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.

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.

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.

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!

Christian Celebrations at Disney and Universal

Every year Walt Disney World and Universal Studios Islands of Adventure host two Christian celebrations full of inspiring speakers and rockin' good music. Unfortunately, they are both on the same days! So which one do you pick? Well here's a brief breakdown of what 2007's events have to offer.

Friday and Saturday, September 7 and 8, Night of Joy at Walt Disney World will feature performances by Third Day, Salvador, RED, Steven Curtis Chapman, newsboys, Chris Tomlin, Jaci Valesquez, BarlowGirl, Brian Littrell, David Crowder, and more. The park opens for Night of joy ticket holders at 7:30 and the festivities last until 12am.

Rock the Universe at Universal Studios will host performances by Casting Crows, MercyMe, Jars of Clay, Grits, Reliant K, Skillet, Jeremy Camp, and more. The park will also have special appearances by Bethany Hamilton and Daren Streblow. As if that weren't enough entertainment for one day, Universal is bringing in speakers. David Nasse, Dr. Jay Strack, and Brent Crowe will share their stories with park guests. Rock the Universe starts at 4pm and ends at 1am the following day.

Regardless of which event is best for you, it's a good idea to plan early. Event tickets will not get you into the park any earlier than the time the actual event starts. What do we recommend? Buy park tickets from DWTickets.com so that you can afford to come for a whole weekend of good times, not just one evening of fun.

What's New at Universal

Universal Studios has announced that they are closing one of their classic, and most famous rides, Back to the Future: The Ride. I, the DW Tickets Blog Man truly loved this ride, and will be sad to see it go. This attraction was my all-time favorite ride, and one of the first of its kind in terms of virtual reality simulators. There was nothing more exciting than hopping into Michael J. Fox's 1980's De Lorean and going for a virtual reality quantum leap back in time. It appears times are changing and the younger crowds that visit Universal Studios aren't too familiar with the Back to the Future era. Universal Studios has not announced what will take it's place, but a new exciting attraction should be occupying that building by the Fall of 2007.

Universal Orlando has also been focusing their efforts on creating and bringing in new entertainment to their theme parks. Starting in the summertime, Universal will be opening the famous Blue Man Group show, hosting an act that has been a long-running hit in New York City, Vegas and other great cities around the country. The show, which is a mix of high-energy choreography, amazing music, and special effects, is going into a brand new state-of-the-art theater that was once used as a sound stage for Universal movie and music projects. Universal has been remodeling it for the past year, and the final outcome is going to turn out brilliant. There are lots of new things going on at Universal Orlando, and I am very excited to see what is in store for this summer and beyond. Have a great week, and try to catch Back to the Future : The Ride at Universal Studios before the time-travelling De Lorean takes its final flight.

Orlando Flex Tickets

Happy Daylight Savings time everyone - the sun is out longer, and Spring is in the air! This is the Official DW Tickets Blog Man, and I'm here to tell you about the Orlando Flex Ticket - which is truly the greatest invention in theme park history. The Orlando Flex Ticket gives you the best bang for your buck, providing unlimited access to 4 or 5 of Florida's most popular theme parks : Universal Studios, Universal's Islands of Adventure, Sea World, Wet N Wild, and Busch Gardens. The Orlando Flex Ticket option allows you to visit any or all of these parks everyday - for 14 consecutive days! Come down to Florida and see the world's most exciting attractions for one unbeatable price - and you can visit as many parks as you desire for 14 striaght days. The Orlando Flex Ticket is the best option for people coming down to Florida for an extended vacation.

The fun and freedom that comes with having 2 full weeks of unlimited access to Central Florida attractions was practically unheard of until now. Spinning webs with Spiderman atUniversal Islands of Adventure, riding the movies at Universal Studios, chilling out on the water slides at Wet N Wild, the non-stop roller-coaster excitement of Busch Gardens in Tampa, getting splashed by Shamu at Sea World, and hitting the clubs at Universal Orlando's CityWalk is yours - all for one low price. The Orlando Flex ticket is the ultimate package deal for the theme park lovers and sets your family up for a little bit of everything. Normally it would cost thousands of dollars to spend 14 days at the theme parks, but with the Orlando Flex Ticket, you are getting 2 weeks of fun for one low price !

Orlando Flex Tickets come in two different varieties: the 4 Park Flex Ticket, which includes Universal Studios, Universal Islands of Adventure, Sea World and Wet N Wild; and the 5-Park Flex Ticket, which adds the Busch Gardens option to the flex pack. The coolest thing about your Orlando Flex Ticket is you can visit all the parks and attractions as many times as you want in the 14 days, and there are never any limitations. Most of the parks - you cannot see all in one day, so take your time and split up the trip, because with Orlando Flex tickets, you have 2 weeks of fun ahead of you. DW Tickets is the best place to purchase your Orlando Flex Tickets. The Orlando Flex Ticket is one of the most valuable, most worthwhile attraction discount passport available anywhere. To buy your Orlando Flex tickets, CLICK HERE!