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Showing posts with the label Theme Park

All Things Butterbeer

It’s no secret that one of the most sought after treats from The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is none other than the famous Butterbeer. I mean, how many pictures have you seen of guests proudly showing off their butterbeer in front of Gringott’s Bank or Hogwarts? Here, I’ll show you: No one knows for sure what is in Butterbeer, but most people agree that it has a sweet, butterscotch flavor.   I’ve heard speculation that it also tastes like it might have cream soda, vanilla, or shortbread flavoring.   Whatever those witches and wizards put in their magical concoction, we can all agree it is delicious!   But did you know there are multiple ways to experience butterbeer at Universal Orlando Resort?!   In fact, some of my favorite butterbeer treats aren’t even drinks at all!   If you’ve got a sweet tooth and a love for Harry Potter, you’ll want to experience as many butterbeer treats as you can! Sip that Butterbeer Let’s start off with the gold standard.   When most people think

Universal's Volcano Bay Premium Seating

If you’ve read our recent blog, Universal's Volcano Bay Basics , you may recall that Volcano Bay has a variety of seating options available for guests. One of the options you can pay to reserve is Premium Seating. Premium Seating is a great option for those that don’t need a Cabana but would like to have the convenience of reserved seating and some additional amenities.   My family was visiting during peak season, and I wanted to make sure we weren’t stressed about finding a place to take a break or having to wait on food.   I was torn about whether we really “needed” this experience upgrade, but I am so happy we went for it! For the best price, you should try to reserve your Premium Seating as far in advance as possible.  While you may be able to get a reservation upon arrival at the park, it’s always a risk. Plus, you will be paying top dollar if you wait to book. You’re probably wondering, what exactly does Premium Seating include? Here is what you get with your reservation: R

Review of 2021 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival

The Epcot International Food & Wine Festival kicked off on July 15th and is now in full swing! Each year the Festival includes Global Marketplaces where you can taste your way around the world, live entertainment and fun activities the whole family can enjoy. For avid collectors, there's also limited-edition event merchandise available for purchase. If you haven't visited the Festival yet, no worries! The Festival runs until November 20th so there is still time to visit. We explored the Festival offerings a couple weeks ago and I'm ready to share our review with all of you. It was a short trip so unfortunately we didn't get to try all of the food and beverage options but we were able to try a handful of offerings to whet our appetites. I'm looking forward to revisiting the Festival in October to try even more tasty treats! Shimmering Sips hosted by CORKCICLE® Location: Near Port of Entry If you're coming from Future World, you'll find the Shimmering Sips

Universal Orlando Resort: More Than Just Thrills!

I have discovered over the years that many people think Universal Orlando Resort theme parks are just for guests who love thrill rides.   While it is true these parks have some amazing thrill rides (I’m looking at you, Velocicoaster!), there are plenty of rides to please anyone in your party that prefer more tame attractions. Recently I took my own family down to experience everything Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure have to offer.   My son is just venturing into the world of roller coasters, but still has some growing to do.   My daughter is still a bit cautious when it comes to rides.   They both declared that they LOVE Universal Orlando Resort and can’t wait to return!   In no particular order, here are our favorite non-coaster rides that are sure to please everyone in your group.  Despicable Me Minion Mayhem :   In this awesome simulator ride you get turned into a minion! Margo, Edith, and Agnes oversee your minion training, but things get a little out of ha

World Showcase Spotlight: Canada

We continue our tour of World Showcase and head to the other end of the lagoon for Canada! The Canada Pavilion is home to one of the most popular restaurants on Walt Disney World property: Le Cellier Steakhouse.  The steakhouse is located in the cellar of the centerpiece of the Canada pavilion, the Hotel du Canada.  Le Cellier is a signature dining restaurant serving steaks, seafood, and regional cuisine inspired by the provinces of Canada.  Favorites include the “Le Cellier” Mushroom Filet Mignon and the Canadian Cheddar Cheese Soup.  Guests 21 years of age and older can enjoy Canadian wines and beers.  Click here to read a full review.  Reservations are strongly recommended at this restaurant and can be made 60 days in advance. On your way to the entrance of Le Cellier, make sure to take a moment to take some pictures of the Victoria Gardens along with the quaint little cottage.  It’s a beautiful spot filled with many great photo opportunities.  After you enjoy a meal at Le C

World Showcase Spotlight: Germany

This installment of World Showcase Spotlight features a favorite pavilion--Germany! You will find Germany situated between the Outpost and Italy pavilion. With beautiful potted flowers throughout, gorgeous architecture and the delicious smell of caramel treats, this quaint pavilion is an easy place to sit and relax for a little bit. The Germany Pavilion is home to a few stores where guests can buy everything from apparel and toys to steins and ornaments.  Die Weihnachts Ecke is a must visit store for any Christmas lover. Hand blown glass ornaments of all shapes and colors decorate the walls and trees within the store. The pickle ornament tree is also a hit, so make sure to stop and read the story of the pickle ornament if you are unfamiliar with this tradition! Stein Haus is where you’ll find beer steins, as you could probably guess! There is also some other fun merchandise such as t-shirts, etc… Next door to Stein Haus is Weinkeller.  Here you will find German wines, wine access

What to Expect at Universal's Volcano Bay

If you think you know water parks, think again!  Universal's Volcano Bay at the Universal Orlando Resort has really changed the face of the traditional water park.  They've embraced new technology and really worked to improve some of the more "annoying" things about a hot summer water park experience. The entrance is large, open and welcoming.  If you are staying on property at Universal, you can catch a bus over here or walk from your resort depending on which hotel you are staying at.  The biggest innovation that sets Volcano Bay apart is the TapuTapu Wearable. Everyone gets one with park admission to use for the day and return on your way out of the park. These devices are completely waterproof and have little chance of falling off. You can use these handy little wristbands to reserve your spot in a virtual queue so you aren't spending most of your day waiting in line. TapTu Ride allows you to hop in a virtual line. How it works is you find a to