Friday, November 28, 2008

Makahiki Christmas Luau at SeaWorld


As the sun sets over the harbor, the Seafire Inn celebrates the Christmas season Hawaiian style with the Makahiki Christmas Luau.  Enjoy the festive celebration of authentic Christmas music, costumes and dances, including a special rendition of "O' Holy Night." The excitement is non-stop in this festive and fiery show that celebrates man's co-existence with the earth and sea.

The celebration takes place every evening at 6:00 pm and on select dates we are offering a second showing at 8:30 pm.  These dates will be:

December 6-7
December 13
December 20
December 31

To purchase your tickets for SeaWorld and other great attractions please go to: www.kgstickets.com

Source: SeaWorld Orlando
Posted by: Michael Crandell

Tuesday, November 4, 2008

Discovery Cove - Orlando


The Aviary

One of the most remarkable discoveries at Discovery Cove is that part of your day interacting with our wonderful wildlife can take place on land, too! Our free flight aviary is a hidden treasure just waiting for you to unearth. Feast your eyes on more than 250 tropical birds as you snake your way through stone catacombs, over bridges and across rivers bordering this sprawling oasis. Accessible through the Tropical River's magnificent waterfalls or by way of the Discovery Cove beaches, you will marvel as colorful birds dine from the open palm of your hand!

For more information about Discovery Cove please go to: www.kgstickets.com

Aquatica - SeaWorld's Waterpark


Did you know...

Aquatica is home to four Commerson's Dolphins!

These adorable black and white dolphins came to Aquatica from SeaWorld San Diego. In the wild, Commerson's Dolphins are found in shallow waters along th southernmost tip of South America and around the Kerguelen Islands in the Indian Ocean. Aquatica and SeaWorld San Diego are the only facilities in the western hemisphere to house these unique animals.

Aquatica Hours

For the remainder of 2008, Aquatica will be open from 9:00am - 6:00pm. Please keep in mind, Aquatica will be closed for maintenance on the following days:

November 6, 10, 13, 17 and 20, 2008.

December 1, 4, 8, 11, 15, 18 and 22, 2008.
Tickets for Aquatica are available at: www.kgstickets.com

Jack Hanna Weekend at Busch Gardens


November 14 - 16, 2008

Recognized the world over for his deep knowledge of, and boundless enthusiasm for, wild animals "Jungle Jack" introduces guests to his feathered and furry friends in his own inimitable way.

Get your tickets to Busch Gardens at: http://www.kgstickets.com/

The Polar Express Experience


The Polar Express Experience is a heart warming journey, where families share in the excitement and wonder of a truly unforgettable train ride. This enchanting experience will surround guests with the true spirit of the season through laughs, exciting thrills and special animal encounters. The Polar Express Experience, only at SeaWorld. Jump aboard for a thrilling one-of-a-kind experience to the North Pole.

November 14, 2008 - January 4, 2009

Get your SeaWorld tickets at: www.kgstickets.com

Jack Hanna Weekend at SeaWorld


November 8 - 9, 2008

Recognized the world over for his deep knowledge of, and boundless enthusiasm for, wild animals "Jungle Jack" introduces guests to his feathered and furry friends in his own inimitable way.

SeaWorld Operating Hours:

November 1-27
9am - 6pm

November 28 - 30
9am - 8pm
Get your SeaWorld tickets at: www.kgstickets.com

Thursday, October 23, 2008

Ask Shamu!


Why is Shamu black and white?

The coloration of killer whales may enhance their ability to hunt. Killer whales are counter-shaded; they are dark on their dorsal surface andwhite on their ventral surface. The dark side blends in with the murky ocean depths when viewed from above. The light ventral side blends in with the lightersurface of the sea when seen from below. The result is that prey have a difficult time seeing a contrast between the counter-shaded killer whale and the environment.

In addition, killer whales have disruptive coloration, a camouflage in which the color pattern of an animal contradicts the animal's body shape. In the flickering, filtered sunlight of the sea, other animals may not recognize a killer whale as a potential threat.
You can purchase tickets to visit Shamu and friends at SeaWorld by going to www.kgstickets.com
Source: SeaWorld
Posted by: Michael Crandell

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party - Tickets available for select nights at Kissimmee Guest Services


Kissimmee Guest Services is pleased to announce that for the very first time tickets will be available from http://www.kgstickets.com/ for select nights of Disney's "Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party" at the Magic Kingdom Park.

Tickets are available from Kissimmee Guest Services for the following dates:


November 10, 11, 16, 20, 2008.


To obtain the special pricing of $41.00 adult and $35.00 per child (prices exclude tax) please click on the following link: www.kgstickets.com/specials.html


We also have specials available for the following premium dates: November 14, 21 and December 4, 2008. Those prices are $46.00 adult and $40.00 per child (prices exclude tax) please click on the following link: www.kgstickets.com/specials.html

Join in this festive extravaganza sure to put you in the Christmas spirit. Be enchanted by the all new Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade and thrilled by the fireworks spectacular, Holiday Wishes: Celebrate the Spirit of the Season.


This sensational celebration features:
*Castle Dream Lights
*Mickey's Once Upon A Christmastime Parade
*Live Disney Character stage shows
*Character greetings throughout the Park
*Complimentary Cookies and hot cocoa
*Snow on Main Street, U.S.A.


Plus, you get use of the most popular Magic Kingdom® attractions!


Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party is everything you love about Christmas plus the unforgettable fantasy of the Magic Kingdom® Park.


Please call us at 1-877-273-5636 or visit us on the web at http://www.kgstickets.com/




  • LOW PRICE GUARANTEE



  • FREE ONE HOUR DELIVERY



  • NO TIMESHARE

Monday, October 13, 2008

It's a boy at Disney's Animal Kingdom!


Male giraffe born at Disney's Animal Kingdom.

A male giraffe named Bonsu was born at Disney's Animal Kingdom Sept. 28.

The calf weighed more than 150 pounds and measured more than 6 feet tall, which is a little larger than the average size of a newborn giraffe.

Bonsu is the second calf born to adult female Nikki. Her first calf was Rori, who resides at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge. Bonsu is expected to join Rori there in the coming months.

Bonsu is the latest animal birth celebrated at the theme park. Earlier this year, the park welcomed a male elephant named Tsavo in June.

"We are very excited and extremely fortunate for the success of our giraffe breeding program," said Giraffe Keeper Amy Schulz.

Source: Walt Disney World Company

Posted by: Michael Crandell



Friday, October 10, 2008

Old Town 2008

Tim and Mike (two KGS employees) braved the Leap Frog ride at Kissimmee's Old Town.
Although the kids loved it....

Mike and Tim?

Not so Much!

Tuesday, October 7, 2008

It's a girl!




DISCOVERY COVES FIRST BABY ANTEATER THRIVES WITH HUMAN CARE 

It's a girl! Discovery Cove's lesser anteater, Cypress, is now a proud mom to the first baby anteater born at the park. The new bundle of joy was born September 16, via the first c-section our vets have ever done on an anteater. Since then, the little girl has been doing well under the intensive care of our animal training staff. 

When the new mom initially showed little interest in the newborn, our animal trainers quickly stepped in to help. They provided the tiny baby additional supplemental bottle feedings around the clock (every four hours) and slowly began introducing the two together. Now nursing full-time, the baby is tipping the scales at less than one pound and is more than 5 inches long. She now spends her days nursing, resting and bonding with mom.

To view a video of the new baby and mom, click here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MvIfLK3r4Hs


Tickets for Discovery Cove can be purchased by going to www.kgstickets.com

 


Howl-O-Scream 2008 Proves That
Evil Has a New Face… Two to be Exact

Florida’s top-rated Halloween event debuts
a new kind of nightmare with launch of RavenTwins.com


Busch Gardens Tampa Bay kicks off its ninth season of gut-wrenching scares with the launch of the Howl-O-Scream 2008 website, RavenTwins.com, and the introduction of exciting new VIP Fear Tour packages, horrifying new haunted houses, and the new faces of evil itself – the lovely Raven Twins. For 17 select nights, Howl-O-Scream 2008 will prove that not all nightmares happen while you sleep. 


Howl-O-Scream is a separate ticketed night event, priced at $64.95. The event runs select Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights during October: Oct. 2-4, 9-11, 16-18, 23-25 and Oct. 30-Nov. 1. Operating hours are 7:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. on Thursday nights. Friday and Saturday hours are 7:30 p.m. to 2 a.m.


NEW THIS YEAR!  Howl-O-Scream 2008’s new haunted houses will tease your deepest, darkest fears like never before…


NEW!  Reconstruction: The Doctor Is In – A mad reconstructive surgeon has set up shop, putting human parts back together with mechanical pieces and combining flesh, bone and steel in the most hideous ways.
NEW!  Death Row Vengeance – The inmates at Grey Echo Penitentiary are slated for execution, and they blame you. With their last breath, they curse those who do nothing to save them from the electric chair or lethal injection and vow to haunt those who watched them suffer. Will you make it out alive when they come back to make good on their dying promise?

Some of the most demented houses ever are back by popular demand with some horrible new twists… 13: Eat Your Heart Out, Taste of Blood, Trapped in the Walls, and After Hours – Last Call.


Scare Zones – Eternal Midnight, Zonbie Junction, Wicked Woods


NEW in 2008, you never know where your next scare is preparing to pounce. Just when you thought you were safe, Howl-O-Scream doubles the horror with roaming hordes of clowns, zombies, monsters and more taking their terror to the streets and sneaking up on unsuspecting victims. Who’s watching your back?


After braving bone-chilling coasters in the dark such as SheiKra, Montu, Gwazi and Kumba, you can catch your breath at three twisted live shows:


NEW!  One Wild Night – When a young couple breaks into an abandoned wax museum to steal the perfect costumes, they find themselves at the mercy of the true spirits of Halloween. With “Trick” and “Treat” as their witching-hour escorts, the couple soon learns that it only takes one wild night to change your life forever.  

NEW!  Killer Klownz – All the world loves a clown, but these bloodthirsty bozos are a different breed…  and they want you to join them. Just try to escape as the Killer Klownz reach out into the audience to draw you into their sinister spectacle and turn you into one of their own.

Fiends – Is there a doctor in the house?  These captivating creatures of the night will infect you with dance fever and keep your pulse pounding with their deranged dance party. But when Dr. Freakenstein’s naughty nurses start operating, the diagnosis is always “code pink."

Howl-O-Scream is a separate ticketed night event. No costumes are allowed. For guest information, visit RavenTwins.com or call 1-888-800-5447.

 

Howl-O-Scream is intended for a mature audience. This year's event contains intense adult content such as violence, gore and blood.

Purchase tickets for your day at Busch Gardens at www.kgstickets.com


Halloween Spooktacular!



Seaworld’s Underwater “Fantasea” COMES TO LIFE

for Four Weekends in October

From pumpkin fishes to friendly sea witches, Halloween meets the sea this October during SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular, carving an underwater “fantasea” where children can dance with an ice DJ, learn from a school of fish, and play with a sea fairy.  Offering more than 2 million pieces of trick-or-treat sweets, SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular uniquely brings children’s “fantaseas” to life with enchanted pathways and charming sea creatures, providing the utmost in family-friendly trick-or-treating.   

Dates: October 4-5, 11-12, 18-19, 24-26 and 31, and is included in a single day’s park admission. The event begins each day at 11 a.m.

Spooktacular Highlights Include:

Trick-or-Treat Sea Sweets – Using their Spooktacular maps, costumed youngsters can search for hidden “fantasea” treasures at more than a dozen different stations, all featuring an array of sweet treats.  New for this year is a healthy choice: Chiquita® Mini’s ™ - a sweeter tasting banana that's just the right size! 

Frozen Fun Zone – An ice DJ will melt the ice during a Spooktacular celebration sure to heat up the area with interactive games and activities.

Strolling Entertainment – Gummy Worm Wanda, Salt Water Taffy, and Swedish Fish Suzy are among the 35 fanciful sea creatures that will once again join the “Spook-tastic” fun, welcoming trick-or-treaters as they stroll through colorful, playful schools of pumpkin fish.

Tickets for SeaWorld and other great Orlando area attractions can be purchased at www.kgstickets.com

Thursday, September 18, 2008



Hollywood Rip, Ride, Rockit –
Spring of 2009


LIGHTS . . . CAMERA . . . COASTER!


Universal Orlando Resort Announces Brand-New Roller Coaster That Features Total Immersion Entertainment and Puts Guests In The Director’s Seat!

Adrenaline pumping and music thumping, you find yourself heading straight toward the sky. Suddenly, you are doing 65 mph, 17 stories over Universal Studios. Gasping with excitement, you rock out to a song you picked before strapping in. And, it’s all on video. Once the adventure is over, you edit the video to send to your friends via “YOUTUBE.”

This is true high-tech, customizable, multi-sensory entertainment. Scheduled to open in spring 2009, “Hollywood Rip, Ride, Rockit” will stake its claim as the most technologically advanced roller coaster in the world. The Universal Creative team is combining audio and special effects engineering, sophisticated on- and off-board video and one-of-a-kind guest personalization to create a roller coaster experience unlike any other.

“Hollywood Rip, Ride, Rockit” touts six near-miss moments and first-ever thrills including a record-breaking loop. Ride vehicles feature the brightest and most innovative color changing LEDs in the world. High-energy visual displays fill the queue line. With up to four ride vehicles on the tracks at any given time, and with concert lighting and special effects mixed in, “Hollywood Rip, Ride, Rockit” will be a true high-intensity, multi-sensory experience that is unmatched.

Guests can customize their ride experience by choosing what song will play while they’re on the roller coaster. LED boards in the queue lines will display song options from five genres (classic rock, rap, country, pop and soundtracks). Once on-board, guests can choose their song or let the coaster’s digital sound system choose for them. When the ride is over, guests will be able to customize footage from their experience and compile it into a take-home music video.

“Hollywood Rip, Ride, Rockit” will be located near the Jimmy Neutron attraction traveling the southern perimeter of the Universal Studios theme park, over to the CityWalk lagoon and back.

Tickets are available for Universal Orlando and other great attractions by going to http://www.kgstickets.com/

Source: Universal Orlando Resort
Posted and edited by: Michael Crandell


13th Annual EPCOT® International Food & Wine Festival
September 26, 2008 – November 9, 2008


Embark on an epicurean adventure as the 13th Annual Epcot® International Food & Wine Festival showcases the flavors of the world. Explore marketplaces featuring regional foods, wines, and beers. Learn from renowned chefs and winemakers at special programs and demonstrations, and sample the finest cuisine from around the globe. Savor the sizzling sounds of the Eat to the Beat (see below for schedule) concert series, presenting a stellar line-up of popular musical acts.

For more information, visit the hub at the Festival Welcome Center, where you'll also find the Festival Wine Shop, the Wonders Bar for champagne and wine, and the official book-signing location for celebrity chefs and authors. Venture inside the Stockpot shop and check out its marvelous merchandise, including the marketplace cookbook and a special festival edition of the Disney Gift Card, which provides a handy way to pay for so much fun at the Festival!

The 13th Annual Epcot® International Food & Wine Festival is included with your EPCOT admisson ticket. Don’t have your tickets yet? Go to http://www.kgstickets.com/ and purchase them now.

*EAT TO THE BEAT CONCERT SERIES SCHEDULE:

Big Bad Voodoo Daddy
Sept. 26 – 27, 2008

Sheena Easton
Sept. 28 – 30, 2008

Starship starring Mickey Thomas
October 1 – 4, 2008

En Vogue
October 5 – 7, 2008

Jonny Lang
October 8 – 9, 2008

The Smithereens
October 10 – 12, 2008

Sister Hazel
October 13 – 14, 2008

David Sanborn
October 15 – 16, 2008

Jon Secada
October 17 – 18, 2008

Spyro Gyra
October 19 – 21, 2008

Otis Day & the Knights
October 22 – 23, 2008

Expose′
October 24 – 26, 2008

Kool & the Gang
October 27 – 28, 2008

Boyz II Men
October 29 – 30, 2008

Atlanta Rhythm Section
October 31 – Nov. 2, 2008

David Cassidy
November 3 – 5, 2008

Night Ranger
November 6 – 7, 2008

Los Lobos
November 8 – 9, 2008

Showtimes are 5:15pm, 6:30pm and 7:45pm

*Entertainment is subject to change without notice.


Source: Walt Disney World Resort, Orlando, Florida

Posted and edited by: Michael Crandell

Universal's Halloween Horror Nights 2008


MORE SCARE ZONES THEN EVER BEFORE

MORE SCAREACTORS THAN EVER BEFORE

THE MOST HAUNTED HOUSES EVER

ALL NEW LIVE SHOWS


September 26-27, October 2-5, 9-12, 16-19, 22-26, 29-31, November 1, 2008


BLOODY MARY…BLOODY MARY…BLOODY MARY!!!


Come face to face with your deepest fears as Bloody Mary brings history’s most terrifying urban legends to life at Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights. Trapped inside or on the streets, there’s nowhere you’re safe. It’s the most immersive horror experience ever, with more Scare Zones than ever before, more Scareactors, and the most Haunted Houses ever.On select nights in September, October, and November, Universal Studios Florida® theme park is transformed into a nightmarish labyrinth of haunted houses, outrageous live shows, and electrifying scare zones while an army of mutants, monsters and maniacs roam the darkened studio streets.


Live shows this year feature Rocky Horror Picture Show – A Tribute, Magician Brian Bushwood and the always popular Bill and Ted in a totally awesome new stage show entitled “Bill and Ted’s Excellent Halloween Adventure!” Righteous!!


Now in its 18th year, Halloween Horror Nights annually drawing hundreds of thousands of horror fans from around the globe to this one-of-a-kind event. Tony Timpone, Editor of Fangoria Magazine, said, “After visiting scream parks all across the US for the last 20 years, I can easily say that Universal’s is the best in the business… Halloween Horror Nights is the ultimate Halloween experience.” It’s the greatest exhibition of pure terror ever unleashed anywhere, and you can experience it all, LIVE, only at Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights.

This event WILL SELL OUT so go to http://www.kgstickets.com/ and get your tickets before it’s too late!

Please note that this event may be too frightening and intense for young children so please use caution when considering this venue.
Click here to see actual footage from Halloween Horror Nights and decide for yourself...can you face your fears?


Source: Universal Orlando Resort, Orlando, Florida

Posted by: Michael Crandell

Monday, June 16, 2008

Busch Gardens Safari

"The safari was great. We got to see a baby rhino- just three weeks old.It was playing and looked remarkably like a puppy. Feeding the giraffes was real nice too. Yes, I already knew they were big but it was striking to feed & touch an animal that big." ~Keith









Thursday, June 12, 2008

Get the "Sheikra" scared out of you!!

The Brady Family braving "Sheikra"

Golf Event

Keith surrounded by fellow CFVRMA board members

"Disney World invited us to golf on The Palm Course, the one the PGA Tour is on - beautiful!" ~Keith

Tuesday, June 3, 2008

"Sounds Like Summer" Concert Series

This summer from June 9, 2008 - August 10, 2008 Epcot will be hosting the "Sounds Like Summer" series at the America Gardens Theater. The series will include bands covering the songs of U2, The Eagles, Bon Jovi and more! These concerts are included with your Epcot admission and are the perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy the summer evenings. The America Gardens Theater is an outdoor pavillion located in the World Showcase. There will be 3 shows nightly at 5:15pm, 6:30pm and 7:45pm.

Scheduled Performers Include:

June 9-15: 2U, The U2 Tribute Band

June 16-22: Stayin' Alive, A Tribute to the Bee Gees

June 23-29: Hotel California, A Salute to the Eagles

June 30- July 10: Bjorn Again, A Tribute to ABBA

July 11-20: Slippery When Wet, The Ultimate Bon Jovi Tribute

July 21-27: 52nd Street, A Tribute to Billy Joel

July 28-August 3: Captain Fantastic, A Tribute to Elton John

August 4-10: The Sounds of The Supremes

Be sure to take a break, rest those tired feet and check out these rockin' bands during your visit!

Monday, June 2, 2008

SeaWorld Orlando Announces New Mega-Attraction Coming In 2009 - Manta, Ride The Flying Ray

ORLANDO Fla. (May 29, 2008) -- SeaWorld Orlando announced today the next generation of SeaWorld thrills with Manta -- a new mega-attraction which will seamlessly transition guests from the awe of encountering rays in underwater flight… into the sensation of actually being one. Swooping over sea and sky, Manta will inspire riders with amazing underwater animal habitats, then soar them face-down, in a horizontal position, aboard a manta-inspired flying coaster. Manta opens summer 2009.
The Manta flying coaster will create a new level of immersion into the animal world -- in a way only SeaWorld can do -- enveloping riders in a sensation of oneness with the ocean’s most powerful and graceful creature as they soar, dive and plummet through the air.. and at times within inches of the sea.
The journey begins the second guests enter a mythical village filled with artisan-created engravings and artwork that celebrate ray legend and lore. No ordinary queue line – the attraction starts with the first step inside. Anticipation builds as guests wind through caverns adorned with ray-inspired art in marble, jewels, and mosaics, all hand-created and left behind by artists who were moved to pay tribute to the beauty, grace and intrigue of these animals.
Whether guests choose to ride or not, the attraction is a world unto itself. Floor-to-ceiling windows create mesmerizing face-to-fin encounters with 300 rays, as well as thousands of fish and mysterious creatures native to oceans all over the world. Shark rays, spotted eagles rays, leopard rays, cownose rays, and oscillate river rays float past guests with fluidity and grace in a view new to SeaWorld. Enhancing the feeling of awe, elaborate lighting, sound and rushing waterfalls further submerge guests into this underwater universe.
The experience then evolves from seeing ... to being.
Inspired by the underwater flight of these powerful creatures, guests will fly face-down, in a horizontal position, underneath the belly of a coaster train shaped as a giant manta. With a wing span of 12 feet, the giant manta will soar over sea and sky in the most graceful flying coaster ever created.
Gliding, swooping and diving up to nearly 60 mph, through four inversions on 3,359 feet of track, riders will feel as if they are a ray, taking flight effortlessly from sky to sea -- so close at times that the Manta’s wings skim the waves.
“This ride is uniquely SeaWorld,” said Dan Brown, Vice President and General Manager of SeaWorld Orlando. “SeaWorld is famous for connecting guests with the sea and its amazing creatures, and Manta does this in a way that has never been done before, creating a true sense of oneness between human and animal.
“The sensation of Manta also will be like none other in the world – guests will be inspired by the grace and power of live rays, then feel as if they, themselves, are gliding through air and water,” said Joseph Couceiro, Chief Marketing Officer for SeaWorld’s parent company, Busch Entertainment Corporation. “No one but SeaWorld can unite thrills and ocean animals into such a unique experience.”
The 7-acre, 140-ft tall attraction will be located inside the main entrance to SeaWorld, and become an icon in the park with its unique design. Towering over SeaWorld’s 200-acres, the manta-themed coaster – cloaked in hues of dark purple, ultramarine blue, and cobalt – will lure guests into the world of the mysterious ray.
SeaWorld is working with the renowned Swiss coaster design company, Bolliger & Mabillard for the design of Manta.

Source: http://www.seaworld.com/sitepage.aspx?PageID=44

Monday, May 12, 2008

New 'Rockit' high-tech roller coaster coming to Universal Studios Orlando in 2009

Universal Studios is about to build a new signature ride: a high-tech roller coaster full of lights, music, loops, twists and turns -- and a quick trip over the heads of people walking through the nearby CityWalk entertainment district.

The Hollywood Rip, Ride, Rockit is planned to be big, bright and brash enough to become the new visual symbol for the theme park when the coaster opens in about a year. Universal Orlando officials said Tuesday that it also will feature enough digital technology to appeal directly to what they refer to as the "YouTube culture.

"The coaster will rise 167 feet into the air and feature numerous loops and corkscrew turns. Rockit -- the first big, outdoor thrill ride for Universal Studios -- is set to open in spring 2009.
Although it will be the tallest coaster in Central Florida and one of the fastest in the state, the Rockit will be nowhere near the tallest or fastest in the amusement-park business. But like the Incredible Hulk in Islands of Adventure and several other Florida coasters, it aims to use innovation and novelty to make up for any lack of record-setting height or speed.
Rockit will offer high-energy video displays in the waiting line; high-intensity, color-changing LED lighting and digital audio and video effects during the ride; and various engineering innovations.

And unlike any of the other big roller coasters in Central Florida, Rockit will loom over its park's entrance and beyond. Universal plans to squeeze its track between the Jimmy Neutron's Nicktoon Blast ride and the Sharp Aquos Theatre, which houses the Blue Man Group show. From there the track would run along the boundary between Universal Studios and Universal's sound stages, then rise over the fence to twist over the sidewalks of CityWalk, outside the theme park -- a brightly lit, scream-filled advertisement for the park.

A digital-age feature will allow riders to select their own music and create a music video of the ride. Afterward, a rider could download the video and use it on personal Web pages or video-sharing sites.

But the ride -- which Universal officials had referred to for months by the code name "Project Rumble" -- still draws principally on the basic thrills of a roller coaster: speed, height, loops, corkscrews, twists, turns and drops. Universal officials said Rockit would have several signature moves and a record-breaking loop, though they would not elaborate. The artist's rendering that they released shows the track climbing a 167-foot-tall peak, then corkscrewing downward, twisting eight times.

Source: Orlando Sentinal

Thursday, April 24, 2008

Toy Story Mania

‘Toy Story’ Characters Challenge Guests to Ride and Play Toy Story Mania!

New Interactive Attraction Comes to Disney Parks in Florida and California in Time for Summer 2008

Disney Parks guests will don 3-D glasses and enter a wild and wooly 4-D world of Woody, Buzz and other favorite "Toy Story" characters when Toy Story Mania! a new attraction, makes its grand premiere as part of Disney's "Year of a Million Dreams." The attraction will debut on both coasts: scheduled to open in late May at Disney's Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, and scheduled for a late June debut in Disney's California Adventure at Disneyland Resort in California.


Inspired by the Disney-Pixar films "Toy Story" and "Toy Story 2," Toy Story Mania! raises the bar for interactive ride-game attractions. It's a high-energy, immersive adventure that puts guests right in the action as their game play triggers fun surprises that provide a fourth dimension of fun. Toy Story Mania! engages guests in a whole new way with the delightful characters of the films.


In the timeless tradition of Disney storytelling, Toy Story Mania! takes its inspiration from the fact that Andy’s toys spring to life whenever he is away. Soon after Andy got a “Midway Games Play Set” for his latest birthday, the toys jumped at their first chance to open the box and set up the game booths and carnival trams so everyone could ride and play. That means “no assembly required” for their game-playing guests – just nonstop fun. (That is, until Andy gets home!)
Upon entering the attraction, guests will be welcomed by Mr. Potato Head, more than five feet tall and looking like he stepped right down from the movie screen. The state-of-the-art Audio-Animatronics Mr. Potato Head makes a perfect carnival barker, capable of engaging guests in two-way conversation and encouraging them to "step right up" for the immersive Toy Story Mania! experience.


Everyone gets a front row seat when guests put on their 3-D glasses, "shrink" to the size of a toy and board Toy Story Mania! carnival tram ride vehicles which add a huge amount of fun to the interactive experience. The exciting and colorful route takes guests through "Andy's Bedroom" filled with oversized murals and toys. The vehicles angle to face Toy Story Mania! game booths -- high-tech yet rooted in classic midway games of skill -- and guests aim for 3-D animated targets using their own on-board spring-action shooters. Players pair up and sit side-by-side for a friendly competition that delivers an ever-changing variety of targets and surprises.
As they play, guests can actually see the "virtual" objects they've launched leave their spring-action shooters and hit (or miss) the targets. And thanks to 4-D special effects technology, they may sense objects whirring past them as they pop out of the 3-D scenes.
The Toy Story Mania! games -- five of them, plus an introductory practice round -- are designed to be enjoyed by audiences of all ages and skills, from beginners to experienced gamers. Play is energized by the spirit of the "Toy Story" characters cast in games that best suit their very animated personalities.


First comes the "Pie Throw Practice" round in which guests can try splattering targets with virtual pies.


Next, Hamm hosts a "Hamm & Eggs" booth in which players launch plastic virtual eggs at various barnyard targets.


"Bo Peep's Baaa-loon Pop" presents a landscape full of balloon sheep, trees and other objects at which guests can launch virtual darts. But players had better be careful! A popped virtual water balloon might add an additional 4-D wet dimension to the game.
From there it's on to "Green Army Men Shoot Camp" where the challenge is to break plates with virtual baseballs.


Next up is "Buzz Lightyear's Flying Tossers," a ring-toss game hosted by everyone's favorite space ranger, with Little Green Aliens as the targets.


For the grand finale game, Toy Story Mania! players ride through Wild West scenes launching virtual suction-cup darts at targets in "Woody's Rootin' Tootin' Shootin' Gallery." A final "Woody's Bonus Roundup" encourages guests to fire their spring-action shooters as rapidly as possible at one last super-target for extra points. When scores are tallied, players' skill levels are identified and they can see how they've done compared to the high scores.


The game play of Toy Story Mania! is accompanied by creative musical variations of Randy Newman's "You've Got A Friend in Me," arranged by veteran music editor Bruno Coon, a frequent Newman collaborator, to complement the games -- for example, a military brass band version for "Green Army Men Shoot Camp."


No matter how many times guests return to ride and play, they can be sure every ride-through will seem different.


Thursday, February 28, 2008

ESPN The Weekend

Calling all sports fans! Put on your team colors and head over to Disney's Hollywood Studios for ESPN's The Weekend. Catch your favorite shows being broadcast live from February 29-March 2nd from the Sorcerer's Hat Stage, and the ESPN Sports Zone at the end of Sunset Boulevard. Over 20 ESPN celebrities will be there along with your favorite sports figures including Jim Palmer, Donovan McNabb, the Harlem Globetrotters, Steve Smith, Roger Clemons, Shaun Alexander, Ben Watson, Roy Williams, Darrell Green, Chipper Jones, and Antonio Gates to name a few. Go Inside ESPN and have the opportunity to experience a what a live taping of your favorite show is like. You might even get the chance to see what its like to interview for ESPN! Good with sports trivia? Team up with a sports celebrity and battle to "Stump the Schwab" Sports celebrities will also be appearing throughout the weekend in for Q&A sessions. ESPN The Weekend is included in your regular park admission. Call Kissimmee Guest Services at 1.877.273.5636 for more information or to purchase tickets.

Monday, February 18, 2008

11 Unique Tips for Disney's Magic Kingdom


These tips are straight from Disney!

1. Adults with children too small to ride an attraction may take turns riding so you don’t have to wait in line twice! For more details ask a Disney Cast Member.

2. Many of the Disney Cast Members are fluent in more than one language. Their nametags indicate which languages they speak.

3. Measure your child's height before arriving at the park so you know ahead of time which attractions he or she will be able to ride.

4. Take a look at the park map prior to your arrival to get a general idea of the location of attractions you are most interested in visiting.

5. Set a meeting place and time if your party decides to split up. Try not to pick a busy area, such as in front of Cinderella’s Castle, or it may be difficult to find the rest of your party.

6. Take advantage of Disney's FASTPASS when lines are long. To use, insert your park pass into the FASTPASS machine in front of the attraction to receive an assigned return time. Enjoy the rest of the park while your FASTPASS saves you a spot in line!

7. The Magic Kingdom has three ATMs. They are located under the Main Street train station, near the Frontierland Shooting Arcade, and at the Tomorrowland Light & Power Co. arcade. Currency exchange is available at City Hall for most foreign currency.

8. Take a special "behind the scenes" tour available at the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, and Disney's Animal Kingdom® Theme Parks. Call Kissimmee Guest Services for details.

9. For current wait times on the most popular rides check the tip board on Main Street.

10. Need a haircut? Visit Magic Kingdom’s Harmony Barber Shop located on Main Street.

11. Monday is the busiest day of the week at Magic Kingdom. Try and plan your visit for later in the week or weekend.

Friday, February 8, 2008

Pirate and Princess Party


What child hasn't dreamed of becoming a Pirate on the open seas or a Princess in all the regalia? Swashbuckling training is available with Captain Jack Pirate in the Pirate Coves so you are able to learn all of the in's-and-out's of privateering. The aspiring Princesses are not left out of all this fun, they are participating in Princess activities. After getting your sea legs you are now ready for the next activity! Everyone receives a custom Pirate and Princess bag along with a treasure map.The hunt is on and now it is time to rely on the training to find the treasures! Once you fill your bag with treats there is yet another treat for ALL to enjoy: a PARADE and FIREWORKS!!!

Blue Man Group




Paint the town BLUE with the enjoyment of a performance from the dynamic Blue Man Group. After many months of preparation and anticipation, the Blue Man Group is an official Orlando fixture! KGSTickets.com as always has your low priced ticket to a performance like none other!If you've never seen the Blue Man Group you are missing out one of the most innovative and entertaining shows ever! Now with the World's Low Price Ticket to Universal Orlando Resort from your friends at KGSTickets.com, there is no reason to miss out on the fun!

Universal Orlando Mardi Gras Party


Mardi Gras has been known to be one of America's best kept traditions. Mardi Gras became famous by being one big party full of costumes, fun, and celebration. Unfortunately it is not a family-friendly, and safe venue...so Universal Orlando Resort has a Mardi Gras that is good clean fun for everyone! Universal Orlando Resort's Mardi Gras celebration at Universal Orlando goes on from February 2, 2008 through April 19. Experience the spirit of Fat Tuesday with the 13 beautifully decorated floats straight out of the Big Easy along with constumes, the spicy goodness of cajun cuisine, and live music from Nola jazz bands. Come on down to Orlando for a Mardi Gras for everyone and have your friends at Kissimmee Guest Services show you the way!

Disney's Hollywood Studios

On January 7, 2008 Disney’s Hollywood Studios opened their doors for the first time after shedding its MGM license. What will magic of Hollywood bring to Orlando, you ask?

Toy Story Mania arrives on set this summer. Have your 3-D glasses ready as you board your spinning craft to travel through carnival inspired virtual worlds. The ride seats up to eight passengers and records each individual’s score accumulated by firing toy cannons at virtual targets! There’s more…

GO WILDCATS! The kids and songs of East High invite you to sing and dance along in the feature of “High School Musical 2:School’s Out!”

Look for the arrival of some new friends at Playhouse Disney this February! Starring Little Einsteins, Mickey Mouse Playhouse, and Handy Manny to name a few!

Be a part of the “Block Party Bash” deemed one of the most interactive parades in Disney history. With retro tunes, high-flying acrobatics, and trampolines there are bound to be a few surprises! Joining in the fun is more than 20 partying Disney-Pixar Film Pals to include the Incredibles, Monsters Inc., Toy Story 2, Bug’s life, and much more!

The hope is the new attractions will inspire a new view of the park as more than just a thrill seekers indulgence. But, while there is still much chatter and speculation about the future of Disney’s Hollywood Studios, I believe that this will be the year that the park makes it’s come back.

Orlando is for Lovers


For years the greatest love stories have come from our friends at Disney. Without Disney there would be no Prince Charming and Cinderella, Lady and the Tramp, and of course Mickey and Minnie. What better place to celebrate your love than Orlando? Here are some specialties brought to you for your next trip to Orlando:Disney World is a couple's dream. After a full day of rides with your someone special there is a perfect way to end the day. A couple can let the daily fireworks show rekindle the flame in their relationships at the Magic Kingdom while swaying to the soothing melodies in the distance. Universal Orlando has so many ways to wow your mate. You'll find excitement at the Islands of Adventure and dance to the live music at City Walk. After all that fun you can have a romantic meal at one of the many fine eateries Universal Orlando pride's itself upon.Other sites that are best for romantic getaways include the Sea World’s Discovery Cove, and so much more. Discover more romantic ways to enjoy Orlando by calling Kissimmee Guest Services.

Aquatica


SeaWorld’s Aquatica is coming soon to Orlando! This “whimsical, one-of-a-kind” water park is said to open in March of this year. The island themed 59 acres will be filled with dueling wave pools, lazy rivers, tubes and flumes, white sandy beaches, and of course, many opportunities to interact with the animals. It is the perfect blend of serene and extreme fit for all ages and thrill levels. Aquatica’s signature ride will be it’s enclosed tube slides that send you through a lagoon full of playful Commerson’s dolphins. With such an expansive area and so much to see in do, SeaWorld promises that attraction lines will be kept to a minimum. With the combination of nature meets adventure, Aquatica is sure to be a water park experience like no other!

New KGS Concierge Service



New KGS Concierge Service
Kissimmee Guest Services has taken their world-class offerings to the next level. KGS now offers concierge service for its clients. KGS's committment to excellence in service is explempary in everything they do and the brand new concierge service offering is the latest example. Imagine your next trip to Orlando including a sumptuous massage, rubbing out all of the crimps and knots from a cramped car or plane ride. Smell the gourmet aromas resonating from the hard work from your own personal chef. Wait...It gets better! Need a babysitter for a night out in Downtown Orlando, KGS's Concierge Services has a babysitter for you. Need someone to watch your precious furry family member, well guess what KGS has you covered with Pet Sitting. On top of all of that get Limo service, Bass Fishing guides, deep sea fishing, all kinds of water sports activities, and more! Visit Kissimmee Guest Services and find a new ways to make your time in Orlando the best time ever!