Posted on Mon, Jun 29, 2009 @ 06:42 AM
Disney World Hall of Presidents featuring Barack Obama
The Hall of Presidents at Disney World's Magic Kingdom was recently given an overhaul, including new advanced audio-animatronic versions of US Presidents Abraham Lincoln, George Washington, and our new President Barack Obama.
Here’s a look at George Washington and Barack Obama as seen in the attraction, followed by thoughts on the new show:
After visiting the attraction today, many people were quite impressed by not only these new animatronics but also the show as a whole. The previous version, which ran for roughly the duration of George W. Bush's terms in the White House, was, in opinion, on the boring side. It opened with a lengthy film and spent far too little time on the highlight of the show: "The Presidents".
In the new version, the show still features a movie and all 44 presidents "live" on stage, but it is all integrated together much more smoothly. The movie is comprised mostly of still photographs and paintings telling a brief overview of the history of US Presidents, beginning with George Washington's reluctance to take the office all the way through video of George Bush speaking into a megaphone post-9/11.
Actor Morgan Freeman replaces the previous narrator, Maya Angelou J.D. Hall. Morgan Freeman's narration is clear and concise, allowing the audience to focus on what is being said rather than how it is said. It's edutainment at its best.
Midway through the movie, the audio-animatronic version of Abraham Lincoln is revealed, seated alone in the middle of the stage. He smoothly stands up and recites the entire Gettysburg Address (the same recording that was used in the Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln attraction at Disneyland in California for many years). This is easily one of Disney World's most lifelike animatronics they have produced and the best representation of our 16th president that I've ever seen.
After the movie ends, the screens shift aside to reveal all of the presidents - some seated, some standing. The lights dim and the presidents are individually introduced by name, each giving a head nod toward the audience as they are illuminated by spotlights.
All of the animatronics look incredibly lifelike in person (much better than in the video above). The lighting is rather dim throughout the show and some people found it difficult to see well from the middle of the theater, so I highly recommend staying to the left as you enter the theater to secure a front row seat.
Whether you voted for Barack Obama or not, you will enjoy seeing him in person, even if only in audio-animatronic form. Any American will receive a strong sense of patriotism in seeing the newly-updated Hall of Presidents. Disney World has done a fantastic job replacing a once-boring show with an entertaining and informative presentation featuring state-of-the-art technology that is sure to excite Americans and international travelers alike.
The newly-updated Magic Kingdom Hall of Presidents officially opens on Independence Day, July 4, but has been running previews for several days. I highly encourage you to go see it. It is a treat for you and your family.
Still haven't got tickets to go to Magic Kingdom yet? The check out our website at www.orlandodiscountticketsusa.com for your Disney World Vacations. And remember, 4th of July is just a few days away.
*Article & Photo's courtesy of Disney World & Orlando Attractions Magazine.
Posted on Sun, Jun 28, 2009 @ 07:34 AM
Pirate League at Disney World Turns Guest into Pirates
The Pirates League at Disney World is the newest buccaneer adventure at Magic
Kingdom, featuring makeovers that turn theme park guests into savvy pirates. Depending on the pirate package, a trained Pirate Master
can transform boys, girls (ages 3 and up) and grownups into pirates,
buccaneers and maidens using facial effects, fake scars, removable
teeth, hats, bandanas and other costume accessories.
Included in each
of the three packages offered: a sword and sheath, earring and eye
patch, temporary tattoo, exclusive pirate coin necklace, map case
folder, a personalized pirate oath and a pirate portrait.
Here is a look at some of what goes on inside:
So, If you are planning to visit Disney World and are going to be going to Magic Kingdom, make sure that you make a stop at the Pirates League and turn you and your family into Swashbucklers.
Haven't gotten your Disney World Tickets yet, then check out our website at www.orlandodiscountticketsusa.com for all your Disney World Vacation Packages..
*Article and Photos courtesy of Disney World & Orlando Attractions Magazine.
Posted on Sat, Jun 27, 2009 @ 07:32 AM
Michael Jackson aka Captain EO
There is lots of sad news today including the announcement that the King of Pop Michael Jackson has died in Los Angeles at the age of 50 while in training for his big comeback tour in London. Our hearts to out to the Jackson Family and friends.
There is something that everyone reading this blog has in common with Michael Jackson. We are all Disney World fans. Michael Jackson got to live out many of his Disney fantasies going so far as to have an attraction featuring him appear in the theme parks. He also loved to tour Disney World's many theme parks and share his love with friends and family. No matter what else is talked about, we know exactly how he felt about that.
So here in the honor of "The King of Pop" Michael Jackson is the complete video of "We Are Here To Change The World" from Captain EO.
Posted on Fri, Jun 26, 2009 @ 07:24 AM
Universal Studios & Halloween Horror Nights Confirm 3 Themes for 2009
Well just after I posted the dates for Halloween Horror Nights 2009 Universal Orlando announces and confirms 3 main theme for this years Hallowwen Horror Nights.
Saw The Movie Series will be the main theme as well as Childs Play icon CHUCKY and also from the Major Motion Picture to hit theaters this November will be The Wolfman.
While the graphic above is an official promo for this year's Halloween Horror Nights in California's Universal Studios theme park, it has been confirmed that the Saw film series will indeed be featured at the popular Halloween event in Orlando's Universal Studios park as well.
In a press release, details for the California version were released:
Saw characters, themes and live action recreations of the infamous "traps" from the entire SAW horror franchise will be featured in a "maze" experience, in multiple "scare zones" and aboard the parks signature "Terror Tram," where guests will be subjected to a deadly "game" that will echo a story element instantly recognizable to SAW's legion of fans.
No specific details were revealed (yet) about the Saw attraction that will also be included during Halloween Horror Nights 19 at Universal Orlando.
Halloween Horror Nights begins in Orlando on September 25.
If you still haven't gotten your Vacation Package to Universal Studios yet to see Halloween Horror Nights, then check out our website at www.orlandodiscountticketsusa.com. Hurry before it is too late...This event does sell out.
Posted on Wed, Jun 24, 2009 @ 07:51 AM
Universal Studios Orlando & Halloween Horror Nights 2009
Universal Orlando is telling the world that “it’s never too soon to start panicking” with the launch of their website for Halloween Horror Nights 2009.
While details are scarce at this point, they have released this year’s event dates as followed: Sept. 25, 26, Oct. 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, 9 10, 11, 15, 16, 17, 18, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 28, 29, 30 & 31
Here is the description of Halloween Horror Nights 2009 from www.halloweenhorrornights.com:
Once again, your worst nightmares will soon be taking shape in the shadowy darkness of one of the country’s premier annual Halloween events—Universal Studios Orlando® Resort’s Halloween Horror Nights®.
On select nights in September and October, Universal Studios Orlando 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.
Now in its 19th year, Universal's Halloween Horror Nights annually drawing hundreds of thousands of horror fans from around the globe to this one-of-a-kind event. In fact, Tony Timpone, Editor of Fangoria Magazine, said, “After visiting scream parks all across the U.S. for the last 20 years, I can easily say that Universal Studios Orlando is the best in the business… Halloween Horror Nights is the ultimate Halloween experience.”
This year promises to break new ground by being the most immersive horror experience ever. Every step, every turn takes you into a new realm of fear. In the houses or on the streets, there is nowhere safe and nowhere you can hide. It’s the greatest exhibition of pure terror ever unleashed anywhere, and you can experience it all, LIVE, only at Universal Studios Orlando Halloween Horror Nights.
Advance tickets for Halloween Horror Nights are now on sale for $69.99 plus tax, though we don’t recommend ever paying full price for Halloween Horror Nights tickets, as there are always numerous discounts to be found, especially for Florida residents.
Also on sale is the Frequent Fear pass, which grants access to Halloween Horror Nights for 13 nights of the event. It is available for $69.99 and is valid on September 25, 26, October 1, 4, 8, 11, 15, 18, 21, 22, 25, 28 and 29.
Guests can purchase Halloween Horror Nights 19 tickets at www.HalloweenHorrorNights.com or by calling 1-888-467-7677 (HORROR-7). Because of the event’s popularity, tickets for weekend nights, especially those closer to October 31, often sell out quickly.
We’ll keep you updated on all the latest information surrounding this year’s premiere scare-filled event.
Haven't got your Universal Vacation Package yet? Then check out our website at www.orlandodiscountticketsusa.com for all your Orlando Vacation Packages and tickets to Universal Studios Orlando!
Posted on Sat, Jun 20, 2009 @ 07:56 AM
Stitch Celebration Closing at Magic Kingdom
With the recent announcement that Disney World's Stitch's SuperSonic Celebration at Magic Kingdom would be permanently going away on June 27, less than two months after its official premiere, I decided to check in on the show while it's still around to see how popular it is. Around 5 minutes before the 3:30pm show began, here's what the gathered crowd looked like:
Around thirty people crammed into every available nearby shaded area, trying to avoid the midday extreme heat while waiting for the show to begin.
As the show began, I spotted a Disney cast member wheeling a cart nearby filled with ice-cold water and fan spray bottles. After standing out there for a few minutes, I was quite tempted to purchase one. Very smart.
The nearby Carousel of Progress let out a couple of minutes into Stitch's SuperSonic Celebration. I'd estimate around 70-80 people exited the Carousel theater, though only around 10 stopped to watch Stitch's show. But a surprisingly large amount of guests wandering through Tomorrowland did gather once the outdoor show began.
In the end, around 75 people decided to take the time to watch Stitch's SuperSonic Celebration. But as you can see, most of the group crowded underneath the shade provided by the Tomorrowland Transit Authority track. I can only assume that this is one of the major reasons why Stitch's Supersonic Celebration will be coming to an end so soon. No one wants to sit on the hot pavement for 30+ minutes in the summer heat in Florida. I wonder if the show would have continued longer had it been featured in the now-demolished Galaxy Palace Theater, which included seating and some shading.
Still haven't got your tickets for Disney World and all the Disney Parks yet? Check out our website at www.orlandodiscountticketsusa.com for all your Disney World Vacations.
Posted on Thu, Jun 18, 2009 @ 05:32 AM
Walt Disney World & Downtown Disney Bring you Princess Diana Exhibit
Have you been wondering what would become of the former home of the Virgin Megastore at Downtown Disney, well wonder no longer.
Beginning in early July, the People's Princess Charitable Foundation, Inc. (PPCF) is bringing a new exhibit of royal artifacts called "DIANA-The People's Princess" to that location. The limited-time experience showcases the life and story of Princess Diana, including a sampling of the royal dresses she chose to auction for charity and hundreds of authentic artifacts relating to her life.
The exhibit will consume the 17,500-square-foot former retail store and will feature:
- The stories of Diana's own childhood and ancestry and how that lineage was influential in her selection as the future bride of HRH Charles, The Prince of Wales, the future King of England.
- Her magical royal wedding which was viewed by over 750 million people from around the globe; her favorite role as "mum" to princes William and Harry.
- Kensington Palace, the royal residence where Diana lived from the moment she became the Princess of Wales until her death and which today plays an active role in preserving her charitable legacy.
- The historical significance of her role as Princess of Wales and the impact she had through that role on the fashion industry and charitable landscape.
- How at the Christie's "Sale of The Century," 79 of Diana's royal dresses were sold to benefit charities which helped position her as an astute philanthropist.
- Her untimely passing and the massive media and public interest in the tragedy.
- The charitable impact still being recognized through her gowns and personal effects.
Some of the items on display will be:
- Royal Doulton figurine of Diana in her wedding dress - Made in 1981 at the time of the royal wedding, the doll is wearing an exact replica of the famous wedding dress.
- The Black Velvet "V" Neck - Designed by Bruce Oldfield and worn by Diana for her official royal portrait in 1985.
- Wedding Breakfast booklet - Contains guest names and two tickets to observe the bride and bridegroom before and following the wedding ceremony in the quadrangle at Buckingham Palace and Clarence House.
- Three-foot doll of Diana as a young girl - Released by the Great American Doll Company in 1998 as a tribute to Diana, Princess of Wales.
Unlike Virgin MegaStore, you will need to purchase a separate admission to the "DIANA-The People's Princess" exhibit.
Prices will be $14.50 (ages 10 and above), $5 (ages 3-9). The exhibition will be through Nov. 30, 2009. Hours are 11 a.m.-11 p.m. daily.
Still haven't got your Disney World Tickets yet? Then check out our website at www.orlandodiscountticketsusa.com for all your Orlando Vacation needs to Walt Disney World!
Posted on Tue, Jun 16, 2009 @ 12:31 PM
Who is Mama Melrose
The other day I was listening to the WDW Radio Show last week and Lou did a review of one of my favorite Disney World Hollywood Studios restaurants, Mama Melrose's. Mama Melrose had been on my list to do a "Who is..." segment and, what do you know, Lou did an interview on his segment that provided me with the information to answer the question. So.......for those of you who did not hear the show, here is the story on Mama Melrose.
She grew up in Italy and often cooked with her Dad who shared his recipes with her. As she grew up, she decided to pursue her dream of becoming an actress. She picked up and moved to California and came to the Hollywoood Studios. She made friends with some of the actors, started collecting memorabalia from them and stored it away to preserve the memories.
Eventually, she started inviting her actor friends over for dinner and her food was a hit with them. They loved it so much, they convinced her to open her own restaurant to share her great recipes with everyone. She pulled all of her memorabalia out of storage and decorated her restaurant with it. She did this as a tribute to everyone who helped her over the years and to let everyone know how she got started.
So the next time you are in the Disney's Hollywood Studios, drop into Mama Melrose's, have a bite to eat, and take a look around. As with everything Walt Disney World creates, the back story here really adds to the magic of this often-overlooked eatery.
Haven't got your Disney Hollywood Studios tickets yet? Check out our website at www.orlandodiscountticketsusa.com for all your Orlando Vacation Packages to Disney World!
Posted on Sat, Jun 13, 2009 @ 08:25 AM
Get your Disney PhotoPass CD before price goes up
If you're considering buying a Disney World PhotoPass CD for an upcoming Disney World Vacation, you'll save if you pre-order it before Tuesday. The price goes up $20 to $149.95 on June 16.
Also, you can save an additional 20 percent if you order the CD here or at PhotoPass centers on Disney World property.
Disney World has stationed its photographers throughout the parks -- and even the water parks -- and it's free to have your photo taken. Just ask the photographer. Afterward, he will give you plastic card; the numbers on the card are what you will use at either a PhotoPass station on Disney World property or online to view your photos.
I have seen many families that have purchased many professional photos from thier Disney World outings through the years and by far the best deal if you plan to purchase more than 10 photos is a PhotoPass CD. The price of the CD is for an unlimited number of photos from your vacation -- even if the photos won't actually fit on one CD. So, if you plan to buy the CD, take photos everywhere and anywhere!
You can duplicate photos by doing a "save as copy" in the edit mode on disneyphotopass.com. This will allow you to save versions of the same image with different borders, signatures and crops because the images cannot be manipulated with Disney tools once they are burned on the CD.
If you haven't got your Disney World Vacation yet, then check out our website at www.orlandodiscountticketsusa.com for all your Disney Vacation needs!
Remember -- the CD price is for as many photos as you have in your account.
Posted on Thu, Jun 11, 2009 @ 06:41 AM
Space Mountain at Walt Disney World
Walt Disney World is now more than a month into the seven-month rehab of Space Mountain, and details are trickling out about the changes in store for the venerable roller coaster.
The resort last week filed a construction notice thought to be tied to the Magic Kingdom's indoor coaster; it calls for the installation of an "interactive queue" and audio-visual upgrades. The notice has touched off speculation that Space Mountain could be in line for an electronic-game-filled queue similar to the one Disney World installed at Epcot's Soarin' in 2007.
Disney World officials, who have been relatively tight-lipped about the Space Mountain changes, previously had said only that the 34-year-old attraction would get a new queue enclosure. They also have said the renovations will include new track - though the layout will remain the same - and a new ceiling.
The Reedy Creek Improvement District puts the rehab's value at $12.3 million. The ride is scheduled to reopen Nov. 21.
Still haven't got your Disney World Tickets or Vacation Package yet? Check out all our Orlando Vacation Packages to Walt Disney World at www.orlandodiscountticketsusa.com
Posted on Tue, Jun 09, 2009 @ 08:44 AM
Disney World & Disneyland T-Shirts for the NBA Finals
Tonight is Game 3 of the Fairytale series aka the Disney World vs Disneyland NBA Finals. Here are the Disney themed t-shirt designs that are available for purchase at the STAPLES Center and Amway Arena, Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World and online at www.nbastore.com, www.orlandomagicshop.com and www.lakersstore.com.
Still looking for the first shots of these in the wild. They didn't have any of them at Downtown Disney on Sunday.
Still haven't got your Orlando Vacation Package yet? Check out our website at www.orlandodiscountticketsusa.com for all your Disney World Vacations.
Posted on Mon, Jun 08, 2009 @ 07:35 AM
What Is Your Favorite Orlando Water Park
So, coming to Orlando? If you had to choose, what would be the one Water Park that you would love to go to? With summer here and the heat rising, the Orlando Water Parks are sure to be fun and exciting.....
Below is just a few of the pictures of some of the attractions at all the Orlando Water Parks....
So, if you haven't got your Orlando Water Park Tickets yet, then check out our website at www.orlandodiscountticketsusa.com for all your Orlando Water Park Vacation Packages.
What are you waiting for? You know you want to.
Posted on Sat, Jun 06, 2009 @ 06:37 AM
Walt Disney Trivia-How Much Do You Know
Ever wondered about all those things about Walt Disney World Resorts that many people think they know, but they do not. There are literly so many rumors and misleading information about the most popular attraction in the world that give people the wrong answers to many trivia questions.
Being the Disney fanatic that I am, I was surprised to find some trivia questions had stumped me. I could not believe it. I have selected 10 trivia questions and listed them below. See how many you can answer. The answers are at the bottom below the picture.
1. What is the maximum speed that the cars on “Test Track” get up to during the ride?
2. How tall is Cinderella’s Castle in the Magic Kingdom Park?
3. Who was the narrator of Spaceship Earth from 1986 to 1994?
4. What Disney World attraction features the mayor being dunked in the town’s water well?
5. What attraction exits into an arcade?
6. What Walt Disney World attraction do you get to see the “backside of water?”
7. What vehicle do you travel in when you board your Star Tours flight?
8. What color were the ride vehicles in Epcot’s World of Motion?
9. How much area does Typhoon Lagoon Water Park cover?
10. During your ride on the Walt Disney World Railroad, what song might your hear from one of Disney’s animated films?
1. 64.8 mph
2. 189 feet tall making it the tallest attraction at the park.
3. Walter Cronkite
4. Pirate's of the Caribbean
5. Space Mountain
6. Jungle Cruise
7. Starspeeder 3000
8. Blue
9. 56 acres
10. Colors of the Wind from Pocahontas
Still haven't got your Disney World Tickets, then check out our website at www.orlandodiscountticketsusa.com for all your Disney World Tickets & Disney World Vacation needs....
Posted on Fri, Jun 05, 2009 @ 06:58 AM
Friendly Wager between Disneyland and Walt Disney World ‘mayors’ for NBA playoffs
It has long become a tradition among the mayors of towns involved in a sports championship to make a friendly wager hooked to which team wins out. Usually the prize is food or some sort or wearing the other teams jersey for a day. Since this is now known as the Disney World Vs. Disneyland NBA finals (a fact I’m sure makes Disney’s marketing gurus happy beyond belief despite its origin on TNT sports) it only makes sense that the ‘mayors’ of those two theme parks and resorts make their own wagers.
Walt Disney World President Meg Crofton and Disneyland President Ed Grier have decided to take the team jersey approach and will wear Mickey Mouse ears with the opposing teams colors if their city’s team loses.
I lived in Los Angeles during the Shaq/Kobe championship runs. That was quite an amazing time for a sports fan. Of course, now I live in Orlando. So who do I root for? I have to say my heart is with the Orlando Magic. They’re a great team and its a deserving community. Plus they’re named ‘Magic’ how can you get more Disney than that?
The full press release:
ANAHEIM, Calif./LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (June 3, 2009) – Walt Disney World President Meg Crofton and Disneyland President Ed Grier are squaring off – all in fun – as their local teams, the Orlando Magic and the Los Angeles Lakers, head for the NBA Finals.
With both Disney parks asking guests “What Will You Celebrate?” in 2009, Grier and Crofton are getting in the act, making a celebratory wager on the outcome of the NBA Finals:
If the Magic win, Grier will walk down Main Street, U.S.A., at Disneyland park wearing a pair of specially made Mickey Mouse ears in Magic blue and silver. If the Lakers win, Crofton will don a pair of Lakers’ purple and gold mouse ears and walk down Main Street U.S.A. at Walt Disney World Magic Kingdom.
“The Lakers are going to make your team very Grumpy this week,” predicted Grier to Crofton.
“But we have ‘Magic’ on our side,” countered Crofton. “And isn’t that what Disney is all about?”
Crofton and Grier went through their respective parks Wednesday looking for supporters. Grier shot some hoops with Donald and Pluto in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland, while Crofton (along with Minnie, Goofy, Chip and Dale) drummed up Orlando Magic support in front of Cinderella Castle at Walt Disney World.
The park presidents even pledged to turn the lights of their respective castles to their team colors in celebration of the historic pairing.
Still haven't got your Disney World Vacation Package yet? Check out all our great summer getaways at www.orlandodiscountticketsusa.com for your next Disney Vacation.
Posted on Thu, Jun 04, 2009 @ 06:56 AM
"After Dark" at SeaWorld Orlando
The summer is here, and if you are coming to Orlando? then stick around for SeaWorld’s nighttime rock and roll extravaganza featuring special attractions like Shamu Rocks, an all-new fireworks spectacular and Manta, a nothing-like-it-in-the-world experience that blends up-close animal discoveries with the thrill of a flying roller coaster ride.
Cool Shows, Hot Nights – SeaWorld AfterDark Amplifies the Summer: This summer, after our guests take a thrilling head-first roller coaster dive on Manta, they can stay for a rockin’ evening encore with SeaWorld AfterDark. Beginning May 23 to Sept. 7th, nighttime comes alive with uplifting shows and a fireworks extravaganza.
Shamu Rocks is a spectacular rock n’ roll killer whale show that wows audiences of all ages. This show is a high-energy concert of unprecedented proportions, combining awe-inspiring killer whales with a stunning light show and music from some of the hottest rock stars in the industry.
Reflections comes to life in a spectacular celebration of soaring fountains and dazzling fireworks. Through the thrilling and inspirational music of our most popular shows, families and friends will experience a wondrous connection that lights the night like never before. Also new this year is seating at Bayside Stadium that will allow audiences to watch the show in comfort.
Sea Lions Tonight - Our own comedic sea lion duo – Clyde and Seamore – take the laughs into the night. Hilarious hijinks ensue in this evening show as our talented sea lions, otters and walrus parody other favorite SeaWorld shows.
Makahiki Luau Dinner and Show -Be center-stage at SeaWorld’s exclusive evening extravaganza, the Makahiki Luau. This Polynesian festival fills the air with exotic and untamed energy. SeaWorld’s own Seafire Inn transforms to bring the tropics to life for you and your family with Pacific Isle cuisine and astounding costumes, all while witnessing one of the most breathtaking fire dances this side of the islands. Each admission includes incredible live entertainment, your choice of delectable family-style entrees, dessert and soft beverages. Each guest will receive a complimentary flower lei and a tropical welcome drink. So come join us in celebrating at the Makahiki Luau!
Haven't got your SeaWorld tickets yet? Check out our website at www.orlandodiscountticketsusa.com for all your SeaWorld Orlando Vacation Packages!
Posted on Wed, Jun 03, 2009 @ 07:48 AM
Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit at Universal Studios Orlando
Well it is finally almost ready, the new roller coaster at Universal Orlando, Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit which was being testing for the last week is just about ready for all the people that have waited in anticapation to ride the new coaster...
Below is a video of the testing..Hope you like.
Although the opening date was pushed back a bit to late spring/early summer, Universal Studios will feature a radically innovative roller coasters - Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit. The coaster combines customized hit music, breathtaking first-ever maneuvers and highly sophisticated audio and video for a one-of-a-kind ride experience.
Riders will pick their own soundtrack and listen as it blasts through individual concert-quality audio systems - all while hurtling through a series of never-before-attempted maneuvers at speeds up to 65 m.p.h. Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit’s audio system will carry songs representing five genres of music: rap/hip hop, country, classic rock/metal, pop/disco and club/electronica. Each rider’s song pick will also be featured on a ride video they can purchase that uses a network of sophisticated cameras to mix music, moves and special effects.
Since announcing Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit last year, Universal Orlando has not revealed the below details of the ride.
Universal Orlando’s Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit is the tallest, largest and fastest X-CAR style roller coaster in the world.
The X-CAR coaster vehicle is more maneuverable than other coaster vehicles and uses innovative restraints that are less restrictive and more open.
The coaster design also allows for more vehicles on the track at one time than other types of coasters.
Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit features 3,800 feet of steel track, a 17-story vertical lift and six maneuvers - three of which have never been built before.
Still haven't got your Universal Orlando tickets yet? Check out our website at www.orlandodiscountticketsusa.com for all your Universal Orlando Vacation Packages!
Posted on Mon, Jun 01, 2009 @ 07:24 AM
Innovations at Epcot Center Opens The Great Piggy Bank Adventure
Last week, the newest addition to Disney World's Epcot Center Innovations opened, the Great Piggy Bank Adventure. The experience features a series of games which bring to life and teach financial themes of setting goals, saving and spending smartly, staying ahead of inflation and diversifying assets. The attraction is presented by T. Rowe Price and promotes family members working and learning together.
The game begins by choosing a dream goal using a touch screen. During the queue, we are introduced to P.I.G. (Personal Investment Guide) and see him enjoying the Ultimate Vacation, Retirement, a College Education and an Extreme Bedroom Makeover. These are one of the goals we pick.
You are then requested to open a drawer and reveal your own PIG who accompanies your during the game. The PIG is a little piggy bank, of course.
You arrive at the next station and the PIG is placed on a conveyor and drawn into the machine you are standing in front of. The PIG becomes an animated character on the screen in front of you. A game begins where coins start to fall from the top of the screen and various buckets are at the bottom including Savings, Candy, Toys, MP3s and Outfits. The goal is to use levers to direct the money into the Savings bucket. A pesky wolf keeps changing them so you are constantly fighting to make sure enough is going into savings. Just like in life, you need to make sure you don’t forget to save and be aware of where your money is going.
You then get your PIG back and move on to the next kiosk, the Inflation Race. Here, our PIG is put in a tube and sent to help us learn about inflation. On the screen, the PIG floats from balloons and you need to maneuver him around to collect money and avoid inflation. After the game, the PIG is returned and you move on to the last station.
The Diversify station requires us to use a magic wand to move money into pots with different growth factors. The wolf comes along every so often and takes money from different pots so putting it all in the pot with the highest growth factor can backfire on you. The lesson of course is to diversify and spread your money around.
Finally, you return your PIG to find out if you achieved your goal. Your cartoon pig will either sprout wings and happily fly to its destination or land in the mud.
This is a great way for a parent and child to have some fun while learning about the choices and strategies they need to be aware of. This is especially important given the environment we are in right now and this attraction couldn’t have come at a better time.
I really like the fact that the folks at Epcot are not ignoring Innoventions and are paying some attention into making it better and putting some new life into an area that has become stale. Between Stormstruck, the Great Piggy Bank Adventure and "Sum of All Thrills" ride that is upcoming in 2009, Innoventions will hopefully become a place people make a point of going to instead of rushing through to get somewhere else.
Haven't been to Disney Epcot Center or are you planning to go? Check out our website at www.orlandodiscountticketsusa.com for all you Orlando Vacation Packages to Disney World.