The Best Week in Orlando

Description:

Orlando has one of the nine Medieval Times shows in North America, and this is the show my kids rate number one in town. Inside, guests gorge themselves on barbecued spareribs, herb-roasted chicken, soup, garlic bread, potatoes, dessert, and beverages including beer. Vegetarian offerings include a stuffed mushroom cap with roasted veggies and a hummus dip. But because this is the 11th century, you eat with your fingers from metal plates while knights mounted on Andalusian horses run around the arena, jousting and clanging to please the fair ladies. Arrive 90 minutes early for good seats and to see the Medieval Village, a re-created Middle Ages settlement. The storyline, "Knights of the Realm," adds a touch of romance between one of the knights and a princess to the action. Show times vary, but there is at least one performance nightly (7:30pm), two during peak seasons (6:30 and 8:30pm).

Description:

Who knew people came in so many shapes and sizes? Stacked or stubby, terribly tan or not, all kinds come here, so there's no reason to be bashful about squeezing into a bathing suit and going out in public. The 25-acre Wet 'n Wild is America's third most popular water park (behind Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon, respectively). In 2007, Brain Wash, a multiperson tube ride with a 53-foot drop, areas of complete darkness, and high-tech special effects that includes video projection and special lighting was added to the lineup of thrills. Disco H20, an enclosed flume ride where a four-passenger raft sends you flying through the sights and sounds of the '70s, complete with mirrored lights and disco tunes blasting in the background, debuted in 2005. Other options include the Flyer, a six-story four-passenger toboggan run through 450 feet of banked curves; the Surge, which is one of the longest (580 ft. of curves) and fastest multipassenger tube rides in the Southeast; and Black Hole, a two-person spaceship-style raft that makes a 500-foot twisting, turning voyage through darkness (all three rides require that children 36-48 in. tall be accompanied by an adult). You can also ride the Knee Ski, a cable-operated half-mile knee-boarding course that's open in warm-weather months only (56-in. height minimum); Der Stuka, a six-story, free-fall speed slide; and Mach 5, which has a trio of twisting, turning flumes, among other thrillers. The park also has a large kids' area with miniversions of the big rides. If you enjoy the water, plan on spending a full day here.

Note: In addition to the admission prices, Wet 'n Wild is part of the multiday FlexTicket package that includes admission to Universal Orlando (which owns this attraction), SeaWorld, and Busch Gardens in Tampa.

Description:

This all-suite property, a former Holiday Inn transformed into the first ever Nickelodeon-branded resort, is one of the best properties in the Orlando area for families. Its two-bedroom Kid Suites feature a second bedroom for the kids with bunk or twin beds, kitchenettes, and a pullout sofa in the living area. Three-bedroom suites are also available and include additional space, a second bathroom, a full kitchen, upgraded amenities, and a trendy decor. One and two-bedroom suites are themed with Nickelodeon colors; characters adorn the kid's rooms. An all-new lobby and mall area, filled with restaurants, an arcade, shops, a temporary tattoo and hair-wrap station (additional fees apply), and nightly entertainment (including Studio Nick), have been added. The resort's two pool areas (with lots of lifeguards) are veritable water parks, with extensive multilevel water slides, flumes, climbing nets, and water jets. Activities are scheduled poolside (including Slime Time), and there are also a wide variety of recreational options, including a small minigolf course, playgrounds, and sand play areas. Required wristbands ensure that only resort guests can access the area. "Nick After Dark," an evening supervised activity program for kids ages 5 to 12, allows parents to take a night off. A daily character breakfast (SpongeBob SquarePants, Dora, and the Fairly Odd Parents oversaw things when I was last there) is offered in addition to the hotel's regular breakfast buffet (at the latter, kids eat free with paying adults). The only downside is that the resort's incredible popularity translates to an incredibly crowded, often overwhelming experience -- combine this with a day at the theme parks and parents may be in need of a vacation from their vacation. Discounted rates are available for stays on off-peak nights and at select times throughout the year.

Facilities: Restaurant; lounge; several fast-food counters; 2 water park pools; minigolf; fitness center; 2 Jacuzzis; 3 outdoor Ping-Pong tables; 2 shuffleboard courts; game room; supervised activity center for ages 4-12 (fee); kids activities; tour desk; free shuttle to Disney and non-Disney parks; minimart; coin-op washers and dryers

In room: A/C, TV/VCR w/pay movies, dataport, free high-speed Internet access, full kitchen (select suites), fridge, microwave, coffeemaker, hair dryer, iron, safe, Nintendo (in some rooms).

Our Local Expert Says:

Best close encounters with dolphins and marine life

Description:

In July of 2000, Discovery Cove opened its gates and began providing a unique theme park experience that is nothing short of extraordinary. With a maximum of 1,000 guests per day, the park has managed to create an intimate feel – more like you're visiting a swanky resort in the Caribbean than visiting a theme park in the middle of Orlando. The admission price, though hefty, includes all of your needs…
towels, wet suits, lockers, snorkels, masks, sun tan lotion, souvenir photos and parking.

Meals and snacks are included as well (and not just hot dogs and hamburgers either). You'll start the day with a continental breakfast (pastries, muffins, fresh fruit, juices and coffee). You can have a hamburger for lunch if you'd like, but Discovery Cove also offers such items as grilled salmon and pasta primavera. Unlimited snacks such as chips, pretzels, nachos, ice cream and smoothies are available all day. You can also enjoy as much bottled water, soda, beer, and cappuccinos as you like.

If you've booked yourselves into the Dolphin Encounter, the friendly concierge will schedule your time in the Dolphin Lagoon when you arrive. During the 30-minute encounter, you and 5-7 other guests will wade into shallow water and get up close and personal with a very sociable and playful Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphin. Your trainer will guide the dolphin through a series of activities, allowing you to touch and instruct the dolphin. You'll also be able to experience a dorsal tow ride. For dolphin lovers, the extra admission price to include this encounter is definitely worth it.

When you arrive, you'll also want to check on the feeding times at Ray Lagoon so you can make sure to schedule that into your day. You can interact with dozens of rays of all sizes, some up to four feet in diameter. It's an amazing experience to be amongst these gentle and graceful creatures. The Coral Reef is where you'll really get to test your snorkeling skills as you float along amongst the hundreds of brilliantly colored tropical fish and rays. Make sure you find the shark encounter. Don't worry… they're behind thick glass.

You'll want to make several trips down the warm Tropical River, drifting in the slight current, under waterfalls, and through an underwater cave. The river also takes you through the Aviary, where you can hop out of the water and interact with over 250 exotic birds, none of which are caged. Having a toucan land on your arm is an interesting experience. Discovery Cove's beach is a great feature as well. Along
the huge expanse of white, sugary sand, you'll find hammocks, umbrellas, and cabanas for your use. When all the swimming and snorkeling leaves you exhausted, grab a beach lounger and have a nap.
To avoid disappointment, reservations are a must!

Description:

The Melting Pot is just perfect for a first date, or an alternative to the stuffy after-business dinner. Roll up your sleeves, order a glass of wine or a bottle of beer and prepare to work for your dinner. Start off with a pot of cheese fondue mixed to perfection right at your table. Next opt for one of their delicious salads or move onto the main course. The protein offerings are vast including salmon, filet, chicken, shrimp, pork tenderloin and so much more. Each entree is presented with a slew of dipping sauces allowing each guest to create their own combinations to amp up the flavor. Sizzling oil cooks proteins to perfection, and for the health conscious, the restaurant offers a just-as-tasty boiling broth. If you can find room after an extravagant meal, make sure to try the chocolate fondue. There's nothing like hot melted chocolate on fresh fruits to cap off a wonderful meal!

Description:

This all-suite property, a former Holiday Inn transformed into the first ever Nickelodeon-branded resort, is one of the best properties in the Orlando area for families. Its two-bedroom Kid Suites feature a second bedroom for the kids with bunk or twin beds, kitchenettes, and a pullout sofa in the living area. Three-bedroom suites are also available and include additional space, a second bathroom, a full kitchen, upgraded amenities, and a trendy decor. One and two-bedroom suites are themed with Nickelodeon colors; characters adorn the kid's rooms. An all-new lobby and mall area, filled with restaurants, an arcade, shops, a temporary tattoo and hair-wrap station (additional fees apply), and nightly entertainment (including Studio Nick), have been added. The resort's two pool areas (with lots of lifeguards) are veritable water parks, with extensive multilevel water slides, flumes, climbing nets, and water jets. Activities are scheduled poolside (including Slime Time), and there are also a wide variety of recreational options, including a small minigolf course, playgrounds, and sand play areas. Required wristbands ensure that only resort guests can access the area. "Nick After Dark," an evening supervised activity program for kids ages 5 to 12, allows parents to take a night off. A daily character breakfast (SpongeBob SquarePants, Dora, and the Fairly Odd Parents oversaw things when I was last there) is offered in addition to the hotel's regular breakfast buffet (at the latter, kids eat free with paying adults). The only downside is that the resort's incredible popularity translates to an incredibly crowded, often overwhelming experience -- combine this with a day at the theme parks and parents may be in need of a vacation from their vacation. Discounted rates are available for stays on off-peak nights and at select times throughout the year.

Facilities: Restaurant; lounge; several fast-food counters; 2 water park pools; minigolf; fitness center; 2 Jacuzzis; 3 outdoor Ping-Pong tables; 2 shuffleboard courts; game room; supervised activity center for ages 4-12 (fee); kids activities; tour desk; free shuttle to Disney and non-Disney parks; minimart; coin-op washers and dryers

In room: A/C, TV/VCR w/pay movies, dataport, free high-speed Internet access, full kitchen (select suites), fridge, microwave, coffeemaker, hair dryer, iron, safe, Nintendo (in some rooms).

Our Local Expert Says:

Awesome animal shows and roller coasters

Description:

One of the first theme parks to open in Orlando, SeaWorld has been operating here for more than 30 years. The 200 acres of attractions and animal shows make this a perennial favorite with Florida visitors. Many new attractions and rides have been added to the original fun including a laser-fireworks-water extravaganza and high-tech thrill rides.

Our Local Expert Says:

Sleek and sophisticated, The Oceanaire provides the perfect setting to enjoy the freshest seafood flown in daily from around the world.

Description:

From the moment you enter the Oceanaire on International Drive you feel a sense of place and time akin to a classic 1930s ocean liner. No detail is left to chance. From cocktails in the lounge, to the raw oyster bar, to a main course of ultra-fresh fish, a rendezvous at the Oceanaire is the perfect occasion to indulge your unfettered senses. The seafood is flown in daily from around the world. They source only top-of-the-catch fish from the world's most reputable suppliers. Since the menu is based entirely on market availability, selections change by the day - in some cases, even by the hour. Choose your fancy prepared to your liking: simply grilled or broiled, sauteed, steamed or even fried. Served with the famous fresh-baked sourdough bread, and offered with a wine list as deep as the sea, it's no wonder people come here to be spoiled.

Description:

After creating waves in Cincinatti, this nightclub has been doing the same in Orlando. A regular haunt for locals since its inception, it's the tunes played on the two centerstage pianos that keep guests highly entertained. A 'Showtime' special is announced every hour, in which employees and guests alike dance to the tunes of popular television shows and commercial jingles. Take your pick from the very innovative drinks menu - while the Sour Apple Martini will make you "pucker up and howl", the Electric Lemonade is "the most ELECTRIFYING cocktail in nightlife entertainment". So come on down and get ready to howl!

Description:

This all-suite property, a former Holiday Inn transformed into the first ever Nickelodeon-branded resort, is one of the best properties in the Orlando area for families. Its two-bedroom Kid Suites feature a second bedroom for the kids with bunk or twin beds, kitchenettes, and a pullout sofa in the living area. Three-bedroom suites are also available and include additional space, a second bathroom, a full kitchen, upgraded amenities, and a trendy decor. One and two-bedroom suites are themed with Nickelodeon colors; characters adorn the kid's rooms. An all-new lobby and mall area, filled with restaurants, an arcade, shops, a temporary tattoo and hair-wrap station (additional fees apply), and nightly entertainment (including Studio Nick), have been added. The resort's two pool areas (with lots of lifeguards) are veritable water parks, with extensive multilevel water slides, flumes, climbing nets, and water jets. Activities are scheduled poolside (including Slime Time), and there are also a wide variety of recreational options, including a small minigolf course, playgrounds, and sand play areas. Required wristbands ensure that only resort guests can access the area. "Nick After Dark," an evening supervised activity program for kids ages 5 to 12, allows parents to take a night off. A daily character breakfast (SpongeBob SquarePants, Dora, and the Fairly Odd Parents oversaw things when I was last there) is offered in addition to the hotel's regular breakfast buffet (at the latter, kids eat free with paying adults). The only downside is that the resort's incredible popularity translates to an incredibly crowded, often overwhelming experience -- combine this with a day at the theme parks and parents may be in need of a vacation from their vacation. Discounted rates are available for stays on off-peak nights and at select times throughout the year.

Facilities: Restaurant; lounge; several fast-food counters; 2 water park pools; minigolf; fitness center; 2 Jacuzzis; 3 outdoor Ping-Pong tables; 2 shuffleboard courts; game room; supervised activity center for ages 4-12 (fee); kids activities; tour desk; free shuttle to Disney and non-Disney parks; minimart; coin-op washers and dryers

In room: A/C, TV/VCR w/pay movies, dataport, free high-speed Internet access, full kitchen (select suites), fridge, microwave, coffeemaker, hair dryer, iron, safe, Nintendo (in some rooms).

Our Local Expert Says:

Fabulous seasonal events like Mardi Gras, Halloween Horror Nights, and the Holiday Concert Series

Description:

The world's favorite films and film stars come to life here, and 40 amazing and amusing rides, shows and attractions await. A virtual interactive Terminator 2:3-D adventure has its own set of thrills, as does an encounter with Jaws, a trip Back to the Future, and a voyage beyond the stars in an E.T. Adventure. Special VIP tours are available by pre-arrangement.

Description:

It's a long way to Key West, but you can make the trip without ever leaving Central Florida with a stop at this restaurant that evokes the spirit of the Keys where singer Jimmy Buffet got his start. Themed to resemble a snazzy version of favored Key West haunts, the restaurant offers such Keys and Caribbean favorites as conch fritters, jambalaya and that all-time favorite key lime pie. There's a full bar here and, truth be known, that's the destination of most of those who stop in here.

Description:

Part of what is now an impressive array of nightlife opportunities at Universal Studios, this bar gets groovin' with five themed rooms designed to appeal to the widest possible variety of partygoers. Dance areas represent various historic musical eras ranging from a vaudeville stage to a roaring 20s dancehall, a 1960s rock 'n roll haven, a disco and a high-tech futuristic scene. Specialty drinks are offered in each area, and live bands are often on the bill. With these and several quiet areas tucked away in this big complex, this spot can appeal to everyone, from those who want to party to those who just want to kick back for a quiet drink and keep their options open.