Showing posts with label Orlando. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Orlando. Show all posts
Medieval Times in Orlando
Knightly Adventures at Medieval Times - VISIT FLORIDA video: Surrender to an age of bravery and honor and witness epic battles of steel and steed at Medieval Times in Orlando. From ringside seats, discover a feast of the eyes and appetite with more action, more fun & more excitement than ever before.
Orlando Theme Parks - How To Save Money (video)
From The Getaway: "As we continue our series planning a vacation to Orlando Florida, we'll look at the costs for parks like Disney World, Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, Discovery Cove, SeaWorld, Aquatica and more.
We'll also show you how to save big on tickets and get mobility scooters for over half off per day (if you're traveling with grandparents or someone that needs one."
We'll also show you how to save big on tickets and get mobility scooters for over half off per day (if you're traveling with grandparents or someone that needs one."
Ivanhoe Village in Orlando
An eclectic mixture of antique shops, boutiques, vintage records and great eats, the Ivanhoe Village neighborhood of Orlando has a little something for everyone.
Related: The Natural Side of Orlando. The Orlando area might be best known for its world-famous theme parks, but it's also a paradise for nature lovers.
Related: The Natural Side of Orlando. The Orlando area might be best known for its world-famous theme parks, but it's also a paradise for nature lovers.
Disney's Animal Kingdom theme park in Orlando, Florida
Disney's Animal Kingdom is an animal theme park (a zoo with rides) located at the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida. It was the fourth park built at the resort and it opened in 1998. It is the largest single Disney theme park in the world, covering more than 500 acres (202 ha).
Disney's Animal Kingdom is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), just like the other higher quality zoos in the U.S.
This sprawling park in the southwestern corner of Walt Disney World. As mentioned before, t is equal parts theme park and zoological park. Nearby is the second-most-popular water park in the world, Disney's Blizzard Beach (the first most-popular is Typhoon Lagoon).
When it first opened, park advertising used the faux-African word "nahtazu" ("not a zoo") to emphasize that it was not just a collection of animals in small iron cages. The animals spend their days in expansive habitats that are as close to their natural environments as possible, with subtle and camouflaged barriers keeping them away from guests (and each other). At night, they sleep comfortably indoors in the park's extensive housing area backstage.
The park consists of 7 themed areas that are connected to Discovery Island. The “island” contains The Tree of Life, a sculpted 14-story (44 m high, 15 m wide) artificial tree that serves as the centerpiece and icon of Disney's Animal Kingdom.
The Animal Kingdom typically closes at 5PM, much earlier than the other theme parks, so that the animals can get rest.
Wild Africa Trek provides behind the scenes look but it costs $190 (as of 2013) on top of the admission ticket. More info here: Wild Africa Trek: Explore a Different Side of Disney’s Animal Kingdom « Disney Parks Blog http://bit.ly/1gLZ39m
1. Oasis
The Oasis is the park's main entrance. It features African Spoonbills, Australian White Ibis, Babirusas, Bronze-winged Ducks, Giant Anteaters, Hyacinth Macaws, Lesser Whistling Ducks, Military Macaws, Scarlet Macaws, and others. The main paths lead deeper into the park, and onto Discovery Island.
2. Discovery Island
Discovery Island is in the middle of the Discovery River waterway. This is the "central hub" of Disney's Animal Kingdom, connecting almost all of the other 7 sections of the park, except Rafiki's Planet Watch.
The Tree of Life, the park's visual icon, is located here surrounded by animal enclosures of Discovery Island's trails showcasing Abdim's Storks, Black Crowned Cranes, Black-necked Swans, Blue-and-yellow Macaws, Grey Kangaroos, Galápagos Tortoises, Greater Flamingos, Red Kangaroos, and others.
3. Camp Minnie-Mickey
Camp Minnie-Mickey is themed as a rustic summer camp. Here guests can meet the Disney characters such as Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Goofy and others. Located in the area's main theatre is Festival of the Lion King, a live stage show featuring performances inspired by the movie The Lion King.
Some of the animals seen here are Bronze Turkeys, Homing Pigeons, Opossums, Porcupines, Rabbits, Raccoons, Rats, and others.
4. Africa
This exhibition is set in the fictional east African village of Harambe.
The main attraction is Kilimanjaro Safaris. Guests climb aboard an open-sided safari vehicle for an expedition to see African animals that freely roam through acres of savanna, rivers and rocky hills, including African Elephants, Black Rhinos, Blue Wildebeests, Bongos, Cheetahs, Dama Gazelles, Gerenuks, Grant's Zebras, Greater Flamingos, Greater Kudus, Hippos, Impalas, Lions, Nile Crocodiles, Okapis, Ostriches, Pink-backed Pelicans, Reticulated Giraffes, Sable Antelopes, Saddle-billed Storks, Scimitar Oryx, Thomson's Gazelles, Warthogs, Waterbucks, White Rhinos, and others. The predators and the hippos do not “roam freely” but are housed in disguised enclosures.
The adjacent Pangani Forest Exploration Trail, which is located partially “on the outside” of Safaris leads the visitors into the forest where they see Black-and-White Colobus Monkeys, Blue Cranes, Gorillas, Hippos, Meerkats, Okapis, and others. Its aviary consists of African Grey Parrots, African Jacanas, Collared Kingfishers, and others.
5. Rafiki's Planet Watch
This is the only section of the park (among all 7) that is not connected to Discovery Island. Rafiki's Planet Watch is instead connected to Africa via a train. Guests board the Wildlife Express Train for the short trip to and from Planet Watch. The trains run every 5-7 minutes.
The indoor Conservation Station showcases the various conservation efforts supported by the Walt Disney Company. It also gives a behind-the-scenes glimpse into Disney's Animal Kingdom's animal care facilities, including a veterinary examination room complete with a two-way communications system so the veterinary staff can answer guest questions.
Outside, Affection Section is a petting zoo featuring goats, sheep, pigs, llamas, donkeys, and other domesticated animals.
6. Asia
Like Africa, the section's attractions are part of a fictional place, the kingdom of Anandapur (which means "Place of many delights"). Anandapur comprises two villages: the riverside village of Anandapur and Serka Zong, which is in the foothills of the Himalayan Mountains.
Portraits of Anandapur's royal family, the Maharajah and his wife, can be found in most of the businesses within the two villages, and a map of the kingdom, featuring both villages and their location relative to the mountains and river can be found on the wall of the Disney Vacation Club kiosk located there.
The Maharajah Jungle Trek leads guests through the forests and ruins outside the village, which are home to Bengal Tigers, Blackbucks, Black-Rumped Flamebacks, Collared Kingfishers, and others.
The trail is themed as if it had once been the hunting grounds for a wealthy maharajah who enclosed the forest to allow for easier hunting and then some time later died in a hunting accident. The themed storyline continues with subsequent maharajahs (including the original maharajah's bachelor brother) transforming the area into a nature preserve where the villagers live in harmony with the animals therein. These maharajahs are memorialized on the walls of the tiger enclosure. The forest was, at one point, also run by imperial British visitors, as evidenced in the Western spelling on the sign at the entrance to the Jungle Trek, which reads "Royal Anandapoor Forest". When their occupation of southern Asia ended, the British turned the forest over to the villagers of Anandapur, whom you encounter as you walk through the jungle.
Nearby, Kali River Rapids is a river rapids ride along the fictional Chakranadi River through a rainforest, past an illegal logging operation and down a waterfall. Most riders get wet, and some get completely soaked, so plan accordingly.
Looming in the distance behind Anandapur is the Forbidden Mountain, the home of Expedition Everest, a roller coaster ride through the Himalayas where the passengers will have an “encounter with a Yeti.”
Towering 200 feet over the surrounding terrain, this mini-mountain is visible from some distance away and even threatens to overtake the Tree of Life as the park's most visible icon. The Tree, perhaps by contrast, is most impressive up close, where its size and detail can truly be appreciated.
7. DinoLand U.S.A.
DinoLand U.S.A. was inspired by the public's curiosity about dinosaurs. The fictitious Dino Institute and its surrounding facilities attract those with a scientific interest in the long-extinct animals. The Dino-Rama recalls the many roadside attractions that were once scattered throughout the United States.
Like the other sections of Disney's Animal Kingdom, there are animals on display. These particular animals, such as the American Crocodile, Red Legged Seriemas and Asian brown tortoise, have evolutionary links to the age of the dinosaurs.
The Dino Institute is the home of DINOSAUR, a thrill ride featuring a trip through time to the Late Cretaceous Period.
There are plenty of dining options. I had lunch at Flame Tree Barbecue on Discovery Island and was not very impressed. The view was great though. Terraces closest to the water offer a nice view of the river and Expedition Everest in the distance.
References:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Disney's_Animal_Kingdom
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Expedition_Everest
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharajah_Jungle_Trek
http://wikitravel.org/en/Walt_Disney_World/Animal_Kingdom#b
Disney's Animal Kingdom is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), just like the other higher quality zoos in the U.S.
This sprawling park in the southwestern corner of Walt Disney World. As mentioned before, t is equal parts theme park and zoological park. Nearby is the second-most-popular water park in the world, Disney's Blizzard Beach (the first most-popular is Typhoon Lagoon).
When it first opened, park advertising used the faux-African word "nahtazu" ("not a zoo") to emphasize that it was not just a collection of animals in small iron cages. The animals spend their days in expansive habitats that are as close to their natural environments as possible, with subtle and camouflaged barriers keeping them away from guests (and each other). At night, they sleep comfortably indoors in the park's extensive housing area backstage.
The park consists of 7 themed areas that are connected to Discovery Island. The “island” contains The Tree of Life, a sculpted 14-story (44 m high, 15 m wide) artificial tree that serves as the centerpiece and icon of Disney's Animal Kingdom.
The Animal Kingdom typically closes at 5PM, much earlier than the other theme parks, so that the animals can get rest.
Wild Africa Trek provides behind the scenes look but it costs $190 (as of 2013) on top of the admission ticket. More info here: Wild Africa Trek: Explore a Different Side of Disney’s Animal Kingdom « Disney Parks Blog http://bit.ly/1gLZ39m
1. Oasis
The Oasis is the park's main entrance. It features African Spoonbills, Australian White Ibis, Babirusas, Bronze-winged Ducks, Giant Anteaters, Hyacinth Macaws, Lesser Whistling Ducks, Military Macaws, Scarlet Macaws, and others. The main paths lead deeper into the park, and onto Discovery Island.
2. Discovery Island
Discovery Island is in the middle of the Discovery River waterway. This is the "central hub" of Disney's Animal Kingdom, connecting almost all of the other 7 sections of the park, except Rafiki's Planet Watch.
The Tree of Life, the park's visual icon, is located here surrounded by animal enclosures of Discovery Island's trails showcasing Abdim's Storks, Black Crowned Cranes, Black-necked Swans, Blue-and-yellow Macaws, Grey Kangaroos, Galápagos Tortoises, Greater Flamingos, Red Kangaroos, and others.
3. Camp Minnie-Mickey
Camp Minnie-Mickey is themed as a rustic summer camp. Here guests can meet the Disney characters such as Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Goofy and others. Located in the area's main theatre is Festival of the Lion King, a live stage show featuring performances inspired by the movie The Lion King.
Some of the animals seen here are Bronze Turkeys, Homing Pigeons, Opossums, Porcupines, Rabbits, Raccoons, Rats, and others.
4. Africa
This exhibition is set in the fictional east African village of Harambe.
The main attraction is Kilimanjaro Safaris. Guests climb aboard an open-sided safari vehicle for an expedition to see African animals that freely roam through acres of savanna, rivers and rocky hills, including African Elephants, Black Rhinos, Blue Wildebeests, Bongos, Cheetahs, Dama Gazelles, Gerenuks, Grant's Zebras, Greater Flamingos, Greater Kudus, Hippos, Impalas, Lions, Nile Crocodiles, Okapis, Ostriches, Pink-backed Pelicans, Reticulated Giraffes, Sable Antelopes, Saddle-billed Storks, Scimitar Oryx, Thomson's Gazelles, Warthogs, Waterbucks, White Rhinos, and others. The predators and the hippos do not “roam freely” but are housed in disguised enclosures.
The adjacent Pangani Forest Exploration Trail, which is located partially “on the outside” of Safaris leads the visitors into the forest where they see Black-and-White Colobus Monkeys, Blue Cranes, Gorillas, Hippos, Meerkats, Okapis, and others. Its aviary consists of African Grey Parrots, African Jacanas, Collared Kingfishers, and others.
5. Rafiki's Planet Watch
This is the only section of the park (among all 7) that is not connected to Discovery Island. Rafiki's Planet Watch is instead connected to Africa via a train. Guests board the Wildlife Express Train for the short trip to and from Planet Watch. The trains run every 5-7 minutes.
The indoor Conservation Station showcases the various conservation efforts supported by the Walt Disney Company. It also gives a behind-the-scenes glimpse into Disney's Animal Kingdom's animal care facilities, including a veterinary examination room complete with a two-way communications system so the veterinary staff can answer guest questions.
Outside, Affection Section is a petting zoo featuring goats, sheep, pigs, llamas, donkeys, and other domesticated animals.
6. Asia
Like Africa, the section's attractions are part of a fictional place, the kingdom of Anandapur (which means "Place of many delights"). Anandapur comprises two villages: the riverside village of Anandapur and Serka Zong, which is in the foothills of the Himalayan Mountains.
Portraits of Anandapur's royal family, the Maharajah and his wife, can be found in most of the businesses within the two villages, and a map of the kingdom, featuring both villages and their location relative to the mountains and river can be found on the wall of the Disney Vacation Club kiosk located there.
The Maharajah Jungle Trek leads guests through the forests and ruins outside the village, which are home to Bengal Tigers, Blackbucks, Black-Rumped Flamebacks, Collared Kingfishers, and others.
The trail is themed as if it had once been the hunting grounds for a wealthy maharajah who enclosed the forest to allow for easier hunting and then some time later died in a hunting accident. The themed storyline continues with subsequent maharajahs (including the original maharajah's bachelor brother) transforming the area into a nature preserve where the villagers live in harmony with the animals therein. These maharajahs are memorialized on the walls of the tiger enclosure. The forest was, at one point, also run by imperial British visitors, as evidenced in the Western spelling on the sign at the entrance to the Jungle Trek, which reads "Royal Anandapoor Forest". When their occupation of southern Asia ended, the British turned the forest over to the villagers of Anandapur, whom you encounter as you walk through the jungle.
Nearby, Kali River Rapids is a river rapids ride along the fictional Chakranadi River through a rainforest, past an illegal logging operation and down a waterfall. Most riders get wet, and some get completely soaked, so plan accordingly.
Looming in the distance behind Anandapur is the Forbidden Mountain, the home of Expedition Everest, a roller coaster ride through the Himalayas where the passengers will have an “encounter with a Yeti.”
Towering 200 feet over the surrounding terrain, this mini-mountain is visible from some distance away and even threatens to overtake the Tree of Life as the park's most visible icon. The Tree, perhaps by contrast, is most impressive up close, where its size and detail can truly be appreciated.
7. DinoLand U.S.A.
DinoLand U.S.A. was inspired by the public's curiosity about dinosaurs. The fictitious Dino Institute and its surrounding facilities attract those with a scientific interest in the long-extinct animals. The Dino-Rama recalls the many roadside attractions that were once scattered throughout the United States.
Like the other sections of Disney's Animal Kingdom, there are animals on display. These particular animals, such as the American Crocodile, Red Legged Seriemas and Asian brown tortoise, have evolutionary links to the age of the dinosaurs.
The Dino Institute is the home of DINOSAUR, a thrill ride featuring a trip through time to the Late Cretaceous Period.
There are plenty of dining options. I had lunch at Flame Tree Barbecue on Discovery Island and was not very impressed. The view was great though. Terraces closest to the water offer a nice view of the river and Expedition Everest in the distance.
References:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Disney's_Animal_Kingdom
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Expedition_Everest
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharajah_Jungle_Trek
http://wikitravel.org/en/Walt_Disney_World/Animal_Kingdom#b
Canada in World Showcase, Epcot park in Walt Disney World
The Canada pavilion is designed to remind the guest of the Canadian outdoors. The pavilion is decorated with a canyon, a waterfall, gardens, a pool with fountains, and totem poles. The pavilion has 3 native totem poles, up to 30' in height. Two of the three are made out of fiberglass, and one is carved out of wood.
The mountains, Indian wood carvings, and the "fake" hotel all represent various regions of Canada.
The Victoria Gardens which are adjacent to the Hotel du Canada are inspired by the Butchart Gardens near Victoria, British Columbia. The gardens are the largest (and most labour intensive) of all the national pavilions.
The Hotel du Canada features a 19th-century chateau-style design. Around the base of the hotel is a village-like atmosphere evoking the Maritime Provinces.
Prior to the construction of the Canadian pavilion, the Walt Disney corporation sought financial support for the attraction from the Canadian government. The company wanted the Federal government to fund the cost of building the attraction, in return the government would have input into the design and layout. The Canadian government was concerned about the stereotype of Canada that Disney wanted (i.e., lumberjacks). Funding was refused, and Disney threatened to pull the exhibit, but ultimately did not.
References:
http://wikitravel.org/en/Epcot
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canada_(Epcot)
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/attractions/canada-pavilion/
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining/le-cellier-steakhouse/
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/entertainment/off-kilter/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epcot
http://wikitravel.org/en/Epcot
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Experimental_Prototype_Community_of_Tomorrow_(concept)
http://wikitravel.org/en/Image:Map_-_Walt_Disney_World_-_Epcot_-_park.png
Related:
Disney Parks After Dark: Sunset at Epcot’s Canada Pavilion http://buff.ly/1L9HRFS
A Guide To Drinking Around The World at Disney's Epcot http://buff.ly/1RlE4ZH
The mountains, Indian wood carvings, and the "fake" hotel all represent various regions of Canada.
The Victoria Gardens which are adjacent to the Hotel du Canada are inspired by the Butchart Gardens near Victoria, British Columbia. The gardens are the largest (and most labour intensive) of all the national pavilions.
The Hotel du Canada features a 19th-century chateau-style design. Around the base of the hotel is a village-like atmosphere evoking the Maritime Provinces.
Prior to the construction of the Canadian pavilion, the Walt Disney corporation sought financial support for the attraction from the Canadian government. The company wanted the Federal government to fund the cost of building the attraction, in return the government would have input into the design and layout. The Canadian government was concerned about the stereotype of Canada that Disney wanted (i.e., lumberjacks). Funding was refused, and Disney threatened to pull the exhibit, but ultimately did not.
References:
http://wikitravel.org/en/Epcot
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canada_(Epcot)
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/attractions/canada-pavilion/
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining/le-cellier-steakhouse/
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/entertainment/off-kilter/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epcot
http://wikitravel.org/en/Epcot
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Experimental_Prototype_Community_of_Tomorrow_(concept)
http://wikitravel.org/en/Image:Map_-_Walt_Disney_World_-_Epcot_-_park.png
Related:
Disney Parks After Dark: Sunset at Epcot’s Canada Pavilion http://buff.ly/1L9HRFS
A Guide To Drinking Around The World at Disney's Epcot http://buff.ly/1RlE4ZH
United Kingdom in World Showcase, Epcot park in Walt Disney World
The United Kingdom Pavilion was designed to look like a typical British village.
This pavilion's street contains one building for each century of British history. The largest structure, a recreation of the royal Hampton Court Palace in southwest London, is a patchwork of different periods' architecture. The little thatched roof house is a model of Anne Hathaway’s cottage in Stratford-upon-Avon. Anne was the wife of William Shakespeare. There is also a traditional hedge maze, modelled after the the Somerleyton Hall Maze in Lowestoft, which dates back to 1846. Don't forget to get a photo of yourself in front of the iconic red British phone booths.
The shops sell British items, such as tea, toys, clothing and Beatles merchandise. There is also a Beatles tribute band called "The British Invasion" that performs regularly in the Pavilion.
The Rose & Crown Pub and Dining Room serves traditional British food, as well as beer and ale. The indoor section resembles a pub, while the outdoor seating is located on a patio overlooking the lagoon. Dishes include Potato and Leek Soup, Bangers and Mash, Fish and Chips, and Baileys Irish Cream Irish Coffee Trifle.
Yorkshire County Fish Shop is a quick service fish and chip counter restaurant that serves only fish, chips, and shortbread. Drinks, including Bass Ale and Harp Lager, are available. Seating is outdoors only. Yorkshire is very rarely referred to as "Yorkshire County", despite being a county, because "shire" and "county" are synonymous in the UK.
There is a sport shop selling British sport equipment, including Chelsea F.C. and Liverpool F.C. shirts.
References:
http://wikitravel.org/en/Epcot
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Kingdom_(Epcot)
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/attractions/united-kingdom-pavilion/
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining/rose-and-crown-dining-room/
A Guide To Drinking Around The World at Disney's Epcot http://buff.ly/1RlE4ZH
This pavilion's street contains one building for each century of British history. The largest structure, a recreation of the royal Hampton Court Palace in southwest London, is a patchwork of different periods' architecture. The little thatched roof house is a model of Anne Hathaway’s cottage in Stratford-upon-Avon. Anne was the wife of William Shakespeare. There is also a traditional hedge maze, modelled after the the Somerleyton Hall Maze in Lowestoft, which dates back to 1846. Don't forget to get a photo of yourself in front of the iconic red British phone booths.
The shops sell British items, such as tea, toys, clothing and Beatles merchandise. There is also a Beatles tribute band called "The British Invasion" that performs regularly in the Pavilion.
The Rose & Crown Pub and Dining Room serves traditional British food, as well as beer and ale. The indoor section resembles a pub, while the outdoor seating is located on a patio overlooking the lagoon. Dishes include Potato and Leek Soup, Bangers and Mash, Fish and Chips, and Baileys Irish Cream Irish Coffee Trifle.
Yorkshire County Fish Shop is a quick service fish and chip counter restaurant that serves only fish, chips, and shortbread. Drinks, including Bass Ale and Harp Lager, are available. Seating is outdoors only. Yorkshire is very rarely referred to as "Yorkshire County", despite being a county, because "shire" and "county" are synonymous in the UK.
There is a sport shop selling British sport equipment, including Chelsea F.C. and Liverpool F.C. shirts.
References:
http://wikitravel.org/en/Epcot
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Kingdom_(Epcot)
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/attractions/united-kingdom-pavilion/
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining/rose-and-crown-dining-room/
A Guide To Drinking Around The World at Disney's Epcot http://buff.ly/1RlE4ZH
France in World Showcase, Epcot park in Walt Disney World
The France pavilion is themed to look like a Paris neighborhood with a pool and fountains and with a view of the Eiffel Tower in the distance.
The French pavilion re-creates a Parisian street scene, complete with a miniature Eiffel Tower that uses forced perspective to appear as if it's off in the distance. In fact, the "tower" is attached on the roof of a building.
The pavilion features many of the typical Parisian sights—a sidewalk cafe, fountains, and distinctive architecture.
The pavilion features "Impressions de France", a panoramic movie which visits France's cities and historical structures.
It includes two French restaurants, the Bistro de Paris and Les Chefs de France, and a bakery, the Boulangerie Patisserie.
Belle, Beast, and Gaston from Disney's "Beauty and the Beast" make appearances at the France Pavilion.
References:
http://wikitravel.org/en/Epcot
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/France_(Epcot)
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/attractions/france-pavilion/
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/attractions/impressions-de-france/
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining/les-chefs-de-france/
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining/akershus/
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/entertainment/serveur-amusant/
A Guide To Drinking Around The World at Disney's Epcot http://buff.ly/1RlE4ZH
The French pavilion re-creates a Parisian street scene, complete with a miniature Eiffel Tower that uses forced perspective to appear as if it's off in the distance. In fact, the "tower" is attached on the roof of a building.
The pavilion features many of the typical Parisian sights—a sidewalk cafe, fountains, and distinctive architecture.
The pavilion features "Impressions de France", a panoramic movie which visits France's cities and historical structures.
It includes two French restaurants, the Bistro de Paris and Les Chefs de France, and a bakery, the Boulangerie Patisserie.
Belle, Beast, and Gaston from Disney's "Beauty and the Beast" make appearances at the France Pavilion.
References:
http://wikitravel.org/en/Epcot
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/France_(Epcot)
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/attractions/france-pavilion/
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/attractions/impressions-de-france/
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining/les-chefs-de-france/
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining/akershus/
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/entertainment/serveur-amusant/
A Guide To Drinking Around The World at Disney's Epcot http://buff.ly/1RlE4ZH
Morocco in World Showcase, Epcot park in Walt Disney World
The Moroccan Pavilion, designed to look like a Moroccan city with a realistic Minaret, features the only pavilion in which the country's government aided in the design. King Hassan II sent Moroccan artisans to design and create the many mosaics. The government also sponsors the pavilion, while a corporation holds sponsoring rights on every other pavilion.
The minaret (or tower) towering over the area is a recreation of the unique Koutoubia Minaret in Marrakech.
The Fez House shows guests the typical Moroccan house. Inside the pavilion, North African plants including citrus trees, date palms, and olive trees, and fountains.
There is also a replica of the Nejjarine fountain in Fez, a very intricate mosaic fountain. Also from Fez, the evenly-tiled Bab Boujouloud gate marks the border between the old town (the Medina) and the new town. Inside the Medina, there is a bustling market place, or bazaar. Six shops adorn the pavilion, selling patrons everything from rugs to leather goods, and traditional Moroccan clothing.
The courtyard plays hosts to entertainment, including a belly dancing show in the evening.
Restaurant Marrakesh, along with the Moorish Cafe, serve Moroccan fare, including roast lamb in Tajine, couscous, and Harira soup.
References:
Discover Morocco at Epcot – No Passport Needed « Disney Parks Blog http://bit.ly/PW2iP7
http://wikitravel.org/en/Epcot
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Morocco_(Epcot)
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/attractions/morocco-pavilion/
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining/restaurant-marrakesh/
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/entertainment/mo-rockin/
36 Hours in Marrakesh, Morocco - NYTimes.com, http://goo.gl/p3PE0
A Guide To Drinking Around The World at Disney's Epcot http://buff.ly/1RlE4ZH
The minaret (or tower) towering over the area is a recreation of the unique Koutoubia Minaret in Marrakech.
The Fez House shows guests the typical Moroccan house. Inside the pavilion, North African plants including citrus trees, date palms, and olive trees, and fountains.
There is also a replica of the Nejjarine fountain in Fez, a very intricate mosaic fountain. Also from Fez, the evenly-tiled Bab Boujouloud gate marks the border between the old town (the Medina) and the new town. Inside the Medina, there is a bustling market place, or bazaar. Six shops adorn the pavilion, selling patrons everything from rugs to leather goods, and traditional Moroccan clothing.
The courtyard plays hosts to entertainment, including a belly dancing show in the evening.
Restaurant Marrakesh, along with the Moorish Cafe, serve Moroccan fare, including roast lamb in Tajine, couscous, and Harira soup.
References:
Discover Morocco at Epcot – No Passport Needed « Disney Parks Blog http://bit.ly/PW2iP7
http://wikitravel.org/en/Epcot
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Morocco_(Epcot)
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/attractions/morocco-pavilion/
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining/restaurant-marrakesh/
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/entertainment/mo-rockin/
36 Hours in Marrakesh, Morocco - NYTimes.com, http://goo.gl/p3PE0
A Guide To Drinking Around The World at Disney's Epcot http://buff.ly/1RlE4ZH
Japan in World Showcase, Epcot park in Walt Disney World
The Japan pavilion is made up of buildings surrounding a courtyard. The entrance to the courtyard features a Japanese Pagoda.
Start your visit by walking through the Torii gate. In Japan you walk through these gates before entering a Shinto shrine, to mark the passing into the spiritual world. The five-story Goju-no-to Pagoda was inspired by the Horyuji Temple in Nara, Japan's ancient capital.
At the end of the courtyard is the gate to a Japanese castle, including a moat, which leads into a display of Japanese culture.
Mitsukoshi, Japan's 325-year-old retail giant has only one location in North America, and this is it. Toys, cosmetics, clothing, housewares, and even food—everything you'd expect from a department store, all imported from Japan.
Many attractions have been proposed for the pavilion and one show building was built, but left unused.
References:
http://wikitravel.org/en/Epcot
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Japan_(Epcot)
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/attractions/japan-pavilion/
A Guide To Drinking Around The World at Disney's Epcot http://buff.ly/1RlE4ZH
Start your visit by walking through the Torii gate. In Japan you walk through these gates before entering a Shinto shrine, to mark the passing into the spiritual world. The five-story Goju-no-to Pagoda was inspired by the Horyuji Temple in Nara, Japan's ancient capital.
At the end of the courtyard is the gate to a Japanese castle, including a moat, which leads into a display of Japanese culture.
Mitsukoshi, Japan's 325-year-old retail giant has only one location in North America, and this is it. Toys, cosmetics, clothing, housewares, and even food—everything you'd expect from a department store, all imported from Japan.
Many attractions have been proposed for the pavilion and one show building was built, but left unused.
References:
http://wikitravel.org/en/Epcot
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Japan_(Epcot)
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/attractions/japan-pavilion/
A Guide To Drinking Around The World at Disney's Epcot http://buff.ly/1RlE4ZH
The American Adventure in World Showcase, Epcot park in Walt Disney World
The United States of America pavilion is housed in a building inspired by the colonial period of the 18th century.
The pavilion's main attraction is an Audio-Animatronics stage show of American history.
America Gardens Theater is across from the main building, on the shores of the lagoon.
The Liberty Inn Restaurant serves American fare like cheeseburgers and BBQ, and the kiosk just outside the pavilion offers delicious funnel cakes.
References:
http://wikitravel.org/en/Epcot
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_American_Adventure
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/attractions/american-adventure-pavilion/
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining/liberty-inn/
A Guide To Drinking Around The World at Disney's Epcot http://buff.ly/1RlE4ZH
The pavilion's main attraction is an Audio-Animatronics stage show of American history.
America Gardens Theater is across from the main building, on the shores of the lagoon.
The Liberty Inn Restaurant serves American fare like cheeseburgers and BBQ, and the kiosk just outside the pavilion offers delicious funnel cakes.
References:
http://wikitravel.org/en/Epcot
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_American_Adventure
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/attractions/american-adventure-pavilion/
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining/liberty-inn/
A Guide To Drinking Around The World at Disney's Epcot http://buff.ly/1RlE4ZH
Italy in World Showcase, Epcot park in Walt Disney World
The Italian Pavilion features a plaza surrounded by a collection of buildings evocative of Venetian, Florentine, and Roman architecture.
There is a scaled-down replica of St. Mark's Square in Venice, with a bell tower (one-fifth scale).
Venetian architecture is represented by a re-creation of St Mark's Campanile (bell tower) and a replica of the Doge's Palace.
The original Doge's Palace makes heavy use of marble; Disney recreated the effect with fiberglass. In addition to the Venetian architecture, a stucco building with tile roof represents Tuscany.
The pavilion's design is inspired by other hallmarks of Italian architecture, such as the Neptune Fountain (reminiscent of Rome's Trevi Fountain) and the Il Bel Cristallo shop (meant to resemble the exterior of the Sistine Chapel).
Musicians, clowns and acting troupes often appear in the piazza throughout the day.
There are small shops selling Italian goods, such as candy and wine.
Via Napoli restaurant
A restaurant by the name of Via Napoli opened under the Patina Restaurant Group in 2010, and brought the pavilion its long-awaited completion (it was supposed to have gondola rides at the back of the area). Via Napoli features Florentine architecture and authentic Neapolitan cuisine.
The pizza is thin crust original and is delicious. The restaurant focuses on wood-fired pizza in the traditional Neapolitan style—right down to the hand-made mozzarella, and the flour imported straight from Naples. Via Napoli's three wood burning ovens pay tribute to the three active volcanoes in Italy: Etna, Vesuvio, and Stromboli. To do this, each of the three ovens are sculpted in the shape of the face of the god that their corresponding volcano is named after.
The long communal table in the center of the room was built in Florence and features hand painted tiles depicting iconic monuments in Italy. Other notable features of Via Napoli are its high and vaulted ceilings, imported ceramics and blown glass, and the abundance of windows that flood the establishment with natural light.
References:
http://wikitravel.org/en/Epcot
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Italy_(Epcot)
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/attractions/italy-pavilion/
A Guide To Drinking Around The World at Disney's Epcot http://buff.ly/1RlE4ZH
There is a scaled-down replica of St. Mark's Square in Venice, with a bell tower (one-fifth scale).
Venetian architecture is represented by a re-creation of St Mark's Campanile (bell tower) and a replica of the Doge's Palace.
The original Doge's Palace makes heavy use of marble; Disney recreated the effect with fiberglass. In addition to the Venetian architecture, a stucco building with tile roof represents Tuscany.
The pavilion's design is inspired by other hallmarks of Italian architecture, such as the Neptune Fountain (reminiscent of Rome's Trevi Fountain) and the Il Bel Cristallo shop (meant to resemble the exterior of the Sistine Chapel).
Musicians, clowns and acting troupes often appear in the piazza throughout the day.
There are small shops selling Italian goods, such as candy and wine.
Via Napoli restaurant
A restaurant by the name of Via Napoli opened under the Patina Restaurant Group in 2010, and brought the pavilion its long-awaited completion (it was supposed to have gondola rides at the back of the area). Via Napoli features Florentine architecture and authentic Neapolitan cuisine.
The pizza is thin crust original and is delicious. The restaurant focuses on wood-fired pizza in the traditional Neapolitan style—right down to the hand-made mozzarella, and the flour imported straight from Naples. Via Napoli's three wood burning ovens pay tribute to the three active volcanoes in Italy: Etna, Vesuvio, and Stromboli. To do this, each of the three ovens are sculpted in the shape of the face of the god that their corresponding volcano is named after.
The long communal table in the center of the room was built in Florence and features hand painted tiles depicting iconic monuments in Italy. Other notable features of Via Napoli are its high and vaulted ceilings, imported ceramics and blown glass, and the abundance of windows that flood the establishment with natural light.
References:
http://wikitravel.org/en/Epcot
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Italy_(Epcot)
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/attractions/italy-pavilion/
A Guide To Drinking Around The World at Disney's Epcot http://buff.ly/1RlE4ZH
Germany in World Showcase, Epcot park in Walt Disney World
The Germany Pavilion is designed to look like a German town, but with architecture from different eras and regions. Germany is a federation of 16 states, with distinct culture and identity. The architecture of the German pavilion reflects styles from various regions of the country; for example, the Biergarten restaurant is Bavarian, but the statue of St. George slaying the dragon represents the state of North Rhine-Westphalia. Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria, commissioned in 1869 by King Ludwig II, was the inspiration for Disneyland's Sleeping Beauty Castle.
The Platz (square) is decorated with a statue of St. George and the Dragon and a clock tower.
The Biergarten, at the rear of the courtyard, sells traditional German food. Biergarten Restaurant is a buffet restaurant designed to look as though Oktoberfest is being celebrated there. Schnitzel, strudel and beer offer a taste of Bavaria. It features live entertainment and beer served in one liter steins. The dining hall was supposed to be the the entrance area for the never built boat cruise down the Rhine (Germany did not fund it).
Sommerfest is a quick-service restaurant
The pavilion has numerous small shops selling German goods, including dolls and cuckoo clocks.
Karamell-Küche (Caramel Kitchen) is a sweets shop specializes in caramel concoctions of every sort, from caramel corn to caramel fudge. Operated by Storck, makers of Werther's caramels, this is the only standalone Werther's retail location in the world.
The area near the pavilion (next to the restrooms) is decorated by an extensive model village with working model trains.
References:
http://wikitravel.org/en/Epcot
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Germany_(Epcot)
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/attractions/germany-pavilion/
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining/biergarten-restaurant/
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/entertainment/oktoberfest-musikanten/
Celebrate Oktoberfest All Year Long at Epcot’s Biergarten « Disney Parks Blog http://buff.ly/P4HfF1
A Guide To Drinking Around The World at Disney's Epcot http://buff.ly/1RlE4ZH
The Platz (square) is decorated with a statue of St. George and the Dragon and a clock tower.
The Biergarten, at the rear of the courtyard, sells traditional German food. Biergarten Restaurant is a buffet restaurant designed to look as though Oktoberfest is being celebrated there. Schnitzel, strudel and beer offer a taste of Bavaria. It features live entertainment and beer served in one liter steins. The dining hall was supposed to be the the entrance area for the never built boat cruise down the Rhine (Germany did not fund it).
Sommerfest is a quick-service restaurant
The pavilion has numerous small shops selling German goods, including dolls and cuckoo clocks.
Karamell-Küche (Caramel Kitchen) is a sweets shop specializes in caramel concoctions of every sort, from caramel corn to caramel fudge. Operated by Storck, makers of Werther's caramels, this is the only standalone Werther's retail location in the world.
The area near the pavilion (next to the restrooms) is decorated by an extensive model village with working model trains.
References:
http://wikitravel.org/en/Epcot
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Germany_(Epcot)
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/attractions/germany-pavilion/
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining/biergarten-restaurant/
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/entertainment/oktoberfest-musikanten/
Celebrate Oktoberfest All Year Long at Epcot’s Biergarten « Disney Parks Blog http://buff.ly/P4HfF1
A Guide To Drinking Around The World at Disney's Epcot http://buff.ly/1RlE4ZH
China in World Showcase, Epcot park in Walt Disney World
Walk through the large Paifang gate. These type of gates were used in China to mark entry into a new division, and this one is a replica of one in Beijing's summer palace. The courtyard is dominated by a recreation of the Temple of Heaven in Beijing; it was used by the emperors to pray for a good harvest. The 12 columns supporting the roof represent the 12 months of the Chinese year, and the four columns in the center represent the four seasons.
The courtyard is bordered by shops selling Chinese merchandise, and two Chinese restaurants. The pavilion is decorated with ponds, crossed by bridges. The Chinese garden is one of the most peaceful spots in Epcot.
Reflections of China is a Circle-Vision 360, 13-minute travel movie of China's most well-known sights, from Shanghai and Inner Mongolia, to the Forbidden City and the Great Wall of China.
Chinese acrobats perform frequently in the pavilion.
Nine Dragons is a full-service gourmet Chinese restaurant featuring traditional Chinese fare, such as two-course Peking duck.
Lotus Blossom Cafe is a quick-service restaurant serving an assortment of Chinese dishes.
References:
http://wikitravel.org/en/Epcot
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/China_(Epcot)
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/attractions/china-pavilion/
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/attractions/reflections-of-china/
A Guide To Drinking Around The World at Disney's Epcot http://buff.ly/1RlE4ZH
The courtyard is bordered by shops selling Chinese merchandise, and two Chinese restaurants. The pavilion is decorated with ponds, crossed by bridges. The Chinese garden is one of the most peaceful spots in Epcot.
Reflections of China is a Circle-Vision 360, 13-minute travel movie of China's most well-known sights, from Shanghai and Inner Mongolia, to the Forbidden City and the Great Wall of China.
Chinese acrobats perform frequently in the pavilion.
Nine Dragons is a full-service gourmet Chinese restaurant featuring traditional Chinese fare, such as two-course Peking duck.
Lotus Blossom Cafe is a quick-service restaurant serving an assortment of Chinese dishes.
References:
http://wikitravel.org/en/Epcot
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/China_(Epcot)
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/attractions/china-pavilion/
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/attractions/reflections-of-china/
A Guide To Drinking Around The World at Disney's Epcot http://buff.ly/1RlE4ZH
Norway in World Showcase, Epcot park in Walt Disney World
This area is built as a square representing a Norwegian town or village. The fortress-like restaurant is modeled and named after the Akershus fortress in Oslo, guarding the sea approach to the city.
The wooden church is a replica of the traditional Stave Church in Gol in Western Norway, dating back to 1212; the original is one of very few surviving ancient wooden churches left in the world.
A mock-up of a Viking longboat sits outside and serves as a playground for kids.
The shops are decorated with large wooden trolls and sell assorted Norwegian goods, including clothing, candy, and statuettes of Norse gods and trolls. The courtyard of the pavilion contains the entrance to Maelstrom, a boat ride into Norway's past and present.
Maelstrom ride is a Viking boat with Vikings, cursing trolls and oil platforms. The ships are modeled after those sailed by Eric The Red, who colonized Greenland and was central to the Vikings' discovery of North America, 5 centuries before Christopher Columbus.
Kringla Bakeri Og Kafe is a bakery, featuring assorted Norwegian pastries, such as cream horns and open-faced salmon sandwiches.
The Norway pavilion is the most recent nation to be added to World Showcase. It opened in 1988.
The original idea was to create a Nordic Pavilion that would combine elements from various countries into one exhibit. Three countries were consulted, but it finally ended up with investors from Norway raising the US$30 million required to create an exclusive national pavilion. Disney contributed the other one-third of the construction cost. In 1992, the investors sold their stake to Disney.
References:
http://wikitravel.org/en/Epcot
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Norway_(Epcot)
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/attractions/norway-pavilion/
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/attractions/maelstrom/
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining/akershus/
A Guide To Drinking Around The World at Disney's Epcot http://buff.ly/1RlE4ZH
The wooden church is a replica of the traditional Stave Church in Gol in Western Norway, dating back to 1212; the original is one of very few surviving ancient wooden churches left in the world.
A mock-up of a Viking longboat sits outside and serves as a playground for kids.
The shops are decorated with large wooden trolls and sell assorted Norwegian goods, including clothing, candy, and statuettes of Norse gods and trolls. The courtyard of the pavilion contains the entrance to Maelstrom, a boat ride into Norway's past and present.
Maelstrom ride is a Viking boat with Vikings, cursing trolls and oil platforms. The ships are modeled after those sailed by Eric The Red, who colonized Greenland and was central to the Vikings' discovery of North America, 5 centuries before Christopher Columbus.
Kringla Bakeri Og Kafe is a bakery, featuring assorted Norwegian pastries, such as cream horns and open-faced salmon sandwiches.
The Norway pavilion is the most recent nation to be added to World Showcase. It opened in 1988.
The original idea was to create a Nordic Pavilion that would combine elements from various countries into one exhibit. Three countries were consulted, but it finally ended up with investors from Norway raising the US$30 million required to create an exclusive national pavilion. Disney contributed the other one-third of the construction cost. In 1992, the investors sold their stake to Disney.
References:
http://wikitravel.org/en/Epcot
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Norway_(Epcot)
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/attractions/norway-pavilion/
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/attractions/maelstrom/
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining/akershus/
A Guide To Drinking Around The World at Disney's Epcot http://buff.ly/1RlE4ZH
Mexico in World Showcase, Epcot park in Walt Disney World
The Mexican pavilion is dominated by a pyramid, loosely modeled after the pre-Columbian pyramid in Teotihuacan known as the Temple of the Feathered Serpent, dating back to 150-200 CE. The nightly fireworks show "IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth" is controlled from a small office atop the building.
The head of the mythical serpent creature Quetzalcoatl has been included in this replica along the entrance stairs.
Visitors enter through a display of Mexican artwork, the "Animales Fantasticos" art collection.
Inside the pyramid is a night time square with stars twinkling above (Plaza de los Amigos), Spanish-era colonial buildings, a restaurant, and a market selling Mexican items.
At the edge of the plaza, a restaurant, San Angel Inn, overlooks an indoor lagoon. San Angel Inn is the sibling to Mexico City's restaurant of the same name, which dates back to 1692.
To the side of the plaza, a boarding area leads to a boat ride, Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros.
References:
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/attractions/mexico-pavilion/
http://wikitravel.org/en/Epcot
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mexico_(Epcot)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gran_Fiesta_Tour_Starring_The_Three_Caballeros
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/entertainment/mariachi-cobre/
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining/la-hacienda-de-san-angel/
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining/san-angel-inn/
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/attractions/gran-fiesta-tour/
A Guide To Drinking Around The World at Disney's Epcot http://buff.ly/1RlE4ZH
The head of the mythical serpent creature Quetzalcoatl has been included in this replica along the entrance stairs.
Visitors enter through a display of Mexican artwork, the "Animales Fantasticos" art collection.
Inside the pyramid is a night time square with stars twinkling above (Plaza de los Amigos), Spanish-era colonial buildings, a restaurant, and a market selling Mexican items.
At the edge of the plaza, a restaurant, San Angel Inn, overlooks an indoor lagoon. San Angel Inn is the sibling to Mexico City's restaurant of the same name, which dates back to 1692.
To the side of the plaza, a boarding area leads to a boat ride, Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros.
References:
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/attractions/mexico-pavilion/
http://wikitravel.org/en/Epcot
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mexico_(Epcot)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gran_Fiesta_Tour_Starring_The_Three_Caballeros
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/entertainment/mariachi-cobre/
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining/la-hacienda-de-san-angel/
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining/san-angel-inn/
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/attractions/gran-fiesta-tour/
A Guide To Drinking Around The World at Disney's Epcot http://buff.ly/1RlE4ZH
Epcot park in Walt Disney World
The Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow (EPCOT) was a concept developed by Walt Disney near the end of his lifetime.
Epcot is a theme park at the Walt Disney World Resort, located near Orlando, Florida. The park is dedicated to international culture and technological innovation.
Lagoon
World Showcase Lagoon is a man-made lake located in the center of World Showcase. "FriendShip" boats transport guests from Future World to the opposite end of World Showcase. The World Showcase Lagoon has a circumference of roughly a mile. To make a long trip short, there are FriendShip ferries that traverse the lagoon.
Epcot might be the easiest of the parks to get around, because it is "open" and spacious. The spaciousness has a drawback, though; because the pavilions are spread out, it can be a long walk from one side of the park to the other. Spaceship Earth is visible from anywhere in the park and provides a convenient orientation landmark. Epcot is considerably less crowded than Magic Kingdom.
The International Gateway, Epcot's "back entrance", is between France and the United Kingdom; exit here to get to the BoardWalk, or to Disney's Hollywood Studios.
World Showcase
World Showcase contains pavilions representing 11 countries (and opens at 11 AM). In clockwise order, the pavilions are:
- Mexico
- Norway
- China
- Germany
- Italy
- The American Adventure
- Japan
- Morocco
- France
- United Kingdom
- Canada
Epcot is sometimes likened to a "permanent world's fair". Epcot is also described an "educational park" and is perhaps the most cerebral of the four theme parks. Just outside Epcot's International Gateway is Disney's BoardWalk, a nightlife and shopping area themed as a mid-Atlantic beach community.
Norway and Morocco were not present at the park's opening, and were added later. These two are now the first areas that are encountered on the left of the port of entry.
Pavilions for Australia, Russia, Spain, Venezuela, United Arab Emirates, and Israel never made it past the planning phase.
World Showcase features 11 different countries, focusing on authentic food and merchandise, each one hosted by citizens of that country.
Unlike the Magic Kingdom, which does not serve alcohol, many stores and restaurants in the World Showcase do serve or sell alcoholic beverages from their respective countries, and beer is sold at refreshment stands throughout the park. Some Epcot visitors enjoy an unofficial adventure known as "Drinking Around the World": sampling a local libation in each of the eleven pavilions.
Every pavilion is full of authentic merchandise imported from the host countries. For example, German cuckoo clocks, British toys, Canadian maple syrup, Japanese kimonos, Chinese furniture, Mexican leathers, Italian and French wines, etc.
The racks are full of products normally available only overseas, including many handcrafted by native artisans. There are few places in the world that you could find goods from so many countries in such close proximity.
World Showcase is the back area of the park, with pavilions representing eleven countries from around the world, all themed with architecture, food, drink and culture to match. Most of the pavilions have a ride or a film (or both) designed to highlight the nation's attractions, but the real attractions are sampling the authentic food, conversing with the cast members who come from each nation, and browsing the imported goods.
Related reading:
What’s Your Favorite Dish? Trying All 29 Marketplaces in One Day at the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival http://bit.ly/VSQpf3
AllEars.Net - The Unofficial Disney Vacation Planning Guide http://bit.ly/XyyLJk
A Guide To Drinking Around The World at Disney's Epcot http://buff.ly/1RlE4ZH
Epcot is a theme park at the Walt Disney World Resort, located near Orlando, Florida. The park is dedicated to international culture and technological innovation.
Lagoon
World Showcase Lagoon is a man-made lake located in the center of World Showcase. "FriendShip" boats transport guests from Future World to the opposite end of World Showcase. The World Showcase Lagoon has a circumference of roughly a mile. To make a long trip short, there are FriendShip ferries that traverse the lagoon.
Epcot might be the easiest of the parks to get around, because it is "open" and spacious. The spaciousness has a drawback, though; because the pavilions are spread out, it can be a long walk from one side of the park to the other. Spaceship Earth is visible from anywhere in the park and provides a convenient orientation landmark. Epcot is considerably less crowded than Magic Kingdom.
The International Gateway, Epcot's "back entrance", is between France and the United Kingdom; exit here to get to the BoardWalk, or to Disney's Hollywood Studios.
World Showcase
World Showcase contains pavilions representing 11 countries (and opens at 11 AM). In clockwise order, the pavilions are:
- Mexico
- Norway
- China
- Germany
- Italy
- The American Adventure
- Japan
- Morocco
- France
- United Kingdom
- Canada
Epcot is sometimes likened to a "permanent world's fair". Epcot is also described an "educational park" and is perhaps the most cerebral of the four theme parks. Just outside Epcot's International Gateway is Disney's BoardWalk, a nightlife and shopping area themed as a mid-Atlantic beach community.
Norway and Morocco were not present at the park's opening, and were added later. These two are now the first areas that are encountered on the left of the port of entry.
Pavilions for Australia, Russia, Spain, Venezuela, United Arab Emirates, and Israel never made it past the planning phase.
World Showcase features 11 different countries, focusing on authentic food and merchandise, each one hosted by citizens of that country.
Unlike the Magic Kingdom, which does not serve alcohol, many stores and restaurants in the World Showcase do serve or sell alcoholic beverages from their respective countries, and beer is sold at refreshment stands throughout the park. Some Epcot visitors enjoy an unofficial adventure known as "Drinking Around the World": sampling a local libation in each of the eleven pavilions.
Every pavilion is full of authentic merchandise imported from the host countries. For example, German cuckoo clocks, British toys, Canadian maple syrup, Japanese kimonos, Chinese furniture, Mexican leathers, Italian and French wines, etc.
The racks are full of products normally available only overseas, including many handcrafted by native artisans. There are few places in the world that you could find goods from so many countries in such close proximity.
World Showcase is the back area of the park, with pavilions representing eleven countries from around the world, all themed with architecture, food, drink and culture to match. Most of the pavilions have a ride or a film (or both) designed to highlight the nation's attractions, but the real attractions are sampling the authentic food, conversing with the cast members who come from each nation, and browsing the imported goods.
Related reading:
What’s Your Favorite Dish? Trying All 29 Marketplaces in One Day at the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival http://bit.ly/VSQpf3
AllEars.Net - The Unofficial Disney Vacation Planning Guide http://bit.ly/XyyLJk
A Guide To Drinking Around The World at Disney's Epcot http://buff.ly/1RlE4ZH
Vista Cay Resort in Orlando, Florida
The resort is quite nice and is located in proximity to Universal Studios and Walt Disney World. It is in fact situated on Universal Boulevard.
Adjacent to the Orange County Convention Center, Vista Cay Resort features 674 condominiums and town homes with two and three bedrooms.
The resort apartments are very well-equipped and relatively new. The property has a heated pool located behind the central club house. There is in-unit washing machine/dryer but with enough detergent for 1 wash cycle.
There are shops and supermarkets in the immediate vicinity or nearby. Publix supermarket is literally next door - it it located at the same mall entrance. Costco is a 7-10 minute drive. Walmart Supercenter is a bit further away, at 10-15 minutes. Whole Foods is a 10 minute drive.
The NYPD Pizza next door (next to Publix) is reportedly very good. There is a nearby Greek Taverna which was reportedly good too.
The International Drive is about a 5 minute away.
Finding the check-in office may be a challenge - it is in a suite #244 in the mall next to Publix. There is a $75 cleaning fee.
The entrance door uses a 4-digit key, similarly to the entrance door (this is a gated community). There is a free secure WiFi.
Attractions and Distances from Community:
Walt Disney World: 8 Miles
Disney's BoardWalk World: 8 Miles
Sea World: 1.5 Miles
Universal Studios: 5 Miles, it is located on the same road where Vista Cay is - Universal Boulevard.
Orange County Convention Center: .5 Mile
Closest Beach: 60 Miles, Cocoa Beach
Closest Golf Course: 1 Mile
View Larger Map
Vista Cay is close to "everything", it is also only 14 minutes (11 miles) from the airport (MCO):
View Larger Map
References:
Vista Cay Resort Condo Rentals in Orlando Florida
http://www.vistacayresort.com/
Vista Cay Resort: Traveler Reviews
http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g34515-d652638-r89748326-Vista_Cay_Resort-Orlando_Florida.html#REVIEWS
http://vistacayholidays2-px.rtrk.com/
http://www.keinternationalgroup.com/index2.html
Adjacent to the Orange County Convention Center, Vista Cay Resort features 674 condominiums and town homes with two and three bedrooms.
The resort apartments are very well-equipped and relatively new. The property has a heated pool located behind the central club house. There is in-unit washing machine/dryer but with enough detergent for 1 wash cycle.
There are shops and supermarkets in the immediate vicinity or nearby. Publix supermarket is literally next door - it it located at the same mall entrance. Costco is a 7-10 minute drive. Walmart Supercenter is a bit further away, at 10-15 minutes. Whole Foods is a 10 minute drive.
The NYPD Pizza next door (next to Publix) is reportedly very good. There is a nearby Greek Taverna which was reportedly good too.
The International Drive is about a 5 minute away.
Finding the check-in office may be a challenge - it is in a suite #244 in the mall next to Publix. There is a $75 cleaning fee.
The entrance door uses a 4-digit key, similarly to the entrance door (this is a gated community). There is a free secure WiFi.
Attractions and Distances from Community:
Walt Disney World: 8 Miles
Disney's BoardWalk World: 8 Miles
Sea World: 1.5 Miles
Universal Studios: 5 Miles, it is located on the same road where Vista Cay is - Universal Boulevard.
Orange County Convention Center: .5 Mile
Closest Beach: 60 Miles, Cocoa Beach
Closest Golf Course: 1 Mile
View Larger Map
Vista Cay is close to "everything", it is also only 14 minutes (11 miles) from the airport (MCO):
View Larger Map
References:
Vista Cay Resort Condo Rentals in Orlando Florida
http://www.vistacayresort.com/
Vista Cay Resort: Traveler Reviews
http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g34515-d652638-r89748326-Vista_Cay_Resort-Orlando_Florida.html#REVIEWS
http://vistacayholidays2-px.rtrk.com/
http://www.keinternationalgroup.com/index2.html
"The Senator" 3,500 year old cypress in Big Tree Park, Orlando, Florida
This park is a step back into time. You will see natural vegetation and marsh lands as you make your way on the boardwalk to "The Senator", the park's main attraction, a 3,500 year old Bald Cypress. This property was donated to Seminole County by Senator M.O. Overstreet and dedicated by President Calvin Coolidge in 1929.
The Senator is the largest Bald Cypress tree in the United States, located in Big Tree Park, Longwood, Florida. It is 125 feet (38 m) tall, with a trunk diameter of 17.5 feet (5.3 m). Update from 2014: The tree was burned down. Here is the news report: Model burned down 3,500 year-old 'Senator' tree while high on meth avoids jail time | Mail Online http://buff.ly/Sq5X9r
The Seminole Indians and other Native American Indians who lived throughout Central Florida used this tree as a landmark. In the late 19th century, the tree attracted visitors even though much of the surrounding land was swamp; reaching the tree was done by leaping from log to log.
In 1925, a hurricane destroyed the top of the tree, reducing its original height of 165 feet (50 m) to its present height of 38 meters. The Senator is named for Senator M.O. Overstreet, who donated the tree and surrounding land to Seminole County for a park in 1927.
The Senator is estimated to be 3,400-3,500 years old, the 5th oldest tree in the world. The Senator not only the largest Bald Cypress in the United States, but also the largest tree of any species east of the Mississippi River.
Located 40 feet (12 m) from The Senator is another old cypress in the same Big Tree Park named Lady Liberty. It is 89 feet (27 m) high 10 feet (3.0 m) in diameter, and is estimated to be 2000 years old and another of the oldest trees in the world.
View Larger Map
Free Things to Do in Orlando:
- Big Tree Park
- Disney's Boardwalk
- Downtown Disney Marketplace
- Lake Eola Park, located in the heart of the city - a small park
- University of Central Florida Arboretum
References:
http://www.seminolecountyfl.gov/guide/parks/park1.asp
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Senator_(tree)
http://www.floridata.com/tracks/thesenator/page1.htm
Free Things to Do in Orlando. National Geographic.
http://travel.nationalgeographic.com/city-guides/free-orlando-traveler/
The Senator is the largest Bald Cypress tree in the United States, located in Big Tree Park, Longwood, Florida. It is 125 feet (38 m) tall, with a trunk diameter of 17.5 feet (5.3 m). Update from 2014: The tree was burned down. Here is the news report: Model burned down 3,500 year-old 'Senator' tree while high on meth avoids jail time | Mail Online http://buff.ly/Sq5X9r
The Seminole Indians and other Native American Indians who lived throughout Central Florida used this tree as a landmark. In the late 19th century, the tree attracted visitors even though much of the surrounding land was swamp; reaching the tree was done by leaping from log to log.
In 1925, a hurricane destroyed the top of the tree, reducing its original height of 165 feet (50 m) to its present height of 38 meters. The Senator is named for Senator M.O. Overstreet, who donated the tree and surrounding land to Seminole County for a park in 1927.
The Senator is estimated to be 3,400-3,500 years old, the 5th oldest tree in the world. The Senator not only the largest Bald Cypress in the United States, but also the largest tree of any species east of the Mississippi River.
Located 40 feet (12 m) from The Senator is another old cypress in the same Big Tree Park named Lady Liberty. It is 89 feet (27 m) high 10 feet (3.0 m) in diameter, and is estimated to be 2000 years old and another of the oldest trees in the world.
View Larger Map
Free Things to Do in Orlando:
- Big Tree Park
- Disney's Boardwalk
- Downtown Disney Marketplace
- Lake Eola Park, located in the heart of the city - a small park
- University of Central Florida Arboretum
References:
http://www.seminolecountyfl.gov/guide/parks/park1.asp
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Senator_(tree)
http://www.floridata.com/tracks/thesenator/page1.htm
Free Things to Do in Orlando. National Geographic.
http://travel.nationalgeographic.com/city-guides/free-orlando-traveler/
"The Three Broomsticks Inn" Restaurant at Harry Potter Universal Park
"The Three Broomsticks Inn" is a restaurant with typical British dishes where you can sip on spirits and drinks inspired by those in the Harry Potter stories. It was highly recommended in most reviews of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Universal Park but I found it somewhat disappointing.
The Great Feast ($49.99) is the most promoted dish and it feeds a party of four. The Great Feast consists of 4 ribs, 4 pieces of chicken, 4 ears of corn, potatoes and steamed vegetables, and a salad.
I ordered Fish and Chips which was again highly recommended in the online reviews but I found it and its batter unimpressive.
The ButterBeer was too sweet and of somewhat strange vanilla taste.
Menu items as of December 2010:
Shepherd's Pie with Garden Salad $9.99
Fish and Chips $11.99
Cornish Pasties with Garden Salad $7.99
Rotisserie Smoked Chicken Platter $9.99
Chargrilled Ribs Platter $13.99
Chicken and Ribs Platter $11.99
Smoked Turkey Leg $11.99
References:
Harry Potter studio tour - 3-hour walking tour through the Warner Bros. studios in London http://goo.gl/aTZU7
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Islands_of_Adventure
http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/features_food_blog/2010/06/dining-review-three-broomsticks-at-universal-orlando-resorts-the-wizarding-world-of-harry-potter.html
The Great Feast ($49.99) is the most promoted dish and it feeds a party of four. The Great Feast consists of 4 ribs, 4 pieces of chicken, 4 ears of corn, potatoes and steamed vegetables, and a salad.
I ordered Fish and Chips which was again highly recommended in the online reviews but I found it and its batter unimpressive.
The ButterBeer was too sweet and of somewhat strange vanilla taste.
Menu items as of December 2010:
Shepherd's Pie with Garden Salad $9.99
Fish and Chips $11.99
Cornish Pasties with Garden Salad $7.99
Rotisserie Smoked Chicken Platter $9.99
Chargrilled Ribs Platter $13.99
Chicken and Ribs Platter $11.99
Smoked Turkey Leg $11.99
References:
Harry Potter studio tour - 3-hour walking tour through the Warner Bros. studios in London http://goo.gl/aTZU7
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Islands_of_Adventure
http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/features_food_blog/2010/06/dining-review-three-broomsticks-at-universal-orlando-resorts-the-wizarding-world-of-harry-potter.html
http://www.aaatravelviews.com/category/Universal.aspx
Visiting the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando http://bit.ly/1CGPwL8
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Universal Park, Orlando, Florida
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a part of Universal Parks and Resorts' Islands of Adventure theme park in Orlando, Florida. It opened in June 2010.
The waits to enter the Harry Potter area of the park are long, often in excess of 2 hours in the stand-by line (as of December 2010-January 2011). I would recommend picking up a "return ticket" that is usually distributed at an offsite location (e.g. Toon Lagoon) and coming back 2-3 hours later. In the meantime, you can enjoys some of the areas of the Islands of Adventure (other "islands"). Suggested parks areas to enjoy during the wait to enter the Wizarding World of Harry Potter:
Jurassic Park
- Camp Jurassic, a children's play area in Jurassic Park
- Jurassic Park River Adventure - it looks like a fun ride but "you will get wet, probably soaked, just like getting a shower". They sell ponchos ($8 each) but the employees are not sure how effective they are.
- Pteranodon Flyers, a children's low-speed, suspended roller coaster which takes 2 riders at a time around the sky above Camp Jurassic. It looks nice but it has a long wait (45 minutes).
- Triceratops Encounter/Triceratops Discovery Trail - only 10 minute wait but many people find it boring.
Seuss Landing
Dartmouth medical school named for Dr. Seuss creator, Theodor Geisel (1925 Dartmouth graduate), and his wife (http://goo.gl/a7Kvv).
- One Fish Two Fish Red Fish Blue Fish, a spinning ride with a musical riddle that will help riders escape water-spitting fish. This ride is quite enjoyable actually.
- The High in the Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride, a twin-track tour above and around Seuss Landing. This is one of the best rides for younger children.
- Caro-Seuss-el, a carousel - a classic ride.
After you enter the the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, you will likely find that the area is very crowded, with long lines for the rides, and to enter many of the shops. The shortest wait for a ride is for the Dragon Challenge (5-10 minutes) shortly after the entrance (on the right). However, this ride is not very pleasant and is out of limit for younger kids, hence the shorter lines.
A recreation of the Hogwarts Express locomotive lies at the entry to Hogsmeade.
The Owl Post is a working post office (where postcards and letters will be delivered with an authentic Hogsmeade postmark) that sells stationery, writing implements, stamps, and owl-related gifts.
The Three Broomsticks is based on the inn and pub from the Potter series, and offers a variety of food and beverage items from the Harry Potter books and movies.
The Hog's Head is based on the pub from the Potter series owned by Aberforth Dumbledore
Honeydukes is a sweet shop.
Dervish and Banges is a store selling "magical" items, as well as Quidditch supplies, and Hogwarts clothing.
Zonko's is a toy and joke store
Filch's Emporium of Confiscated Goods is a general gift shop offering Hogwarts souvenirs.
Ollivanders is a re-creation of Ollivanders wand shop, the store where Harry purchases his wand in Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone. Unlike other shops in the park, visitors are admitted in groups of 20 to experience the premise from the Potter series, that "the wand chooses the wizard".
The rides include:
- Dragon Challenge - a roller coaster with 2 tracks that overlap and intertwine with each other. This really is a rough ready and it is not recommended for younger children or adults who have significant disease or anxiety. Few people enjoyed it among those I asked for an opinion. You must leave your bag in the designated lockers before boarding the roller coaster.
A dueling roller coaster features typically 2 roller coasters, built close to each other. The rides are designed to do just as the name indicates: to duel. The coaster's layout consists of maneuvering to produce near-misses between the two coaster trains, designed to induce a greater "adrenaline rush" for the rider than a stand alone roller coaster. As of 2010, the only inverted dueling coaster in the world is at Islands of Adventure, Orlando, Florida. The Dragon Challenge coasters reach a top speed of about 60 MPH (95 km/h) and pass within 12 inches (30 cm, or 1 foot) of each other at some points.
The accelerations accepted in rollercoaster design are generally in the 4-6Gs range for positive vertical (pushing you into your seat). Despite safety measures, accidents can, and do, occur. California requires amusement parks to report any ride-related accident that requires an emergency room visit, while Florida exempts parks whose parent companies employ more than 1000 people from having to report any accidents at all.
In 2003, a 34-year-old woman from Jensen Beach, Florida suffered a heart attack while riding the Incredible Hulk coaster. She was taken to the hospital in critical condition, where she was later pronounced dead.
- Flight of the Hippogriff - a roller coaster designed for families.
- Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey - a ride simulating a tour of the castle and its surrounding grounds. Visitors initially walk through the castle, interacting with various characters before boarding a "magical bench". This is probably the best ride but it also has the longest wait, often in excess of 45 minutes.
The wait for the rides is often longer than 60 minutes. Universal uses a system for advanced checking similar to to Disney's FastPass but charges $40 for it (FastPass is free).
Steve Fuehne: Terrified dad goes on rollercoaster - as his daughter was not allowed on without him | Mail Online - http://goo.gl/F2PKA:
References
Harry Potter studio tour - 3-hour walking tour through the Warner Bros. studios in London http://goo.gl/aTZU7
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harry_potter_park
http://www.universalorlando.com/harrypotter/
http://www.universalorlando.com/Amusement_Parks/Islands_of_Adventure/harrypotter/wizarding_world_of_harry_potter.aspx
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roller_coaster
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dueling_roller_coaster
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dragon_Challenge
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Incidents_at_Universal_parks
The waits to enter the Harry Potter area of the park are long, often in excess of 2 hours in the stand-by line (as of December 2010-January 2011). I would recommend picking up a "return ticket" that is usually distributed at an offsite location (e.g. Toon Lagoon) and coming back 2-3 hours later. In the meantime, you can enjoys some of the areas of the Islands of Adventure (other "islands"). Suggested parks areas to enjoy during the wait to enter the Wizarding World of Harry Potter:
Jurassic Park
- Camp Jurassic, a children's play area in Jurassic Park
- Jurassic Park River Adventure - it looks like a fun ride but "you will get wet, probably soaked, just like getting a shower". They sell ponchos ($8 each) but the employees are not sure how effective they are.
- Pteranodon Flyers, a children's low-speed, suspended roller coaster which takes 2 riders at a time around the sky above Camp Jurassic. It looks nice but it has a long wait (45 minutes).
- Triceratops Encounter/Triceratops Discovery Trail - only 10 minute wait but many people find it boring.
Seuss Landing
Dartmouth medical school named for Dr. Seuss creator, Theodor Geisel (1925 Dartmouth graduate), and his wife (http://goo.gl/a7Kvv).
- One Fish Two Fish Red Fish Blue Fish, a spinning ride with a musical riddle that will help riders escape water-spitting fish. This ride is quite enjoyable actually.
- The High in the Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride, a twin-track tour above and around Seuss Landing. This is one of the best rides for younger children.
- Caro-Seuss-el, a carousel - a classic ride.
After you enter the the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, you will likely find that the area is very crowded, with long lines for the rides, and to enter many of the shops. The shortest wait for a ride is for the Dragon Challenge (5-10 minutes) shortly after the entrance (on the right). However, this ride is not very pleasant and is out of limit for younger kids, hence the shorter lines.
A recreation of the Hogwarts Express locomotive lies at the entry to Hogsmeade.
The Owl Post is a working post office (where postcards and letters will be delivered with an authentic Hogsmeade postmark) that sells stationery, writing implements, stamps, and owl-related gifts.
The Three Broomsticks is based on the inn and pub from the Potter series, and offers a variety of food and beverage items from the Harry Potter books and movies.
The Hog's Head is based on the pub from the Potter series owned by Aberforth Dumbledore
Honeydukes is a sweet shop.
Dervish and Banges is a store selling "magical" items, as well as Quidditch supplies, and Hogwarts clothing.
Zonko's is a toy and joke store
Filch's Emporium of Confiscated Goods is a general gift shop offering Hogwarts souvenirs.
Ollivanders is a re-creation of Ollivanders wand shop, the store where Harry purchases his wand in Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone. Unlike other shops in the park, visitors are admitted in groups of 20 to experience the premise from the Potter series, that "the wand chooses the wizard".
The rides include:
- Dragon Challenge - a roller coaster with 2 tracks that overlap and intertwine with each other. This really is a rough ready and it is not recommended for younger children or adults who have significant disease or anxiety. Few people enjoyed it among those I asked for an opinion. You must leave your bag in the designated lockers before boarding the roller coaster.
A dueling roller coaster features typically 2 roller coasters, built close to each other. The rides are designed to do just as the name indicates: to duel. The coaster's layout consists of maneuvering to produce near-misses between the two coaster trains, designed to induce a greater "adrenaline rush" for the rider than a stand alone roller coaster. As of 2010, the only inverted dueling coaster in the world is at Islands of Adventure, Orlando, Florida. The Dragon Challenge coasters reach a top speed of about 60 MPH (95 km/h) and pass within 12 inches (30 cm, or 1 foot) of each other at some points.
The accelerations accepted in rollercoaster design are generally in the 4-6Gs range for positive vertical (pushing you into your seat). Despite safety measures, accidents can, and do, occur. California requires amusement parks to report any ride-related accident that requires an emergency room visit, while Florida exempts parks whose parent companies employ more than 1000 people from having to report any accidents at all.
In 2003, a 34-year-old woman from Jensen Beach, Florida suffered a heart attack while riding the Incredible Hulk coaster. She was taken to the hospital in critical condition, where she was later pronounced dead.
- Flight of the Hippogriff - a roller coaster designed for families.
- Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey - a ride simulating a tour of the castle and its surrounding grounds. Visitors initially walk through the castle, interacting with various characters before boarding a "magical bench". This is probably the best ride but it also has the longest wait, often in excess of 45 minutes.
The wait for the rides is often longer than 60 minutes. Universal uses a system for advanced checking similar to to Disney's FastPass but charges $40 for it (FastPass is free).
Steve Fuehne: Terrified dad goes on rollercoaster - as his daughter was not allowed on without him | Mail Online - http://goo.gl/F2PKA:
References
Harry Potter studio tour - 3-hour walking tour through the Warner Bros. studios in London http://goo.gl/aTZU7
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harry_potter_park
http://www.universalorlando.com/harrypotter/
http://www.universalorlando.com/Amusement_Parks/Islands_of_Adventure/harrypotter/wizarding_world_of_harry_potter.aspx
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roller_coaster
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dueling_roller_coaster
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dragon_Challenge
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Incidents_at_Universal_parks
http://www.aaatravelviews.com/category/Universal.aspx
Visiting the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando http://bit.ly/1CGPwL8
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