Check Out Universal Studios—Through Google!

Up until recently, Legoland in California was the only U.S. theme park to be featured on Google Maps Street View. Now we can add Universal Studios Orlando Resort to the Google Street View crew! This is a great feature for any theme park fanatic, especially those of you that are die hard Universal Studios fans. We’re not sure if other Orlando theme parks will be added to the satellite map feature, but we can only hope other parks follow suit with Universal, because this is a great way to check out the theme parks and pre-plan before booking your trip.

Once you access the general map of Universal Studios, you will see certain areas highlighted in blue. Those are the areas which were photographed for the Google Street View feature. You can then zoom in on to street view level and “walk” through the entire park. You can see the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit over at Universal Studios and most of the features of Islands of Adventure and CityWalk as well. You don’t have to worry about identity issues, since the faces of the people have been blurred. The Google crew rode through Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure and CityWalk on a bicycle mounted with a high-tech camera and filmed the theme parks in order to create this feature. While there are some glitches, such as disappearing restaurants or an inability to “go” in certain directions, overall it’s a great option for the technologically savvy.

One attraction you won’t find is the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Apparently the parks seemed to have been captured before construction started on Islands of Adventure’s newest (and most anticipated) attraction. The Harry Potter island has yet to be completed but the park officials have already announced a spring 2010 opening. We know that “muggles” around the world are waiting on pins and needles for this island to open, and we’re pretty sure Google will return to the park to add the new island to their Street View feature. The first park to ever be featured on Google Street View was Disneyland Paris—could the Walt Disney World Resort be next?

Get Your Wrestling Fix in Orlando

Love it or hate it, wrestling has one of the biggest and most loyal fanbase in the history of sports - or more appropriately, sports entertainment. Whether you grew up watching WCW or WWF (now called WWE) there are plenty of kids that grew up liking wrestling who continued to like it through adulthood. If you’ve ever been to the Orlando theme parks you’re sure to have seen people wearing Stone Cold Steve Austin or John Cena t-shirts. Well did you know that you can actually see wrestling live in Orlando?

TNA, or Total Nonstop Action Wrestling, films its shows and Pay-Per-Views (PPV) live at Universal Studios Orlando. TNA features a six-sided ring, the high-flying X Division (where you can see crazy stunts and flips) and the TNA Knockouts, their women’s division. Plenty of wrestling stars that have come from WCW and WWE are now part of TNA and you can see them all live at Soundstage 21 August through December. Kurt Angle, Sting, Mick Foley, AJ Styles, Samoa Joe, Christie Hemme and Awesome Kong are all part of the superstar lineup TNA brings to you throughout the year.

The best part is that getting into the show, even Pay-Per-View, is completely free! All you have to do is purchase a ticket to Universal Studios Orlando and you are game to get a seat for all of the TNA action, so why not get a discount Universal ticket and save some cash while you’re at it? Tapings go on through the year but October is the busiest month with fve shows. November features TNA’s PPV “Turning Point” on the 15th. While you don’t need a ticket, seating is first come first serve so make sure you get there on time. Because of the subject matter you might see at a TNA show, you have to be 14 years of age and older to get in. We recommend showing up about an hour early just so you can grab a prime seat. Doors open at 6 for the regular 6:30 tapings and at 6:45 for their PPV shows. PPV’s also have pre-show tapings at 7:30 until the show goes live from 8:00-11:00 pm. If you love wrestling, Universal Studios Orlando is the place for you!

Harry Potter Details To Be Revealed in Webcast

Ever since The Wizarding World of Harry Potter was announced as the newest addition to Universal Islands of Adventure, Harry Potter fans have been going crazy scouring the net for every detail they could possibly find about what the new island would have in store for them.
As we previously reported, there will be two coasters and a dark ride as a part of the Wizarding World but extensive details have yet to be revealed.

Dueling Dragons is being converted to a Potter-themed ride as is the Flying Unicorn. The backdrop to this island will be Hogwarts Castle and a number of restaurants and shops will be open. There is supposed to be a main attraction inside the castle that will feature brand new “robocoaster” ride system where guests ride in a vehicle controlled by a robotic arm. Other attractions will include Hogsmeade Village and merchandise like chocolate frogs and butterbeer. Fans can expect to see replicas of movie props and locations including the recently revealed Hagrid’s Hut. While the project isn’t scheduled to open until 2010, September will prove to be a very special month for Potter fans who can’t stand to wait any longer for details on what is sure to be a huge hit for Universal Islands of Adventure.

Orlando newspapers and bloggers have been receiving invitations to a special webcast that will broadcast live from Islands of Adventure and feature sneak peeks into what is already completed on this $200 million project. This is going to be a press only event but we’re sure the details will begin to emerge on the internet as soon as it’s over.

Universal is waiting until its main rival, the Disney company, finishes with its big D23 Expo before doing the webcast which is supposed to feature special appearances by people related to the Harry Potter world. What can we expect from the podcast? Considering this will be the first official feature on the new Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Islands of Adventure, we believe full names of attractions and locations will be revealed as well as actual location images and previews for what’s to come for the park’s opening next year. DWTickets.com will have the full report on the new details coming soon.

“Pinktober” Returns to Universal Studios Orlando

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and even Orlando theme parks are participating in the campaign to end the disease that affects so many women in the US. You’re sure to find all kinds of merchandise and special promotions in your local malls and restaurants regarding Breast Cancer Awareness month. From special lipstick colors at the makeup counters to optional donations at the grocery store, the entire nation gets together to raise money for various breast cancer charities, like the Susan G. Komen foundation. But when “Pinktoberfest” hits Universal Studios, you will get to help fight breast cancer through another famous charity, the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

Universal Studios Orlando plans to kick off the month long campaign on September 24th with their Velvet Sessions event. This concert series will take place in the Hard Rock Hotel’s lobby and will feature a performance by The Bangles. One of the most notable female groups in US music history, The Bangles had hits like “Walk Like an Egyptian” or “Manic Monday.” A cocktail party will precede the concert event and then it’s full speed ahead with preparations for “Pinktober.”

“This event brings together great music for a great cause and now more than ever, people are looking for ways they can help make a difference,” says Hard Rock Hotel General Manager Carlton Hudson. “We will even light the hotel’s guitar fountain and the front drive in pink on the night of the Bangles event, as a visual reminder of Hard Rock’s commitment to love all and serve all in the fight against breast cancer.”

Some rooms in the Hard Rock Hotel will be decorated in pink for the fundraising event. If you book one of the “Pink Sheets” rooms 25% of the revenue will go to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. The Hard Rock will also be selling some great pink-themed merchandise to help the cause. If you buy one of the commemorative pins, 75% of the retail price goes to the research foundation. If you buy other items like t-shirts, keychains and even a leather vest, 15% of the retail price goes to the foundation. So whether you stay at the Hard Rock, pick up some souvenirs or attend the concert there are plenty of ways to contribute to the fight against breast cancer.

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!

Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit Begins Testing

Now that Manta is open and soaring high over at SeaWorld, it’s time for roller coasters aficionados to turn their attention to the other big attraction opening this summer, the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit (HRRR or “Rockit” for short). To the eye, this new coaster at Universal Studios might not seem as innovative as Manta, but it actually packs a wallop as big as its name with fun technological elements and never-before-attempted roller coaster maneuvers.

We’ve discussed in previous blogs how the HRRR will feature six special maneuvers, three of which have never been attempted with a coaster before. There’s the 17-story high vertical lift, a non-inverted loop (the world’s first), a spiraling negative gravity move, and much more, including a 95 degree angled swoop over the crowd as they wait in line for their turn.

Now, even more details are coming out about the Rockit’s unique design. Particularly important to the coaster is its ultra-maneuverable X-CAR passenger car, which allows the Rockit to have the moves of many different styles of coaster. Each will feature only a lap-bar restraint, which will leave the upper body less restricted, allowing for extra thrills during those crazy loops and drops.

In addition, the trains will reportedly never stop at the loading station thanks to a groundbreaking new loading area design. We’re not sure how it works, but plans dictate that the Rockit will dispatch a train roughly every 23 seconds.

And though plenty has been said about the technological elements of the Rockit, most probably aren’t appreciating how tech-equipped this ride really is. The HRRR has six on-board cameras and eight high speed special effects cameras for capturing each rider’s experience. Needless to say, that goes way beyond the one camera that most rides flash at you when you’re donning your goofiest expression of terror. With 54 special effects shots, guests will not only be able to see their ride in full, but they’ll even be able to produce their own unique ride video and buy a DVD of it, download it at home or onto their phone, and send it to their friends.

Moreover, the Rockit will feature a 55-watt on-board speaker system that will blast out one of 30 songs from 5 genres; the song choices will include both classic and contemporary artists.

Though the Rockit was originally set to open in spring of this year, the opening was delayed to summer due to what we hear were some difficulties constructing that sky-high lift. Since then, however, the ride’s been coming along swimmingly; all pieces of the track are in place, the trains have been placed on it, and they’ve already begun testing of the ride.

We’ve even heard whispers that the HRRR will be debuted on July 4, meaning that it will coincide with the park’s Independence Day celebrations and the last day of the Summer Concert Series (check out our blog on that here). If that’s true, then the 4th of July is sure to be filled with good times all around at Universal.

In the meantime, if you do happen to see the ride being tested out while you visit Universal and are surprised at how slow things are running, don’t fear – the ride’s speed will pick up significantly once it’s out of testing phase!

Crowds are sure to gather for the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit when it opens, so you’ll want to save time by getting your Universal Studios tickets well in advance from DWTickets.com. We’ll see you in line for this exciting new coaster!

Universal Will Feature New Summer Concert Series

This summer, turn off your radio or iPod and head to Universal Orlando - there, you’ll be able to hear some of today’s hottest recording artists during a brand new summer concert series. Live at its new outdoor Music Plaza underneath the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, the park’s first-ever Summer Concert Series will rock Orlando with four of the biggest names in pop, hip-hop, and R&B. Guests will be able to top off their day at the park with these sizzling performances, which will begin Saturday, June 13 and continue each Saturday night until July 4.

The Summer Concert Series will feature Chart-topping, multi-platinum, Grammy Award nominees and winners. First to perform on June 13 is American Idol winner Jordin Sparks, whose self-titled album has sold more than a million copies. Following Sparks on June 20 will be LL Cool J, with more than 15 million records sold and 20 singles on the Billboard charts. Then on June 27 comes Natasha Bedingfield, who can boast album sales of more than 10 million, and on July 4, the Summer Concert Series closes with Rock ‘n Roll Hall of Famers The O’Jays.

These hot concerts will take place at Universal’s brand new Music Plaza, which debuted earlier this year during the Mardi Gras festivities. Designed in the spirit of the Hollywood Bowl, this state-of-the-art outdoor music venue features a 2,400 square-foot performance stage, a 15,000 square-foot viewing lawn, and two 20-foot-tall projection screens so that no one will be able to miss a second of the show, no matter where you’re standing.

“Our Music Plaza has quickly become Orlando’s perfect place to enjoy great music outdoors,” said Jim Timon, senior vice president of entertainment for Universal Orlando Resort. “Our Summer Concert Series will continue that tradition – and be an amazing experience for everyone from dedicated music fans to families wanting a great way to end their day in the parks.”

Plus, a little birdie told us that towards the end of the Summer Concert Series, there’s a good chance you’ll be able to catch a great concert and ride the brand new Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, which is slated to debut early this summer – perhaps on the 4th of July?

The only thing better than hearing incredible music at the end of a great day at Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure is knowing that you didn’t have to pay anything extra for it! The Summer Concert Series is free with admission to Universal Studios, so all you need to do to get access to the hottest performances of the year is get your Universal Studios tickets from DWTickets.com. Start planning your summer fun at the park now!

From a Room with a Who to a Tropical Evening at Universal Orlando Hotels

When planning a vacation to Orlando, Florida, it’s important to pick a hotel that offers more than just a place to rest your head. For the best vacation, you want a place that offers fun when the day at the park is over and a hotel room with unique extras that’ll make certain members of your family extra comfortable. And at Universal Orlando resorts, the Loews Portofino Bay Hotel and the Loews Royal Pacific Hotel have gone to extra lengths to make additions that do exactly both those things.

First, at the Loews Portofino Bay, the hotel recently debuted a new hotel suite with a Who – from Who-ville, that is. Little ones will go wild over the newly added Dr. Seuss kids’ suites, which offer a larger-than-life experience that integrates the characters from Seuss Landings at Islands of Adventure into the hotel.

The suites, which were unveiled late last month, capture the spirit of Seuss with a montage of wild characters, fun colors, and unique patterns. Colors, in particular, are everywhere – from the vibrant blue carpeting that’s sprinkled with a pattern of lighter blue dots to the beds, which feature Seussian figures inspired from the Horton Hears a Who book. The two-room suites offer plenty of space from traveling families, and parents will appreciate an added feature that only allows access from the children’s room into the adult’s room and not into the hallway.

Making the suites even more fun are special packages offered by the resort, which include accommodations in a Dr. Seuss Suite (three night minimum), a breakfast of green eggs and ham in Trattoria del Porto for two daily, a special children’s welcome amenity, a set of four Dr. Seuss books, a set of four mini Dr. Seuss themed plush characters, and a souvenir Cat in the Hat photo frame.

If adults staying in the suite find all the Seuss-ness a little overwhelming, they can escape for a night to the Loews Royal Pacific Hotel, where a new celebration will give adults an extra reason to look forward to the end of the week. On ‘Aloha Friday,’ it’s time to break out your favorite Hawaiian shirt or dress as the Wantilan Luau Pavilion becomes the host to a fun, tropical party. Guests will be able to enjoy tasty island cuisine from the resort and Emeril’s Tchoup Tchoup, along with tropical drinks, beer and wine, gourmet coffee, a lei greeting, and more.

And providing the sounds for Aloha Friday will be Volcano Joe and the Hot Lava Band, who’ll perform sounds by your favorite artists – including Jimmy Buffet, The Eagles, UB40, and more. The party kicks off on Friday, April 17, at 6:30 pm, and tickets cost $25.

So if you’re looking for the perfect place to stay while you check out Universal Studios, consider the Loews resorts, which are great for kids and adults alike. Best yet, the resorts offer extra benefits for enjoying Universal Orlando, including express ride access just by showing your hotel room key card. Couple that with Universal Orlando tickets from DWTickets.com, and you have the makings of an Orlando vacation that will make everyone in the family happy.

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.

Ways to Save at Universal Studios

It seems as though everyone is locking up their wallets tight these days and being a little more careful about where they spend their dimes. And though you might consider a trip to Universal Studios a frivolous expense that will take away all your dimes, a trip to this Orlando theme park doesn’t necessarily have to be a costly good time. Just follow the following tips and you’ll see that a trip to Universal Studios can be fun and inexpensive too.

One of the biggest expenditures during an Orlando vacation is food. Three meals a day can add up to a lot over the span of a trip, and if you happen to get hungry at the parks, you’ll often find that the fare is pricier than you’d like. Many people save by bringing their own snacks and drinks in a backpack – then you can camp outside your favorite attraction and nosh away.

However, Universal Orlando also offers a Universal Meal Deal ticket, which allows you to enjoy an unlimited amount of lunch and dinner at either Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure for one low price. Good for one or two days, the meal deal is a bargain if you plan on spending the entire day at the parks, and it’s good at places like Mel’s Drive In, the Comic Strip Café, and Louie’s Italian Restaurant. Best yet, you can go through the lines as many times as you want really gorge. We advise skipping on the Meal Deal Souvenir Cup, though. Unless you plan to drink a lot of soda (not a good idea when you’re about to go on a roller coaster), it’s simply not worth it.

Another big expense during theme park trips is souvenirs, especially if you’re traveling with kids. One money-saving tip is to allow each child only one souvenir that they can pick during the beginning or end of their vacation. Help them choose their souvenir carefully so that they pick something that will be useful throughout the trip or for their next one, like an autograph book or a hat. Also, you can eliminate opportunities for spending money by coming prepared with your own camera; that way, you won’t have to pay for shots with Spiderman.

You can also save on the costs of a rental by staying at one of Universal Studios’ three resorts. Guests of the Royal Pacific Resort, the Hard Rock Hotel, or the Portofino Bay Hotel all benefit from complimentary on-site transportation. You can take the convenient water taxis along picturesque waterways or ride the shuttle bus directly to Universal Studios or CityWalk. You can also ride free to SeaWorld, Wet ‘n Wild, and even Walt Disney World.

Universal Studios resort guests are also privy to Universal Express Ride Access, which entitles them to special shorter lines at popular park attractions. Your room key doubles as your Access Pass, and by saving time at the park, you’ll likely save money. This neat benefit certainly makes staying at the resorts worth it.

And for those who can’t get enough of CityWalk, you may want to hold off your visits to this entertainment-filled park until after 6 pm. Unfortunately, Universal began charging for parking at CityWalk at the beginning of the year, but the fee is $12 during the day and only $3 at night.

Finally, the best way to save on a Universal Studios excursion is by getting discount Universal Studios tickets at DWTickets.com. So go ahead and treat yourself to a Universal Studios adventure – with all the ways that you can save, you won’t even feel guilty about it.

Universal Studios Harry Potter Update

We love the attractions at Universal Studios Orlando – some of the classic rides and shows like JAWS and Terminator 2: 3-D have a special place in our heart. But as much as these classics thrill us time after time, there’s nothing like the excitement of looking forward to a future attraction. One such addition that fans are particularly looking forward to is the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, a new area being built within Universal's Islands of Adventure that will create the world’s first fully immersive Harry Potter themed environment.

Based on the bestselling books by J.K. Rowling and the blockbuster hits by Warner Bros., construction first broke ground on the Wizarding World back in May 2007. The 20-acre area is being constructed in a portion of what used to be the Lost Continent and another area that was previously unused. Currently, the Wizarding World is expected to open in 2010.

When completed, the Wizarding World will allow guests to visit some of the most iconic locations found in the books and films, including the village of Hogsmeade, the mysterious Forbidden Forest, and even Hogwarts castle itself. Concepts from the film will be transformed into theme park experiences, with immersive rides and interactive attractions. Shops and restaurants will also allow guests to sample fare from the wizarding world’s best-known establishments, like The Leaky Cauldron in London and Hogsmeade’s The Three Broomsticks. And one state-of-the-art attraction in particular will bring the magic, characters, and stories of the books to life in a big, exciting way.

“Over the years we’ve received thousands of letters from fans around the world wishing they could visit Hogwarts and the wonderful locations described in each of J.K. Rowling’s beloved stories,” said Barry Meyer, chairman and CEO of Warner Bros. Entertainment. “Working with Universal Orlando Resort, we are confident that we’ll be able to provide Harry Potter fans with an incredible experience that upholds the richness of J.K. Rowling’s books and delivers on the authentic detail portrayed in our films.”

"The plans I've seen look incredibly exciting, and I don't think fans of the books or films will be disappointed," added J.K. Rowling.

Academy Award-winning production designer Stuart Craig, who worked to bring the world of Harry Potter to life in all of the feature films, is leading the creative design team for the Wizarding World, a surefire bet that the attraction will stay true to the look and feel of the films.

As this “theme park within a theme park” develops, every ounce of secrecy is being used to prevent fans from getting a glimpse of the Wizarding World before it’s completed. Word has it that Universal Studios is even bringing roller coaster tracks in after the park closes to keep guests from seeing them. Much of construction is taking place behind fences in a big building, guarding the Wizarding World’s secrets from prying eyes.

Nonetheless, reports have swirled that actors from the films have been brought in to shoot sequences and provide voice-overs for some of the future rides and attractions. Rumor also has it that Hogwarts Castle will be massive, possibly over 200 feet (making it taller than Cinderella’s Castle at Magic Kingdom). And sources say that a Whomping Willow or Shrieking Shack experience is in the works.

Until 2010, it looks like we’ll have to wait to find out everything the Wizarding World will offer. However, if you get frustrated, it helps to remember the Ministry of Magic proclamations posted around the under-construction Wizarding World area, which read, “Magic at Work: Your Patience is Requested.” And in the meantime, you can always enjoy the rest of the park with discount Universal Studios tickets from DWTickets.com.

Enjoy Italian Music and Romance at Loews Portofino Hotel

The Loews Portofino Bay Hotel and the Loews Royal Pacific Resort, both situated in the heart of Universal Studios Orlando, offer their guests plenty of awesome perks, including pools, dining, shopping, fast lines at Universal and Islands of Adventure, and more. What many don’t realize, however, is that each hotel offers their own attractions and events separate from the park throughout the year.

One such attraction that is a must-see for any guest of the Loews Portofino Hotel is “Musica Della Notte” (Music of the Night). Each night, guests can experience a true taste of Italy with this musical celebration. The fun begins at sunset when the strolling musicians of the Mama Della’s and Thirsty Fish restaurants perform from the balconies overlooking the Harbor Piazza. Musica della Notte showcases a blend of classic opera, romantic and festive music, and pop-opera favorites. One of four different themes pervades the show each night: Broadway Favorites, Viva Italia, Romanza, and Tenors Night.

With the Romanza themed show, you can expect to hear popular love songs with an Italian flavor, including songs made famous by Bocelli and Sinatra. On Tenors Night, the musicians perform classic tenor arias and Bocelli favorites. And during the Viva Italia show, you’ll hear spirited Italian songs that include Neapolitan favorites. The show’s themes operate on a fixed schedule, so you can call the concierge to find out which one will be performed that evening.

Since the show takes place around or shortly after sunset each night, weather permitting, the time of the performance fluctuates based on the time of the year. Currently, Musica Della Notte is being performed at 6:30, but anyone wanting to know when the show will be can call the hotel’s front desk.

The Portofino Hotel is expertly modeled after the Portofino village of Italy, and the Harbor Piazza, in which Musica Della Notte is performed, resembles a town square. Complete with cobblestone streets and outdoor cafés, it’s the perfect setting for the operatic show. Guests can even see Vespas and sports cars parked in the piazza along with faux fishing boats anchored in the harbor. The ambiance is romantic, charming, and classic Italian.

For a truly incredible experience, dine at Mama Della’s and request a table on the piazza when the Musica Della Notte starts. You’ll get a great view, enjoy classic Italian cuisine, and be able to see and hear the show comfortably. And best yet, with Campo Portofino, couples can enjoy a solo night of romance on the Piazza by dropping their kids off at this supervised children’s activity center (for ages 4 through 14 only). Parents won’t have to feel guilty about leaving little ones behind because they’ll have plenty to keep them entertained; Campo Portofino has play mats, an arts and crafts table, storybook corner, computer desks, a movie room, and more.

So next time you stay at Loews Portofino Hotel, be sure you explore the resort, which offers plenty of opportunities for excitement and romance. You’ll love Musica della Notte and the Italian charm of this one-of-a-kind resort.

Orlandos Top Ten To Start 2008

2008 is already proving to be a great year to finally take that Orlando vacation. Your friends at DWTickets.com – the best source for cheap theme park tickets in town - have put together the top ten reasons to plan your trip in the next couple of months.

1. DWTickets.com! We are the number one reason to get on down to Orlando because we offer the best discounts on all the theme park tickets you need to make your Orlando vacation spectacular.


2. Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Because you know you want to be one of the first people to celebrate “all things Hollywood” in Orlando now that this park has a new name.


3. Mardi Gras at the Universal Orlando Resort. “America’s biggest street party this side of New Orleans” takes place every Saturday night from February 2 – April 19.


4. The Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival. Celebrating its 15th year, the theme is “Fun in the Sun,” and the event will run from March 19 – June 1.


5. Bud & BBQ at SeaWorld Orlando and Busch Gardens Africa in Tampa. This exciting concert series takes place on Fridays at SeaWorld and Saturdays at Busch Gardens from February 16 – March 9.


6. The Pirate and Princess Party at the Magic Kingdom. This special ticket, after-hours party runs on select dates only from 7 p.m. til midnight and features the “Enchanted Adventures Parade” and the “Magic, Music, and Mayhem” fireworks show.


7. Disaster! A Major Motion Picture Ride…Starring You! at Universal Studios Orlando. Be one of the first guests to help film “Motha Nature” at the newly opened Disaster Studios.


8. Spaceship Earth relaunch. The most recognizable icon at Epcot is reopening its doors this February after a nine-month renovation project. The changes and updates include narration by Dame Judi Dench, brand new scenes and a refurbished time travel machine to transport guests through the giant sphere.


9. Spring Training at Disney’s Wide World of Sports. The Atlanta Braves return on February 14 to start their 11th year of practicing and playing spring games at Disney’s 220-acre sports complex.


10. The extension of the “Year of a Million Dreams” at the Walt Disney World Resort.
    
    And that’s just the beginning! There are many, many more reasons to visit Orlando this year. But remember, the best reason of all is the cheap tickets right here at DWTickets.com!

Merry Grinchmas! Now Eat Your Breakfast

There is so much going on in Orlando during the holiday season, it is next to impossible to keep track of everything. Luckily, at DWTickets.com we keep track of it for you, and that means giving you the best deals on cheap theme park tickets. Whether it’s Disney, Sea World or the Universal Orlando Resort, we are always your number one source for the best discounts in town. We also keep you up to date on the latest goings on in the theme parks and beyond with our own weekly parade of blogs. We are dedicated to providing you with the cheapest tickets and latest scoop every day.

Some of the more obvious holiday happenings around town have taken the spotlight in earlier weeks. At the Universal Orlando Resort, though, there are some other great yuletide events that deserve some attention too.

The biggie at Universal’s Islands of Adventure is the return of Grinchmas, but you can take that Green Christmas one step further and enjoy “Breakfast With The Grinch” at the Confisco Grill. This all-inclusive buffet features breakfast favorites along with visits from the Grinch, the Whos and other characters. This special holiday dining option is only available from December 13-16 and again from December 20-30, and reservations are recommended.

Guests can enjoy “Christmas in the City” as they stroll among the popular shops and restaurants at Universal’s CityWalk from December 14-28. Each day features a live band on the plaza stage, and visitors will be treated to appearances by Santa’s elves and reindeer, and the entertaining and unique powerskip performers.

The hotels at the Universal Orlando Resort are getting into the holiday fun too. The Loews Portofino Bay Hotel is celebrating “Festa Musica Della Notte” (Holiday Music of the Night) through Christmas Eve. This Italian festivity features the “Grand Illumination” of the Christmas tree at 6:30 each night with opera singers setting the holiday mood once it’s lit.

The Loews Royal Pacific Hotel is having a “North Pole Celebration” with strolling carolers and a gingerbread Christmas tree display. They will also have eggnog, apple cider and cookies to help ring in the spirit of the season, along with special demonstrations by the hotel’s executive pastry chef.

So, this holiday season, get your cheap theme park tickets right here at DWTickets.com. Share in some Grinchmas cheer and then enjoy some less well known, but still spectacular holiday events throughout the Universal Orlando Resort!