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Today’s travel tip sheet includes more information on Visit Orlando's first-ever virtual travel show on March 25, along with ideas to help visitors take advantage of the mild springtime weather by planning an outdoor getaway to Orlando. From open air spring events held at the theme parks, outdoor dining and special deals for Florida Residents, there are numerous reasons to visit this spring. For interviews and media info: media@visitorlando.com

In this Issue: 

  • NEW Orlando virtual travel show takes place March 25 

  • Theme park spring events 

  • Outdoor dining hot spots 

  • Spring picnic spots 

  • Florida resident deals 

  • Did you know? Florida’s highest point is... 

Visit Orlando & Theme Parks Host First-Ever Virtual Travel Show on March 25 

Visit Orlando will host a first-of-its-kind experiential virtual travel show with feature presentations from Disney, Universal, SeaWorld and more than 40 destination partners, offering consumers a one-stop-shop on exclusive deals, prizes & safety information.  

Highlights include: 

  • Universal Orlando Resort will unveil a sneak peek of the thrills in store from their new Jurassic World Velocicoaster– in addition to exciting news about their annual events such as Halloween Horror Nights. 

  • SeaWorld Orlando - Meet a sloth, get a first-hand glimpse at new rides coming this summer and take a behind-the-scenes look at SeaWorld Orlando’s Rescue and Rehabilitation Center. 

Consumers can sign up to attend the free “The Wonder Awaits You!” An Orlando Virtual Travel Experience,” on Thursday, March 25 from 6-8pm, at visitorlando.com/virtual-travel-show. 

Re-imagined Spring Events at the Theme Parks   

Spring is in the air and now is the perfect time to enjoy Orlando’s outdoor fun, springtime events, with safety measures in place: 

  • Taste of EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival (March 3 – July 5) - Discover Disney Character topiaries, breathtaking gardens, exciting exhibits, and have a taste from a variety of savory dishes, desserts and specialty beverages at over 15 Outdoor Kitchens. 

  • Extended by two weeks! Mardi Gras 2021: International Flavors of Carnaval at Universal Orlando Resort (through April 11) - Enjoy this global food fest of delectable dishes and drinks from 13 worldwide destinations on the vibrant decorated streets that include spectacular Mardi Gras floats, energetic dancers and stilt performers in extraordinary costumes, brass band musicians, and numerous beads. 

  • Seven Seas Food Festival at SeaWorld Orlando (Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays, Feb. 5 – May 9) - From foodies to families, everyone will find tasty delights among more than 200 distinct offerings of more than 50 fresh global cuisine choices to pair with over 75 wine and cocktail selections and 75 craft beers. Dance to rock, country, Latin, or ‘90s throwback sounds in exciting live concerts. 

New Outdoor Dining Options  

Visitors looking to take advantage of Orlando’s wide-open spaces and gorgeous spring weather can check out several new and popular culinary hotspots with outdoor seating, unique views and an array of gourmet meals and craft cocktails. 

  • NEW! The Ravenous Pig Beer Garden – This new beer garden at one of Orlando’s most popular restaurants for locals, welcomes both kids and pets. Try seasonal gastropub cuisine for lunch and dinner, alongside house-made charcuterie and extensive cocktail, wine selections and on-site craft brewery. 

  • NEW! JW Bonnet Creek covered Beer Garden - This European style beer garden features rosé wines by the tap, local draft beers, freshly baked pizzas and pretzels, becoming the perfect Happy Hour Bar. 

  • Relax Grill at Lake Eola – Set in the heart of downtown Orlando with a picturesque view of Lake Eola, diners can enjoy American-Mediterranean fare with views of swan boats floating across the lake and, if timed right, stunning sunsets.  

  • Canvas Restaurant & Market - The tranquil outdoor deck offers diners a breathtaking view of beautiful Lake Nona as they savor new American cuisine influenced by Florida’s Southern and Latin American roots. 

Unique Spring Picnic Experiences 

From romantic pre-arranged picnic setups to curating your own experience, Orlando offers visitors an array of options to enjoy an outdoor picnic with gourmet food and unique outdoor settings. 

  • By booking a Munchies Live BBQ experience, you can enjoy a laid back, unique outdoor lakeside dining experience that includes outdoor activities such as corn hole, hammocks, canoeing, a putting green, fishing and more. 

  • Orlando Picnic provides Instagram-worthy, all-in-one picnic setups at local parks including pillows, a pallet table, letter boards, plates, flowers, décor and even a sanitizing kit. The only thing you’ll need to bring is food – or you can customize your package to include it.  

  • At The Basket, a quick service component to Wine Bar George at Disney Springs, guests can enjoy a picnic inspired by a Master Sommelier. Offerings include wine on tap, specialty frozen drinks, baguettes, cheese boxes, charcuterie and more. For selections of $60 or more, guests will receive everything packed in a picnic basket to enjoy at the location of choice.  

NEW Florida Resident Deals 

Florida residents can find 60 deals specifically for them at VisitOrlando.com, with savings on everything from outdoor adventures to resorts with beautiful pools – one even has a pirate ship!  

  • Wild Florida Airboats, Gator Park & Drive-thru Safari - Florida resident rates are only $22 for adults and $17 kids for airboat or drive-thru safari tours and up close and personal encounter with hundreds of native and exotic animals at the wildlife Gator Park. 

  • Revolution Adventures - Learn a new skill with Target Archery, Archery Tag, and Clay Shooting with special rates for Florida residents. 

  • Lake Buena Vista Resort Village & Spa - Save 30% on stays of 2-nights or more choosing from one- to four-bedroom condo style suites with full kitchen, washer/dryers and private balconies. The onsite pool with pirate ship is sure to make a splash with the kids. 

Did You Know?  

Bok Tower Gardens is located on peninsular Florida’s highest point – 298-feet above sea level.  The sanctuary’s carillon includes 60 bells, the largest of which is roughly the weight of eight cars stacked on top of each other.