One Direction Coming to Universal Orlando

One Direction Universal Orlando Resort

One Direction Day at the Universal Orlando Resort November 17, 2014

One Direction is coming to, and really taking over, the Universal Orlando Resort on Monday, November 17, 2014!

This is not a drill!!! If you have a One Direction fan in your family, you are going to want to make your plans now to be there!

One Direction Universal Orlando Resort

The big event is to celebrate the release of their Album Four! One Direction will be giving a special performance at Universal’s City Walk that is open to the public without any admission required that will be broadcasted on NBC’s TODAY show. The concert will also be available throughout Universal’s CityWalk.

One Direction Universal Orlando Resort

Universal Studios Florida will also be making a few changes to help celebrate One Direction visiting the Resort.

Riders on Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit will be able to choose One Direction songs to listen to as they ride.

That night, Universal Cinematic Spectacular, the nighttime show are Universal Studios Florida, will take on a One Direction theme.

Cabana Bay Beach Resort One Direction Universal Orlando Resort

If you want the ultimate One Direction at the Universal Orlando Resort experience, you will want to make reservations at Cabana Bay Beach Resort. For the day, there will be a One Direction theme and you can even receive a specially recorded wake-up call from the one of the band members. Who wouldn’t want a wake-up call from Niall, Zayn, Liam, Harry, or Louis?

To book hotel and theme park admission tickets to Universal Orlando Resort, click here or call 800-575-1643.

Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

Loews Sapphire Falls Coming To The Universal Orlando Resort In 2016

Loews Sapphire Falls

Loews Sapphire Falls

Universal and Loews Hotels & Resorts Announce New Hotel For Universal Orlando Resort 

Caribbean-themed Loews Sapphire Falls Resort Will Feature 1,000 Rooms and Suites –

Casual Feel Built Around a Lagoon and Towering Waterfall

When it opens in the summer of 2016, guests visiting the new Loews Sapphire Falls Resort at Universal Orlando will walk into a colorful Caribbean hideaway built around a lush, tropical lagoon and towering waterfall.

The new hotel, announced today by Universal Orlando Resort and Loews Hotels & Resorts, will be located across Adventure Way from the new Cabana Bay Beach Resort. It will become the destination’s fifth resort hotel and its 1,000 rooms, including 77 suites, will bring the number of on-site hotel rooms at Universal Orlando to 5,200.

Loews Sapphire Falls Rendering Universal Orlando Resort

Inspired by the picturesque rivers and waterfalls of the Caribbean, Loews Sapphire Falls will immerse guests in a highly themed resort environment using traditional island styling with modern touches. A resort-style pool with a water slide, children’s play area, sand beach and fire pit will help form a central courtyard and will be surrounded by the hotel’s guest rooms.  There will be water taxi and shuttle access to all of the entertainment and dining options throughout Universal Orlando Resort.

“We are excited to continue our growth plans at Loews Hotels by building another hotel with our long-standing partners at Universal Orlando,” says Jonathan Tisch, Chairman of Loews Hotels & Resorts. “Loews Sapphire Falls Resort will be every bit as distinctive as the other four on-site hotels and will offer a new option to families looking for a truly special Orlando vacation.”

 

Loews Sapphire Falls Resort Universal Orlando Resort Rendering

 

“Our guests repeatedly tell us that our Universal Orlando on-site hotels provide them a completely immersive vacation experience from the moment they enter our hotels and are transported to another place,” said Tom Williams, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Universal Parks & Resorts. “We look forward to bringing them yet another incredibly themed experience with the opening of Loews Sapphire Falls Resort.”

The new hotel will be full service.  Amenities will include Early Park Admission to Universal’s theme parks, a full-service restaurant with scenic views and outdoor dining, a themed lobby lounge, poolside bar and grill, quick-service marketplace, valet service and a fitness center. Booking information and pricing will be announced at a later date.

Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

Halloween Horror Nights Announces Final Addition

Michael Myers is coming home…

To Halloween Horror Nights

at the Universal Orlando Resort

Halloween at Halloween Horror Nights Universal Orlando Resort 2014

For the first time ever, John Carpenter’s horror classic comes to life

as a haunted house at Universal Orlando

 

Everyone is entitled to one good scare…and beginning September 19, Universal Orlando will give guests more than one reason to scream as it brings to life John Carpenter’s classic horror film “Halloween.”

Based on the classic 1978 slasher film, the all-new haunted house follows the story of Michael Myers, a deranged boy from Haddonfield, Il. It is Halloween night and no one is safe as the psychotic killer embarks on a murderous rampage. With his iconic mask to hide his identity, Michael sets out for new blood and will stop at nothing as he stalks his victims. Every scene tells the tale of a different kill and if you’re not careful, you could be next.

 httpv://youtu.be/JrEfKwSUY6A?list=UUGl3kbSLHfKb3QeOYG7pAuA

Halloween is one of the most successful horror franchises of all time and has grossed a collected $366 million worldwide. Since the original “Halloween” film, nine additional Halloween sequels have been created. This year, the franchise will commemorate its worldwide success with the release of a box set with all ten Michael Myers films in full blu-ray on Sept. 23, featuring never-before-seen and behind the scenes content.

 

“My experience watching this film growing up is as vivid now as it was years ago. The team and I are beyond thrilled to bring one of the most iconic horror films and characters to life at Halloween Horror Nights.” said Michael Aiello, Director of Entertainment – Creative Development, Universal Orlando Resort. “Halloween,began what would become the slasher film genre and still represents the genre as its horrific crown jewel. Guests will come face to face with Michael Myers as we recreate the kills committed on the night He came home.”

 

“Halloween” completes this year’s lineup for Halloween Horror Nights 24, which will include some of the most recognizable and terrifying names in pop culture, as well as original content from the masterminds who bring the event to life. In addition to “Halloween,” Halloween Horror Nights will include experiences inspired by AMC’s “The Walking Dead,” Robert Rodriguez’s chilling television series “From Dusk Till Dawn,” the cult sci-fi franchise “AVP: Alien vs. Predator,” Universal Picture’s upcoming film “Dracula: Untold,” Universal Picture’s “The Purge: Anarchy,” and SyFy’s “Face Off – In the Flesh.”

 

Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

Pick Six: The Perks Of Staying At Cabana Bay Beach Resort

DISCLOSURE: I was an invited guest of the Universal Orlando Resort, and I was provided with admission, lodging, and promotional items for sharing my opinions, experiences, and thoughts. All opinions are my own.

Perks of Staying at Universal Orlando’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort

Cabana Bay Beach Resort is a budget-friendly option for staying on-site at the Universal Orlando Resort, but don’t think that they skimp on any of the details or perks!!!

Cabana Bay Beach Resort -

We were able to stay at the Cabana Bay Beach Resort when it opened this Spring, you can check our Pick Six from our stay here, and since then the resort has opened their Towers and second pool area. It has been amazing to watch this resort really come into it’s own!

Cabana Bay Beach Resort

With so much to offer their guests, I thought a fun way to look at the resort would be by sharing some our favorite perks of staying at the Cabana Bay Beach Resort!

Pick Six: Perks of Staying at the Cabana Bay Beach Resort

1. Early Admission

With the Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Diagon Alley opening early Admission to those areas is an amazing perk of staying at Cabana Bay Beach Resort!

Cabana Bay Beach Resort -

Guests who have valid theme park admission, are able to experience both The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade in Universal’s Islands of Adventure and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley in Universal Studios Florida one hour prior to park opening. This does include the Hogwarts Express when you have a Park-to-Park admission ticket!

Resort shuttles are available each morning, but it is important to keep in mind that all guests (including the children in your party) must have a valid resort room key for early entry!

Times for early admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter area are posted in the Cabana Bay Beach Resort lobby.

2. No More Rainy Day Blues

Florida may be the ‘Sunshine State’, but that is only between rain storms! But the Cabana Bay Beach Resort has you covered with some really fun indoor options for rainy days.

Cabana Bay Beach Resort

  • Galaxy Bowl – 10-lane full service bowling experience themed from the 1950’s, offering today’s entertainment technology and a full service restaurant. There is an extra fee to bowl, however they do have some great daily deals on food and alcohol.
  • Jack LaLanne Physical Fitness Studio – Complimentary for hotel guests, featuring cardiovascular equipment, mats, Medicine Balls, Bosu Balls, rubber dumbbells, and locker rooms in a fun and extremely retro area. It is one of my favorite places at the resort.
  • Game-O-Rama – Enjoy old school classics and the latest high-tech arcade games such as classic Skee-ball.
  • Resort Recreation – When the rain hits, the fun moves indoors with various activities to keep little ones moving
  • Universal Orlando® Resort Store – What else would you do on a rainy day, but go shopping! The store offers sundries, guest necessities, newspapers, magazines, and Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort logo merchandise.
  • Starbucks – Now the reason I mention Starbucks are my addiction to their black tea & cake pops, and that they have their own wifi so you can free up devices on your room’s wifi.

Cabana Bay Beach Resort -

  • Characters – All Universal Orlando On-Site Resorts have Characters, but I like these the best because they seem more laid back and free to roam. You can find them all over the place, but the lobby is where we have had the most luck!

Cabana Bay Beach Resort -

3. Transportation

Cabana Bay Beach Resort really makes transportation a breeze with shuttles and even an on-site rental car desk!

Cabana Bay Beach Resort -

  • On-Site Transportation – Complimentary resort wide transportation includes shuttle buses. While Cabana Bay Beach Resort is also within walking distance to Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, & Universal CityWalk® it will soon get easier when their walkway is connected.
  • SeaWorld Orlando®, Aquatica™, & Wet ‘n Wild® Transportation –There are complimentary scheduled buses available to transport guests to SeaWorld Orlando®, Aquatica™ and Wet ‘n Wild®. Reservations are required for this service. Upon arrival, contact the concierge desk at the individual hotel to confirm transportation.
  • Airport Transportation – An airport shuttle service is available for hotel guests arriving into Orlando International Airport through Mears Transportation. Visit the concierge desk for details. (fees apply)
  • Hertz Rental Car Services – Hertz car rental available on-site which is located in the resort lobby just to the left of the doors before you exit.
  • Transportation to Walt Disney World® can be arranged through the Universal Ticket Desk –fees apply.

4. Convenience

Now I’m not saying I am lazy, but when I am not running around the parks I want to enjoy my down time and the Cabana Bay Beach Resort has some really options to help you enjoy your time more and stress less.

Cabana Bay Beach Resort

  • Pizza Delivery – During select hours you can get the Delicioso Pizza from the Bayliner Diner delivered to your room, and let me tell you this is no ready-made blah pizza!!! The pizza’s are loaded with great toppings (the veggie is AMAZING) and have a crunch crust you’ll crave.
  • Refillable Mugs – Now while this isn’t unique to resort hotels, the fact that you can fill them almost everywhere is! You can find refillable stations at each pool area, in the Bayliner Diner, and in the bowling area (which is connected to the game room). Plus they are super swanky and fun to use at home!
  • Merchandise Delivery – I am a theme park shopper, but I hate lugging my purchases all day! The Cabana Bay Beach Resort offers complimentary delivery of merchandise purchased throughout the resort to your hotel room.
  • Mini-Fridge and Kitchenette (Family Suites) – Sometimes you don’t realize how great a mini-fridge or kitchenette (in the Family Suites) is until you don’t have them! We used our fridge as a way to store leftover pizza, drinks for later, and even chocolate (a easy treat for hot days). The kitchenettes feature a microwave and extra counter space that saved us, too! I found myself working at the bar while everyone watched television in the room.
Cabana Bay Beach Resort -
The Family Suite Kitchenette

5. Pool for everyone

With so many different pool and water play areas at the Cabana Bay Beach Resort, there really is a place for everyone! From quiet spots to places to let loose, you will find it here!

Family-Friendly

Cabana Bay Beach Resort -

  • Cabana Courtyard – features a zero-entry pool with iconic dive tower waterslide, interactive kids play area, cabanas for rent , sandy seating areas for play, nightly movies, recreation areas, and the Atomic Tonic pool bar all add up to make this our favorite place to spend our day together!

Adults

Cabana Bay Beach Resort -

  • Lazy River Courtyard – features a zero-entry pool with sand beach and quiet cove, a lazy river, and The Hideaway Bar & Grill make for a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere.

Lazy River

Cabana Bay Beach Resort -

  • The lazy river full of chilly waterfalls and cannons for interactive fun, and I wanted to mention this separately for planning purposes because floats are not necessary or provided. They are extremely reasonable to purchase, but if you want you can even BYOF (Bring Your Own Float).

6. Large Family? No Problem!

Cabana Bay Beach Resort -

We find the rooms at the Cabana Bay Beach Resort to be super roomy and full of storage, and with the Family Suites sleeping up to six you really can’t beat the rates!!!!

Cabana Bay Beach Resort -

We love staying at the Cabana Bay Beach Resort for all these reasons and more! It is definitely a great place to check out!!!

Cabana Bay Beach Resort -

You can find out even more about their services here.

Cabana Bay Beach Resort has a really interactive and fun Facebook page and Instagram account, so make sure you give them a follow and make sure to tag your photos #UniversalMoments!!!

Cabana Bay Beach Resort -

Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

A Walk Around The Amazing CityWalk Expansion

Universal Orlando Resort Holidays Universal Orlando CityWalk

DISCLOSURE: I was an invited guest of the Universal Orlando Resort, and I was provided with admission, lodging, and promotional items for sharing my opinions, experiences, and thoughts. All opinions are my own.

CityWalk, at the Universal Orlando Resort, has always been an exciting nighttime destination in Orlando, however over the last eight months seven new and two enhanced venues have really brought new life to this bustling area!

Universal Orlando CityWalk

This epic CityWalk expansion was the product of a nationwide search for culinary concepts that included a mix of established national brands, up-and-coming concepts and Universal’s own creations. The new venues all share an overall theme that includes inviting common areas, al fresco dining, open kitchens and more.

Antojitos Construction earlier this year
Antojitos Construction earlier this year

Over the past months, we have had the opportunity to spend a lot of time exploring the new additions to CityWalk and are anxiously awaiting our chance to try ‘Burgushi’ at The Cowfish.

So join us as we take a look around the new and enhanced CityWalk Venues with some great photos from Betsy Bates!

A closer look at the CityWalk Expansion

Red Oven Pizza Bakery

Orlando CityWalk Universal Orlando - Red Brick Oven

Take a quick trip to Italy for authentic, artisan pizza–made fresh, while you wait–at Universal CityWalk’s first-ever Neopolitan-style pizza bakery. The combination of the highest quality ingredients and a traditional 900-degree stone-lined oven ensures every slice is pizza perfection.

Orlando CityWalk Universal Orlando -

The menu at Red Brick Oven Pizza Bakery features some really yummy pizza combinations, fresh salads, and beverages.

Orlando CityWalk Universal Orlando - Red Brick Oven

The outside seating area is really relaxed and covered to shield you from the rain and sun!

Orlando CityWalk Universal Orlando -  Red Brick Oven

I’ve really enjoyed the Alla Benno red pizza! It’s a really great combination of sweet, salty, and spicy!

Orlando CityWalk Universal Orlando - Red Brick Oven

Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food

Orlando CityWalk Universal Orlando -

Take a journey through the cantinas, street carts, and markets of Mexico for unique tapas-style dining at Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food. Only the freshest ingredients are used to create craveable, made from scratch Mexican street fare in an environment of unmatched authenticity.

I adore Antojitos!

Orlando CityWalk Universal Orlando -

The authentic Mexican Cuisine and specialty drinks are served up in a vibrant environment of art and music! The downstairs of Antojitos has a more relaxed feel, while the upstairs dining area has the vibe of a fancy family meal!

Orlando CityWalk Universal Orlando -

You can check out my post on icFlorida.com from the opening of Antojitos in February!

Hot Dog Hall of Fame

Orlando CityWalk Universal Orlando -

Strike out your hunger at Hot Dog Hall of Fame with some of the most iconic hot dog creations from our nation’s most famous ballparks. Take a seat in the bleachers and enjoy a loaded Chicago dog with all the toppings, a perfectly charred Boston brat, a monster LA dog and more.

Orlando CityWalk Universal Orlando -

The seating for the Hot Dog Hall of Fame lets you know that you are definitely in for a unique and fun experience when you choose to eat here!

Orlando CityWalk Universal Orlando - If you are a mustard lover, you will definitely want to visit the Hot Dog Hall of Fame to try all of their mustard creations!

The Cowfish

Orlando CityWalk Universal Orlando -

Innovative sushi joins forces with creative burgers for an untraditional dining experience at this reincarnation of the popular North Carolina hotspot. The result: “Burgushi”. A cutting-edge fusion of burger and sushi, burgushi items include sushi rolls created using burger components and sandwiches created using sushi elements.

Orlando CityWalk Universal Orlando -

During the Orlando CityWalk announcement in December, nothing garnered as much interest as an item called ‘burgushi’, which is a burger topped with sushi elements, and I seriously cannot wait to give it a try!!!!!!

Vivo

Orlando CityWalk Universal Orlando -

Immerse yourself in the essence of modern Italian cuisine at this new restaurant created by Universal Orlando. Watch as the culinary team handcrafts your pasta from scratch to create fresh takes on classic dishes in a clean, contemporary dining atmosphere.

Orlando CityWalk Universal Orlando -

We had the chance to dine at the VIVO Italian Kitchen during our Diagon Alley FAM trip, and it was amazing! The food is rustic and comforting with a flair for the unexpected!

Orlando CityWalk Universal Orlando -

I will be sharing more about our meal at VIVO soon!

Bread Box

Orlando CityWalk Universal Orlando -

With a Bread Box sandwich, you’ll be transported back to your childhood kitchen or your favorite street corner deli. Here you’ll find that the combination of quality meats and vegetables, fresh bread, and simple preparation can transform a sandwich into something more.

Orlando CityWalk Universal Orlando -

While I haven’t gotten the chance to try Bread Box yet, it has a really fun vibe and sandwiches that look amazing!

Orlando CityWalk Universal Orlando - I seriously want to try ALL of the grilled cheese Bread Boxes!!!!

Cold Stone Creamery

Orlando CityWalk Universal Orlando -

For more than 25 years, Cold Stone Creamery has served up the finest, freshest ice cream, cakes, smoothies and shakes using only the highest quality ingredients and their signature process of preparing your custom ice cream creation on a frozen granite stone.

Orlando CityWalk Universal Orlando -

Is there really anything better than Coldstone on a hot Florida day??? It is really great to have this familiar favorite as a new venue in CityWalk!

Menchie’s

Orlando CityWalk Universal Orlando -

One of the world’s most popular frozen yogurt shops is coming to Universal CityWalk. The dream was to create a place where people from all walks of life and ages could enjoy themselves—not only with great tasting, quality frozen yogurt and an expansive self-serve toppings bar, but with a unique experience in a fun and happy environment that makes you smile.

Orlando CityWalk Universal Orlando -

I know that my daughter LOVES that Menchie’s has been added to CityWalk!!! We used to climb the ramp and stairs to go to TCBY, but now I notice that no matter how tired she is Zoe zips up there quicker!

Orlando CityWalk Universal Orlando -

The Menchie’s location has a good amount of indoor seating, a large assortment of both topics and yogurt flavors, and a staff that is crazy friendly.

Orlando CityWalk Universal Orlando -

Universal Orlando Annual Passholders also receive a discount here, so make sure that you show your pass at the register!

Starbucks

Orlando CityWalk Universal Orlando -

While there has always been a Starbucks located in CityWalk, their new venue is full of indoor and outdoor seating and is beautiful inside!

Orlando CityWalk Universal Orlando -

I cannot tell you how excited I about the expanded seating areas and the fact that it is on the ‘first’ floor of CityWalk!

Orlando CityWalk Universal Orlando -

Starbucks is our go-to place to grab a bite of breakfast before heading into the parks, and it is so easy to pop in and out of now! We love it!

Universal Studios Store

Orlando CityWalk Universal Orlando -

The new and improved Universal Studios Store is an absolute welcome addition to CityWalk!

Orlando CityWalk Universal Orlando -

They carry a huge variety of park merchandise in one place, and it has been a trip-saver for us on more than one occasion!

All of these new venues have really brought a new life to CityWalk at the Universal Orlando Resort, and I seriously can’t wait to explore and try them some more!

What is your favorite venue at CityWalk?

It’s never a dull moment at the Universal Orlando Resort, so make sure that you keep up with the latest news by following the Universal Orlando Resort on FacebookTwitterInstagramand YouTube.

 

Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

Universal Orlando Resort 2014 Holiday Celebration Details

Universal Orlando Resort Holidays

‘Tis the Season to Create Lasting Family Memories at Universal Orlando Resort’s 2014 Holidays Celebration 

Universal Orlando’s Holiday Offerings to include Grinchmas, Macy’s Holiday Parade and Electrifying Holiday Concerts by Mannheim Steamroller 

Hotel Rates Now Available Featuring Savings of up to 30 Percent at Universal Orlando’s On-Site Hotels

 

Universal Orlando Resort is the perfect place for families to spend the holiday season. In addition to the pulse-pounding attractions and unforgettable experiences found at the theme parks, families can build lifelong memories together at Universal Orlando’s Holidays celebration.

Beginning Dec. 6 and running daily through Jan. 3, the Holidays at Universal Orlando features one-of-a-kind traditions for guests from one to 92 throughout the destination.  At Universal’s Islands of Adventure, families will light up with holiday cheer as Grinchmas comes to life throughout Seuss Landing. Guests can enjoy a live retelling of Dr. Seuss’s classic holiday tale, “Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular,” featuring the Whos from Who-ville, accompanied by an original musical score by Mannheim Steamroller. Guests can also meet The Grinch and the Whos and on select dates, enjoy a special breakfast with the characters.

Universal Orlando Resort Holiday Celebration

At Universal Studios Florida, the Macy’s Holiday Parade will fill the streets every evening with the same larger-than-life balloons seen in Macy’s famous Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City. This year, you won’t want to miss the Chloe The Clown “Balloonicle,” a new addition to the parade that combines a towering balloon with a self-powered vehicle that roams the streets of Universal Studios. Guests will also enjoy colorful holiday characters, fantasy-filled floats and a tree-lighting ceremony by Santa Claus.

Universal Orlando Resort Holidays

This year, the masters of modern Christmas music—Mannheim Steamroller—will return to the stage to spread Christmas cheer. With more than 40 million albums sold worldwide, the acclaimed musical group will take to the Music Plaza stage in Universal Studios on select nights to perform their memorable holiday hits. Performance nights are Dec. 6, 7, 14, 15, 20 and 21.

All theme park holiday entertainment—including Mannheim Steamroller—is included with Park-to-Park admission to Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure.

Wordless Wednesday Universal Orlando Resort Holiday Celebration

During their holiday experience, guests can also enjoy the extraordinary attractions and exhilarating entertainment that can only be found at Universal Orlando’s two theme parks – including The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man and The Incredible Hulk Coaster at Islands of Adventure and TRANSFORMERS: The Ride – 3D, Despicable Me Minion Mayhem and the all-new, spectacularly-themed environment, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley at Universal Studios. This incredibly immersive area features shops, dining experiences and the next generation thrill ride, Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts and expands upon The Wizarding of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, found at Islands of Adventure. Guests with Park-to-Park admission can journey between both lands aboard the Hogwarts Express, the iconic steam locomotive from the Harry Potter books and films.

New Year’s Eve at Universal CityWalk

Universal Orlando Resort Holidays Universal Orlando CityWalk

It’s never too early to plan how you’ll ring in the New Year. At Universal’s CityWalk, guests can experience a dynamic New Year’s Eve celebration which includes non-stop entertainment, unique party zones—each with their own entertainment and signature drinks—along with six different clubs with live music, unlimited gourmet cuisine, and Orlando’s largest dance floor. Information about New Year’s Eve event tickets will be released at a later date.

For a memorable getaway, guests can take advantage of the following Universal Orlando Holiday Resort offer: 

Offer Details
 SAVE up to 30% at one of our Spectacular On-Site Hotels**

 

**Minimum 3-night stay

  • Stay more nights and save up to 30% at on-site hotels, including Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel, Loews Royal Pacific Resort and Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort
  • Average Nightly Rates as low as $106 per adult, per night
  • Deluxe on-site hotel guests enjoy even more benefits, including Free Universal Express Unlimited ride access so you can SKIP THE REGULAR THEME PARK LINES in both parks a value of up to $89 per person, per day!
  • On-site hotel guests receive Early Park Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter one hour before the theme parks open and complimentary on-site transportation to both theme parks and Universal CityWalk

 

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

Universal Orlando Holiday Logo Universal Orlando Resort Holiday Celebration

About Universal Orlando Resort
Vacation like you mean it at Universal Orlando Resort – where every heart pounding, jaw-dropping, goose-bumping second counts.  It is the only place where you can turn spending time with your family into spending time as a family.  Together, you can soar above Hogwarts with Harry Potter, swing above the streets with Spider-Man, become a Minion in the hilarious and heartwarming Despicable Me Minion Mayhem ride, and join Optimus Prime in the fight to save mankind on the new mega-attraction, TRANSFORMERS: The Ride – 3D.  And now, you can step into The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley.

Universal Orlando Resort is home to two incredible theme parks: Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure; four magnificently themed on-site hotels:  Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel, Loews Royal Pacific Resort and the newest addition, Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort; and Universal CityWalk – a unique dining and entertainment complex featuring one-of-a-kind restaurants, shops and nightclubs.  And located just minutes from Universal Orlando Resort is Wet n’ Wild, Orlando’s premier waterpark.
Universal Orlando Resort is part of NBCUniversal, a Comcast company.  Follow Universal Orlando Resort on FacebookTwitterInstagram and YouTube.

Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

A Celebration of Harry Potter Event Announced

A Celebration of Harry Potter Universal Orlando Resort 2015

A Celebration of Harry Potter event will be returning to  Universal Orlando Resort    January 30 – February 1, 2015

The Universal Orlando Resort is again partnering with Warner Bros. to host the second annual A Celebration of Harry Potter event from January 30 to February 1, 2015.

A Celebration of Harry Potter Universal Orlando -

Harry Potter fans from around the world will once again come together to spend three days celebrating the Boy That Lived’s story!

A Celebration of Harry Potter Universal Orlando -

While All general admission park guests will have the chance to experience the “A Celebration of Harry Potter” Expo, attend Q&A sessions with Harry Potter film talent, and visit the all-new The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley you will have to wait in lines for the presentations and manage your time at the Expo. However the Team Members at the Universal Orlando Resort were super helpful!!!

A Celebration of Harry Potter Universal Orlando -

If you want to make sure that you get the opportunity to attend all the presentations and want the chance to attend exclusive events, a limited number of exclusive event vacation packages—including annual passholder packages—will go on sale at noon (EST) on August 21.

These packages offer hotel accommodations, theme park tickets, and exclusive benefits including:

Packages for “A Celebration of Harry Potter” at Universal Orlando Resort

On Sale at Noon EST on August 21, 2014

On-Site Hotel Celebration Vacation Package ~ Starts at  $219 per adult per night, tax inclusive
  • 3-night on-site hotel accommodations at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort, Universal Orlando Resort’s all-new retro-themed moderate & value priced hotel
  • 3-day park-to-park ticket to both Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure (includes access to the Hogwarts Express)
  • Exclusive Q&A session with select Harry Potter film talent
  • Access to an exclusive evening event in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, including light desserts and Butterbeer
  • Specially themed Welcome Parcel and complimentary commemorative merchandise item
  • Special Guest access to the “A Celebration of Harry Potter” Expo
  • Reserved seating or viewing area for select Celebration events
  • Early Park Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter one hour before the parks open
  • Breakfast at the Three Broomsticks in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, one per person
  • Complimentary on-site transportation to and from both theme parks and Universal CityWalk
  • Note: This package does not include complimentary Universal Express Unlimited ride access
On-Site Deluxe Hotel Celebration Vacation Package ~ Starts at   $285 per adult per night, tax inclusive 
  • 3-night on-site hotel accommodations at one of Universal Orlando’s spectacular deluxe on-site hotels:  Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel or Loews Royal Pacific Resort
  • 3-day park-to-park ticket to both Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure (includes access to the Hogwarts Express)
  • Complimentary Universal Express Unlimited ride access to skip the regular lines in both theme parks for all three days – a FREE benefit worth up to $89 per person, per day
  • Exclusive Q&A session with select Harry Potter film talent
  • Access to an exclusive evening event in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, including light desserts and Butterbeer
  • Specially themed Welcome Parcel and complimentary commemorative merchandise item
  • Special Guest access to the “A Celebration of Harry Potter” Expo
  • Reserved seating or viewing area for select Celebration events
  • Early Park Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter one hour before the parks open
  • Breakfast at the Three Broomsticks in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, one per person
  • Complimentary on-site transportation to and from both theme parks and Universal CityWalk
Universal Partner Hotel Celebration Vacation Package ~ Starts at $185 per adult per night, tax inclusive
  • 3-night accommodations at a Universal Partner Hotel near Universal Orlando
  • 3-day park-to-park ticket to both Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure (includes access to the Hogwarts Express)
  • Exclusive Q&A session with select Harry Potter film talent
  • Access to an exclusive evening event in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, including light desserts and Butterbeer
  • Specially themed Welcome Parcel and complimentary commemorative merchandise item
  • Special Guest access to the “A Celebration of Harry Potter” Expo
  • Reserved seating or viewing area for select Celebration events
  • Early Park Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter one hour before the parks open
  • Breakfast at the Three Broomsticks in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, one per person
  • Free scheduled transportation between the hotel and Universal Orlando Resort
  • Note: This package does not include complimentary Universal Express Unlimited ride access

 

To book special annual passholder event vacation packages, please call              

 1-888-343-8991 starting August 21, 2014 at noon EST.

Last year, these packages sold out within days!!! So if you want to be in the center of this celebration, make sure to set your alarms for noon (EST) on August 21, or buy your general admission theme park tickets for those dates now!

A Celebration of Harry Potter Universal Orlando -

Check out the “A Celebration of Harry Potter” page for more details.

Last year’s A Celebration of Harry Potter was a blast, and I am really looking forward to the event returning to the Universal Orlando Resort!

A Celebration of Harry Potter Universal Orlando -

Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

An Introduction To Diagon Alley At Universal Orlando Resort

DISCLOSURE: I was an invited guest of the Universal Orlando Resort, and I was provided with admission, lodging, and promotional items for sharing my opinions, experiences, and thoughts.

Diagon Alley Introduction Universal Orlando

An Introduction To Diagon Alley

At The Universal Orlando Resort

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley has been open at the Universal Orlando Resort for a short bit of time, and I was lucky enough to have a few days to take a a look at this amazing new area as an invited guest of the Resort!

Diagon Alley Universal Orlando

In Diagon Alley you can dine at the Leaky Cauldron, watch as the wand chooses the wizard at Ollivanders, see some amazing Wizards perform, shop for wizarding supplies, and more as you walk in the footsteps of Harry Potter in his Wizarding World.

So let’s see if I remember this correctly…Three up…two across…

Diagon Alley Introduction Universal Orlando

Welcome to Diagon Alley!

Diagon Alley Attractions

Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts 

Height Requirement: 42 inches 

Diagon Alley Introduction Universal Orlando

While all of Diagon Alley is stunning, Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts is truly the area’s crown jewel!

As you approach Gringotts Bank, you are greeted by a 60ft, seven-ton, fire-breathing Ukrainian Ironbelly dragon who breathes fire every 15 minutes!

Inside the archway, you walk through the bank’s grand marble lobby and see several goblins hard at work.

Then you grab a pair of 3D glasses for your journey through cavernous passageways that lead deep underground as you climb aboard the mine trains of Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts.

Diagon Alley Universal Orlando Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts

You’ll encounter Harry, Ron, and Hermione along the way, but you’ll have to evade the wrath of malicious villains Voldemort and Bellatrix as well as trolls and other creatures who stand between you and a safe return to Diagon Alley. 

The Hogwarts Express 

If you have a Park-to-Park admission ticket, you can pass through Platform 9 ¾ and board the Hogwarts Express from King’s Cross Station in London, located inside Universal Studios Florida theme park, and travel to Hogsmeade Station, located inside Universal’s Islands of Adventure theme park (right next door to Universal Studios). Or you can ride the train in the other direction! 

This is the  first time that Muggles have been allowed to board the Hogwarts Express, and it was quite the amazing trip!

Diagon Alley Introduction Universal Orlando

Before you can board the Hogwarts Express at King’s Cross Station, you’ll have to get to Platform 9 ¾ just like Harry Potter did so make sure you have your cameras ready for this fun photo opportunity! Once you are on the platform, you will be waiting to see the famous scarlet engine that will take you on a trip through the British countryside to Hogsmeade.

Diagon Alley Introduction Universal Orlando

During the trip to Hogsmeade, and back to London, make sure that you keep your eyes peeled for cameos from characters from the books in the windows and compartment corridors. This is the part that really makes you feel like you have jumped into Harry Potter’s adventure!

To board the Hogwarts Express from Hogsmeade, you just need to travel right outside of the Village of Hogsmeade to the stone station for your return trip to London and Diagon Alley.

Diagon Alley Dining

Leaky Cauldron 

Cuisine: Cottage pie, fish and chips, bangers and mash, Scotch eggs, stew, & much more.

Children’s Menu: Fish and chips, macaroni and cheese, and more.

Service Type: Pub Style

Dining Hours: Lunch and Dinner daily

Diagon Alley Introduction Universal Orlando

The Leaky Cauldron offers a wide variety of British fare, Butterbeer, and the new specialty drinks of Diagon Alley in a setting that is fantastic. 

The famous inn appears just as it does in the movie, including the amazing ceiling, so make sure you take a few moments to take in all the detail.

Diagon Alley Introduction Universal Orlando

Pub Style of service means that once you order, you will receive your drink and be escorted to a table where you can relax and eat among fellow muggles!

Just in case you have a less than adventurous eater, the children’s menu is full of familiar favorites.

Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour 

Cuisine: Scoop and soft-serve ice-creams, breakfast items, and drinks

Service Type: Counter

Hours: From park open to one hour before park closing

Diagon Alley Introduction - Florean Fortescue's Universal Orlando

Magical displays of ice-cream cones welcome guests into this colourful, quaint ice-cream parlour where they can enjoy scoop and soft-serve ice-creams.

In the morning Florean Fortescue’s serves a continental breakfast with pastries, bottled Pumpkin Juice, teas, and water available.

There are some truly amazing flavors at Florean Fortescue’s!!! My next flavors to try are Chocolate Chili and Clotted Cream.

The Fountain of Fair Fortune 

Cuisine: Diagon Alley Specialty Drinks, Custom Beers, and Muggle beverages

Service Type: Counter

Hours: From park open to one hour before park closing

Diagon Alley Universal Orlando

The Fountain of Fair Fortune is also a great place to grab a Butterbeer, Frozen Butterbeer, Fishy Green Ale, Gillywater, Wizard’s Brew, Dragon Scale, Strongbow, Fuller’s London Pride, and Amstel Light.

The line to head into Florean Fortescue’s Ice Cream Parlour are often times long, so if it is Butterbeer Ice Cream you seeking ducking into the Fountain of Fair Fortune is a better bet for grabbing this delight.

Diagon Alley Universal Orlando

The Fountain of Fair Fortune, located across from the Magical Menagerie near Knockturn Alley.

The Hopping Pot 

Cuisine: Diagon Alley Specialty Drinks, Snacks, and Muggle beverages

Service Type: Counter

Hours: From park open to one hour before park closing

Diagon Alley Introduction -Hopping Pot

Looking to grab a quick specialty Harry Potter drink and a light snack? Then The Hopping Pot is where you want to be!

This is an ideal location for a quick visit, because the line moves quickly and there are a ton of Team Members to speed things along!

While you are enjoying your beverage make sure you look up at all the advertisements!

Eternelle’s Elixir of Refreshment

Cuisine: Diagon Alley Specialty Gilly Water and Specialty Potions

Service Type: Counter

Hours: From park open to one hour before park closing

Diagon Alley Universal Orlando - Potions

Water in Diagon Alley is ‘Gilly Water’, and it is available at several locations however you can take your Gilly Water experience to the next level by adding one of four potions to it for an additional $4.25.

The Four potions that you can purchase (with their corresponding flavors) are:

Fire Protection Potion: Watermelon

Babbling Beverage: Fruit Punch

Draught of Peace: Mixed Berry

Elixir to Induce Euphoria: Pineapple

Eternelle’s Elixir of Refreshment, located in the arcade across from the Carkitt Market stage.

Diagon Alley Shopping

Ollivanders 

Ollivanders, makers of Fine Wands since 382 BC, Ollivanders, is one of the wizarding world’s premier wand shops and their Diagon Alley location is even bigger and better than ever!

Diagon Alley Introduction Universal Orlando

You walk through hallways of thousands of towering wand boxes to be able to witness the magical experience of a wand choosing a wizard in a larger area.

You are also able to purchase your own unique Ollivanders wand, select one of the many Harry Potter character wand replicas, as well as interactive wands.  

I will be sharing more about the interactive wands soon, but they are awesome and add a layer of amazingness to your visit to both Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade.

Diagon Alley Introduction Universal Orlando

Weasley’s Wizarding Wheezes 

Diagon Alley Universal Orlando The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Diagon Alley
Photo: Universal

Weasley’s Wizard Wheezes is exactly what you have ever wanted and more!!!

Here in Fred and George Weasleys’ shop you will find magical jokes, tricks, toys, treats (including Skiving Snackboxes), Pygmy Puff naming ceremonies, and more in a fantastic and colorful setting!

You will find all kinds of mischief and fun in Weasley’s Wizard Wheezes, but make sure you look up to find the never-ending fireworks and an appearance by Dolores Umbridge!

Magical Menagerie 

First years who are looking for an owl, toad, or toad have all made their way to the Magical Menagerie!

The Magical Menagerie is full of amazing animals such as Hippogriffs, unicorns, a crumple horned snorkack,  and other magical creatures depicted in the Harry Potter books and movies.  

You can purchase a variety of plush toys including Crookshanks, Fang, Buckbeak, Fluffy and Scabbers, cats of every color, ravens, sleek black rats, and fat white rabbits that transform to and from a silk top hat. 

Diagon Alley Introduction Universal Orlando

Again, make sure you spend some time looking around the store and their windows of exotic animals!

Madame Malkin’s Robes for All Occasions 

Diagon Alley Introduction - Madame Malkins Universal Orlando

Looking for wizardwear to represent your Hogwarts house? At Madame Malkin’s Robes for All Occasions you will find a selection of authentic wizard’s robes, character costumes from the movies, and more.  

Here is where you can buy your Hogwarts school uniforms, ties, scarves, sweaters, and cardigans. YOu will also find apparel, jewelry, and fashion items inspired by the four school houses of Gryffindor, Ravenclaw, Hufflepuff and Slytherin.

There are also new wizard hats that are super fun!

I am seriously thinking that I may need some Ravenclaw wizardwear…. 

Wiseacre’s Wizarding Equipment

Diagon Alley Introduction Universal Orlando

Located at the exit from Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, Wiseacre’s Wizarding Equipment is full of wizarding wares and supplies in a celestial backdrop.

Crystal balls, telescopes, binoculars, armillary spheres, compasses, magnifying glasses and hourglasses line the shelves of this unique selection of apparel and accessory products from your favorite Hogwarts house!

Quality Quidditch Supplies 

Diagon Alley Introduction Universal Orlando

If you are looking for a place to purchase Quaffle balls, Quidditch brooms, Quidditch apparel and team souvenirs you have come to the right place! 

Quality Quidditch Supplies is the destination to find everything you will need to play and be a fan of the most popular sport in the wizarding world!

Borgin and Burkes 

Diagon Alley Universal Orlando

When you head down into the darkness of Knockturn Alley, you can find shelves of Dark objects and Death Eater merchandise lining the shelves of this antiquated Borgin and Burkes. 

The store is packed full of a fascinating, eclectic collection of Dark Arts objects and racks of Death Eater masks, skulls, and costume replicas.

Diagon Alley Introduction Universal Orlando

The shop also sells apparel, accessories, jewelry, collectibles, and gifts.

It is definitely one of my favorite spots to explore in Diagon Alley!

Diagon Alley Special Places

Money Exchange 

Diagon Alley Universal Orlando

The Gringott’s Money Exchange is a separate location, next to Wiseacre’s Wizarding Equipment and across from Eternelle’s Elixir of Refreshment under the arcade in Diagon Alley, where you can exchange Muggle money for Gringott’s Bank Notes. 

This is a really cool experience, because you get to interact with animatronic goblin who oversees the exchange of currency. 

Diagon Alley Universal Orlando

These Bank Notes can be spent anywhere, but I have a feeling that most people will save them instead of spending them. 

Carkitt Market Stage 

The Carkitt Market Stage under the arcade in Diagon Alley is where you can find some amazing entertainment options!

Guests will be able to watch as two of the The Tales of Beedle the Bard are performed by a troupe of four students from the Wizarding Academy of Dramatic Arts.

Diagon Alley The Tale of the Three Brothers

The Tale of the Three Brothers and The Fountain of Fair Fortune will be presented as a trunk show utilizing stylized props and puppetry from award winning designer Michael Curry.

Also, the Singing Sorceress: Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees will perform never-heard-before songs “A Cauldron Full of Hot, Strong Love,” “You Stole My Cauldron But You Can’t Have My Heart” and “You Charmed the Heart Right Out Of Me”. 

Diagon Alley Introduction Universal Orlando

As you can see Diagon Alley is full of some really unique and amazing places, and I can’t wait to share more about my adventures!

What are you most excited about seeing on your visit to Diagon Alley

Diagon Alley Universal Orlando

Make sure you keep up with our adventures as we are On the Go on FacebookTwitter, and Instagram!  

 

Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

Dracula Untold Joins Halloween Horror Nights Line-Up

Dracula Untold From Dusk Till Dawn Universal Studios Halloween Horror Nights Logo

The Universal Orlando Resort will sink their teeth into Dracula Untold, a terrifying new Halloween Horror Nights Maze  inspired by Universal Pictures’ upcoming epic action-adventure 

Dracula Untold Banner Universal Orlando Halloween Horror Nights 2014

Dracula Untold at the Universal Orlando Resort will breathe new life into history’s most notorious vampire, Vlad Tepes, the real life 13th century ruler and inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula in a terrifying new Halloween Horror Nights maze, Dracula Untold: Reign of Blood.

Beginning, Friday, September 19, 2014, guests can feast on this immersive preview of Universal Pictures’ upcoming epic action-adventure Dracula Untold.  Starring Luke Evans, the origin story of the man who became Dracula arrives in theaters on October 17.

Dracula Untold: Reign of Blood will introduce guests to the sadistic Transylvanian ruler Vlad Tepes, known as “Vlad the Impaler,” who infamously tortured his enemies by impaling them alive with a wooden stake and suspending their bodies. The foreboding maze will also shed an ominous light on the one-time hero, turned blood-thirsty-tyrant, who chose to embrace unholy powers in order to defeat his enemies.  Dracula Untold: Reign of Blood will spiral guests through Dracula’s eternal damnation, where the thirst for blood is never-ending.

 httpv://youtu.be/_2aWqecTTuE

“‘Everyone thinks they know the story of ‘Dracula’,” said John Murdy, Creative Director at Universal Studios Hollywood and Executive Producer of “Halloween Horror Nights.” “But there is much more to the tale than just a dark figure lurking in the shadows, drinking blood.  While Dracula Untold will reveal the origin story of the man who became Dracula, our ‘Halloween Horror Nights’ maze will invite guests to experience the atrocities Dracula imposed on his victims in the most frightening and immersive way possible.”

Dracula Untold Movie Poster

“As a huge fan of the Universal Classic Monsters, my interest is certainly piqued any time a film explores other facets of the classic characters,” said Michael Aiello, Director of Entertainment – Creative Development, Universal Orlando Resort. “Dracula Untold offers a unique perspective on the origin of the world’s most famous vampire. Our maze will place guests within many of the pulse-pounding moments from the upcoming film, offering guests an unprecedented living preview of the horrors that await.”

Universal Studios’ “Halloween Horror Nights” events have a more than 20-year history of creating incredibly entertaining, horrifying Halloween experiences that are consistently rated the nation’s best. The events on each coast feature highly-themed, disturbingly real, haunted mazes based on everything from films to nightmares – and streets filled with hundreds of specially trained “scareactors.” Other announced “Halloween Horror Nights” experiences include, “The Walking Dead:  The End of the Line,” “From Dusk Till Dawn,” “Face Off: In the Flesh,” “The Purge: Anarchy” and “AVP: Alien vs. Predator.”

In addition to “Dracula Untold: Reign of Blood,” other “Halloween Horror Night” attractions will include “The Walking Dead:  The End of the Line,” based on AMC’s hit TV series, “From Dusk Till Dawn,” inspired by inspired by Robert Rodriguez’s cult film and El Rey network’s TV Series, “AVP:  Alien vs. Predator,” based on the Twentieth Century Fox film franchise, “Face Off:  In the Flesh,” based on Syfy’s TV series, and “Purge: Anarchy,” a new scare zone inspired by Universal Pictures’ blockbuster thriller.

 Dracula Untold Cabana Bay Give Kids the World Universal Orlando Resort Logo Universal Halloween Horror Nights Alien vs. Predator

About Universal Orlando Resort

Vacation like you mean it at Universal Orlando Resort – where every heart pounding, jaw-dropping, goose-bumping second counts.  It is the only place where you can turn spending time with your family into spending time as a family. Together, you can soar above Hogwarts with Harry Potter, swing above the streets with Spider-Man, become a Minion in the hilarious and heartwarming Despicable Me Minion Mayhem ride, and join Optimus Prime in the fight to save mankind on the new mega-attraction, TRANSFORMERS: The Ride – 3D. And now open, you can step into The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley.

Universal Orlando Resort is home to two incredible theme parks: Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure; four magnificently themed on-site hotels: Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel, Loews Royal Pacific Resort and the newest addition, Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort; and Universal CityWalk a unique dining and entertainment complex featuring one-of-a-kind restaurants, shops and nightclubs.. And located just minutes from Universal Orlando Resort is Wet n’ Wild, Orlando’s premier waterpark.

 

Tickets and vacation packages for Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando are on sale now at HalloweenHorrorNights.com\Orlando. More information about the event will be available soon. Updates on Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights are available on Facebook at Halloween Horror Nights – Universal Orlando and on Instagram at @HorrorNightsORL. Plus, fans can get exclusive updates from Creative Development Director Mike Aiello on Twitter at @HorrorNightsORL.

 

Universal Orlando Resort is part of NBCUniversal, a Comcast company. Follow Universal Orlando Resort on FacebookTwitterInstagram and YouTube.

 

Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

AVP: Alien vs. Predator Coming to Halloween Horror Nights


From Dusk Till Dawn Universal Studios Halloween Horror Nights Logo

For The First Time Ever, The Epic Battle of

AVP: Alien vs. Predator

Becomes Reality at Universal Orlando Resort

Halloween Horror Nights 

Whoever Wins…We Lose.

 

In collaboration with Twentieth Century Fox Consumer Products, Universal Orlando Resort are putting Halloween Horror Nights’ guests in the middle of an epic and primal war between the universe’s most deadly species in an all-new, horrifying maze inspired by the cult sci-fi franchise AVP: Alien vs. Predator, beginning Friday, September 19, 2014.

AVP: Alien vs. Predator is a sci-fi horror franchise that brings together the two iconic species spawned from two blockbuster films, Alien and Predator, to create a terrifying crossover of eponymous monsters in a raging battle against mankind struggling to survive amid the chaos that ensues from these two vengeful creatures.  To mark the 35th anniversary celebration of Alien, and the 10th anniversary of AVP: Alien vs. Predator, “Halloween Horror Nights” guests and fans of these celebrated films will have a chance to live the horror of these diabolical beasts as they come face to face with the terror of Aliens and Predators.

httpv://youtu.be/fbpJJErGwgI

“The introduction of AVP into the immensely popular ‘Halloween Horror Nights’ is further proof of the indelible mark this incredibly powerful franchise has left on fans and the horror genre itself.  Bringing AVP to life in a new maze is a perfect way to celebrate the 10-year anniversary of the film as well as mark the 35thanniversary of Alien, the film that started it all, and etched in our collective psyche the meaning of modern terror,” said Greg Lombardo, vice president of global live and location based entertainment at Twentieth Century Fox Consumer Products. “We’re thrilled to be working with Universal Studios to create mazes in Orlando and Hollywood that will bring fans face-to-face with the horrifying and iconic characters of AVP. The technology being leveraged will surely be a new benchmark and provide a uniquely terrifying and visceral encounter that puts guests right in the middle of an epic extraterrestrial battle for survival.”

Alien vs. Predator Halloween Horror Nights Universal Orlando

In Universal Orlando’s spine-chilling maze, guests will find themselves thrust right into the middle of the primordial battle between the Aliens and Predators as they visit one of Weyland-Yutani’s secret facilities to assist with a situation that has surfaced. Communication has been lost with a bio-weapons research facility in Central America which houses many divisions dealing in extra-terrestrial technologies, specifically the Alien Xenomorph species. Pieces of transmissions were received detailing that the facility has become compromised and another alien species called Yautja – commonly known as Predators – are hunting both the Xenomorphs and any human presence found. Guests will have to navigate through the labyrinth of destruction within the facility as they struggle to survive the ancient feud between these two deadly species.

The terrifying new “AVP:  Alien vs Predator” maze at Universal Studios Hollywood will answer the proverbial question asked by mankind since the beginning of time:  Are we alone in this dark, vast universe?  “AVP:  Alien vs. Predator” will once and for all shed light on the answer when it brings to life the violent creatures cohabitating our world as it pits two rival alien species in a fight to the death with Earth as their battleground.  This menacing maze will uncover a dangerous alien spaceship carrying a race of hunter aliens known as Predators and a threatening new alien life form that uses human hosts to propagate its species.  After crash landing in a remote section of America and escaping to the countryside, the alien and predator become hunter and prey with guests caught in the crossfire.”

“When attempting to bring two of the most iconic creatures ever put on film to ‘Halloween Horror Nights,’ you need to rely on everything you’ve learned up to this point” said Michael Aiello, Director of Entertainment – Creative Development, Universal Orlando Resort.  “We’re employing our full arsenal of tricks and techniques in translating the AVP: Alien vs. Predator brand into an authentic and horrific maze experience. Puppetry, elaborate costumes and unique environments have all been created in close collaboration with Twentieth Century Fox. Our guests are going to be thrown head first into this epic battle where only the strong will survive. This is truly going to be an out-of-this-world maze experience that the fans have been waiting for.”

Alien vs. Predator

“‘AVP:  Alien vs. Predator’ is by far the most technically complicated and ambitious maze we’ve ever created for ‘Halloween Horror Nights,’” said John Murdy, Creative Director for Universal Studios Hollywood and Executive Producer of “Halloween Horror Nights.”  “It’s a monumental undertaking to recreate these massive, iconic characters for a live event.  Fortunately, we have the expert assistance of Academy Award®-winning make-up artists, Tom Woodruff and Alec Gillis from Amalgamated Dynamic Inc. (ADI), the special effects geniuses behind the original creatures for the AVP film franchise.  Tom and Alec and the ADI team are excited about our maze and have graciously allowed us to cast from their original molds so that our maze will be absolutely authentic to the movies.”

Universal Studios’ “Halloween Horror Nights” events have a more than 20-year history of creating incredibly entertaining, horrifying Halloween experiences that are consistently rated the nation’s best. The events on each coast feature highly-themed, disturbingly real, haunted mazes based on everything from films to nightmares – and streets filled with hundreds of specially trained “scareactors.” Other announced “Halloween Horror Nights” experiences include, “The Walking Dead:  The End of the Line,” “From Dusk Till Dawn,” “Face Off: In the Flesh” and “The Purge: Anarchy.”

Cabana Bay Give Kids the World Universal Orlando Resort Logo Universal Halloween Horror Nights Alien vs. Predator

About Universal Orlando Resort

Vacation like you mean it at Universal Orlando Resort – where every heart pounding, jaw-dropping, goose-bumping second counts.  It is the only place where you can turn spending time with your family into spending time as a family. Together, you can soar above Hogwarts with Harry Potter, swing above the streets with Spider-Man, become a Minion in the hilarious and heartwarming Despicable Me Minion Mayhem ride, and join Optimus Prime in the fight to save mankind on the new mega-attraction, TRANSFORMERS: The Ride – 3D. And now open, you can step into The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley.

Universal Orlando Resort is home to two incredible theme parks: Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure; four magnificently themed on-site hotels: Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel, Loews Royal Pacific Resort and the newest addition, Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort; and Universal CityWalk – a unique dining and entertainment complex featuring one-of-a-kind restaurants, shops and nightclubs. And located just minutes from Universal Orlando Resort is Wet n’ Wild, Orlando’s premier waterpark.

Tickets and vacation packages for Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando are on sale now at HalloweenHorrorNights.com\Orlando. More information about the event will be available soon.

Updates on Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights are available on Facebook at Halloween Horror Nights – Universal Orlando and on Instagram at @HorrorNightsORL. Plus, fans can get exclusive updates from Creative Development Director Mike Aiello on Twitter at@HorrorNightsORL.

Universal Orlando Resort is part of NBCUniversal, a Comcast company. Follow Universal Orlando Resort on FacebookTwitterInstagram and YouTube.

Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

Universal Orlando Resort Announces New Vacation Packages

Universal Orlando Resort Vacation Package

Universal Orlando Resort Announces

All-New Vacation Packages

Featuring The Wizarding World of

Harry Potter – Diagon Alley 

Wizarding World of Harry Potter Diagon Alley Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts Logo

New Vacation Package Available Now for Travel Beginning June 29 –

Giving Guests the Opportunity to Experience the Incredible New Land

Universal Orlando Resort is announcing an all-new exclusive vacation package giving guests the opportunity to enjoy this year’s most anticipated theme park experience:  The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley.  Travel for the vacation package begins June 29.

Wizarding World of Harry Potter Diagon Alley Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts Universal Orlando Resort

The new travel offer starts at $135 per adult, per night, tax inclusive for a four-night stay on-site at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort and includes multi-day Park-to-Park tickets to experience both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. As part of the vacation package, guests will enjoy access to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley, plus exclusive benefits like Early Park Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and breakfast at the Three Broomsticks in Hogsmeade and the Leaky Cauldron in Diagon Alley.  They will also receive a specially themed Welcome Parcel delivered to their doorstep.

Additional vacation package details can be found below.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Exclusive Vacation Package

The Wizarding World of

Harry Potter Exclusive Vacation Package

 Summer Package

~ Starts at $155 per adult, per night, tax inclusive for travelJune 29 to Aug. 16

 Fall Package

~ Starts at $135 per adult, per night, tax inclusive for travelAug. 17 to Oct. 2 and Nov. 30 to Dec. 18

 

– 4-night on-site hotel accommodations at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort – an all-new hotel inspired by the iconic beach resorts of the 1950s and 1960s

– 3-day Park-to-Park tickets

– One breakfast per person at the Three Broomsticks in Hogsmeade and the all-new Leaky Cauldron in Diagon Alley

– Early Park Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter one hour before the theme parks open

– Special themed Welcome Parcel

– Complimentary on-site transportation to both theme parks and Universal CityWalk

Book by July 31

Upgrade to one of three AAA Four-Diamond deluxe on-site hotels at Universal Orlando Resort to receive complimentary Universal Express Unlimited ride access to skip the regular lines at select attractions in both theme parks all day (a FREE benefit worth up to $89 per person, per day)

Vacation package also available at Universal Partner Hotels

 

 

Hogwarts Express Universal Orlando Resort Diagon Alley Harry Potter

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida will double the size of the Harry Potter experience offered at Universal Orlando Resort – expanding it across both of Universal’s theme parks.  Guests will pass through London and the iconic brick wall archway into Diagon Alley – a bustling, wizarding hub within a Muggle city. The new land will offer one-of-a-kind adventures where guests can:

  • Experience the next generation thrill ride – Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts – where guests are propelled into a pivotal scene from the final Harry Potter book and film
  • Stroll along the streets of Diagon Alley and stop inside well-known shops like Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes, Magical Menagerie and Quality Quidditch Supplies
  • Experience the darker side of magic in Knockturn Alley
  • Witness the magical experience of a wand choosing a wizard at Ollivanders: Makers of Fine Wands since 382 BC
  • And more!

Universal Orlando Resort Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts

And, just like in the books and films, guests can ride the iconic Hogwarts Express to travel between King’s Cross Station in Universal Studios and Hogsmeade Station in Islands of Adventure. The scenic, breathtaking journey will transport guests through the British countryside as they encounter magical creatures and familiar Harry Potter characters.

In The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, which opened in 2010 at Universal’s Islands of Adventure, guests can experience Hogsmeade village and Hogwarts castle – which houses the groundbreaking Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey attraction.

To book a vacation package, visit www.UniversalOrlando.com. For additional information about The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, visit www.UniversalOrlando.com/HarryPotter.

Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram