Editor's note: Prices has risen at Disney World and Universal Studios. For the latest changes, please read this article or contact the parks directly.]
It's hard to believe how many changes have already occurred in the months since the Frommer's guide to Walt Disney World & Orlando was last revised. Attractions, rides, and restaurants have debuted at the theme parks and resorts have sprung up like dandelions.
You of course are the beneficiary of Orlando's constant desire to improve and expand its offerings. The rivalry between the theme parks, restaurants, and resorts ensures that there will always be a new experience awaiting you in Orlando.
Planning Your Trip
Disney has created an all new program designed just for families traveling with tots under the age of five -- Magical Beginnings. Special age-appropriate entertainment has been scheduled during the newly created seven week travel season, additional services and amenities have been added, tot friendly travel packages have been designed, and special planning tools have been integrated into the official Walt Disney World website (www.disneyworld.com). The newly created travel season runs from mid-August through the end of September.
Where to Stay
The Reunion Resort & Club of Orlando (tel. 888/418-9611 or 407/662-1000; www.reunionresort.com) recently opened The Spa at Reunion, a full-service colonial-style spa that features an array of luxurious indulgences including lounge chairs adorned with cashmere throws and down comforters and personal iPods for each guest.
The Travelodge Main Gate East is scheduled to undergo extensive renovations this fall to become the Holiday Inn and Suites Main Gate East (tel. 800/327-1128 or 407/396-4222; www.orlandotravelodgehotel.com).
The Hilton in the Walt Disney World Resort (tel. 407/827/4000; www.hilton.com) recently completed a $25 million renovation that includes the addition of all new luxury bedding, upgraded amenities, and a brand new restaurant -- the Andiamo Italian Bistro & Grill.
The Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin (tel. 888/828-8850 or 407/934-4000; www.swandolphin.com) are currently undergoing extensive renovations that include the redesign of both lobbies and several of their restaurants. Among other changes, Tubbi's, the resorts 24-hour cafeteria, has been renamed Picabu. While still open 24 hours, the restaurant now features a slightly more upscale décor and atmosphere.
The Universal Orlando Resorts, including the Portofino Bay Hotel and the Royal Pacific Resort (tel. 407/503-1000 and 407/503-3000 respectively; www.universalorlando.com), have partnered with Fisher Price to offer families traveling with children under the age of six an array of special amenities and services to make their stay more comfortable and enjoyable. Baby and toddler play classes are now offered at the resorts and a selection of age appropriate toys and travel gear are available for guests to use during their stay.
Where to Dine
The Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. (tel. 407/363-8000; www.universalorlando.com) opened its doors for the first time in July. Shrimp is of course the signature dish (and it's served up in several ways) however landlubbers will find plenty to choose from as well. This casual eatery features an atmosphere based on the blockbuster film Forrest Gump. Filled top to bottom with movie memorabilia, it's an appropriate addition to the CityWalk entertainment complex at Universal Orlando.
Bergamo's Italian Restaurant and the Cricketers Arms English Pub & Eatery are both relocating from their former home (the Mercado Shopping complex) to the Festival Bay Mall (tel. 407/351-7718; www.shopfestivalbaymall.com) at the northern end of International Drive.
Exploring Walt Disney World
An all new year-long celebration, Year of a Million Dreams, kicks off on October 1, 2006. New attractions and entertainment, new technologies that allow guests to customize their experiences even more than ever before, and the Disney Dreams giveaway are all part of the grand celebration. Every day throughout the entire year, guests will be randomly selected and rewarded with unique and special experiences. One lucky guest will even get the chance to spend the night in Cinderella's royal bedchamber (originally planned as an apartment for the Disney family) in Cinderella Castle. Additional rewards include a trip to each Disney resort around the world to serve as the grand marshal in a Disney parade, Disney vacation experiences, VIP parties, private meet and greets with Disney characters, and a Golden Fastpass that allows unique access to Disney's most popular attractions.
Finding Nemo -- The Musical has replaced Tarzan Rocks and is due to splash onto the scene in late 2006. Following the storyline of the hit movie Finding Nemo the stage show features a combination of puppets, dancers, acrobats, and animated backdrops. Innovative lighting, sound, and special effects are what transform the stage into a spectacular undersea set. The theater has been renovated and is now enclosed and air-conditioned.
At Disney-MGM Studios, Who Wants to Be a Millionaire has officially closed. No official announcements have been made regarding what will replace the popular interactive show.
At Epcot more guests than ever before can journey to the stars on Mission: Space. A stationary option, minus the spinning centrifuge system, is now available (as is the original more thrilling G-force generating version). You'll also find Nemo once again at the Living Seas Pavillion. The Seas with Nemo & Friends, scheduled to debut in late 2006, is a new family friendly ride that takes you, via clam-mobiles, on a journey through the coral reef in search of Nemo who has once again wandered off from his class. Joining in on the search for Nemo are Mr. Ray, Dory, Bruce, Crush, and Marlin.
Exploring Universal and SeaWorld
Universal Studios Cinesphere 360 made its debut this summer. This nighttime spectacular (similar to Epcot's Illuminations) takes place out on the lagoon and features four gigantic projection "cinespheres" upon which scenes and images from some of Universal's blockbuster movies are displayed. Laser lights, pyrotechnic effects, and an original musical score played over 300 outdoor speakers all add to the experience.
The High in the Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride at Universal's Islands of Adventure winds its way around and about Seuss Landing from high above the walkway. Riders make their way along the track, passing through scenes straight out of Dr. Seuss's classic stories, passing in and out of Circus McGurkus, and out over the island once again.
Orlando After Dark
The Timpano Chophouse and Martini Bar (tel. 407/248-0429; www.timpanochophouse.net) recently underwent a $1 million renovation and now features the Starlight Lounge, an area that's been modeled after Chicago's legendary Big Band era nightclubs and is very much in keeping with the Sinatra-style atmosphere that runs throughout the entire restaurant. The drink menu features 32 different martinis and over 40 wines to choose from.
The Red Coconut Club at Universal Orlando (tel. 407/363-8000; www.universalorlando.com) opened its doors in July. This all new two-story cocktail lounge is an upscale option for party goers at Universal Orlando's CityWalk. DJ's and live bands ensure you can dance the night away to the sounds of the 60's and 70's. Think trendy yet tropical.
Shopping in Orlando
The Prime Outlets Orlando, formerly the Beltz Factory Outlets (tel. 407/352-9600; www.primeretail.com) are currently undergoing a $100 million renovation. The entire complex is being redesigned and when completed will include several new stores and will be much more shopper friendly.
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