Party it Up Island Style at CityWalk!

CityWalk is a great way to take a breather from Orlando theme parks without leaving them entirely. After all, both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure are just a short walk away, and with all of the clubs and restaurants around you, there is plenty of action going on and tons of ways to have a blast. One of the great things about CityWalk is that you can get a little taste of the island life without having to make the drive out to the coast from Central Florida.

This week marks Jamaican Independence Day, and CityWalk plans to celebrate in full force! Bob Marley: A Tribute to Freedom will be hosting the celebration. This restaurant is modeled after Marley’s home and garden in Kingston, Jamaica. It is a tribute to his music and his message of peace and freedom for the world. Marley fans will also find artifacts from his musical career and personal belongings of the “Reggae King.” The restaurant features a full service bar including Red Stripe beer and features food like Jamaican patties. As a special event for the festival, the restaurant will be throwing a party with live reggae music from Chain Reaction, food and drink specials, DJ’s, vendors and street performers.

If your island style is more Key West than Kingston, check out Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville. Sip on the best margaritas in town as you chow down on your “Cheeseburger in Paradise” and listen to Buffet’s classic songs. There is live music in the laid-back Key West style and happy hour specials at this great CityWalk location. There is a great shop available that features margarita mix, leisurewear and Jimmy Buffet’s music. It’s a great place for Parrotheads and hungry guests alike.

If you’re looking for Latin island flavor, check out the Latin Quarter to eat and dance the night away. The Latin Quarter is influenced by over 21 Latin American countries and the décor is influenced by Aztec and Mayan architecture. This dining establishment features foods from South and Central America as well as the Latin countries in the Caribbean. Thursday nights is Ladies’ Night with Rumba 100.3 FM and the Latin Quarter also features Reggaeton and Freestyle dance parties from 10PM - 2AM.

You can always head back to the theme parks thanks to CityWalk’s great location, but there is plenty of cultural nightlife for you to explore at CityWalk. Make sure you stop by!

Satisfy Your Junk Food Fix in the Parks

Working up an appetite in Orlando theme parks is easy. After hours of waiting in line and walking from one end of the park to another, you’ll surely want a nice meal and a break. If you’re in the parks during the hot Florida summers, then you’ll most definitely want to sit down in the air-conditioning—believe me, it gets really hot here! There is rarely time for a fancy sit-down dinner, and after all that activity you need a little bit more fuel than a salad. So here is a small list of our favorite places to grab some junk food at the parks.

A lot of times you’ll see visitors to the parks munching on turkey legs as they walk from one attraction to the other, but we would rather take advantage of the amount of detail put into the décor of some of the restaurants the parks have to offer. At Universal Studios, check out Mel’s Drive-In, located in the Hollywood section of Universal Studios. This 50’s style diner will send many down memory lane and give 50’s enthusiasts a great place to rest their feet and fill their stomachs. Mel’s offers, you guessed it, diner food. Milkshakes, burgers and chili-cheese fries are all available along with the classic root beer float.

If you’re looking for a more fulfilling restaurant experience, we love heading to Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville, located in Universal’s CityWalk. The menu here is more extensive compared to the restaurants inside the park, and therefore healthier options are available for those watching their waistlines. But if you aren’t, then feel free to indulge in the Cheeseburger in Paradise. Named after Buffet’s famous song, this has to be my favorite burger in the Orlando area. Feel free to sing along to the music playing in the background as your Heinz 57 on your burger.

As for dining in the House of Mouse, there are two locations we always have to go when in the Walt Disney World Resort. Our “old faithful” location in the Magic Kingdom has to be Casey’s Corner on Main Street. This Main Street classic is a baseball-themed restaurant that highlights the glory days of America’s past time. It’s great to check out the classic baseball-themed cartoons on the bleachers with younger members of the group as well. No matter what we do when visiting Disney World with our families, we have to stop at Casey’s. If we don’t make it for lunch, then it’s the last thing we do before getting back to the hotel. There is nothing fancy about their hot dogs, but who needs fancy when they’re so good?

Hopefully you’ve worked up a craving for these classic eats after reading the blog. Make sure you keep them in mind when you’re heading out to the parks with your discount Disney tickets and your Universal Studios tickets.

Guiding Light at Universal Studios This Week

If you love daytime soaps, yearn to be part of some Hollywood magic, or simply need an excuse to go to an Orlando theme park, you’ll be interested to know that CBS daytime drama Guiding Light will be filming at Universal Orlando all week long. Our fair city is no stranger to the spotlights of TV – SeaWorld Orlando recently played host to tapings of Wheel of Fortune – and the Universal parks will join the queue of parks that have held tapings this year with TV shoots running through Friday, March 20.

Guiding Light, which is the longest-running drama on television with an eight-decade run, will be shooting at various spots at Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, Universal CityWalk, and other spots within the park. Fans will be able to see the footage in multiple episodes airing from April 24 through May 4, but they’ll also be able to watch from behind the set at Universal while shooting is underway this week. Crew members, of course, will prevent anyone from getting too close, but park guests will be seen in the background of various shots. So if you’re well-placed and oblivious enough, you could be on the show!

The taping begins each day before the park opens, and shooting is fast-paced, with the cast and crew moving from location to location quite a few times in one day. Many residents of Orlando were cast as extras for the episodes in an open casting call that took place earlier in the month at CityWalk’s Groove nightclub.

Universal Orlando stars as itself in the episodes’ scripts, which mainly involve Bill (played by Daniel Cosgrove) whisking Lizzie (played by Marcy Rylan) away to the park to rekindle their love. Bill wants to give Lizzie the childhood she never had as a Spaulding, but Lizzie’s family and friends are never far behind.

If you can’t stop by Universal this week to watch the shoots, don’t fret – when filming wraps on Friday, the cast of Guiding Light will continue to stick around for Mardi Gras and a day of autograph sessions with fans in front of Fear Factor Live. On Saturday, March 21, the cast will be signing autographs from 10 am to 5 pm, starting with a full cast session and Q&A exclusive to annual passholders from 10 am to 11 am and followed by one hour sessions with select cast members through the rest of the day.

Then at Mardi Gras on Saturday night, the entire cast will appear in the evening’s parade at 8 pm. Several actors will be throwing beads to fans, and Kim Zimmer and Robert Newman (who play Reva and Josh, respectively), will be the king and queen of the parade.

There’s no extra cost to watch the filming, attend a signing, or catch the Mardi Gras fun at Universal; only regular admission is needed. So if you’re an avid fan of the show, you won’t want to miss this opportunity to meet the cast and watch them in action. Score your Universal Orlando tickets here at DWTickets.com and you’ll be ready for your close-up with Guiding Light.

Have It Your Way at Universal CityWalk

The King has come to Orlando. No, we’re not talking about the King of Sweden or Saudi Arabia or even Elvis; we mean the Burger King, which has brought its Whopper goodness to Universal Orlando CityWalk in a new restaurant that’s the first of its kind anywhere. This week saw the opening of three new restaurants in the Universal Studios entertainment district, giving guests new options for great dining and casual fun.

Panda Express, Moe’s Southwest Grill, and the world’s first Burger King Whopper Bar are the new additions, housed together in one connected dining area on the second level of CityWalk. Open for lunch and dinner, each of the three new restaurants offers guests delicious food prepared right before your eyes. After placing and picking up their order, guests can then make their way into a new modern and trendy dining room outfitted with posh booths and tables.

Part of the family-owned national chain, Panda Express will serve up fresh, high quality Chinese food served hot; Panda’s highly-skilled chefs use the ancient Chinese art of wok cooking to prepare crisp and tangy favorites like Orange Chicken and Beijing Beef. Moe’s Southwestern Grill, meanwhile, will serve fresh, made-to-order southwest flare, with signature items such as the Homewrecker Burrito and Joe Coctostan Quesadilla. Complimentary chips and salsa come with every meal, as well as warm, exceptional service.

The Whopper Bar, however, will really make a unique mark on CityWalk’s dining with a new restaurant concept that takes Burger King’s “Have It Your Way” philosophy to new heights. There, guests will be able to enjoy premium and customizable selections off a new Whopper-based menu with interesting variations of the original Whopper. And when they say “have it your way,” they mean any way – guests will be able to dress their burger with unique toppings like jalapenos, Parmesan peppercorn sauce, sautéed mushrooms, and onion rings. They’ll even be able to opt for “extra thick” burgers.

Though the restaurant’s name may suggest otherwise, there’s no alcohol served at the Whopper Bar – just juicy whoppers, and in the morning, breakfast items like Croissan’wiches, French toast sticks, and hash browns. The restaurant has a sign indicating that the Orlando location is the world’s first.

A 30-acre complex filled with nightclubs, premier restaurants, and live entertainment, Universal CityWalk is one of Orlando’s hottest nightspots. When it came to dining, however, Universal CityWalk big wigs saw something missing in the area’s offerings.

“We saw a desire for quick, casual meals among our guests,” said Ric Florell, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Resort Revenue Operations. The three new restaurants were their answer to the void.

Great for fueling up in the morning before hitting Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure, Whopper Bar, Panda Express, and Moe’s Southwest Grill are sure to be popular spots at CityWalk. Be sure to check these eateries out next time you pass through Universal Studios, and remember to get your Universal Orlando tickets at DWTickets.com before you go so you’ll have more money left over for noshing.

Where to Watch the Big Game in Orlando

Sports fans everywhere (and generally anyone with testosterone) are undoubtedly eagerly awaiting the big game this upcoming weekend, also known as the Super Bowl. And for those down here on vacation, figuring out where to watch the game might be a conundrum, especially if you’re used to enjoying it with pals at home, plenty of alcoholic beverages, and food. Thankfully, though, Orlando has no shortage of places where you can enjoy a Super Bowl party atmosphere that will rival anything you could have cooked up back home.

One easy place to go to is Universal CityWalk, one of Orlando’s biggest destinations for dining and entertainment. And you can guarantee that plenty of eyes will be set on the big game at the Nascar Sports Grille and NBA City. Don’t be fooled by their names; though NASCAR and NBA might be the sport of emphasis at these restaurant/bars, each place plays homage to all the major sports. The big game will be on the big screens at Nascar Sports Grille, and at NBA City, you can reserve a table for Super Bowl viewing. Better yet, you can even rent a private VIP room for an all-out Super Bowl party and invite 25 to 800 of your closest friends.

And over at Walt Disney World, the best place to watch the game is most likely the ESPN Club at Disney’s Boardwalk Inn, a restaurant, bar, arcade, and shop similar to ESPN Zones found throughout the US. More than 100 video monitors here will ensure that you won’t miss a minute of the big game, with a 90-square-foot HD projection screen in the main dining room and several TV monitors installed in the bathrooms. Be sure to arrive early for all the Super Bowl action, as the fans pack the seats in droves here.

If you find the ESPN Club too full though, the All-Star Café at Disney’s Wide World of Sports is another good sports spot, especially if you plan to take the kids. The whole family can enjoy the game from 20 big screens while they enjoy classic American fare like burgers, buffalo wings, and chicken quesadillas.

Outside of the theme parks, one of the most popular places to watch big games is T.G.I. Friday’s Front Row, located a mile away from the Orange County Convention Center on International Drive. Not your average Fridays, Front Row features two stories of non-stop sports action, with over 140 televisions, a state-of-the-art game room, free wireless internet, and private banquet rooms. And on Sunday, the restaurant will host Orlando’s biggest Super Bowl party at 6 pm, featuring a packed buffet with plenty of beer and wine, and prizes and giveaways all night long. Be sure to call or email for a reservation if you plan to attend.

Finally, for a more laid-back Super Bowl experience, Miller’s Ale House is a casual and comfortable place to watch the game. There are eleven locations throughout Central Florida to choose from, and you can book early to get reserved seating. With an all-you-can-eat buffet, open bar, and prizes and raffles throughout the game, Miller’s will definitely be a popular spot to watch the game.

With so many places for sports fans to reunite, a Super Bowl party in Orlando isn’t hard to find – the only hard part is deciding which one you want to attend. No matter where you go, you’re sure to have a great Super Bowl Sunday.

Ring in the New Year at Universal Studios

We’ve kept you in the know about all the New Year’s Eve festivities over at Walt Disney World, and now it’s Universal Studios Orlando's turn. Though Walt Disney World might have some of the best fireworks shows and parades on December 31st for a memorable, family-friendly way to ring in the New Year, Universal Studios is where the party’s at. You can bid a particularly fond farewell to 2008 and rock in 2009 at Universal CityWalk with the "Takin’ the Party to the Streets" celebration on December 31st, from 8pm to 2 am.

In this wild, end-of-the-year celebration, it’s all about the music and food in a raucous street party that will say hello to 2009 with a bang. Live performances from the Doobie Brothers and other bands will keep the streets of CityWalk grooving all night long, along with music in every club, all-you-can-eat gourmet food, and more.

On December 31st, be sure to bounce around to all the clubs and restaurants at CityWalk -- the special one-night-only party ticket includes all-night admission to them all. Live entertainment will be featured at Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville, Bob Marley – A Tribute to Freedom, the groove, Latin Quarter, Pat O’Brien’s, Red Coconut Club, and CityWalk’s Rising Star. In addition to hot music, you’ll also be able to find Chef-attended food stations featuring cuisine from each CityWalk venue. There’ll be Jammin’ Jambalaya, Paella, Cheeseburgers in Paradise, and Jumbo Shrimp, just to name a few. Partiers will also be able to find delicious dishes at Chef Carving Stations and Buffets, offering everything from Roasted Applewood Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon Tips to Skewered Fruits with Chocolate Fondue.

Then, just before midnight, party hats will go on and noisemakers will be passed around to usher in the New Year. The countdown will end in merriment and a midnight champagne toast for all.

If you do have the family in tow, the "Takin’ the Party to the Streets" celebration at CityWalk probably isn’t an option for celebrating the New Year – guests must be at least 21 years old to party. Don’t be discouraged, though – you can always ring in 2009 at Universal Studios theme park. The park will be open late on December 31st from 8 am to 1 am (Islands of Adventure will be open from 8 am to 10 pm).

At Universal, you can enjoy all your favorite rides late until the evening, and don’t miss the final showing of Universal 360 – A Cinesphere Spectacular at the end of the night. Through unique “Cinesphere” technology, this show recreates the sights and sounds of some of Hollywood’s biggest films projected onto the huge spheres in the Universal Studios lagoon, along with one of the largest laser and pyrotechnics displays in Florida. For folks staying at the resort, there are also New Year’s Eve party packages at the Hard Rock Hotel and the Loews Royal Pacific Resort.

So this New Year’s Eve, don’t stay home watching the countdown on TV. Start 2009 in style with the celebrations at Universal Studios and CityWalk. Save on discount Universal Studios tickets at DWTickets.com, and you’ll be on your way to some incredible New Year’s festivities.

Trick or Treat & Get Sweets at Orlando Theme Parks

Orlando is undoubtedly one of the best places to have spooky Halloween fun, with great October events like Universal Studios Halloween Horror Nights and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Howl-O-Scream. However, what can kids do for some good old-fashioned trick or treating on Halloween, especially if these events are sold out or too scary for young ones? Never fear, for Orlando theme parks always have you covered. Families can always throw on their costumes and head down to Walt Disney World’s Downtown Disney or Universal Studios CityWalk for some trick or treating in a safe and friendly environment. And boy, will they score some candy!

On Halloween, Downtown Disney always has something going on unofficially for families and children to enjoy. From 5 pm to 9 pm, enjoy an evening of “Happy Haunting”; explore the myriad of Disney shops and restaurants, and you’ll be rewarded with special gifts and treats. Be sure to hit up Goofy’s Candy Company, Once Upon a Toy, World of Disney, Team Mickey, Pooh Corner, Disney’s Days of Christmas, World of Memories, Disney’s Pin Traders, Mickey’s Pantry, Mickey’s Groover, Pin Cart West Side, and DisneyQuest Emporium to fill up your Halloween candy bag. Before you head out, stop by the pumpkin patch set up in the town center to snap some memorable Halloween 2008 pictures.

There’s also usually plenty of other entertainment on hand; this year, you can look for storytelling at the iron gate near World of Disney throughout the evening, and magicians and performers near the Earl of Sandwich. Throughout the night, a DJ will spin for a dance party at the Fountain Stage, and skeleton stilt walkers will be surfing through the crowd.

And over at CityWalk at Universal Studios, a similar event called “Big Treats for Your Little Monsters” will be underway on Halloween from 4 pm to 8 pm. Children ages nine and younger can visit their favorite CityWalk shops and restaurants for candy and treats. And for adults who are never too old for Halloween, the groove nightclub is hosting a costume contest for prizes beginning at 9 pm. And you never know what characters you might spot prowling the CityWalk streets – in past years, SpongeBob SquarePants, Scooby Doo, The Incredible Hulk, and Woody Woodpecker have been known to make appearances.

Trick or treating at CityWalk and Downtown Disney is a great alternative to door-to-door trick or treating because it’s much safer and more convenient. Kids can get a lot of candy all in one location, and best of all, it’s free! Downtown Disney and CityWalk have no charge for admission, and Downtown Disney offers free parking as well. Parents will also have the comfort of knowing that their children are getting their candy from a safe source – although you will still want to practice good trick or treating safety and not let the kids take any candy that isn’t wrapped.

So for a boo-tiful Halloween with lots of candy goodness and fun for the kids and young at heart, make Downtown Disney and CityWalk your trick or treat destinations this year. And check out Halloween Horror Nights and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party if you get a chance – there’s still time to get discount tickets to these great Orlando theme park events at DWTickets.com. Have a safe and happy Halloween!

What’s New at Universal Orlando

The theme parks in Central Florida are always trying to re-invent themselves for their guests, offering new attractions, shows, restaurants and yearly celebrations to encourage guests to come back year after year – and to give them something to look forward to! Universal Orlando is no different – over the past year, and in the upcoming year, Universal has several new experiences that have either already opened or are on the horizon for every guest at the Universal Orlando Resort.

Perhaps the most anticipated and newest attraction to open at Universal is The Simpsons RIDE. Having just opened at Universal Studios Florida, guests follow their beloved characters from the hit TV show as they visit Krustyland, a low-budget theme park made by none other than Krusty the Clown! Join Homer, Marge and the gang as you travel through Krustyland for the ride of a lifetime, crashing through Krustyland’s attractions, stunt shows and rides. All of this takes place in vehicles that are before a large IMAX theater screen, as each vehicle creates the simulation of motion, speed and flight for a ride experience like none other!

Another unique experience at Universal is just outside the theme parks’ gates at CityWalk. Here, you can see Blue Man Group, a worldwide phenomenon that opened at Universal Orlando in June of 2007. Thought it may be reaching its one-year anniversary, this show is still making waves in Central Florida, as it combines a unique blend of music, comedy and theatrics that has brought a brand new entertainment option to the entire Orlando area for locals and tourists alike. If you go, plan on seeing a one-hour, 45-minute live stage show that brings an eclectic mix of live music, percussion instruments and humor that amazes and engages its audience with new and unique creativity never seen before. Whether you are seeing it for the first time or are a repeat guest, Blue Man Group should definitely be on your Universal Orlando itinerary!

Speaking of CityWalk, Universal’s newest restaurant is now open right here in this entertainment district. The Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. Restaurant & Market is fun for the entire family, with mouth-watering entrees of what else – shrimp – along with other menu selections like seafood, steaks, sandwiches and desserts. And before you can say “Run, Forrest, Run!,” be sure to check out all of the memorabilia throughout the restaurant from the famous Oscar-winning film, “Forrest Gump.”

If you are looking for another new dining adventure at Universal, be sure to also check out Islands of Adventure’s all-new character breakfast. Join a host of animated characters each Thursday through Sunday morning from 9-10:30 a.m. at the Confisco Grille for the most important – and fun – meal of the day! Reservations are required for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity (call 407-224-4012), and meal prices are $15.95 for adults and $9.95 for children.

Finally, if you are a wrestling fan, you won’t want to miss Total Nonstop Action Wrestling live at Universal Studios. Universal Studios day guests can be a part of the Spike TV show’s tapings and Pay Per View events for free at Universal Studios’ Soundstage 21 at the park. Tapings are held on select dates (the current schedule goes through May 27, 2008), and all seats are first-come, first served. Even non-Universal guests can enjoy these tapings for free – simply proceed to the SHARP Aquos Theatre at CityWalk, head to the right and follow the signs for the taping. For the most up-to-date information on the show, call 407-224-6000.

If any of the above shows or attractions interest you, all you have to do is one thing – come visit the Universal Orlando Resort today! And for an inexpensive way to see everything at Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, including Blue Man Group, you have come to the right place. DWtickets.com is your No. 1 online source for discounted theme park tickets, so be sure to click here to save your family precious money on your next vacation. And, while you are here, check out our discounted ticket options for the other top attractions in Central Florida, including Disney, Sea World and local dinner shows, among others. We hope to see you real soon!

Good Times After Dark at Universal Orlando Resort

The Universal Orlando Resort is one of the most unique vacation destinations in Orlando for daytime fun during your Orlando vacation, Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure are both worth a visit. And when it comes time to buy your theme park tickets, DWTickets.com is your one-stop-shop for discount Universal tickets.

After you get your cheap tickets at DWTickets.com and spend the day frolicking in one of the theme parks at the Universal Orlando Resort, you don’t have to go home! Just walk over the bridge to Universal CityWalk and a whole new playground opens up before your eyes. This full service entertainment complex has treats for every taste: fine dining, live music, themed restaurants and bars and specialty shops you won’t find anyplace else in Orlando.

The bars and clubs are great…if you’re 21 or older. But when you’re here with the family and still want to enjoy the night life, you will not be lost at CityWalk. In fact, some of the most popular bars are open to all ages and great meals are part of their entertainment package.

Modeled after the original, CityWalk’s version of Pat O’Briens is an “authentic reproduction” of its sister bar in New Orleans. You will know you’re on vacation as you suck down your famous “Hurricane” cocktail and cheer on your favorite dueling piano player. If you’re lucky, you might even get to hobnob with the bigwigs on the 4,000 square-foot Patio where you can bask in the ambience of the famous “Flaming Fountain.”

Every Orlando vacation should be laid back, and no place embodies that spirit more than Jimmy Buffet’s® Margaritaville®, where masterpieces by Florida’s favorite son come to life in every nook and cranny. From its three bars – The Volcano Bar, Land Shark Bar and 12-Volt Bar – to the themed food and drinks – A Cheeseburger in Paradise, and of course, a variety of Margarita choices – to the nightly live music – you will get into the “Margaritaville State of Mind” in no time.

CityWalk is a party paradise for all ages, and the fun food and luscious libations are sure to spice up your Orlando vacation. Before you head out to party and play, though, make sure your first stop is at DWTickets.com. We are the best place in town for all of your discount ticket needs.

Celebrate Saint. Patricks Day at Your Favorite Orlando Theme Park

Saint Patricks Day is a colossal celebration and the Orlando theme parks are joining in the festivities with parties at CityWalk and Pleasure Island. Get your Disney tickets or Universal tickets today, and wear your green for a festive frolick at any Walt Disney World or Universal Orlando theme park.

After a gleefully green day, step out in your Irish colors for a real St. Pat’s party at CityWalk or Pleasure Island. Both nightlife niches are offering fine Irish celebrations that are sure to be fun for all.

CityWalk is celebrating “St. Patty’s Day…With Attitude” at Pat O’Brien’s from 2 p.m. – 2 a.m. where you will find:

• Traditional Irish fare
• Live Irish music and dueling pianos
• Hurricanes (Pat O’Brien’s specialty drink) just $7.95 all night
• Bud drafts only $2 all night
• Admission $12; Must be 21 years old to get in
• Leprechauns, bagpipers, and beads for all!

If you really want to honor St. Patrick in style, go for the VIP package ($20 per person). This special pass includes:

• Line jumping (and on St. Patrick’s Day, this is really a time saver!)
• Access to exclusive balcony with private upstairs bar
• Delicious hors d’oeuvre buffet
• And…even more beads!!

Over at Pleasure Island, there is no admission charge and the party goes on all weekend with:

• Live music featuring the band “Seven Nations”
• Irish music videos for your viewing pleasure
• Leprechaun appearances and stilt walkers to enhance the evening
• 3-Days of partying: March 14, 15, and 17 from 7 p.m.-2 a.m.

This is the biggest day of the year at the Raglan Road Irish Pub in Pleasure Island, where traditional Ireland is always in abundance. For this year’s party they invite you to enjoy:

• U2 Elevation. (The U2 cover band is back by popular demand!)
• Tuskar Rock, the house band straight from the heart of Ireland.Top notch Irish dance performances by Danielle Fitzpatrick.
• Kilts and competitions and mayhem for all!
• Party starts at 11 a.m. on Sunday, March 16. (Cover charge on March 17.)

Everyone is Irish on St. Patrick’s Day, so get your Orlando theme park tickets now and join in the wearin’ o’ the green. Eringobragh!

Advice for the Theme Park Weary

If you are planning a vacation to the Walt Disney World Resort your plans are surely centered around your visits to and from the four world class theme parks on the Disney property. And while these four parks have more entertainment options than one could take in during one vacation, there are undoubtedly going to be times during your vacation that you want to get away from the madness of the parks to just relax and enjoy everything else that the Walt Disney World Resort has to offer. To help prepare you for those rare down times, DWTickets.com has assembled some helpful tips of things you can do away from the parks, whether you have half a day off or a full day to occupy your time. Keep reading below for more details!

• If you are staying at a Walt Disney World Resort, which we highly suggest due to the amount of benefits you receive, one of the best things you can do with downtime is to explore your resort and all of the other hotels on property. Each one has a distinct personality and theme that is reflected through everything from the hotel rooms themselves to the architecture of the buildings and the activities/pools on the hotel grounds. If you are not staying at a deluxe resort, you might want to venture to one of them, especially the Magic Kingdom Park resorts around the Seven Seas Lagoon (you can easily access any of them via the monorail at the Ticket and Transportation Center). Another way to fully experience one of the resorts is by booking a full-service meal at one, as the hotels have some of the top-rated restaurants in all of Central Florida incorporated into them.


• While the Walt Disney World Resort has some great shopping (Downtown Disney is a great place for one-stop souvenir shopping), it doesn’t compare to the shopping that local area malls and outlets provide! With two of the largest outlet malls in the southeast, the Prime Outlets and Premium Outlets, only a few miles away, along with two malls with every story you can imagine (the Florida Mall and Mall at Millenia), Orlando has turned into a shopping mecca over the last few years. If you are looking to stay on a budget, you can get designer duds for a cheap price at the outlets, or if you are looking for the real thing, the Mall at Millenia is the place for you to go for all of the best in designer merchandise in town!


• Want to fuel your competitive juices while on vacation? Try a round of golf at one of Disney’s five championship golf courses, or for those less skilled, you can always test your hand at Disney’s two miniature golf courses. Of course, these aren’t the only courses in town to choose from – mini golf course line the streets of Lake Buena Vista and Kissimmee, and Orlando is one of the top spots in the country for competitive golf courses due to the year-round seasonable climate. A day on the links just may be the perfect way for you to get away from the hustle and bustle of the Disney parks!In addition to some of the best shopping options in the state, Orlando also has some of the best restaurants in the entire country! You can find a restaurant for every taste bud in the Orlando area, and you have plenty of affordable options to choose from as well. However, if you are looking to make an entire night out of your dinner, we suggest taking in an area dinner show. These dinner shows are several hours long and offer unlimited food and drinks, as well as spectacular entertainment for the whole family. And, exclusively here at DWTickets.com, you can purchase discounted dinner show tickets for your whole family! We offer these discounted tickets to Arabian Nights, the Pirates Dinner Theatre, Medieval Times, the Makahiki Luau at Sea World and Tony and Tina’s Wedding dinner show, and any of these shows are guaranteed to give you a whole new dinner experience!


• Finally, Disney has a plethora of recreation options for those who want to relax and see a different side of Disney. The Walt Disney World Resort has everything from luxurious spas, boat rentals for the many waterways across property, bike rentals, horseback excursions and even the Richard Petty Driving Experience, which allows you to step into a real stock for the ride of your life! These activities are only the tip of the iceberg of things to do while you are at Disney, so be sure to check with your resort if you are staying at a hotel on property for a complete list of activities and ideas of things to do while you are visiting.

No matter what activities you plan for your time outside the parks, we would also like to keep your theme park plans as stress-free as possible. That is why we are proud to be your No. 1 online source for discounted tickets to Walt Disney World, Sea World Orlando, Universal Orlando and all of the other top Central Florida attractions. If you are planning a trip to Central Florida, be sure to start right here at DWTickets.com!

Universal CityWalk vs Pleasure Island

If you are visiting either the Walt Disney World Resort or the Universal Orlando Resort in Central Florida on your next vacation you already know that you wont have to go far to find fun and entertainment. But, did you know that nighttime entertainment is also right around the corner at both theme park complexes? While you can always head to downtown Orlando to check out the nightlife, you don’t have to take the drive up Interstate 4 to access some of the best bars and clubs in the area, as Universal’s CityWalk and Disney’s Pleasure Island both feature nightly entertainment that will get you in the mood to party any time!

Downtown Disney Pleasure Island and CityWalk may sound very similar, and while it’s true that the two do have a lot in common, it is also important to point out the differences between them. First of all, Pleasure Island may have opened first, but rumor has it that CityWalk was actually in development about five years prior to either of the two nighttime developments’ arrival in Central Florida. Another major factor to point out is that Pleasure Island is just a small component of the family-friendly Downtown Disney complex while CityWalk caters more to adults with more hip and contemporary club and bar options than its Disney counterpart.

Among the establishments you will encounter at CityWalk are the Red Coconut Club, the newest venture that sits atop CityWalk, the groove – a dance club with a different theme each night – or Pat O’Brien’s, a re-creation of New Orleans’ favorite watering hole. Or, if you are looking to ‘waste away in Margaritaville,’ head on over to Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville, one of more than 10 restaurants situated at CityWalk. While some, like Jimmy Buffet’s, are themed restaurants, you also have upscale choices like Emeril’s Restaurant Orlando to choose from at CityWalk.

Downtown Disney Pleasure Island, on the other hand, features clubs and bars that each have a distinct theme. So, if it’s 80’s music you are into or the top 40 hits of today, there is a club to suit your fancy. With a new Irish pub, Pleasure Island’s first watering hole of its kind, PI (as it is commonly referred to) really does have something for everyone, from live music to even a comedy warehouse for a more low-key evening on the town. Pleasure Island sits in the midst of the Downtown Disney West Side, which is home to more trendy restaurants (House of Blues Orlando) and shops, and the Downtown Disney Marketplace, which is where you will find most families doing their souvenir shopping.

As we discussed earlier, however, there are many similarities between the two nighttime districts. Both have deals where you can purchase admission into all of the clubs for one price, although CityWalk’s is cheaper than Pleasure Island by almost $10. Universal also offers the CityWalk Party Pass and a Movie, which gives you admission into everything with the addition of a movie that evening as well. Both places also have a big-name show on their premises, as the world-famous Blue Man Group (CityWalk) and Cirque du Soleil (Downtown Disney) have chosen Central Florida as a permanent home.

Whether you are planning on visiting Universal’s CityWalk or Disney’s Pleasure Island, however, it is important to remember DWTickets.com in your vacation planning. Not only do we offer discounted theme park tickets, but we also have discounted ticket prices to Blue Man Group, Cirque du Soleil and Pleasure Island. So no matter what kind of entertainment you are looking for, day or night, DWTickets.com can help you enjoy it for less!

Valentines Day at a Universal Resort and CityWalk

If you would like an alternative to spending Valentines Day at one of the two Universal theme parks the Universal Orlando Resort still has plenty of options for you and your loved one, from an exciting show at CityWalk to plenty of romantic options at the three resorts there on property. Or, you could always spend a day in the parks and then end your day with a bang with one of these options. If that is the plan, you can count on DWTickets.com to help with your Valentine’s Day expenses. We are your No. 1 online source for discounted tickets to all of the top attractions in Central Florida, so click here to peruse through these special discounted offers and get your Valentine’s Day planning underway!

As we mentioned earlier, the three first-class hotels at the Universal Orlando Resort are a great way to begin and end your Valentine’s Day this year. In addition to the plethora of amenities available, guests at these three resorts also get select privileges to both of the Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure parks, including a UNIVERSAL EXPRESS ride access pass, special activities and recreation, and many other perks for your park-hopping adventures.

The Royal Pacific Hotel is the largest of the three resort hotels, with 1,000 rooms, and is also the most affordable option of the three. This resort is a tropical paradise, with tropical landscaping, elaborate waterfalls and the orchid court with flowers in bloom all year long that will instantly transport any guest to an island in the South Seas. With a sandy lagoon-style pool to lay by in the afternoon and many fine dining establishments to visit at night (including Emeril’s Tchoup Chop, his second restaurant on property, featuring cuisine with Asian and Polynesian influences), you won’t even have to step foot off of the property to fully enjoy Valentine’s Day this year.

The second resort at Universal, the Hard Rock Hotel, prides itself on being the “coolest hotel on earth.” A California mission-style facade will greet the guests upon arrival, and a palm-lined swimming pool immerses visitors in not only water, but sound as well with their underwater music feature. With rock-n-roll memorabilia located throughout and a monthly rock-n-roll party with live bands, you truly can feel like a rock star at this resort. With 650 rooms, it is the smallest of the three accommodations, but it is by no means lacking in the entertainment department. If you happen to be staying here on Valentine’s Day, the Palm Restaurant at the Hard Rock Hotel is the most recommended sit-down restaurant, with a legendary menu of American fare, Italian cuisine, prime cuts of beef and jumbo lobster. For reservations for the Palm Restaurant, call 407-503-7256.

The third and final resort on property, the Portofino Bay Hotel, is at the head of the class for the Universal Orlando resorts and is by far the most romantic of all of the Universal Orlando hotels. It, like the other two resorts, has won numerous awards, including the AAA Four Diamond Award, Travel + Leisure Top-500 Hotels, and it is listed by Conde Nast as one of the "World’s Best Places to Stay." With its 750 guest rooms, an average room size of 463 square feet and three distinct pools (including a beach pool with children’s play area, an elegant villa pool with cabanas and a hillside pool), it outshines its competition. At the Portofino Bay Hotel, one can experience la dolce vita – the sweet life – as the picturesque hotel is located along a bay, creating the charm of a sunny seaside village of Portofino, Italy. It is even complete with intricate details such as cobblestone streets and outdoor cafes. Rooms offer stylish and spacious accommodations with Italian furnishings and VIP service all stay long, and dining here is heads and shoulders above the competition as well, with Mama Della’s Ristorante, Bice Ristorante and Trattoria del Porto all offering the finest in Italian cuisine.

If you happen to venture out of your hotel on Valentine’s Day, CityWalk offers a plethora of choices for a special Valentine’s Day. You can experience all of the clubs and bars at this entertainment hub, go see a movie at the AMC Universal Cineplex – or do both! For just $11.99, you can purchase a CityWalk Party Pass, which gives you unlimited one-night access to many of the clubs, bars and restaurants located around CityWalk (of note: this is included with your multi-theme park admission). Or, for $15.40, enjoy the CityWalk Party Pass and a Movie, which allows you the same access as above, with an additional pass to see a movie at the AMC Universal Cineplex, a 20-screen movie theater complex located in the heart of CityWalk. Among the clubs you will encounter at CityWalk are the Red Coconut Club, the newest venture that sits atop CityWalk, the groove – a dance club with a different theme each night – or Pat O’Brien’s, a re-creation of New Orleans’ favorite watering hole.

CityWalk also has another option that is still relatively new to the Orlando entertainment scene. Blue Man Group now occupies the Sharp AQUOS Theater at CityWalk, located between Hard Rock Café and the main entrance to Universal Studios, providing a small and intimate atmosphere for every single seat in house. Blue Man Group combines a unique blend of music, comedy and theatrics in a one-hour, 45-minute live stage show that amazes and engages its audience with new and unique creativity never seen before. Tickets for this show range from $59-$69 per person, with children’s tickets ranging from $49-$59. However, at DW Tickets, you can purchase discounted Blue Man Group tickets – simply call 1-877-219-9328 to place your order!

From all of us here at DWTickets.com, we would like to wish you a very happy Valentine’s Day!

New Years Eve Around Town

The year is rapidly coming to a close, and the time has come to make that final decision: what are you doing for New Years? DWTickets.com is here to help! First, we will give you all of the latest details on what is going on this December 31. Once you decide which event you want to attend, DWTickets.com steps up with the best discounts on cheap theme park tickets around.

Virtually all of the Orlando theme parks are open late during the holidays, and that means past midnight on New Year’s Eve. That also means some special celebrations for those year-end park guests.

New Year’s Eve at SeaWorld will feature pop, Latin and swing music throughout the park along with dancing tunes provided by Michael Andrews and his 18-piece Atomic Big Band. All of the park’s rides and attractions are staying open until midnight, when a fabulous fireworks show will escort in the new year.

Shamu’s cousins over at Busch Gardens Africa in Tampa will be hosting the “Ultimate New Year’s Eve Celebration” and keeping the rides open until 1 a.m. There will also be music and dancing featuring Rhythm Nation on the Gwazi Park stage. Over in the Desert Grill, guests can see Theatricks, with special guest Sideswipe (previously seen on America’s Got Talent!). To close out the old year and bring in the new, Busch Gardens will fill the sky with fireworks from December 26-30.

Back in Orlando, the excitement at Islands of Adventure continues late into the night. Park guests will be able to bring in the new year at midnight and then hang out and ride until 1 a.m. Universal Studios is also staying open until 1 a.m., and they are playing host to the special VIP Capital One Bowl Pre-Game party. Some lucky Universal Studios guests may even be treated to a sneak peak at the new Disasters! Ride that is due to open this month. Disasters! is replacing the Earthquake ride.

Also at the Universal Orlando Resort, the Blue Man Group will have special New Year’s Eve performances that include a champagne toast and “Auld Lang Syne” in the unique Blue-Man-Group style.

So if you don’t want to hit a bar or a gigantic crowd this New Year’s Eve, consider SeaWorld or Universal for your year-end celebration. Whatever you decide, DWTickets.com has the theme park tickets you need at the best prices in town.