Visit Orlando Blog

Midnight Magic – Orlando's Top 10 Spots for a New Year’s Kiss

Forget the crowded streets of Times Square, Orlando offers some of the most intimate and memorable spots to ring in the New Year. Here is a list we know you'll enjoy.

10. Wekiwa Springs State Park - Camp under the stars at Wekiwa State Park and share a sweet peck with someone you love at midnight.

9. The Grand Bohemian Hotel - Kiss under the stars and chic chandeliers on the rooftop pool and lounge at this trendy hotel in the heart of downtown Orlando. The hotel's restaurant also offers a romantic New Year's Eve dinner for two.  

8. The IceBar - It's so chilly, you have no choice but to cuddle. And IceBall 2012 is filled with romantic places where you can smooch, cuddle, and dance the night away with a live DJ.

7. The Wine Room on Park Avenue - As the clock strikes midnight around the world, toast with someone special and a sample of wine from this local favorite, which offers 150 varieties of wine.

6. The Melting Pot Orlando - A dimly-lit room and conversation over slowly cooking fondue is why The Melting Pot is one of Orlando's most romantic restaurants. What's more, there is a special 4-course New Year's Eve menu perfect for lovers.

5. Lake Eola Park - Begin the New Year with kisses on a swan boat built for two. You can also catch downtown Orlando's New Year's Eve fireworks display from a cozy, romantic spot.  

4. The Orlando Improv - Share a romantic dinner for two, champagne and laugh the night away at the Improv's special New Year's Eve celebration.  

3. Downtown Orlando - Just as the orange drops, the celebration in downtown Orlando, the area's largest, gets cranking. Share a kiss at a cozy, romantic lounge or right on the brick-lined streets of Orange Avenue.

2. Theme park stroll - There are few things more romantic than sharing a New Year's Eve kiss under a spectacular fireworks show, and all of our theme parks have that and more during their New Year's Eve celebrations.

1. Local concert venues - Check out a top local or international act at one of the concert venues in the area like Hard Rock Live, House of Blues or The Social.

Got to our events calendar for a full listing of New Year's Eve events in Orlando.

Orlando Named Top Destination in 2012

Orlando is one of the world's top destinations for 2012, according to an article in CNN Travel. Based on recommendations from four of the world's top travel experts, the undiscovered Orlando and the vibrant food scene is a must-see. Robert Reid, U.S. Travel Editor for Lonely Planet, urged tourists to discover Orlando's popular lakes, museums and scenic neighborhoods, like the hidden, bohemian "Milk District."

Orlando In The "End Zone" for Bowl Week

Are you ready for some football? Then Orlando is the place to be this week! Fans nationwide are gearing up for the Capital One and Champs Sports Bowl games in Orlando taking place inside the Florida Citrus Bowl Stadium. Despite the games being televised on ESPN, you don't want to miss out on all of the events and happenings in Orlando during this spectacular sporting event!

Here's the scoop:

What: 2011 Champs Sports Bowl
When: 5:30 p.m. Dec. 29
Where: Florida Citrus Bowl Stadium
Who: Florida State Seminoles vs. The Fighting Irish of Notre Dame

What: 2012 Capital One Bowl
When: 1 p.m. Jan. 2
Where: Florida Citrus Bowl Stadium
Who: South Carolina Gamecocks vs. Nebraska Cornhuskers

Individual tickets start at $32 for the 2011 Champs Sports Bowl and at $52 for the 2012 Capital One Bowl.  Tickets and a complete list of events are available at fcsports.com.

For more special events in Orlando, check out our calendar of events.

Festive New Year's Eve Drinks, Orlando-style!

Celebrating the holidays or ringing in the New Year in Orlando? Nothing kicks up the party like festive drinks to celebrate the end of 2011! Welcome the New Year with a few bubbly, delicious holiday cocktails found only in Orlando. We've also included recipes to try these concoctions at home! Let the parties begin and Happy New Year!

"Coquito" (Latin Style Eggnog) at Cuba Libre restaurant

Recipe:

3 cans of Coco Lopez coconut cream
2 cans condensed milk
1 can of evaporated milk
1 teaspoon of freshly ground cinnamon
6 egg yolks pasteurized
1 cup of Cuba Libre white rum
1 cup of Chairmans spiced rum
1/3 of a fresh vanilla bean stick, scrape seeds only
 
Combine all ingredients in a blender till smooth. Refrigerate Overnight and serve cold.

The "Angry Dragon" found at CRAVE Orlando

Recipe:

1.25 oz Bacardi Dragon Berry
.75 oz Soho Lychee
.5 oz Cranberry Juice (white and red)
.5 oz Sweet & Sour

Shake over ice and strain. Sugar the rim and decorate with citrus zest.

"Holiday Spice" found at Loews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando Resort

Recipe:

Spiced Rum
Mango Liquor
Pineapple Juice
Splash of Grenadine

Shake over ice and serve.

Holiday Dining in Orlando

Visiting Orlando for the holidays or want to give the cook in your family a break from the kitchen? Some of Orlando's best restaurants are serving delicious meals for every appetite and will make you feel right at home. Can't decide where to go? Here is a list of just a few of the many holiday dining options you'll find in Orlando:

Oscar's at the Waldorf Astoria Orlando - On Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, Oscar's will feature a holiday family dinner buffet that includes traditional holiday recipes, new Waldorf Astoria traditions and a special dessert finale. Reservations: 407-597-5500. 

Bull & Bear at Waldorf Astoria - Enjoy a four-course holiday meal including a choice of entrees, such as a holiday goose carved tableside, along with special selections created by Chef David Sears. The standard Bull & Bear a la carte menu will also be available. Reservations recommended: 407-597-5500.

The Tropicale at Caribe Royale - Feast on an extensive buffet planned in the Tropicale, featuring traditional holiday favorites and gourmet desserts freshly prepared by the pastry team, while enjoying live holiday jazz music. Reservations: 407-238-8000.

Rosen Plaza Christmas Day Grand Buffet - Indulge in a grand variety of food at this buffet which includes an Antipasto and Chilled Salad Station, soup station, seafood station, carving station, pasta station and last but not least, a dessert station. Reservations: 407-996-0256.

Garden Grove at Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin - Celebrate the holidays with some of Disney's characters and enjoy traditional holiday meals. Reservations: 407-934-1609

Orlando Balloon Rides launches the largest balloon in America

Towering more than 11 stories, Orlando Balloon Rides launched the largest hot air balloon in America today in Central Florida, the first of thousands of flights expected by the balloon. The hot air balloon, built by Spain's Ultramagic, carries 24 passengers and takes 425,000 cubic feet of hot air to launch. It marks the large balloon in the company's fleet, but towers over the existing 16-passenger balloons.

Orlando’s Top Relaxing Experiences this Holiday Season

Need an escape from the holiday hustle and bustle? Although most widely known for its world-renowned theme parks, Orlando also offers opportunities to rejuvenate body, mind and soul as you escape into a world of peace and relaxation. Whether you are traveling with family or just seeking some "me time," Orlando has relaxing options for everyone.

The Wine Room on Park Avenue is the perfect place for a low-key evening with your special loved one. Whether you are a novice or a wine connoisseur, this fantastic location gives visitors the opportunity to taste a variety of wines by the glass. For those looking to master the art of wine, sign up for a series of wine classes or advanced seminars. Looking for the perfect holiday gift? Consider purchasing their "Wine Room Gift Card," for a new and relaxing experience for all pallets. Indulge your taste buds with an array of world-class wines as you top your evening with a selection of fine cheeses.

Waldorf Astoria Spa by Guerlain provides several new and complimentary experiences in December. Join the team Monday, Dec. 26 and Friday, Dec. 30 for Essential Skin Care. This program invites guests to learn how to properly treat their skin through exfoliating and masking techniques. On Tuesday, Dec. 27 and Wednesday, Dec. 28, Spa by Guerlain is offering the Couples Instructional Massage Techniques program. Solo, or with a partner, learn some excellent massage tips to share with someone special this holiday season. Working on starting the New Year looking glamorous? Visit the spa Thursday, Dec. 29 for The Smoky Eye workshop on getting that perfect look for the big festivities. Advance registration is required.

The Nutcracker is a classic ballet piece that cannot be missed during the holiday season. Each year, The Orlando Ballet performs their interpretation of this two-act dance from Russia at the Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre. The story takes place on Christmas Eve and includes special interactions between nutcrackers, children and mice. The performances will take place Dec. 15-18. The Russian Ballet of Orlando will also be presenting their interpretation of the Nutcracker at venues around Orlando including a complimentary performance at Lake Eola.

The Mall at Millenia offers specialties to take your shopping experience to a whole new level of ultimate relaxation.  Upon arrival, shoppers are automatically greeted as they would be at a 5-star hotel with the option of valet parking. Once inside the mall, multilingual concierges are on-site to assist with directions, dining reservations and even with securing Personal Shopper services. These Personal Shoppers use their time wisely to gather the list of items you are in need and are responsible in delivering them your way. With all that extra time available, holiday shoppers are then encouraged to indulge in other mall services such as the Salon Cielo day spa or image and make-up consulting offered by Neiman Marcus. Personal Shoppers are a great way to get pampered and have your holiday shopping taken care of all at the same time.

The Barefoot Spa is the first spa in Orlando to make the "guest of honor" your feet. This unique spa is located in Ivanhoe Village, in downtown Orlando, and focuses all their treatments on spoiling your feet. This holiday season, guests are encouraged to bring in their own wine and snacks at no additional charge. All foot treatments begin with Foot Tea, a piping hot mix of organic dried herbs like chamomile, peppermint and lavender. Visitors can then choose to add a sprinkle of fun to their massage such as the Happily Dying of Chocolate, a treatment featuring a shea butter blended with cocoa. 
              

Only in Orlando – 10 Unique Gift Options this Holiday Season

Orlando is the perfect place to find that "wow" factor gift this holiday season. From once-in-a-lifetime special experiences to unforgettable gifts you can't find anywhere else, Orlando has a wide array of unique ideas to make this holiday season truly unforgettable.

1. The Walt Disney World Resort fan will love the new Disney Parks Memory Challenge (retail $24.95). The game incorporates a new twist on the world's most popular matching game and features images of classic and favorite Disney attractions. Plus, you can add your own Disney vacation photos using exclusive cards. For Disney pin collectors, special holiday versions are available, including the Disney Express - Boxed Set (released Dec. 16).

2. For the little wizard in your family, an authentic wand from Universal Orlando Resort's Wizarding World of Harry Potter is the way to go. If you won't be visiting Orlando during the holidays, you can still order a wand online (retail $29.99), as well as other specialty items such as a four-pack of Chocolate Frogs (retail $49.95) or a Gyrffindor Robe (retail $99.95). The wands are packaged with an authentic Ollivanders Wand Shop box, which isn't available in regular retail stores.  

3. Gatorland features a large gift shop with items appealing to the gator-lover on your gift list. Pair a bottle of ‘Swamp Juice' from Aspirations winery with a quirky gator wine glass for a memorable holiday gift (retail $15.99 Swamp Juice; $28.99 wine glass).

4. Florida is synonymous with fresh citrus and in particular, for its oranges. Showcase of Citrus lets you hand-pick oranges and other fresh citrus right from the grove, which makes the perfect gift for health-conscious loved ones on your gift list ($10 for quarter bushel; $20 for half bushel).

5. The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art features exclusive merchandise derived from the works of master designer Louis Comfort Tiffany-including jewelry, stained-glass panels, glass bowls, and vases-and a wide range of items inspired by other artists represented in the Museum's collection. Popular gift items include Lundberg Studios glass perfume bottles and vases (retail $195-$310).

6. The Orange County Regional History Center specializes in unique and nostalgic gifts reflecting the cultural history of Central Florida. The store offers rare vintage photographs, quirky Florida souvenirs, delicious Florida treats and classic toys, books, and other great gift items, such as Florida-made wine from local Lakeridge Winery (retail $19.99) and local honey (retail $4.99).

7. The Kessler Collection Signature Grand Bohemian Gallery, located at the Grand Bohemian Hotel in downtown Orlando, showcases rare works of art by local, regional and internationally recognized artists designed to inspire the collector in every visitor. From contemporary paintings and glass art to intricate jewelry and ceramics, the Grand Bohemian Gallery represents a wide array of talent, often hosting exhibitions and exclusive artist receptions. For the jewelry lover, consider the Emin Taos full moon series (retail $275).

Special Experiences

8. Ideal for the animal lover, Discovery Cove's Trainer for a Day Program (price ranges from $398-518), takes lucky gift recipients on an up-close journey alongside animal experts to interact with bottlenose dolphins, rays and other magical sea creatures. Also includes a 14-day unlimited pass to SeaWorld Orlando, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay or Aquatica - SeaWorld's Waterpark.

9. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex offers a gift that's out of this world with the Astronaut Training Experience (ATX) Half-Day Program (retail $145). Adventurers prepare for the rigors of space by participating in a range of interactive, anti-gravity activities and even meet a NASA astronaut.

10. For the adrenaline junkie, consider purchasing a gift card for the Orlando Adventure Collection. With the card, they will be able to create a customized adventure package, choosing from activities such as skydiving, hot air balloon riding, ziplining, airboat riding, helicopter riding and ATVs, just to name a few. Better yet, 30% of the proceeds will benefit the company's conservation effort.

Top 5 “Must Know” Holiday Shopping Tips in Orlando

There's no other place like Orlando for making lasting memories or finding memorable gifts!  Make the best out of your shopping experience with these insider tips for shopping in Orlando this holiday season.

1. Parking Made Easy - The major shopping centers in Orlando make it easy to park, if you know where to go. Free covered parking garage is available at the Orlando Premium Outlets - Vineland Ave.  At the Orlando Premium Outlets - International Drive, find plenty of spaces by Oakridge Road heading toward the Guest Services Center, Saks Fifth Avenue Outlet and Neiman Marcus Last Call.  The Mall at Millenia also has plenty of parking spaces by the Food Court entrance. Or, consider valet parking to remove any stress of finding the perfect spot.

2. Plan Your Attack - Map out your shopping spree before you go by downloading it first from the desired shopping location's official website.  Paper maps are also available at Guest Services Centers.

3. Find the Discounts - Many area shopping centers allow guests to register online for a printable VIP coupon book or pick them up at the Guest Services Center. At the Orlando Premium Outlets - Vineland Ave, for example, coupons are also available at the Food Court information desk. Visit Orlando's Official Visitors Center offers a free Orlando Magicard that features some shopping discounts among many other options.

4. At the Theme Parks - While happy families enjoy the theme park action, happy shoppers can do their own thing. The best time to shop inside the theme park gates is from opening hours until mid-afternoon in order to avoid crowds buying souvenirs as they head out for the day. Theme park merchandise is also available outside of the gates. For example, the World of Disney Store in Downtown Disney Marketplace is the largest Disney character store on Earth!

5. Get online - Be sure to check out the website of the shopping center before you go as many list special deals at individual stores. If you're savvy with social media, don't miss the wide array of check-in specials that venues offer on Foursquare.

Meet Santa Claus in Orlando

While the elves are busy in the workshop preparing for Christmas, Santa Claus is keeping a full schedule of appearances around Orlando. From theme parks and resorts to shopping centers and other attractions, Santa is ready to hear what's on your wish list this holiday season. Just be sure you're on the nice list!

Orlando Attractions

Walt Disney World Resort - While Mickey Mouse might be the most popular character to meet at Walt Disney World Resort, Santa Claus is also on-hand at a variety of Disney properties throughout the holiday season including:

• Downtown Disney Marketplace - Santa's Chalet at the Downtown Disney Marketplace operates from noon to 10 p.m. through Dec. 24. Santa Goofy will continue greeting guests Dec. 25 to Jan. 1 from 3-10 p.m.
• Epcot - Santa will appear daily at The American Adventure at Epcot through Dec. 24. You can also stop by the countries represented in the World Showcase to hear storytellers describe local holiday traditions or see a representation of that country's "Santa Claus."
• Magic Kingdom - Santa greets guests during Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party and appears in Mickey's Once Upon A Christmastime Parade.

SeaWorld Orlando - Get an exclusive visit with Santa through the park's "Family Fun at Christmas Tour." This 4-hour walking tour also includes feeding dolphins and sea lions, touching a penguin, reserved seats at "One Ocean," a light meal and front-of-the-line access to The Polar Express Experience.

LEGOLAND Florida - Visitors to the new theme park will find Santa Claus in the historical botanical gardens for daily photo opportunities.

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex - "Holidays in Space" will feature meet and greet opportunities with Santa Claus at Santa's Launch Control Center, while Mrs. Claus will host story times at 10:30 a.m., noon, 2 p.m., 3:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. daily through Dec. 24.

Old Town - The shopping and entertainment attraction in Kissimmee, hosts "Old Town Christmas" with photo ops with Santa through Dec. 23. Hours are 5-8 p.m., Monday-Friday and 3-8 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

Orlando Malls and Shopping Centers

The Mall at Millenia - Santa Claus will make his home in the mall's "Hollyville" through Dec. 24, during regular mall hours. Each child visiting will receive a complimentary holiday gift.

The Florida Mall - Children will receive a free gift while supplies last with each visit with Santa Claus, who will be onsite through Dec. 24. Check the signage posted in the malls' center court for Santa's specific hours.

Orlando Fashion Square Mall - Santa will be ready and waiting to pose for the perfect holiday picture in the mall's Center Court through Dec. 24. Check the website for specific times and "reindeer breaks." Santa will also welcome pets for photos on Dec. 5 and 12 from 6-8 p.m.

Hotels

Nickelodeon Suites Resort is hosting its annual winter celebration, LET IT SNOW through Jan. 2. The resort transforms into a Winter Wonderland for kids of all ages to enjoy, featuring an 80-foot-long ice slide, snow falling nightly on the Oasis Pool, sparkling holiday lights that dance to music and of course, Santa Claus and everyone's favorite Nickelodeon characters, including Dora the Explorer.
Universal Orlando Resort - Universal's on-site hotels offer a variety of opportunities to celebrate the holidays and meet Santa Claus including "Feste Felici" at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel,  "Happy Rockin' Holidays" at Hard Rock Hotel and "Hom 'ol i Lanni" at Loews Royal Pacific Resort.

Gaylord Palms - Through December 24, Santa Claus will meet with children inside the Emerald Bay atrium. The property also has an email station outside of the Holiday Hall across from ICE! for children to electronically contact Santa.

Waldorf Astoria Orlando - On December 24 between 7-9 p.m., Mrs. Claus will tuck little ones in with a snack and bedtime story during the resort's "Holiday Tuck-In."  Advance reservations required by calling the Concierge.

Rosen Shingle Creek - Santa Claus will spread holiday cheer in the resort's lobby on Dec., 2, 3, 10, 9, 16 and 17 from 6-7:30 p.m.