with the event’s two-story ice slides and the popular Frostbite Factory live ice carving showcase.

The ICE! experience concludes with a separate area dedicated to a traditional Nativity created with crystal clear ice.
Brand New Interactive Experience

Families can experience a day in the life of one of Santa’s toy makers inside the new Elf Training Academy at Alpine Village where guests become honorary gift maker elves as they create the perfect Christmas present for someone special, all under the guidance of the elf supervisor.

Exciting Celebrations Of The Season

The Sounds of the Season Concert Series will once again fill the atrium of the Gaylord Palms Resort with the joyful music of the season as VoicePlay returns to join a line-up of other performers, who will be announced later this season.

All performances will include a concert patron-exclusive admission to the ICE! attraction.

Christmas at Gaylord Palms will again present the Three Kings Festival, a special commemoration of the extended holiday season celebrated by many Christians in Spain and Latin America honoring the Three Wise Men and their visit to meet baby Jesus as told in the Gospel of Matthew.

Among the special activities planned is a musical show “The Journey of Los Tres Reyes Magos” along with special food and beverage options.

The Three King Festival will run from December 27 through January 5.

Christmas Classics Return

“Holiday thrills” take on a whole new meaning during Cirque Dreams Unwrapped, a 25-minute, action-packed experience featuring soaring acrobatics, theatricality and imagination that will have guests on the edge of their seats. Cirque Dreams Unwrapped features new acts and performers each year to bring to life a magical and timeless Christmas wonderland, all imagined by Broadway director and renowned Cirque Dreams founder Neil Goldberg.

Gaylord Palms’ St. Augustine atrium will be home to an all-new, dazzling light show for the 2019 season. The multisensory experience will feature a new musical score accompanied with millions of dancing, choreographed lights all around the resort’s six-story Christmas tree during nightly shows.

Guests exploring the meandering paths inside the resort’s Everglades atrium will find the Christmas Tree Trail, a display of nine magnificent trees provided by Balsam Hill^TM. Sparkle the Elf, Santa’s chief Christmas Tree Decorator, has personally prepared these for grand display at Gaylord Palms. From snowmen and candy canes to reindeer and nutcrackers, each tree represents one of Sparkle’s favorite things about Christmas, with one even honoring the Florida-themed resort!

The Secret Santa Scavenger Hunt will have families and friends enlisting in Santa’s Secret Service to decode some fun. Guests will utilize their very own Santa’s Secret Service Decoder Ring to decipher clues to become full-fledged members of Santa’s Secret Service. Only the most elite yuletide sleuths will be able to locate the unique Christmassy clues hidden throughout the resort’s atrium to break the code and earn a Santa’s Secret Service badge.

All ages will delight in the holiday hijinks inside the Naughty or Nice Escape Room, as mischievous Jack Frost has moved the names of “Nice” Gaylord guests onto the Naughty side of Santa’s delivery list! Guests will need to work together to follow the clues and solves the puzzles to secure a spot on the better side and avoid a stocking full of coal!

The immersive, interactive Reindeer Express Post Office returns this year, where everyone isinvited to jot down their top Christmas wishes on a postcard before entering this special facility to launch their wishes off on a journey to Santa.

The festive Alpine Village will again be the central hub for holiday happenings. In addition to ICE!, the village is home to various attractions and shows, Photos with Santa, seasonal food and beverage options plus holiday retail locations, including a Build-A-Bear Workshop, where imaginations soar. Guests choose from all kinds of furry friends to make and bring home, including a Gaylord Hotels-exclusive bear.

Gingerbread Decorating Corner returns, now located inside the Alpine Village Sweet Shop! Guests may select a gingerbread house or a themed cookie kit to enjoy a sticky and fun interactive experience, creating sweet souvenirs to take home. The Alpine Village Sweet Shop will offer additional candies and treats for purchase to decorate sugary masterpieces or to delight someone’s sweet tooth. The deliciously fun gingerbread pair, Cinnamon and Nutmeg, will also be available for toasty hugs and holiday photos.

Every evening, the Alpine Village Sweet Shop will present Sugary Sweet Storytime, transporting guests to the world of “The Nutcracker” during an interactive show led by the Sugarplum Fairy herself. The experience is completed with a one-of-a-kind, super sweet, super sparkly and super tasty Sugarplum Hot Chocolate in a festive souvenir mug.

Mrs. Claus’ Christmas Traditions brings the First Lady of the North Pole back to Gaylord Palms as she leads a half-hour interactive show. Guests enjoy classic holiday stories and a sing-a-long, plus a delicious finale as the holiday hostess presents everyone with warm cookies and a glass of cold milk.

Santa’s Snow Throw puts real snow in the hands of guests as they show off their pitching prowess by tossing snowballs at a variety of interactive targets created by Santa’s Elves. Bragging rights go to those with the best aim!

Snow Tubing sends guests zooming down an eight-lane tubing hill covered in real snow. This all-ages attraction offers both single and double tubes to accommodate children and parents.

During the season, the Orlando-area resort welcomes guests to make memories amongst festive décor and an endearing mix of Christmassy activities and shows, becoming “Everything Christmas in One Extraordinary Place” for Christmas at Gaylord Palms, presented by Pepsi.

To make your reservations and to find out even more information, visit their official website.

Spooky Seas Haunt SEA LIFE Orlando

Spooky Seas invites guests at SEA LIFE Orlando to dress up, take part in a spooky scavenger hunt, & discover something amazing

For the entire month of October, SEA Life Orlando at ICON Park on International Drive is hosting the spookiest celebration under the sea!

The Spooky Seas Halloween event is included in the price of aquarium admission, and gives guests the opportunity to dress in their favorite costume and add a new holiday twist to the aquarium.

Underwater Pumpkin Carving

Sea Life Orlando Spooky Seas Underwater Pumpkins

Have you ever seen a pumpkin carved UNDERWATER? Now’s your chance!

Watch as divers carve pumpkins underwater in their spookiestcostumes!

Underwater pumpkin carving takes place on select days at SEA LIFE Orlando:

Every Saturday and Sunday in October – 12:30 PM, 4:30 PM
Daily, October 28-31 – 12:30 PM, 4:30 PM

*Dive times and Underwater Pumpkin Carving presentations are subject to chance or cancellation with no notice

Spooky Seas Scavenger Hunt

Sea Life Spooky Seas Pumpkin Scavenger Hunt

Can you find all of the hidden Jack-O-Laterns throughout SEA LIFE Orlando?

Take your time and look in each exhibit to take part in the Spooky Seas scavenger hunt for even fun at no additional cost!

Make sure to Pre-book your SEA LIFE Orlando tickets online in advance to save and guarantee entry!

About SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium 

SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium offers a wave of underwater adventures with sea creatures from around the world.

Come face-to-fin with thousands of fish, sharks, stingrays, sea turtles and
many more. Prepare for a world of glittering scales, humongous tentacles and razor-sharp teeth.

Get ready to plunge deep into the oceans, explore a 360-degree ocean tunnel, meet a friendly rescue sea turtle and touch exotic starfish and anemones. You can even jump behind the scenes and tanks to see what it takes to keep an aquarium running.

For tickets and more information, visit
www.VisitSeaLife.com/Orlando.

Madame Tussauds Orlando Celebrates James Bond

James Bond Madame Tussauds Orlando October 2019

Madame Tussauds Orlando to Unveil Figures of All Six James Bonds on National James Bond Day

Madame Tussauds Orlando will unveil the wax figures of all six James Bonds from the iconic film franchise on October 5, National James Bond Day. The lineup includes Sean Connery, George Lazenby, Roger Moore, Timothy Dalton, Pierce Brosnan and Daniel Craig—star of Bond’s 25^th film, No Time to Die. The figures will appear at Madame Tussauds Orlando for a limited time.

“As the world anticipates the release of the 2020 James Bond film, we’re bringing the excitement and drama of the franchise to life here at Madame Tussauds Orlando,” says James Paulding, general manager. “With video, lighting and an interactive 007 soundtrack, guests will be completely immersed in the world of James Bond.”

Created in collaboration with EON Productions, each figure will feature a classic 007 suit based on the original costumes designed by Oscar winning costume designer, Lindy Hemming. The six figures stand together against an impactful floor-to-ceiling video display, theatrical lighting and iconic Bond music from the classic Bond films. While interacting with the figures, guests will hear their favorite 007 theme songs and see a montage of footage from the films.

Available at Madame Tussauds Orlando for a limited time only, visit www.madametussauds.com/orlando for more information.

About Madame Tussauds Orlando

Welcoming a fabulous 10 million guests though our world-famous doors every year, Madame Tussauds gives you the chance to experience the ULTIMATE fame experience.

We have over 24 unique locations around the globe, from New York to Shanghai, Amsterdam to Sydney – and of course London, where the story began. Throughout our 250+ year history, Madame Tussauds has brought to life thousands of celebs, stars and heroes – in mind-blowingly accurate detail – giving visitors the opportunity to brush shoulders with their idols and LITERALLY reach for the stars!

Truly immerse yourself in our famous worlds and get a taste of life of the rich and famous, as in 2019, the opportunity to become the star continues! Through a combination of our historic artistic methods (that date back centuries, by the way!), immersive sets and pioneering modern tech – guests can experience fame and get closer to the action like never before…

Gatorland Announces New Halloween Event

Gators, Ghost and Goblins Gatorland Orlando 2019

Park’s Halloween event to feature themed areas, actors, vendors, selfie zones, Frank & Stein’s Octoberfest Pavilion, , and spooky fun for everyone!

Gatorland, the “Alligator Capital of the World,” is getting ready for Halloween with an all-new special event called Gators, Ghost and Goblins that will include spooky fun for everyone on select dates in October.

Gatorland Orlando Gators Ghosts Goblins Halloween 2019 — Gatorland Orlando

Included with regular price admission on October 19, 20, 26, 27, and 31, this special event will feature several spooky themed areas throughout the park!

Complete with ghoulish actors and selfie zones, fun shows, a variety of specialty vendors, and “Frank & Stein’s” Octoberfest Pavilion with even more entertainment and themed food and beer for purchase.

The infamous Skunk Ape that Gatorland guests have spotted throughout the years will also be making appearances throughout the day along with the mysterious Swamp Ghost, and his Stompin’ Gator crew.

“Besides the great family entertainment we offer in the park every single day, we love doing fun new things for our guests via special events,” said Mark McHugh, President & CEO of Gatorland. “It’s just another way we are bringing everyone the best of Gatorland during our 70^th Anniversary year.”

Gatorland is a 100-acre theme park combining Old Florida charm with exciting experiences, exhibits, and entertainment. Originally Gatorland opened as a roadside attraction in 1949, and today the park is celebrating its 70^th Anniversary of providing affordably-priced family fun!

SEA LIFE Orlando Underwater Superhero Experience

SEA LIFE Orlando Underwater Superheroes Summer 2019

SEA LIFE Orlando guests will test their skills against five superpowered sea creatures

Underwater Superheroes is a limited-time, interactive experience at SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium that let’s guests will learn about the superpowers of five sea creatures and put their own skills to the test through interactive games and challenges daily until September 2, 2019.

“We love to create immersive and exciting experiences for guests to learn about sea creatures and their unbelievable abilities,” says James Paulding, general manager. “The more people learn about sea life, the more they can appreciate these creatures and contribute to the many efforts to keep them safe and thriving for generations to come.”

The Underwater Superheroes experience features stations offering hands-on challenges that feature the superpower of each creature throughout SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium.

Guests will test their speed against a shark, strength against a crab, intelligence against an octopus, and more.

Additionally the Aquarium’s dive team will plunge into the ocean habitats and answer questions while swimming alongside sharks, fish, and stingrays.

The experience will also include daily shows, featuring the octopus camouflaging itself against changing backgrounds, painting underwater masterpieces, and more.

During the event, guests who post on social media using #SEALIFESuperheroes while wearing their favorite superhero outfits inside of the Aquarium will be entered to win prizes.

The Underwater Superheroes experience is included in the price of admission.

To learn more about the event, visit visitsealife.com/orlando/discover/underwater-superheroes.

About SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium 

SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium offers a wave of underwater adventures with sea creatures from around the world. Come face-to-fin with thousands of fish, sharks, stingrays, sea turtles and many more.

Prepare for a world of glittering scales, humongous tentacles and razor-sharp teeth. Get ready to plunge deep into the oceans, explore a 360-degree ocean tunnel, meet a friendly rescue sea turtle and touch exotic starfish and anemones. You can even jump behind the scenes and see all it takes to keep an aquarium running.

Island H2O Live! One Day Ticket Offer

Islando H2O Live July 28 Ticket Deal Margaritaville Resort Orlando Summer 2019

It seems like there’s a ‘day’ for everything, but July 28th is one that I am super excited about…National Water Park Day!

And to celebrate, the Island H2O Live! water park at Margaritaville Resort Orlando in Kissimmee is offering single-day tickets for only $28 (plus tax)!

Here are a few things to know about this Special Pricing:

This offer is ONLY valid on July 28, 2019
This offer cannot be combined with any coupons or discount prices
Tickets can only be purchased at the ticket counter on the day of.

This is a great opportunity to check out Orlando’s newest and most technologically advanced water park, Island H2O Live!

About Island Island H2O Live!

Island H2O Live! brings an unparalleled water park experience to its guests, by combining cutting-edge technology, unlimited thrills, as well as relaxation options for everyone.

A new RFID wristband system allows guests to personalize their music and light experiences on select rides, capture photos, earn points, and share via their social media channels.

Over 20 different experiences, including a wave pool, kids’ area, group raft rides, tube and body slides, and a lazy river round out the unique experience for all ages.

Also, there are family and adult cabanas available each day for an added touch of luxury.

For more information, visit www.IslandH2OLive.com.

Turtle Power at the Orlando Science Center

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Orlando Science Center Summer 2019

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Secrets of the Sewer brings ninja tactics, teamwork, and science together

After three decades of battling evil and exemplifying teamwork, the beloved Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT), are appearing in a museum exhibit for children and families to enjoy at Orlando Science Center.

The four funny “heroes in a half–shell” will share life lessons and team-building skills with their crime-fighting tactics in Nickelodeon’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Secrets of the Sewer.

The exhibit is visiting the Orlando Science Center, and inside families join the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles brothers Leonardo (the tactical, courageous leader in blue), Michelangelo (the free-spirited jokester in orange), Raphael (the aggressive tough guy in red), and Donatello (the scientist and technological genius in purple) in their secret New York City sewer lair to train together and learn about the Turtles’ comedic, skillful strategies.

The Turtles are known and respected for their teamwork. As the TMNT’s sensei and adoptive father Splinter often tells them, “Together there is nothing you cannot accomplish.” Through team-building challenges, collaborative games and mind-teasing puzzles, families and friends will learn skills to help them successfully work together.

Here are a few examples of activities you’ll experience inside the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Secrets of the Sewer exhibit at the Orlando Science Center:

• Build a “bridge” together and think creatively as a team to overcome challenges.

• Assemble two electrical circuit puzzles by taking one apart to build another.

• Plan ahead and use patience to navigate the rope maze.

• Practice ninja speed and slicing skills while playing a dexterity-based computer game.

• Shred up and practice your balance on skateboards.

• Create a sewer pipe together and see where it goes.

The Turtles took the comic book world by storm in 1984, and since then Donnie, Ralph, Leo and Mikey have brought Turtle Power to cartoons, movies, video games and toys! Children and families across the nation will have the opportunity to explore Nickelodeon’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Secrets of the Sewer as it travels to children’s museums and science centers coast to coast.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Secrets of the Sewer is produced by The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis and Nickelodeon. The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is a nonprofit institution committed to creating extraordinary family learning experiences across the arts, sciences and humanities that have the power to transform the lives of children and families.

The exhibit is on display at Orlando Science Center until September 2, 2019, and is included with general admission to Orlando Science Center and free to members. For more information, please visit www.osc.org /TMNT.

Celebrate Independence Day Weekend at ICON Park

ICON Park Lights Up I-DRIVE this Fourth of July

Get ready for the newest Independence Day celebration on the block! ICON Park, the walkable entertainment destination in the heart of Orlando’s I-Drive, is bringing the spirit of red, white and blue to Central Florida just in time to kick off the weekend.

The debut event, ICON Park Lights Up I-Drive, invites locals and tourists alike to ring in the summer season with a fun-filled, two-day Fourth of July celebration!

Guests can light up the sky like never before, surrounded by all their favorite attractions. The skies will be illuminated both nights with dazzling colors from an electrifying pyrotechnics and light show, set in the background of the courtyard to encapsulate the grandeur of The Wheel at ICON Park.

“This will be the best Independence Day celebration at ICON Park and we’re eager to share it with our community,” said Chris Jaskiewicz, President and CEO of ICON Park. “Whether you’re visiting the I-Drive area or an Orlando native, we welcome you to join us for this one-of-a-kind, local event. We couldn’t be more thrilled to bring the patriotic spirit to our exciting, iconic destination.”

The two-day event will jumpstart the weekend on Thursday, July 4 and Friday, July 5. The first day of the celebration begins on July 4 from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. and continues on July 5 from 4 p.m. to midnight.

ICON Park Lights Up I-Drive has something for everyone to enjoy – From rocking live bands to a comedian MC sure to have you rolling on the floor. Other entertainment includes stilt walkers dressed as Uncle Sam, balloon animals and more!

Fourth of July favorites will be for sale at the event including juicy hamburgers and hot dogs fresh off the grill, and red, white and blue popcorn. Beer, wine and other drinks will be also be available for purchase during the festivities.

The fun doesn’t stop there – ICON Park will host plenty of contests to spark your competitive spirit! For those with a sweet tooth, Mattie’s Cupcakes will sponsor a pie eating contest and Buffalo Wild Wings is bringing the heat by sponsoring a Blazin’ wings Challenge for adults.

During the day families can discover Skeleton’s Museum of Osteology where up to two children will enjoy free admission with the purchase of an adult ticket. The adults can continue the celebration at Tin Roof, the official ICON Park Independence Day after party venue.

This will be a closed event and guests can gain free entrance to the exclusive party with the purchase of a ticket for The Wheel at ICON Park (one per person). Prices start at $27.99 per person.

For more information on ICON Park or to buy your ticket now, visit ICONParkOrlando.com.

New Addition Coming To Fun Spot American Orlando

Fun Spot America announces new Interactive Water Experience at the Orlando location.

Fun Spot America announced a new interactive water feature that will be opening the Summer of 2019 at the Orlando, Florida location. The new interactive water feature is designed by Orlando’s locally headquartered firm Aquatic Design & Engineering. The new interactive water splash experience with over 30 interactive features that guests can immerse themselves into and will be included as part of the all-day armband pass that Fun Spot offers.

“We are excited to begin this next phase of our development plan and adding this amazing interactive water feature is the first step we have been working towards for some time now. We have had some very productive planning meetings working towards this new attraction and our fans have been very engaged with us along this journey. Orlando and central Florida is an amazing and beautiful area and we are very thankful to be a part of such a great community.” said John Arie Jr, CEO/Owner at Fun Spot America.

Fun Spot New Splashpad — Fun Spot America

“When we approached the design for the interactive water feature, we took Fun Spot’s motto of ‘Safe-Clean-Fun’ to heart,” said Josh Martin, President and Creative Director of Aquatic Design & Engineering. “Not only is this water feature a fun way to beat the heat for any member of the family, but it also exceeds the highest levels of safety and sanitation. The nearly 4,000-square-foot interactive water feature includes state-of-the-art slip-resistant soft flooring, and it uses environmentally-friendly, advanced UV Ray technology to disinfect the water without harsh chemicals.”

The new interactive water feature also conserves water using detection sensors that only run the features when guests are present.
All of the water toys and spraying elements have been proven to encourage child development and stimulate the brain through toys that move, twist, or spin.

KareKare Curl at Aquatica Orlando

For the second year in a row, Aquatica Orlando has opened a new attraction – KareKare Curl – brining a new thrill to my favorite waterpark!

In case you were wondering where the attraction gets its name, let me tell you!

“KareKare” means “waves” in the Maori language and when combined with “Curl” meaning in a curved shape, this new ride could be described as a “curve shaped wave” which riders will experience when climbing the vertical wave wall in a high-adrenaline experience full of moments of weightlessness.

As with any new attraction, there are a few things know about before you board your raft to take on. KareKare Curl.

Know Before You Go – KareKare Curl

On KareKare, there are no single riders allowed and the ride requires two riders per raft.

The maximum weight combined of both riders is 400 lbs (182 kgs) with an individual maximum weight of 250 lbs (113 kgs).

Riders must be 48 inches tall to ride KareKare Curl.

There is a new raft design for KareKare Curl where you ride face to face with your ride buddy.

More timid riders are able to wear a life vest, and they’re free to use and can be found just outside of the entrance to the attraction,

Currently, KareKare Curl is not part of their Quick Queue program…but it looks like it will be later this year!

You can take a look at the full list of Safety Instructions below…

Will you be taking a ride on KareKare Curl at Aquatica? I know I will!!!

Orlando Science Center Seeking Community Partners

Submissions are being accepted to help bring the story of this ancient city to life as part of the Pompeii: The Immortal City exhibition

ORLANDO, Fla.

Next year the Orlando Science Center will welcome Pompeii: The Immortal City exhibition, and they are inviting artists and cultural organizations from around Central Florida to help bring the ancient city of Pompeii to life with complimentary art exhibits, educational lectures, and artistic performances.

As part of the exhibition coming to the Orlando Science Center will be allocating $75,000 to support partnership programs and collaborations leading up to and coinciding with the run of the exhibition Pompeii: The Immortal City, opening summer 2020.

Selected program partners will develop engaging opportunities tied to the rich and influential culture of ancient Pompeii and the Roman world.

“A critical aspect of our mission is to support the creative and educational community,” says Orlando Science Center President & CEO JoAnn Newman. “Orlando is well known for its arts and sciences and we’re excited to bring them together in anticipation of this new exhibition.”

Pompeii: The Immortal City exhibition brings to light the extraordinary achievements of this ancient culture through artworks, interactive mechanical devices and multimedia experiences. The media-rich exhibition takes visitors on a journey through time into the daily life of the first-century Roman town, and places them at the center of events, as they hear and feel the roar of the volcano erupting before their eyes.

Submissions for proposals are being accepted now through April 30, 2019. Applicants can register at www.osc.org/pompeii. Partnership events and programs should have the goal of appealing to diverse and broad audiences. No proposal is too small, and collaborations with other institutions are highly encouraged.

Orlando Science Center is one of only four locations in the United States to host this exhibit, thanks to generous support from the Orange County Arts and Cultural Affairs Blockbuster Fund.

Monster Jam World Finals XX

DISCLOSURE: This post was created in partnership with the Monster Jam World Finals XX to help spread the word about this event. All opinions and thoughts are 100% my own.

Monster Jam, the unexpected, unscripted and unforgettable larger-than-life sport, is proud to announce Orlando, Florida as the first host city in Monster Jam World Finals new schedule.

ORLANDO, Fla.

The Monster Jam World Finals XX will be held at Camping World Stadium May 10–11, 2019 featuring all-new competition formats, including an elevated starting line above the seats, and seven championship crowning moments.

As in previous World Finals events, there will be the following competitions:

Racing
Freestyle
Showdown (World Finals Qualifier)

And World Finals XX will see the debut of the following competitions:

High Jump
Two-Wheel Skills
ATV Racing
Speedster Racing
Speedster Obstacle Course

At the end of the two-day event, a total of 7 World Finals Champions will be crowned.

“We are thrilled to announce the next step in the evolution of the Monster Jam franchise as we embark on a new chapter. Like other major sporting events, such as the Super Bowl and the NCAA Final Four, Feld Entertainment will bring our marquee event to world class destinations across the U.S., starting here in Orlando with our 20th Anniversary Monster Jam World Finals,” said Kenneth Feld, Chairman & CEO, Feld Entertainment. “Orlando is a city that is not only a premier sports destination, but it’s a city synonymous with family entertainment. We’re excited to make Monster Jam World Finals accessible to even more fans, with the anticipation of over 50,000 fans from around the world converging on “The City Beautiful.”

The championship weekend will deliver unprecedented access to the most Monster Jam athletes and the larger-than-life Monster Jam trucks they drive with a free Pit Party from 11am – 5:30pm with your same day event ticket.

“On behalf of our board of directors and community partners, we are looking forward to hosting Monster Jam World Finals in 2019 and 2020,” said Jason Siegel, CEO of the Central Florida Sports Commission. “We want to thank the Feld family for the opportunity to welcome one of their premier events to Camping World Stadium, and we know their fans and athletes will have a tremendous experience here in Central Florida.“

Tickets to Monster Jam World Finals XX are on sale now, and you can receive 20% off select seats with code BLOG20. Not valid on VIP seating. Hurry for the best available seats! Code expires May 9, 2019.