Nick Hotel's Orlando Guide » Florida Residents http://blog.nickhotel.com Orlando Florida Hotel Vacation - Nickelodeon Suites Resort Fri, 26 Aug 2011 14:53:26 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=abc en hourly 1 Busch Gardens Tampa Bay & Discovery Cove in Orlando announce 2011 additions http://blog.nickhotel.com/index/busch-gardens-tampa-bay-discovery-cove-in-orlando-announce-2011-additions http://blog.nickhotel.com/index/busch-gardens-tampa-bay-discovery-cove-in-orlando-announce-2011-additions#comments Wed, 13 Oct 2010 18:05:10 +0000 Team Nick http://blog.nickhotel.com/?p=486 www.DiscoveryCove.com BuschGardens Tampa Bay For more than five decades, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has found inspiration in its animals. Animal care experts have turned that inspiration into adventure with immersive natural habitats like the Serengeti Plain and Myombe Reserve. Engineers have also turned it into adrenaline, capturing the spirit of the animals in wood and steel with coasters like Kumba, Gwazi and SheiKra. Now, the next generation of thrills emerges from the crossroads where up-close animal encounters and awe-inspiring rides come together. Spring 2011, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay introduces a mega-attraction that invites guests to feel the spirit and feel the speed of the cheetah. Cheetah Hunt The centerpiece of the new attraction is Cheetah Hunt, a Linear Synchronous Motor (LSM) Launch Coaster that uses the force of repelling magnets to launch riders from 0 to 60 in a matter of seconds – not once, but three times. The first launch propels the train out of its station and into the grasslands that surround the new area. Moments later, a second burst of speed accelerates riders to 60 mph and up into the ride’s signature tower element that climbs more than 10 stories above the African landscape before plunging 130 feet into a subterranean trench. At the far end of this three-quarter-mile path, a third burst of speed rockets the train back across the plain toward the station in a thrill-ride experience unlike anything Busch Gardens’ guests have ever experienced. Cheetah Run But this one-of-a-kind coaster experience is only a portion of the new realm. Building on Busch Gardens’ unrivaled ability to combine thrills with immersive animal encounters, Cheetah Run will set a new standard for bringing nature and humans together in a really unique way. Located in the area that formerly housed the Budweiser Clydesdales, this expansive new habitat will give visitors the opportunity to get closer to cheetahs than ever before with elevated, glass-paneled viewing areas. Even more exciting will be the chance to witness the world’s fastest land animal in action. Busch Gardens’ trainers will conduct daily sprints with the cheetahs for an awesome opportunity to see one of nature’s true wonders in full form! Families can also explore interactive touch screens to learn even more about these big cats and SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment’s work on their behalf. Through the SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund, the adventure parks have been helping cheetahs in the wild since 2005. Cheetah Hunt and the Cheetah Run open in spring 2011. Together, they form a unique experience – the kind you’ll only find at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. Discovery Cove In Orlando, Discovery Cove takes immersion to new depths when it opens an all-new area -- The Grand Reef -- in June 2011. The new reef features multiple levels of exploration, from shallow waters to deeper swimming adventures, from white sandy beaches and hammocks swaying in the breeze, to snorkeling among canyons inspired by reefs from around the world. “The Grand Reef takes Discovery Cove’s world-class animal encounters to an all new level -- several, actually,” said Stewart Clark, the park’s vice president. “It’s what our guests expect from us, unforgettable connections with the sea and making memories that will last forever. This could only be created by Discovery Cove.” Visitors just need to get their feet wet to enjoy The Grand Reef, or they can choose to go deep. They can step into tranquil, shallow waters to discover a below-the-surface world teeming with sea life, or they can snorkel in deeper waters as thousands of exotic fish and graceful rays swim around them. Surprises abound. Families can seek discoveries along the water’s edge or cross a bridge to see sharks swimming below. They’ll play hide-and-seek with thousands of beautiful fish, from small colorful wrasses to large spotted eagle rays. Further out in the reef, stunning habitats create the feeling of swimming right alongside venomous lionfish and sharp-toothed reef sharks, each safely behind glass. Guests can take paths and bridges to the reef’s islands and hidden grottos as they delve into the reef from above, around and below. Those looking for an even more exhilarating adventure can take part in The Grand Reef’s innovative experience, SeaVenture, an underwater walking tour. Wearing dive helmets, guests find up-close excitement around every corner, each step yielding a new discovery. They’ll come across lionfish and sharks (safely behind massive panoramic windows), one-on-one touches with unique animals and schools of fish and gentle rays swimming by. SeaVenture is a once-in-a-lifetime, undersea experience available for a nominal fee. The Grand Reef is the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation, a fully immersive tropical escape, new to discover in Orlando in 2011. There’s more to learn at www.DiscoveryCove.com.]]> Today, two of SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment’s world class theme parks announced all-new attractions to open in 2011.  For those planning a trip to Central Florida next year and beyond, the announcements mean new thrills and up-close encounters with exotic animals at both Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and Discovery Cove in Orlando.

To learn about both new attractions, go to www.CheetahHunt.com and www.DiscoveryCove.com

BuschGardens Tampa Bay

For more than five decades, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has found inspiration in its animals. Animal care experts have turned that inspiration into adventure with immersive natural habitats like the Serengeti Plain and Myombe Reserve. Engineers have also turned it into adrenaline, capturing the spirit of the animals in wood and steel with coasters like Kumba, Gwazi and SheiKra.

Now, the next generation of thrills emerges from the crossroads where up-close animal encounters and awe-inspiring rides come together. Spring 2011, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay introduces a mega-attraction that invites guests to feel the spirit and feel the speed of the cheetah.

Cheetah Hunt

The centerpiece of the new attraction is Cheetah Hunt, a Linear Synchronous Motor (LSM) Launch Coaster that uses the force of repelling magnets to launch riders from 0 to 60 in a matter of seconds – not once, but three times.

The first launch propels the train out of its station and into the grasslands that surround the new area. Moments later, a second burst of speed accelerates riders to 60 mph and up into the ride’s signature tower element that climbs more than 10 stories above the African landscape before plunging 130 feet into a subterranean trench.  At the far end of this three-quarter-mile path, a third burst of speed rockets the train back across the plain toward the station in a thrill-ride experience unlike anything Busch Gardens’ guests have ever experienced.

Cheetah Run

But this one-of-a-kind coaster experience is only a portion of the new realm. Building on Busch Gardens’ unrivaled ability to combine thrills with immersive animal encounters, Cheetah Run will set a new standard for bringing nature and humans together in a really unique way.

Located in the area that formerly housed the Budweiser Clydesdales, this expansive new habitat will give visitors the opportunity to get closer to cheetahs than ever before with elevated, glass-paneled viewing areas. Even more exciting will be the chance to witness the world’s fastest land animal in action. Busch Gardens’ trainers will conduct daily sprints with the cheetahs for an awesome opportunity to see one of nature’s true wonders in full form!

Families can also explore interactive touch screens to learn even more about these big cats and SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment’s work on their behalf. Through the SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund, the adventure parks have been helping cheetahs in the wild since 2005.

Cheetah Hunt and the Cheetah Run open in spring 2011. Together, they form a unique experience – the kind you’ll only find at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.

Discovery Cove

In Orlando, Discovery Cove takes immersion to new depths when it opens an all-new area — The Grand Reef — in June 2011.  The new reef features multiple levels of exploration, from shallow waters to deeper swimming adventures, from white sandy beaches and hammocks swaying in the breeze, to snorkeling among canyons inspired by reefs from around the world.

“The Grand Reef takes Discovery Cove’s world-class animal encounters to an all new level — several, actually,” said Stewart Clark, the park’s vice president.  “It’s what our guests expect from us, unforgettable connections with the sea and making memories that will last forever.  This could only be created by Discovery Cove.”

Visitors just need to get their feet wet to enjoy The Grand Reef, or they can choose to go deep.  They can step into tranquil, shallow waters to discover a below-the-surface world teeming with sea life, or they can snorkel in deeper waters as thousands of exotic fish and graceful rays swim around them.

Surprises abound.  Families can seek discoveries along the water’s edge or cross a bridge to see sharks swimming below.  They’ll play hide-and-seek with thousands of beautiful fish, from small colorful wrasses to large spotted eagle rays. Further out in the reef, stunning habitats create the feeling of swimming right alongside venomous lionfish and sharp-toothed reef sharks, each safely behind glass.  Guests can take paths and bridges to the reef’s islands and hidden grottos as they delve into the reef from above, around and below.

Those looking for an even more exhilarating adventure can take part in The Grand Reef’s innovative experience, SeaVenture, an underwater walking tour.  Wearing dive helmets, guests find up-close excitement around every corner, each step yielding a new discovery.

They’ll come across lionfish and sharks (safely behind massive panoramic windows), one-on-one touches with unique animals and schools of fish and gentle rays swimming by. SeaVenture is a once-in-a-lifetime, undersea experience available for a nominal fee.

The Grand Reef is the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation, a fully immersive tropical escape, new to discover in Orlando in 2011.  There’s more to learn at www.DiscoveryCove.com.

]]> http://blog.nickhotel.com/index/busch-gardens-tampa-bay-discovery-cove-in-orlando-announce-2011-additions/feed 0 Winter Park Autumn Art Festival http://blog.nickhotel.com/orlando-art-museum/winter-park-autumn-art-festival http://blog.nickhotel.com/orlando-art-museum/winter-park-autumn-art-festival#comments Wed, 13 Oct 2010 18:00:44 +0000 Team Nick http://blog.nickhotel.com/?p=493 A FREE sidewalk art show boasting quality visual art from 150 Florida artists and activities for the whole family, including live entertainment, children’s activities and a sidewalk sale at Park Avenue and Hannibal Square shops.

For more information visit http://winterpark.org/content/winter-park-autumn-art-festival.

]]> http://blog.nickhotel.com/orlando-art-museum/winter-park-autumn-art-festival/feed 0 Third Annual Orlando Food & Wine Fest http://blog.nickhotel.com/index/third-annual-orlando-food-wine-fest http://blog.nickhotel.com/index/third-annual-orlando-food-wine-fest#comments Wed, 13 Oct 2010 17:58:23 +0000 Team Nick http://blog.nickhotel.com/?p=489 Presented by 103.1 WLOQ and the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association, the event is located in the heart of Orlando and features mouth-watering dishes from 36 restaurants and more than 50 domestic and international wines.

For more information visit http://www.orlandofoodandwinefest.com/.

]]> http://blog.nickhotel.com/index/third-annual-orlando-food-wine-fest/feed 0 DORA THE EXPLORER CELEBRATES HER 10TH ANNIVERSARY WITH BACKPACKS AND A VISIT TO ARNOLD PALMER HOSPITAL FOR CHILDREN http://blog.nickhotel.com/index/dora-the-explorer-celebrates-her-10th-anniversary-with-backpacks-and-a-visit-to-arnold-palmer-hospital-for-children http://blog.nickhotel.com/index/dora-the-explorer-celebrates-her-10th-anniversary-with-backpacks-and-a-visit-to-arnold-palmer-hospital-for-children#comments Wed, 25 Aug 2010 18:49:10 +0000 Team Nick http://blog.nickhotel.com/?p=476 Dora the Explorer delivered special backpacks and read a story to children at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children in celebration of her 10th anniversary on August 14th. The backpacks have been specially designed for Nickelodeon’s Beyond the Backpack Campaign, an initiative aimed at teaching parents all about the importance of preparing their children for kindergarten. Dora the Explorer makes her Orlando home at the Nickelodeon Suites Resort, the only hotel of its kind in the world. To celebrate her 10th Anniversary, Dora the Explorer will visit the children, sign autographs, read and deliver backpacks to children at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children. In addition to the celebratory visit to the hospital, Dora will also receive a special gift from the City of Orlando. A proclamation will be given to Dora the Explorer declaring August 14th Dora the Explorer Day in the City of Orlando. Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children is a sanctuary of hope and healing. The most advanced technology, coupled with compassion and dedication have made Arnold Palmer Hospital one of the most trusted names in children’s healthcare worldwide. Careful attention has been paid to creating a cheerful, comforting environment to minimize stress and generate smiles. Arnold Palmer Hospital is a 158-bed pediatric hospital facility located in Orlando, Florida, United States.]]> DSC_0033

Dora the Explorer delivered special backpacks and read a story to children at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children in celebration of her 10th anniversary on August 14th.  The backpacks have been specially designed for Nickelodeon’s Beyond the Backpack Campaign, an initiative aimed at teaching parents all about the importance of preparing their children for kindergarten.

Dora the Explorer makes her Orlando home at the Nickelodeon Suites Resort, the only hotel of its kind in the world.  To celebrate her 10th Anniversary, Dora the Explorer will visit the children, sign autographs, read and deliver backpacks to children at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children.  In addition to the celebratory visit to the hospital, Dora will also receive a special gift from the City of Orlando.  A proclamation will be given to Dora the Explorer declaring August 14th Dora the Explorer Day in the City of Orlando.

Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children is a sanctuary of hope and healing. The most advanced technology, coupled with compassion and dedication have made Arnold Palmer Hospital one of the most trusted names in children’s healthcare worldwide. Careful attention has been paid to creating a cheerful, comforting environment to minimize stress and generate smiles. Arnold Palmer Hospital is a 158-bed pediatric hospital facility located in Orlando, Florida, United States.

]]> http://blog.nickhotel.com/index/dora-the-explorer-celebrates-her-10th-anniversary-with-backpacks-and-a-visit-to-arnold-palmer-hospital-for-children/feed 0 Nick Hotel Sets Goal of $10,000 to Help National Fallen Firefighters Foundation http://blog.nickhotel.com/index/nick-hotel-sets-goal-of-10000-to-help-national-fallen-firefighters-foundation http://blog.nickhotel.com/index/nick-hotel-sets-goal-of-10000-to-help-national-fallen-firefighters-foundation#comments Wed, 18 Aug 2010 17:43:12 +0000 Team Nick http://blog.nickhotel.com/?p=474 Nick Hotel Sets Goal of $10,000
to Help National Fallen Firefighters Foundation

Family-friendly Resort Makes Donation to Foundation and Offers Rock-Bottom Rates to Community Heroes

ORLANDO, Fla. (August 17, 2010) – Nickelodeon Suites Resort has raised more than $4,000 for the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation through the Hero Appreciation program, delivering 2% of each accommodations rate to the foundation, and is aiming to increase that donation to $10,000 by the end of 2010.

“Through our Hero Appreciation package, we would love to exceed the $10,000 mark to help families and other survivors of fallen fire heroes,” said Jim Struna, director of marketing and revenue management for Nickelodeon Suites Resort.

Now through December 23, 2010, the hotel is offering special rates to firefighters starting at $109 per night for a 2-bedroom themed KidSuite and perks like a $20 resort credit, 10% off food and beverages. The Resort will continue to donate 2% per room night through the end of the year to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.

Congress created the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation to lead a nationwide effort to honor America’s fallen firefighters. Since 1992, the non-profit Foundation has developed and expanded programs that fulfill that mandate. Our mission is to honor and remember America’s fallen fire heroes and to provide resources to assist their survivors in rebuilding their lives.

For more information about the Nick Hotel or the Hero Program, call (877)-NICK-KID and mention the code HERO or visit www.NickHotel.com/hero.

]]> http://blog.nickhotel.com/index/nick-hotel-sets-goal-of-10000-to-help-national-fallen-firefighters-foundation/feed 0 Rock The Universe 2010 http://blog.nickhotel.com/index/rock-the-universe-2010 http://blog.nickhotel.com/index/rock-the-universe-2010#comments Tue, 17 Aug 2010 18:25:04 +0000 Team Nick http://blog.nickhotel.com/?p=472 UNIVERSAL ORLANDO RESORT’S ROCK THE UNIVERSE 2010 PUMPS UP THE VOLUME
WITH THE ULTIMATE LINEUP OF CHRISTIAN MUSIC ARTISTS

Tickets on Sale Now for One of the Hottest Christian Music Festivals in the Nation,
Featuring Performances by Skillet, Relient K, Jars of Clay and More

WEB VIDEO: For an exciting video about this year’s Rock The Universe event, visit http://bit.ly/96zu6v.

Orlando, Fla. (August 13, 2010) – Universal Orlando Resort’s Rock The Universe returns this September 10
and 11 with one of the most exciting celebrations of Christian music in the nation. Fourteen soul-stirring rock
acts will take the stage for a weekend filled with incredible music, inspirational stories from celebrity speakers,
and the opportunity to enjoy the most thrilling theme park attractions at Universal Studios Florida.

This year’s Rock The Universe lineup features the spiritual sounds of Christian rock’s hottest acts, such as fivetime
Grammy award-winning group Jars of Clay; hit band Relient K – featuring popular songs like “Forgiven”
and “Who I Am Hates Who I’ve Been;” Skillet – whose unique symphonic rock sound inspires fans
everywhere; and Needtobreathe – whose music has been featured in hit movies and television shows like “The
Hills,” “Employee of the Month” and “P.S. I Love You.”

ROCK THE UNIVERSE 2010 LINEUP
Friday, September 10 Saturday, September 11
Skillet                               Relient K
Newsboys                      tobyMac
Jars of Clay                  Jeremy Camp
Hawk                                  Nelson Grits
Decyfer Down                 Needtobreathe
Kutless                              Fireflight
Chuck Tocco                   Jeff Chandler

** Names in bold indicate headlining acts.

Rock The Universe guests will also experience the pulse-pounding thrills and revolutionary attractions that can
only be found at Universal Studios Florida. Guests can plummet down a virtual 1,000-foot waterfall in Shrek 4-
D, speed through darkness in the world’s first psychological thrill ride in Revenge of The Mummy or rock out at
65 mph on Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit – a radically-innovative roller coaster that combines hit music, firstever
maneuvers and highly-sophisticated audio and video for a one-of-a-kind ride experience.

There are a variety of ways to experience all the excitement of Rock The Universe 2010. The best value is the
“Rock Your Weekend” ticket, which will be sold only in advance and includes admission to both nights of
Christian rock concerts, access to the Sunday Morning Worship services and three-day tickets to both Universal
Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure – featuring The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, the
most spectacularly-themed entertainment experience ever created that was inspired by J.K. Rowling’

]]> http://blog.nickhotel.com/index/rock-the-universe-2010/feed 0 3RD ANNUAL GIRL SCOUT EVENT AT NICKELODEON SUITES RESORT http://blog.nickhotel.com/index/3rd-annual-girl-scout-event-at-nickelodeon-suites-resort http://blog.nickhotel.com/index/3rd-annual-girl-scout-event-at-nickelodeon-suites-resort#comments Wed, 07 Jul 2010 18:40:52 +0000 Team Nick http://blog.nickhotel.com/?p=468 ORLANDO, Fla. (July 1, 2010) – Nickelodeon Suites Resort, the only hotel of its kind in the world, welcomed more than 6,000 Girl Scouts from all over the country during the 3rd Annual

Thanks-A-Lot event, which was held from April to June 2010.  The event is a special retreat for the girls to share one-of-a-kind swaps, meet other troops, and experience the ultimate Nickelodeon getaway.

“Nickelodeon Suites Resort is proud to be affiliated with an organization that is dedicated to developing skills for future success,” said Jim Struna, Director of Marketing & Revenue Management at Nickelodeon Suites Resort. “We look forward to seeing them again at the 4th annual event.”

The Thanks-A-Lot event offers special rates to Girl Scouts and their troops April – June every year. Girl Scouts also experience an exclusive poolside Swap Bash where girls meet peers, trade swaps and enjoy the sweet rewards for their hard work.

For three years, the Nickelodeon Suites Resort has partnered with local councils to support the top literacy program in the world, the Girl Scout Cookie Program, providing motivational incentives for the top cookie sellers in each council such as slimings and hotel stays.

 

For more information on Girl Scouts events at the Nick Hotel, visit www.nickhotel.com/girlscouts.

For a video of this year’s event, visit www.youtube.com/nickhotel.
For photos, visit http://www.flickr.com/photos/nickhotelorlando/.

Connect with Nickelodeon Suites Resort
Follow us on Twitter @nickhotel. Join our Nick Hotel Facebook Fan page. Additional information and photography is available upon request or by visiting Nick Hotel’s online press room.

About Nickelodeon Suites Resort

Located in the heart of Orlando’s tourism district, Nickelodeon Suites Resort, otherwise known as the Nick Hotel, is much more than a place for guests to lay their heads at night.  From two over-the-top pool complexes with slides and flumes, to live entertainment and Character Breakfast featuring Nickelodeon’s beloved characters, to a multimillion dollar 4-D Theater, to the colorfully themed KidSuites and gallons upon gallons of slime, Nick Hotel offers nonstop activity from dawn to dusk for the entire family any time of the year.  For more information about the Nick Hotel, visit www.nickhotel.com or call (877) NICK-KID.

 

 

About Nickelodeon

Nickelodeon, now in its 31st year, is the number-one entertainment brand for kids. It has built a diverse, global business by putting kids first in everything it does. The company includes television programming and production in the United States and around the world, plus consumer products, online, recreation, books and feature films. Nickelodeon’s U.S. television network is seen in more than 100 million households and has been the number-one-rated basic cable network for 16 consecutive years. For more information or artwork, visit www.nickpress.com. Nickelodeon and all related titles, characters and logos are trademarks of Viacom Inc. (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B ).

 

About Girl Scouts of the USA
Girl Scouts of the USA is the world’s preeminent organization dedicated solely to girls—all girls—where, in an accepting and nurturing environment, girls build character and skills for success in the real world. In partnership with committed adult volunteers, girls develop qualities that will serve them all their lives, like leadership, strong values, social conscience, and conviction about their own potential and self-worth.

 

Founded in 1912 by Juliette Gordon Low, Girl Scouts’ membership has grown from 18 members in Savannah, Georgia, to 3.4 million members throughout the United States, including U.S. territories, and in more than 90 countries through USA Girl Scouts Overseas.

 

 

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]]> http://blog.nickhotel.com/index/3rd-annual-girl-scout-event-at-nickelodeon-suites-resort/feed 0 Grand Opening Of The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter At Universal Orlando Resort Set For June 18 http://blog.nickhotel.com/index/grand-opening-of-the-wizarding-world-of-harry-potter-at-universal-orlando-resort-set-for-june-18 http://blog.nickhotel.com/index/grand-opening-of-the-wizarding-world-of-harry-potter-at-universal-orlando-resort-set-for-june-18#comments Tue, 15 Jun 2010 15:22:11 +0000 Team Nick http://blog.nickhotel.com/?p=455 ORLANDO, Fla. (March 25, 2010) – One of the most widely anticipated theme park entertainment experiences ever created – The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort – is set for a public grand opening on June 18.

 

Today, Universal Orlando Resort also revealed details about what is expected to be one the most exciting theme park experiences ever created:  Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey.  It will be one of three themed attractions within The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, including Flight of the Hippogriff and Dragon Challenge.

 

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey is the heart of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. This all new adventure combines a powerful storyline with spectacular new technology so effectively that guests will be completely immersed in the experience.

 

And as they live their adventure, guests will feel things no one has ever felt inside a theme park attraction, move in ways no one has ever moved, experience film like no one else ever has, explore vast sets punctuated by amazing special effects – and have an adventure only possible in Harry Potter’s world.

 

The new attraction lies deep within Hogwarts castle, a majestic structure that towers over The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - the only place in the world where the wonder, excitement and adventure of the Harry Potter books and films comes to life. 

 

The Adventure

Imagine…

 

…meeting Harry, Ron and Hermione as if they were in person

…soaring over Hogwarts castle with Harry

…being swept into a Quidditch match

…feeling the chilling effect of a Dementor

…exploring your favorite places inside Hogwarts castle

…living adventures you’ve only been able to imagine – until now.

 

The Story

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey draws you into the excitement and chaos of Harry’s life.  As you venture through Hogwarts castle, you meet Harry, Ron and Hermione who convince you to skip a planned lecture and follow them. Upon taking their advice, you travel by Floo powder, and begin the adventure as you soar over Hogwarts, narrowly escape a dragon attack, have a close encounter with the Whomping Willow, get pulled into a Quidditch match and more.

 

“Guests will experience firsthand a completely new adventure featuring the iconic characters, amazing creatures and recognizable locations they’ve only read in the books or seen in the films,” said Thierry Coup, creative director for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

 

The Location

The Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey experience starts as soon as you walk through the gates of Hogwarts.  Within the towering Hogwarts castle, you explore a truly magical place. You journey through iconic locations taken from the films and take in the extraordinary detail of each scene.  They include:

 

  • Dumbledore’s office: Here, you meet the Headmaster as he welcomes you to Hogwarts
  • Defence Against the Dark Arts classroom:  Where you first meet Harry, Ron and Hermione
  • Gryffindor common room: You meet three additional characters who prepare you for your journey
  • Room of Requirement: Here, with hundreds of floating candles above, you take your seat on an enchanted bench and begin the Forbidden Journey
  • Other locations: In addition, guests will pass through the Dungeon passageway and hallways of Hogwarts where they will have the chance to see hundreds of wizard portraits from the films, including several magical talking portraits created exclusively for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, including the four founders of Hogwarts. Guests will even get a glimpse of the Sorting Hat. The InnovationThis is more than just an attraction and it is unlike any theme park experience ever created.  It’s a revolutionary, 360-degree theme park experience and first-ever combination of live-action, advanced robotic technology and innovative filmmaking – specially designed and developed for this brand-new adventure. 

     

    “We have created an entirely new way to place our guests into the heart of one of the most compelling stories of our time,” said Mark Woodbury, president of Universal Creative.  “What we have done will forever change the theme park attraction experience.”

     

    The attraction’s newly created ride system envelops guests in filmed action scenes and moves those scenes with them as they travel through the ride, allowing more time in the center of the adventure and with their favorite characters.  This fusion of robotic technology and filmed scenes has never been achieved until now.  In some cases, technology had to be invented to achieve the highest level of guest experience.   The combination of pioneering, state-of-the-art technology, innovative filmmaking and surprises around every corner make this attraction the embodiment of the Harry Potter book and film series—and the future of theme park entertainment.

     

    Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey Quick Facts

  • Storyline: As you venture through Hogwarts, you meet Harry, Ron and Hermione, who convince you to skip a planned lecture and follow them.  Upon taking their advice you travel by Floo powder, and begin your adventure as you soar over Hogwarts, narrowly escape a dragon attack, have a close encounter with the Whomping Willow, get pulled into a Quidditch match and more.
  • First-ever combination of advanced robotic ride system technology with innovative, immersive filmmaking
  • Award-winning composer John Williams oversaw the creation of the attraction’s score
  • The tour of Hogwarts castle includes the following Harry Potter book and film elements: Headmaster Dumbledore’s office, Defence Against the Dark Arts classroom, Gryffindor common room, Room of Requirement, and the greenhouse; talking portraits including the Fat Lady and the never-before-seen four founders: Godric Gryffindor, Salazar Slytherin, Helga Hufflepuff and Rowena Ravenclaw; the Sorting Hat, the One-Eyed Witch statue and the Mirror of Erised
  • Duration of ride: The full attraction experience, including the Hogwarts castle tour, takes about an hour
  • Number of scenes in the attraction: 12
  • Characters (featuring Harry Potter film talent): Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger, Albus Dumbledore, Rubeus Hagrid and Draco Malfoy
  • You may also catch a glimpse of Fred and George Weasley, Ginny Weasley and Neville Longbottom For the latest news about The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, visit www.UniversalOrlando.com.  

    Universal Orlando Resort

    There are many ways to enjoy your Orlando vacation – but there is only one Universal Orlando Resort.  It is a completely separate destination featuring two theme parks, three magnificently themed on-site hotels and a nighttime entertainment complex.  It’s the only Orlando destination where you are not just entertained – you are part of the most exhilarating entertainment ever created.  You can soar above Hogwarts with Harry Potter, swing above the streets with Spider-Man, battle aliens alongside Agent J, and help Shrek save Princess Fiona in Shrek 4-D.   You can be courageous, be outrageous – and be extraordinary.

     

     

    Warner Bros. Consumer Products

    Warner Bros. Consumer Products, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company, is one of the leading licensing and retail merchandising organizations in the world.

     

    Harry Potter continues to be a global phenomenon.  The series of books by author J.K. Rowling has been translated into 68 languages with more than 400 million copies sold in over 200 territories around the world.  The films, produced by Warner Bros. Pictures, have grossed more than $5.4 billion at the box office worldwide, making Harry Potter the largest-grossing film franchise in history. 

     

    # # #

     

    HARRY POTTER, characters, names and related indicia are trademarks of and © Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.  Harry Potter Publishing Rights © JKR.

    (s10)

    • ]]>     http://blog.nickhotel.com/index/grand-opening-of-the-wizarding-world-of-harry-potter-at-universal-orlando-resort-set-for-june-18/feed 0     UNIVERSAL ORLANDO’S 2010 SUMMER CONCERT SERIES http://blog.nickhotel.com/index/universal-orlando%e2%80%99s-2010-summer-concert-series http://blog.nickhotel.com/index/universal-orlando%e2%80%99s-2010-summer-concert-series#comments Wed, 12 May 2010 15:17:07 +0000 Team Nick http://blog.nickhotel.com/?p=423 clip_image001

    TRAIN, PITBULL, ROB THOMAS AND MORE TO ROCK THE STAGE AT UNIVERSAL ORLANDO’S 2010 SUMMER CONCERT SERIES Six-Night Series Features Live Performances by Seven of Music’s Most Popular Artists Florida Residents Can Take Advantage of a Variety of Value-Driven Summer Offers ORLANDO, Fla. (May 5, 2010) – Universal Orlando Resort’s Summer Concert Series is returning to Universal Studios this June with more concerts and top-name musical talent than before. Starting June 12 and running every Saturday night through July 17, guests can top off their day of thrills in the parks with an exciting concert by a multi-platinum selling artist. This year’s Summer Concert Series lineup showcases some of music’s most popular superstars. Each artist has scored top 10 hits on the Billboard charts, sold millions of albums worldwide and produced some of today’s most recognizable songs. Headliners include Train – the voice behind the international hit, “Hey, Soul Sister;” Pitbull – the hip-hop/reggaeton artist known as “Mr. 305;” Pat Benatar – one of the top-selling female artists of all time; Rob Thomas – the front man of award-winning rock band Matchbox 20 and Counting Crows – the chart-topping band whose songs have appeared in films like Shrek 2 and Clueless. SUMMER CONCERT SERIES 2010 LINEUP June 12 ~ Train June 19 ~ Pitbull June 26 ~ Earth, Wind & Fire July 3 ~ Pat Benatar & REO Speedwagon July 10 ~ Rob Thomas July 17 ~ Counting Crows All concerts will take place at the Music Plaza, the state-of-the-art outdoor music venue located in front of the new Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit roller coaster at Universal Studios. Universal Orlando’s Summer Concert Series is included with admission to Universal Studios. Florida residents can take advantage of a variety of offers to make the most of their summer experience at Universal Orlando. FLORIDA RESIDENT SUMMER OFFERS - 2-Park Annual Power Pass • Access to all seven Summer Concert Series performances • Admission to both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure for an entire year (limited blockout dates apply) • $139.99 plus tax • Available at www.universalorlando.com ]]>     clip_image001

    TRAIN, PITBULL, ROB THOMAS AND MORE TO ROCK THE STAGE AT UNIVERSAL ORLANDO’S 2010 SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

    Six-Night Series Features Live Performances by Seven of Music’s Most Popular Artists

    Florida Residents Can Take Advantage of a Variety of Value-Driven Summer Offers

    ORLANDO, Fla. (May 5, 2010) – Universal Orlando Resort’s Summer Concert Series is returning to Universal Studios this June with more concerts and top-name musical talent than before. Starting June 12 and running every Saturday night through July 17, guests can top off their day of thrills in the parks with an exciting concert by a multi-platinum selling artist. 

    This year’s Summer Concert Series lineup showcases some of music’s most popular superstars.  Each artist has scored top 10 hits on the Billboard charts, sold millions of albums worldwide and produced some of today’s most recognizable songs.  Headliners include Train – the voice behind the international hit, “Hey, Soul Sister;” Pitbull – the hip-hop/reggaeton artist known as “Mr. 305;” Pat Benatar – one of the top-selling female artists of all time; Rob Thomas – the front man of award-winning rock band Matchbox 20 and Counting Crows – the chart-topping band whose songs have appeared in films like Shrek 2 and Clueless.

    SUMMER CONCERT SERIES 2010 LINEUP
    June 12 ~ Train
    June 19 ~ Pitbull
    June 26 ~ Earth, Wind & Fire
    July 3 ~ Pat Benatar & REO Speedwagon
    July 10 ~ Rob Thomas
    July 17 ~ Counting Crows

    All concerts will take place at the Music Plaza, the state-of-the-art outdoor music venue located in front of the new Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit roller coaster at Universal Studios.

    Universal Orlando’s Summer Concert Series is included with admission to Universal Studios.  Florida residents can take advantage of a variety of offers to make the most of their summer experience at Universal Orlando.

    FLORIDA RESIDENT SUMMER OFFERS
    - 2-Park Annual Power Pass 
      • Access to all seven Summer Concert Series performances
      • Admission to both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure for an entire year (limited blockout dates apply) 
      • $139.99 plus tax
      • Available at www.universalorlando.com

     

    ]]>     http://blog.nickhotel.com/index/universal-orlando%e2%80%99s-2010-summer-concert-series/feed 0     Florida Film Festival http://blog.nickhotel.com/index/florida-film-festival http://blog.nickhotel.com/index/florida-film-festival#comments Thu, 01 Apr 2010 20:42:24 +0000 Team Nick http://blog.nickhotel.com/?p=394 April 18, 2010

    Preview the best in cutting-edge current cinema at this 10 day event held in Central Florida. Accredited by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the festival welcomes more than 25,000 guests each year and host more than 100 visiting directors, producers, and award-winning talent.
    More info: 407-644-5625
    Admission charge

    ]]>     http://blog.nickhotel.com/index/florida-film-festival/feed 1