What’s New in Orlando 2011
HIGHLIGHTS
What's New at Theme Parks in 2011
Orlando theme parks and attractions are starting off 2011 with exciting enhancements and new additions. SeaWorld Orlando debuted "One Ocean," an all-new killer whale show, in April. This show, replacing "Believe," features simultaneous whale performances, including high-energy leaps and interactive stunts. Disney's Hollywood Studios recently introduced a new parade called "Pixar Pals Countdown to Fun" and announced the new Star Tours 3-D attraction that opened May 20. Legoland Florida opened October 15. 2011.
Visit Orlando's New Website and Planning Tools
Visit Orlando unveiled a new VisitOrlando.com that provides a more comprehensive and user-friendly vacation planning experience. Featuring a fresh new look, enhanced planning tools and a booking engine through a partnership with Travelocity®, the new website is now the one-stop solution for researching, planning and booking vacations to Orlando. To kick-start the planning process, travelers can use the "Trip Ideas Generator," which provides a range of customized ideas based on areas of interest. For those ready to dive deeper into vacation planning, the "Trip Itinerary Builder" allows travelers to browse through VisitOrlando.com and add accommodations, activities and restaurants to a saved itinerary. In addition to the new website, Visit Orlando also launched a mobile solution, VisitOrlando.mobi, that offers planning tools tailored to mobile devices. Weekly updates on what's new in Orlando are posted on Visit Orlando's online press room at VisitOrlando.com/media.
ATTRACTIONS
SEAWORLD PARKS & ENTERTAINMENT
SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment announced the addition of three new attractions set to open over the next two years. Antarctica – Empire of the Penguin, is the single largest attraction expansion in SeaWorld history, and will take guests to the bottom of the world to explore the mysterious continent. TurtleTrek features a first-of-its-kind 3-D/360-degree film that will immerse guests in the journey of a sea turtle. The Freshwater Oasis at Discovery Cove will feature wading adventures and face-to-face encounters with otters and marmosets. seaworldorlando.com; 407-363-2280 (media); 888-800-5447 (public). discoverycove.com; 407-363-2280 (media); 877-557-7404 (public)
SeaWorld Orlando debuted "One Ocean," an all-new killer whale show at Shamu Stadium. The show features simultaneous whale performances, including high-energy leaps and interactive stunts. "One Ocean" replaced the "Believe" show at all three SeaWorld parks. SeaWorldParks.com; 407-363-2280 (media); 888-800-5447 (public)
SeaWorld Orlando is offering a third night free when visitors book two nights at a SeaWorld partner hotel; now through Dec. 25. In addition, guests also enjoy the added benefit of SeaWorld's All-Day Dining Deal included free with each paid admission. Seaworldgetaways.com; 407-363-2280 (media);888-800-5447 (public)
SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment announced the availability of the 2012 SeaWorld Fun Card for Florida residents. The Fun Card allows guests to pay for a day and come back all year at no additional cost or blackout dates. Single-day SeaWorld admission is $81.99 for adults and $73.99 for children ages 3 - 9.SeaWorldParks.com; 407-363-2280 (media); 888-800-5447 (public)
Discovery Cove is offering special Florida Resident admission prices through December 31, 2011. Florida residents can purchase a Dolphin Swim Day Resort ticket for $199 plus tax or a Day Resort ticket for $129 plus tax. Both packages include an unlimited admission pass to Sea World Orlando valid until January 31, 2012. discoverycove.com; 1-877-434-7268 (media and public)
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is offering Florida residents the Serengeti Safari experience free with the purchase of a single-day admission ticket. The 30-minute safari is an open truck tour that offers guests a unique look at Busch Gardens’ 65-acre Serengeti Plain habitat featuring hundreds of exotic and free-roaming African animals. Children must be five or older to participate and reservations must be made in advance. Single-day admission is $79.99 for adults and $71.99 for children ages five to nine. buschgardens.com; 813-987-5401 (media); 813-987-5524 (public)
WALT DISNEY WORLD RESORT
Walt Disney World Resort introduced a new parade called "Pixar Pals Countdown to Fun" at Disney's Hollywood Studios in January.The parade, replacing "Block Party Bash," features characters from Pixar movies, including "Up," "Monsters Inc.," "Toy Story" and "A Bug's Life." Disneyworld.com; 407-566-6397 (media); 407-939-1289 (public)
Walt Disney World Resort opened the new Star Tours 3-D attraction at Disney's Hollywood Studios on May 20. Star Tours: The Adventures Continue will feature new droids, a new Starspeeder, new destinations and even a new pilot. Disneyworld.com; 407-566-6397 (media); 407-939-6244 (public)
Walt Disney World Resort continues to re-vamp Downtown Disney with recent expansions and new developments. The highlights include:
″ The newly expanded LEGO Imagination Center and AMC's first Dine-In Theatre in Florida
″ Orlando Harley-Davidson's newly expanded 3,635-square-foot (338 square-meter) store at Downtown Disney West Side. This is the largest and most interactive Harley merchandise store of its kind
″ Apricot Lane Boutique, a specialty retail store that offers celebrity-inspired branded apparel, affordable fashion jewelry, handbags and accessories.
″ Splitsville, a 50,000-square-foot (4,645 square-meter) upscale entertainment center combining bowling, billiards, dining and music. Construction began Fall 2011.
Walt Disney World Resort announced a new interactive role-playing adventure, Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom, which will debut in early 2012 at the Magic Kingdom. The adventure will begin with Merlin recruiting guests to become apprentice sorcerers on an adventure to defeat an army of Disney villains. Included with regular theme park admission of $85. Disneyworld.com; 407-566-6397 (media); 407-939-1289 (public)
Walt Disney World Resort announced the addition of an Avatar-themed land coming to Disney's Animal Kingdom theme park. The $500-million project will begin construction in late 2013 and is part of a long tern creative partnership with James Cameron's Lightstorm Entertainment and Fox Filmed Entertainment to bring the fantasy world of Avatar to life at Disney Parks. Disneyworld.com; 407-566-6397 (media); 407-939-1289 (public)
Walt Disney World Resort's Richard Perry Driving Experience announced the January launch of The Exotic Driving Experience at Walt Disney World Speedway, an opportunity for guests to test drive some of the world's finest automobiles. Ferrari, Lamborghini, Audi and Porsche vehicles will be available for guests to drive starting at $199 and thrill rides available for $99. Reservations required. Disneyworld.com; 407-556-6397 (media); 407-939-1289 (public). Exoticdriving.com; 855-822-0149 (media and public)
CENTRAL FLORIDA ATTRACTIONS
Fun Spot Action Park, located off International Drive, announced its plans for an expansion. The 13-year-old, 5-acre (2-hectare) park purchased an adjacent 10 acres (4 hectares) to triple its size. The expanded park will include more tracks, rides and a smaller version of the SkyCoaster thrill ride located at the Kissimmee park location, Fun Spot USA. The Kissimmee location is also expanding its park with a new Soaring Eagle Ride, birthday/meeting room and its first rollercoaster, a Wild Mouse ride. FunSpotAttractions.com; 407-363-3867 ext.110 (media); 407-363-3867 (public)
Florida EcoSafaris at Forever Florida announced the opening date of July 29 for its new ecotourism experience, the Cypress FlyCycle. This new attraction will take guests on a fun and relaxing cycle ride through the treetops of the 4,700-acre (1,902-hectare) Forever Florida Wildlife Conservation Area in St. Cloud, Fla. The cost is $45 for adults and children (age 10 and up). floridaEcoSafaris.com; 407‐433‐5567 (media); 407‐957‐9794, ext .1
Gatorland recently opened its newest attraction, Screamin' Gator Zip Line. This attraction offers a variety of zip line experiences that sends guests flying over exotic scenery, alligators and crocodiles. The Screamin' Gator Zip Line carries riders along 1,200 feet (366 meters) of high-flying adventure. At heights exceeding seven stories (23 meters), guests fly at speeds near 25 mph (40 kph) over many of the attraction's exhibits and entertainment venues. Reservations are required for the Screamin' Gator Zip Line. Tickets are $69.99 with park admission included. Gatorland.com; 407-855-5496, ext. 242 (media); 407-855-5496 (public)
Kennedy Space Center announced that it will transform NASA's Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex into a place where visitors can engage with the people and machines of space exploration. The marquee element of the renovation is a $100 million exhibit displaying one of three remaining flown space shuttle orbiters. The transformation is estimated to take 10 years and will include 10 interactive-themed areas, plus new and enhanced visitor amenities. kennedyspacecenter.com; 321-449-4318 (media); 866-737-5235 (public)
Kennedy Space Center announced a new tour of the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) to begin Nov. 1. Guests will disembark tour buses and tour the inside of the previously off-limits VAB to see firsthand where the monstrous space vehicles were assembled for launch. This guided special interest tour will be offered eight times daily at $25 for adults and $19 for children ages three to 11. This is in addition to the cost of admission, $43 plus tax for adults and $33 plus tax for children ages three to 11. kennedyspacecenter.com; 321-449-4318 (media); 866-737-5235 (public)
LEGOLAND Florida opened October 15, 2011. General admission tickets are $75 for adults and $65 for children and seniors. Standard Annual Passes are offered at the children's prices of $99 with no black-out dates.
LEGOLAND Florida will supply a daily shuttle bus from Orlando to the new theme park in Winter Haven. The shuttle will leave Orlando Premium Outlets — Vineland Avenue daily at 9 a.m. and return after the park closes. The 45-minute shuttle ride is being offered at a "special preview price" of $5 per person for a roundtrip. Reservations must be made on the park's website. Legoland.com; 877-350-LEGO (media and public)
LEGOLAND Florida revealed future plans to open an accompanying water-park in May 2012 and a themed resort hotel in 2014 or 2015. Legoland.com; 877-350-LEGO (media and public)
LEGOLAND Florida announced their first annual Christmas Bricktacular and Kid's New Year's Eve. Festive decorations, sounds of the season and a daily appearance by Santa will fill The Beginning and Fun Town with holiday cheer beginning Dec. 8 - 31. The first-ever tree lighting ceremony takes place on Dec. 5. Kid's New Year's Eve on Dec. 31 will allow kid's to rock out and watch the sky explode with LEGO fireworks at midnight KST (Kid Standard Time), otherwise known as 7 p.m. legoland.com; 863-318-5345 (media); 877-350-LEGO (public)
Orlando Air Tour, Mauiva's aerial tour division, added a new Celebration Tour excursion. This airplane expedition departs daily from Mauiva at the Kissimmee Airport and provides unique views of the Central Florida area and attractions. The tour, $60 per person, lasts approximately 45 minutes. Orlandoairtour.com; 407-551-0577 (media); 407-551-0577 (public)
Fantasy of Flight opened Wing WalkAir, a ropes course challenge for adults and children. Participants face physical and mental obstacles as they maneuver through 33 separate challenges climbing to heights of more than four stories. A new zip line experience is also available allowing guests to "fly" 40 feet (12.1 meters)in the air at the edge of the attraction's airport runway. Certain physical and footwear requirements apply. Admission for the ropes course is $12 and $15 for the zip line experience. A combination ticket for both experiences is $22. FantasyofFlight.com; 407-718-4640 (media) (863) 984-3500 (public)
Dave and Buster's, the upscale-arcade and restaurant opens its fourth Florida location on International Drive. The 40,000-square-foot (3,716 square-meter) building features 170 different games including Skee-Ball, video racecar driving and simulated golf along with a sports bar and restaurant. The Orlando location also offers 3,100 square feet (288 square meters) of meeting space and catering services for groups or companies hosting corporate events. Hours are 11 a.m. – 1 a.m. Sunday – Thursday and 11 a.m. – 2 a.m. Friday and Saturday. daveandbusters.com; 407-541-3300 (media and public)
Orlando Balloon Rides offers flights aboard the largest hot-air balloon in the United States with the addition of an 11-stories high balloon. Taking flight in late October, the new balloon accommodates 6 times the average number of people holding 24 passengers. Cost is $175 per ride. orlandoballoonrides.com; 407-749-0009 (media); 407-894-5050 (public)
Orlando Balloon Rides is offering adult guests $25 off a hot-air balloon ride throughout the month of November. In addition, children ages four to 10 can fly free (one free child per adult purchase). orlandoballoonrides.com; 407-749-0009 (media); 407-894-5050 (public)
The City of Orlando announced a new music and light show at Lake Eola Park in Downtown Orlando. The Lake Eola Fountain will light up to the sounds of jazz music at 8 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. every night of the week.
downtownorlando.com; 407-246-2555 (media and public)
Fun Spot Attractions announced plans to expand the International Drive location with the addition of a waterpark. The waterpark will have one-of-a-kind next generation attractions exclusive to this Fun Spot location. funspotattractions.com; 407-363-3867 ext.110 (media); 407-363-3867 (public)
ACCOMMODATIONS
Coore & Crenshaw and Renaissance Golf Design announced their newest addition to Central Florida – Streamsong Resort. The resort is currently being developed on 16,000 acres (6,475 hectares) of land between Tampa and Orlando. It will feature a 36-hole golf course and is expected to have its grand opening fall 2013. streamsongresort.com; coorecrenshaw.com; 512-478-3483 (media and public)
Holiday Inn Resort Lake Buena Vista (formerly Sunspree) completed a $15 million renovation. The renovations included the exterior corridor, interior corridors and all 503 guest rooms that were rebuilt with new furnishings and upgraded deluxe bedding packages. The new conference center offers almost 7,000 square feet (650 square meters) of flexible space. hiresortlbv.com; 407-387-7707 (media); 877-272-9985 (public)
Drury Hotels, based out of Missouri, announced plans to build a 236-room Drury Inn & Suites on Sand Lake Road in Orlando. Slated to open in spring 2012, the affordable lodging chain will also include amenities, such as wireless Internet, premium TV channels, hot breakfasts and more. Druryhotels.com; 1-800-378-7946 (public)
The Kessler Collection's Castle Hotel has been rebranded as Holiday Inn Resort – The Castle. With the rebranding comes refurbishments and improvements including free kids' meals, KidSuites featuring bunk beds and entertainment systems, and "Smart Rooms," providing business travelers with in-room tools and technology including computer access, fax, copier and scanning capabilities. The property also offers a heated outdoor pool, rooftop terraces and meals at Castle Café. TheCastleOrlando.com; 770-604-2613 (media); 407-345-1511 (public)
The Regal Sun Resort is now the Wyndham Lake Buena Vista Resort. The resort is an official Walt Disney World hotel and located across the street from the Downtown Disney Area with complimentary shuttle services to and from Disney parks. Wyndhamlakebuenavista.com; 407-828-4444 (public and media)
Sheraton Safari Hotel and Suites on Lake Buena Vista Drivehas been purchased by AREA Property Partners and Winston Harton Holdings, LLC for an undisclosed amount. The $25 million redevelopment is scheduled to begin immediately, with completion anticipated by spring 2012. Sheratonsafari.com; 212-843-8051 (media); 800-325-3535 (public)
Star Island Resort & Club recently completed a $7.5 million renovation. All mini-suite and villa renovations include flat screen televisions, granite counter tops, new furniture, carpet, art work and lighting. Star-Island.com; 407-997-8000 (media and public)
The Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham Orlando Lake Buena Vista, a Sky Hotels & Resorts property, has been named "Outstanding Hotel of the Year for 2010" by the Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham brand. To be eligible for the prestigious award, a Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham property must have demonstrated positive performance and outstanding characteristics in all areas of hospitality, offering excellence in customer service and quality as well as playing an active and positive role in the local community. staysky.com; 850-668-2222 (media); 800-455-4062 (public)
Sheraton Vistana Resort has completed a four-year, $140 million renovation project. The renovations include a complete upgrade of 1,682 villas to contemporary furnishings, cutting-edge electronics and modernized kitchens. The recreation centers, pools, restaurants and other common area places have also been expanded and contemporized. starwoodhotels.com; 407-903-4449 (media); 800-583-6170 (public)
Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts have finalized plans to build a new $360 million development property at the Walt Disney World Resort. The 444-room hotel will include rooftop restaurants overlooking three pools, a lazy river water feature, sports facilities and more than 37,000 square-feet (3,437 square-meters) of available meeting space. Set to begin construction this December, the property plans to open in mid-to-late 2014. fourseasons.com; 212-251-1015 (media); 800-819-5053 (public)
Nickelodeon Family Suites is celebrating winter with "Let it Snow," a nightly event for guests beginning Nov. 11 at the Oasis Pool. Enjoy a winter playground with dancing lights, music, treats and snow. Studio Nick will also feature "Celebrate Nickmas," the first-ever interactive holiday show starring Spongebob and Dora. nickhotel.com; 407-387-5437 (media and public)
Wyndham Hotels and Resorts opened its latest property, the upscale, full-service Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek, located within Walt Disney World Resort. The 1,149-unit timeshare resort features suites that overlook the property's 10-acre lake and the Walt Disney World parks, a lagoon-style pool and full-service spa. Each room features contemporary furniture, a 40-inch flat-panel television, high-speed wired and wireless internet and black granite surfaces. wyndham.com; 973-753-6590 (media); 800-996-3426 (public)
Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld has announced the culmination of its five-year, $35+million renovation project. The resort has redeveloped their second-floor meeting space, which now boasts 23 breakout rooms of various sizes and has transformed their 65 guest suites to reflect a residential and modern design. As an expansion to the pool area, the R Aqua Zone was developed as an interactive water playground for teens and tweens alike. The resort also recently became an official hotel partner of SeaWorld, which affords registered guests a variety of exclusive, value-added benefits such as early entry to SeaWorld; complimentary front-of-the-line access to SeaWorld; complimentary scheduled transportation to SeaWorld and Aquatica, and Universal Orlando and exclusive access to the SeaWorld Rescue Tour on early entry days.
renaissanceseaworld.com; 305-663-3543 (media); 800-228-9290 (public)
Orlando World Center Marriott offers a great pumpkin of a deal to Florida residents this fall with rates from only $164 per night offered now through Jan. 3, 2012. Kids will also enjoy fun activities, ranging from Haunted Scavenger Hunts to Ghoulish Tie Dyes, while adults relax in one of six diverse pool areas or secluded whirlpool spas. marriottworldcenter.com; 407-682-2625 (media); 888-99-WORLD (public)
Orlando World Center Marriott is offering 'Winter Escape Advance Purchase Rates' from $144 per room, per night now through March 31. Kids can splash around at the tropical lagoon pool, voted one of the world's coolest hotel pools by Forbes, while adults relax at one of six whirlpool spas.
marriottworldcenter.com; 407-682-2625 (media); 888-99-WORLD (public)
Rosen Shingle Creek announced two special offers for guests. For one day only, on 'Cyber Monday' (Nov. 28), Rosen Shingle Creek will offer a buy one-night, get one-night free offer valid for any length of stay between Nov. 28 and June 30. For golf fanatics, the resort is also offering a special one-night package starting at $179 plus tax through Dec. 31. The package includes two rounds of golf (one per person) at Shingle Creek Golf Club as well as golf cart, range balls, GPS, club cleaning, locker and storage.
rosenshinglecreek.com; 407-332- 5212 (media); 866-996-6338 (public)
CULTURAL TOURISM
Broadway Across America announced its 2011-2012 season with the following shows to be performed at the Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre in Orlando:
· Dec. 6-11, 2011: "Rodgers and Hammerstein's South Pacific"
· Jan. 17-22, 2012: "Les Miserables"
· Feb. 15-26, 2012: "Billy Elliott: The Musical"
· April 17 – May 13, 2012: "The Lion King"
· June 5-10, 2012: "La Cage"
Broadwayacrossamerica.com/Orlando; 800-448-6322 (media and public)
The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art opened its new wing Feb. 19, 2011. The expansion includes 11 new galleries featuring art and architectural objects from Louis Comfort Tiffany's Long Island estate, Laurelton Hall, such as prize-winning leaded-glass windows, iconic Tiffany lamps and custom furnishings. morsemuseum.org; 407-645-5311 ext. 136 (media and public)
Orlando Shakespeare Theater in partnership with UCF announced its 2011-2012 season:
Signature series:
· "A Tuna Christmas," Dec. 1-24, 2011
· "Romeo and Juliet," Jan. 25 – March 17, 2012
· "Cymbeline," Feb. 18 - March 18, 2012
· "A Modern Masterpiece," March 21 – April 22, 2012
Young audience series:
· "Charlotte's Web," March 29 – April 29, 2012
Ticket prices range from $10-$38. Single tickets go on sale June 14 and season subscriptions are now available for purchase online or by phone. orlandoshakes.org; 407-447-1700, ext. 215 (media); 407-447-1700 (public)
Orlando Shakespeare Theater and PB&J Theatre Factory present "Sleigh" at the Mandell Theater at the Lowndes Shakespeare Center Dec. 1 - Dec. 18. orlandoshakes.org; 407-447-1700, ext. 215 (media); 407-447-1700 (public)
Orlando Science Center recently announced a new exhibit "Harry's Big Adventure" opening September 24. The exhibit is a multisensory experience that immerses visitors in the world of insects by providing an up-close view of nature and the role insects play in our environment. "Harry's Big Adventure" features nine interactive habitats with nearly 20 hands on exhibits and live insects displayed in their natural surroundings.The exhibit is included in general admission, which is $17 for adults, $12 for children ages 3-12 and free for children two and under. osc.org; 407-514-2145 (media); 407-514-2000 (public)
The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum announced extended hours and free admission from 4-8 p.m. on Fridays through April 2012. During the holiday season, the museum will also feature live music, tours and other programs from 5-8 p.m. on six consecutive Friday evenings (Nov. 25th through Dec. 30th). morsemuseum.org; 407-645-5311 (media and public)
Performance art group, DRIP, announced plans to open a new nightlife experience on International Drive. DRIP's performances are described as visual rock concerts featuring dancers performing with raining liquids and colored powders. DRIP plans to open in early 2012, initially offering shows starting at $29 per person several nights of the week. ILoveDRIP.com; 517-449-3765 (media and public
The Abbey presents "Orlando Ballet Uncorked!" on Monday, Dec. 5 at 7 p.m. Artistic Director, Robert Hill, gives an unprecedented look into the creative process of staging Orlando Ballet's Vampire's Ball and The Nutcracker. General admission tickets are $25. abbeyorlando.com; 407-704-6185 (media); 407-704-6261 (public)
DINING & NIGHTLIFE
Ceviche Tapas Bar & Restaurant is now open for lunch daily at 11 a.m. The restaurant expanded its hours in response to the amount of visitors in the area since the opening of the new Amway Center. ceviche.com; 321-281-8140 (media and public)
Darden Restaurants announced the first "green" LongHorn Steakhouse to be built in the Lake Buena Vista area. Constructed from recycled materials, the restaurant will feature natural lighting and energy efficient appliances and fixtures. It will be Orlando's ninth LongHorn and Darden's tenth restaurant built to attain Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification. Darden.com; 407-245-5756 (media); 407-828-8976 (public)
Farris and Foster's Chocolate Factory recently opened a new location in Waterford Towers. The new store features similar chocolate confections as the Baldwin Park location, along with additional space for parties. farrisandfosters.com; 407-802-2947 (media and public)
The Peabody Orlando celebrated the grand opening of Rocks, its newest upscale lounge. Overlooking International Drive, Rocks offers an extensive wine list, bottled beers from around the world and specialty cocktails infused with fresh ingredients. The lounge also offers live music seven nights a week and a select bar menu. PeabodyOrlando.com; 407-210-1507 (media); 407-352-4000 (public)
Pine 22, a create-your-own burger restaurant, recently opened in downtown Orlando. With 322,000 different combinations, diners can create a customized burger from locally grown ingredients. The restaurant also serves appetizers, sweet potato or pine fries, seasonal fried pies and wine and beer. Pine22.com; 407-574-2160 (media and public)
Pinkberry, the popular frozen yogurt store, opened a second Florida location April 1 at Orlando Premium Outlets – International Dr. The new location will serve Pinkberry's six distinctive flavors, as well as a wide range of premium toppings, fruit parfaits and smoothies. Pinkberry.com; 407-332-5212 (media and public)
Pinkberry, a one-of-a-kind, tart frozen yogurt experience, will open its third Orlando location at The Mall at Millenia. The new store will open Friday, Nov. 4, just over a year after opening the first Pinkberry in Orlando. The store will be located at 4200 Conroy Road at the main mall entrance on the lower level next to Brio Tuscan Grille. Pinkberry will host a pre-opening party serving free Pinkberry with toppings at the new store location on Nov. 3 from 5-9 p.m. The event is open to the general public. pinkberry.com; 407-332-5212 (media)
Rosen Centre Hotel recently opened 98Forty Tapas & Tequila featuring 40 different brands of premium tequilas and fresh menu items, such as salsas, guacamoles, quesadillas, tacos and more. The restaurant is open daily at 5 p.m. rosencentre.com; 407-332-5212 (media); 407-996-9840 (public)
Thai Thani Restaurant welcomes Groucho's Comedy Clubto its Celebration Town Center location Saturday nights beginning Feb. 5. The comedy club will feature new nationally touring comedians. Shows begin at 8:30 p.m. with doors opening at 7:30 p.m. Admission is $12 per person or $25 for a dinner show package that includes dinner, show admission, choice of seating and a non-alcoholic beverage. CelebrationTowncenter.com; 407-566-9444 (media and public)
Universal Orlando Resort recently announced the addition of a new Brazilian steakhouse experience now open within Latin Quarter at Universal's CityWalk. The new churrascaria menu offerings are served "rodizio" style, which means a continuous service of South-American rotisserie skewers full of meats brought directly from the grill and sliced tableside throughout the entire experience. UniversalOrlando.com; 407-363-8220 (media); 407-363-8000 (public)
Grand Bohemian Hotel Orlando announced the reopening of The Boheme Restaurant after undergoing renovations. The AAA Four-Diamond restaurant's refresh, includes new, contemporary furnishings and décor, as well as new menu items to complement favorites like the Kessler signature calamari. The Boheme also introduced the Kessler Chophouse Menu, featuring the highest quality premium Black Angus select cuts. The restaurant opens at 6 a.m. Monday – Saturday and 10:30 a.m. Sunday for brunch. grandbohemianhotel.com; 850-668-2222 (media); 407-313-9000 (public)
Pointe Orlando recently announced the addition of The Pub Orlando, a British inspired restaurant and bar, located on the property between The Oceanaire Seafood Room and Cuba Libre Restaurant and Rum Bar. The venue, scheduled to open during the first quarter of 2012, will occupy 7,975 square-feet (741 square-meters) and seat approximately 220 patrons. The menu will incorporate innovative pub cuisine, as well as more traditional fare and an extensive beverage selection, in a high-energy atmosphere. pointeorlando.com; 407-248-2838 (media); 407-248-2838 (public)
Saffran, a new Icelandic restaurant, recently opened near The Florida Mall on Sand Lake Road. Voted the "Best Restaurant" in Iceland for 2009 and 2010, Saffran features healthy ingredients and exotic flavors, infusing tastes from Europe and the Middle East to create menu items with less than 600 calories each. Restaurant hours are 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. saffran.us; 407-856-8881 (media and public)
Hot N Juicy Crawfish, a new seafood restaurant, recently opened on Sand Lake Road. Hot N Juicy Crawfish specializes in spiced cooked shellfish, wings and po' boy sandwiches.Restaurant hours are noon – 10 p.m., Sunday – Thursday and noon – 11 p.m., Friday – Saturday. hotnjuicycrawfish.com; 407-370-4655 (media and public)
Chilly Spoons recentlyopened a new location in Thornton Park, the second Orlando location for the popular frozen-yogurt and topping shop. The new location offers organic dog-friendly yogurt for sale along with Yum-Yum Cupcakes previously only available by food-trucks. The location was built with ample space to hold parties, fundraisers and feature spirit nights for local schools. chillyspoons.com; 407-730-4616 (media and public)
The Table, a modern-day supper club, recently opened on Sand Lake Road. The Table features New American Cuisine during a 5-course chef's choice food and wine pairing with seasonally inspired dishes that change daily to reflect the freshest products available. The Table is currently open for reservations on Friday and Saturday nights only. thetableorlando.com; 407-830-7312 (media); 407-900-3463 (public)
Prato, an Italian restaurant featuring seasonal ingredients, local produce and sustainable Florida seafood, was recently opened by the culinary team behind Luma on Park. Located about three blocks from Luma on Park Ave. in Winter Park, Prato offers year-round patio seating with décor marked by contemporary and rustic design elements. prato-wp.com; 407-262-0050 (media and public)
SHOPPING
The Florida Mall announced the addition of a Vans retail storeand an expansion to Finish Line for this winter. Vans is a legendary "skate" brand that began making footwear in 1966 and now manufactures their signature style of men and women's sneakers, skateboarding shoes, clothing, accessories and more. Finish Line is expanding its retail space to offer shoppers more athletic apparel and sports oriented merchandise. floridamall.com; 407-290-1060 (media); 407-851-6255 (public)
Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores opened G by Guess, a retail store specializing in casual apparel and accessories for men and women. lbvfs.com; 407-238-9301 (media and public)
TRANSPORTATION
Allegiant Air announced it will consolidate all of its service to Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) beginning Feb. 1, 2011. The company, which currently operates 29 routes to and from the Orlando area, will move the 10 routes it serves from Orlando International Airport (MCO) to Sanford. The routes include: Allentown, Pa.; Des Moines, Iowa; Grand Rapids, Mich.; Greenville/Spartanburg, S.C.; Huntington, W.Va.; Knoxville, Tenn.; Lexington, Ky.; Springfield, Mo.; Tri-Cities, Tenn.; and Youngstown, Ohio. allegiantair.com; 702-851-7370 (media); 702-505-8888 (public)
Orlando International Airport (MCO) recently began year-round nonstop service with Air France, from Paris to Orlando, three times a week. Other new international flights out of MCO include service to Bogota, Colombia onboard Avianca four times per week and service to Port of Spain, Trinidad onboard Caribbean Airlines twice per week. orlandoairports.net; 407-825-2055 (media); 407-825-2352 (public)
Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) and Dutch airline, ArkeFly recently announced low-fare, year-round service from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) in The Netherlands. This marks the first ever non-stop scheduled service between Amsterdam and Orlando Sanford. Service will operate twice weekly on Fridays and Mondays. OrlandoSanfordAirport.com; 407-585-4010 (media); 407-585-4000 (public)
Orlando Sanford International, Inc. and Vision Airlines recently announced scheduled non-stop, low-fare service between Orlando Sanford International and Northwest Florida Regional Airport in Fort Walton Beach/Destin, Fla. Beginning April 1, this year-round service will also offer passengers the opportunity of continuing service to Baton Rouge, La., Columbia, S.C., Little Rock, Ark., and Shreveport, La., from the Northwest Florida airport. VisionAirlines.com; 407-585-4010 (media); 877-359-2538 (public)
TAM Airlines and US Airways signed a codeshare agreement that increased itinerary options for their passengers flying from or to South and North America. Passengers of the Brazilian airline have new domestic flight options in Miami, New York and Orlando. Starting itineraries offer round trips between Miami and Philadelphia, New York and Phoenix, Orlando and Phoenix, Orlando and Philadelphia, and Orlando and Washington, D.C. The codeshare allows each company to sell seats in planes operated by the other as if they were their own. usairways.com;tamairlines.com; 407-477-5997 ext. 237 (media); 888-235-9826 (public)
Disney Cruise Line welcomed the Disney Dream to its fleet. The 4,000-passenger ship sailed its maiden voyage out of Port Canaveral, Fla., on Jan. 26. It joined the 2,700-passenger Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, with the Disney Fantasy scheduled to join the fleet in 2012. DisneyCruise.com; 407-566-6397 (media); 888-325-2500 (public)
Orlando International Airport (MCO) and TAM Airlines recently added a new daily flight between Orlando and São Paulo, Brazil effective August 2, doubling the frequency on the route. TAM Airbus A330 flying the Orlando-São Paulo route, will offer 221 first class seats, 34 business class seats and 183 economy class seats. Currently, TAM is the only carrier to fly daily, nonstop flights between Orlando and Brazil. orlandoairports.net; 407-825-2055 (media); 407-825-2352 (public),tam.com.br;55 (11) 5582-2579 (media)
Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) and Allegiant announced new nonstop service to Asheville regional Airport in North Carolina beginning Nov. 18. Flights will operate twice weekly on Monday and Friday with introductory fares starting at $24.99 each way. Service to Asheville takes the total number of nonstop destinations offered by Allegiant from SFB to 32. allegiant.com; 702-853-4625 (media); 702-505-8888 (public); orlandosanfordairport.com; 407-585-4010 (media); 407-585-4000 (public)
Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Air Jamaica announced they have reinstated flights between Kingston and Orlando beginning Sept. 15, becoming the only carrier operating nonstop flights between the two cities at MCO. The Kingston to Orlando flights will operate on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Airjamaica.com; 868-669-3000 (media); 800-523-5585 (public); Orlandoairports.net; 407-825-2055 (media); 407-825-2352 (public)
SPECIAL EVENTS
The Festival of Trees showcases displays of designer decorated trees, wreaths and gingerbread creations, holiday vignettes, a gift boutique, a Toyland Town activity area, Holiday Garden and a Festival Café with daily entertainment. The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. General admission is $10 for adults and $6 for children. omart.org; 407-896-4231 x239 (media); 407-896-4231 x254 (public)
Rosen Shingle Creek announced a series of free holiday events open to the public. Events include holiday chorus performances from local schools and churches, visits from Santa Claus and performances of 'The Nutcracker.' Dates and times vary for each event. rosenshinglecreek.com/holidayseason; 407-332-5212 (media); 407-996-9770 (public)
The City of Winter Park presents 'Winter in the Park,' the city's annual holiday ice skating rink in Central Park West Meadow located in downtown Winter Park until Sunday, Jan. 8. The skating rink is open Monday through Thursday, 3 - 9 p.m., Friday, 3 - 10 p.m., Saturday, 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. and Sunday, noon - 8 p.m. Attraction price is $10 (skate rental included) for all ages.
cityofwinterpark.org; 407-599-3428 (media); 407-599-3203 (public)
The City of Winter Park announced special holiday season kick-off events taking place in the city's Central Park.
· Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony - Dec. 2, 5:15 p.m.
· 13th Annual Pancake Breakfast - Dec. 3, 7 – 10:30 a.m. $6 for adults and $4 for children.
· 59th Annual 'Ye Olde Hometown' Christmas parade - Dec. 3, 9 – 10 a.m.
cityofwinterpark.org; 407-599-3428 (media); 407-599-3203 (public)
Kennedy Space Center unveiled plans for 'Holidays in Space.' Taking place until Jan. 1, guests will get a feel of what it is like to celebrate the holidays on the International Space Station (ISS). A special 42-foot (12.8-meter) ISS-themed Christmas tree will tower over the Space Skating Rink in the Rocket Garden. Holiday carolers clad in astronaut flight suits will perform throughout the day and Santa Clause will be on hand to pose for photos while Mrs. Clause reads special space-themed stories for kids of all ages. Included with regular admission of $43 for adults and $33 for children. kennedyspacecenter.com; 321-449-4318 (media); 866-737-5235 (public)
Walt Disney World Resort welcomes the Atlanta Braves to ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex for a series of spring training games. Reigning World Series Champions, St. Louis Cardinals, will face the Braves on March 19, one of 18 pre-season games from March 3 - April 2. Tickets can be purchased beginning Jan. 7 at all Ticketmaster outlets and the sport complex box office. More information and all spring training game dates can be found at: espnwwos.com/atlantabraves; 407-541-5600 (media and public)
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
For media requiring additional information, including a password protected image gallery, visit our web site at VisitOrlando.com/media.
Consumers can call or write the Official Visitor Center, 8723 International Drive, Suite 101, Orlando, FL 32819, phone: 800-551-0181 (U.S. or Canada) or 407-363-5872 or visit the consumer Web site VisitOrlando.com if they would like to receive more information about the destination.
For real time updates, follow Orlando on Twitter at twitter.com/VisitOrlando or Facebook at Facebook.com/VisitOrlando.
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