Orlando: A city of theme parks, attractions

Orlando: A city of theme parks, attractions

With more than 95 attractions, Orlando, Fla., is brimming with family vacation possibilities.

Best known for its legendary theme parks, Orlando is the place to pal around with Mickey Mouse, feel the thrill of blockbuster rides or explore the mysteries of the sea.

Walt Disney World Resort

Walt Disney World is having a party. “The Happiest Celebration on Earth” is a global salute that commemorates more than 50 years of Disney theme parks.

A highlight of the event is “Cinderellabration,” a reenactment of Cinderella’s coronation on the stage in front of the castle.

Guests can also visit new attractions at other Disney parks. MGM Studios presents “Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show” spotlighting movie stunt masters and Epcot sends guests 40 feet in a hang glider above an IMAX dome (formerly called OMNIMAX) with “Soarin’.”

A must do for thrill seekers is Animal Kingdom’s exhilarating new coaster ride, “Expedition Everest.” Guests will also enjoy time-treasured attractions, lovable characters, parades and fireworks.

With almost 500 hotels in Orlando, visitors have an array of lodging options. Disney World alone has 24 resorts based around fantasy themes.

Dave Herbst, managing editor for Disney World’s print publicity media relations, said there are many benefits to lodging in one of these resorts. Their proximity to theme parks and use of Disney World’s transportation system can save some travel time.

Other benefits include Extra Magic Hours and Magical express, said Herbst, a longtime Disney spokesperson.

Through the Extra Magic Hours program, Disney World’s theme parks provide extra hours each week when they are open to Disney resort guests only, with certain restrictions.

Since 1983, fans of contemporary Christian music have been enjoying Disney’s “Night of Joy.”

This year, more than 17 groups are on the Sept. 8–9 lineup including MercyMe and Casting Crowns. For information, visit www.disneyworld.com/nightofjoy.

For Disney World information, call 407-824-4321 or visit www.disneyworld.com.

Universal Orlando
Universal Orlando features two theme parks — Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure.

For a thrill at Universal Studios try “Revenge of the Mummy — The Ride,” based on the “Mummy” films.

Guests can also face their fears with the “Fear Factor Live” attraction as they compete in various stunts.

Islands of Adventure features five themed islands, all with rides, attractions and shows. “The Incredible Hulk” coaster turns riders upside-down 110 feet above the ground, only to race them down again at 60 miles per hour.

The “Jurassic Park River Adventure” brings guests face-to-face with a tyrannosaurus-rex, but there is an escape — an 85-foot plunge down a waterfall. The stories of Dr. Seuss come to life in Seuss Landing with rides such as “The Cat in the Hat” and “One Fish Two Fish Red Fish Blue Fish.”

For information call 407-363-8000 or visit www.universalorlando.com.

Sea World Orlando
A marine adventure park, SeaWorld features thrilling rides and encounters with animals such as killer whales, dolphins, sea lions and sharks.

 The park’s new project, “Believe,” opened in May and showcases choreography from an entire family of whales. The theatrical show “Blue Horizons” highlights graceful dolphins, whales and exotic birds.

For information call 1-888-800-5447 or visit www.SeaWorld.com.

Other attractions
For added fun visit Cypress Gardens Adventure Park, which is celebrating its 70th anniversary this year.

The park features a blend of rides, gardens and Splash Island water park. Other entertainment includes a water ski show. For information call 863-324-2111 or visit www.cypressgardens.com.

Visitors to Orlando can also take an adventure back in time with “Titanic — The Exhibition,” the world’s first permanent Titanic exhibit.

The exhibit features full-scale recreations of the ship’s grand staircase and more than 200 artifacts.

For information call 1-877-410-1912 or visit www.titanictheexperience.com.

For Orlando visitor information call the Orlando/Orange County Convention and Visitors Bureau, Inc., at 1-800-551-0181 or visit www.orlandoinfo.com.