More than 62 million people visited Orlando in 2014. It marks a new all-time record for the U.S. travel industry, solidifying Orlando’s position as the most visited destination in the US. Visitation grew five percent from 2013 as visitors from around the world came to experience all that is new across the ever-expanding destination. A record 32 million room nights were sold in Orlando in 2014, resulting in bed tax collections topping $200 million for the first time in Orange County, Fla., home to the Central Florida tourism district. “This historic milestone is the latest testament to Orlando’s leadership in tourism,” said Visit Orlando President and CEO George Aguel. “It’s a tribute to the steadfast commitment and continued investment by our tourism community, the special brand of serv
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Attractions The I-Drive Four Pass is a new offer allowing guests to visit four of Orlando's most popular I-Drive attractions for one price. The pass includes entrance to CSI: The Experience; Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition; Ripley’s Orlando Odditorium and WonderWorks. An adult ticket costs $74.99 (plus tax). Walt Disney World Resort will expand two of its most popular attractions, Soarin’ in Epcot and Toy Story Mania! in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, to better accommodate guests. The expansion includes another theater at Soarin’ and more midway tracks at Toy Story Mania!. These expansions are expected to be complete by late 2016. Shopping The Florida Mall is adding two new stores to the available retail options. Desigual, a Barcelona based clothing retailer, will open in the spr
Read MoreAccording to Priceline.com, Orlando is the No. 1 “hot spot” for travelers in 2015. After a multi-year surge of blockbuster expansions at Orlando’s world-class theme parks, Orlando’s retail, dining and entertainment scene is following suit in 2015. Visit Orlando, the destination’s official tourism association, uncovered 15 new openings 2015 travelers will be among the first to experience: INTERNATIONAL DRIVE In the heart of Orlando’s tourism corridor, International Drive will see significant development in 2015 with the addition of several retail, dining and entertainment venues. I-Drive 360, a new entertainment complex from Merlin Entertainments, will open a trio of new attractions. At the heart of the complex, The Orlando Eye is a 400-foot-tall (12.92-meter) observation wheel p
Read MoreLet the good times roll this spring at Universal Orlando Resort’s 2015 Mardi Gras celebration - featuring 16 nights of thrilling concerts from some of the biggest names in music, coupled with the essence of the legendary Bayou bash. On select nights Feb. 7 through April 18, guests will experience a family-friendly version of the “N’awlins”-inspired festival at Universal Studios Florida. Guests can top off their day in the theme parks with delicious Cajun cuisine, an awe-inspiring parade and a live concert. Mardi Gras, also Fat Tuesday in English, refers to events of the Carnival celebrations, beginning on or after the Epiphany or King's Day and culminating on the day before Ash Wednesday. Mardi Gras is French for "Fat Tuesday", reflecting the practice of the last night of eating richer, fa
Read MoreUniversal Orlando Resort will host a fun filled weekend featuring the Nickelodeon hit live action series “Every Witch Way” on December 12 and 13. Fans of the hit series will be able to enjoy two days of spellbinding activities featuring some of their favorite cast members, including Paola Andino (Emma Alonso), Nick Merico (Daniel Miller), Paris Smith (Maddie Van Pelt) and Rahart Adams (Jax Novoa). Nickelodeon’s “Every Witch Way” Weekend will also give guests the opportunity to -Enjoy an exciting celebration to kick off the weekend, featuring DJ Boogie and the cast of “Every Witch Way” -Participate in Q&A and autograph sessions with the cast - Access a special viewing party featuring an advance screening of the first two episodes of season 3 of - And more! “Every Witch W
Read MoreOrlando celebrates the most magical time of year with warm weather, new special events and spirited live entertainment in the theme parks and beyond, creating an unforgettable and festive setting for a winter getaway. Along with the nearly 150 holiday-themed events at the theme parks and throughout the destination, visitors can find the perfect gift at Orlando’s well known outlet centers, malls and specialty boutiques. Visit Orlando will be sharing tips to help visitors make the most of their holiday vacation. Visit Orlando is also an official seller of Orlando attraction tickets, including a wide variety of Orlando’s Christmas celebrations. Holidays at the Theme Parks Walt Disney World Resort Select nights Nov. 7
Read MoreDuring one of the largest expansion periods in Orlando’s history, summer vacationers will be among the first to experience the nation’s most anticipated attraction openings. From climbing aboard the Hogwarts Express or exploring the mine where “a million diamonds shine,” to plummeting down one of the steepest waterslides in America, Orlando’s newest offerings are sure to make 2014 a blockbuster summer. Theme Park Expansions The new DUPLO Valley, opening May 23 at LEGOLAND Florida, features new farm-themed attractions geared towards preschoolers, including a train, mini tractor ride and water play area. A new night time Shamu show debuts at SeaWorld Orlando on June 21 in celebration of SeaWorld’s 50th anniversary. Universal Orlando Resort expands The Wizarding World of Harry ...
Read MoreOne can play golf like a pro anywhere and anytime in Florida. The Sunshine State has 1,000-plus courses – more than any other state. Add world-renowned restaurants and top-rated hotels and spas that are often adjoining or nearby and, yes, Florida is a golfer’s paradise. South Florida The birthplace of Florida golf is the Breakers Ocean Course. Henry Flagler, railroad tycoon and the “Father of Florida Tourism,” opened the Breakers hotel in 1896. More than 100 years later, Palm Beach stills calls itself Florida’s Golf Capital. From that first 9-hole course, Palm Beach County’s golf menu has expanded to 160 public and private courses. The Tom Fazio-designed Emerald Dunes is one of Golf Magazine’s “Top 100 Courses You Can Play.” After a round, relax at The Spa at The Breakers, a sea
Read MoreLooking for unique Valentine's Day ideas that will make your sweetheart swoon? Orlando has countless opportunities for romance with your valentine from relaxing indulges, to intimate dining or thrilling attractions - it's all here waiting for you. Visit Orlando encourages tourists to enjoy the Valentine’s Day festivities taking place across the city. Here is an unexpected list of heart-fluttering experiences that your romantic partner is sure to enjoy. Unique Valentine's Day Tips in Orlando- Bob's Balloon Flights What could be more romantic than a hot air balloon ride at dawn over beautiful Central Florida? Take your special someone on a dream date in the clouds, with a champagne toast and buffet breakfast included! No one will forget a Valentine's Day that starts like this. Tick
Read MoreOrlando continues to reinvent itself with enticing additions opening in 2014. New offerings found inside its world-famous theme parks and throughout the destination give families even more reason to visit Orlando in the New Year. From hopping aboard the Hogwarts Express at Universal Orlando Resort to catching a Broadway show at the new Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Orlando delivers unrivaled experiences to satisfy all ages and interests. Here are 10 reasons to visit Orlando in 2014: THEME PARKS 1) DUPLO Valley at LEGOLAND Florida will bring the LEGO DUPLO line of preschool building toys to life for Orlando’s youngest visitors. The new farm-themed attractions, including a train, mini tractor ride and water play area, are geared to toddlers ages 2 to 5. 2) B
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