10 weirdest places every Orlandoan must visit

1. Airstream Ranch, Dover 
4656 Mcintosh Rd, Dover 
Take a pit stop and check out Airstream Ranch and its art installation of mobile homes.

2. World's Smallest Police Station
1001 Gray Avenue, Carrabelle 
Who knew that Florida was home to the world's smallest police station? Take a nice drive over to Carrabelle to witness its teeny cop headquarters.

3.Smallest Post Office in the US, Ochopee
38000 Tamiami Trail, Ochopee 
Not only does Florida host the world's smallest police station, we also have the nation's teeniest post office, a seven by eight foot closet of a building located in Ochopee on Tamiami. Plus, you can buy little novelty postcards.

4. Spook Hill, Lake Wales
N. Wales Drive, Lake Wales 
Let your car defy gravity and roll uphill at this creepy roadside phenomenon.

5. Dinosaur World
5145 Harvey Tew Road, Plant City 
Road trip millions of years in the past and explore 20 acres of 200 life size dinosaurs.

6. Devil’s Den Underground Grotto
5390 NE 180th Ave, Williston 
Devil's Den is one of Florida's oldest tourist traps. Take a deep breath and enter the cave that plays host to an underground spring, where you can snorkel and scuba dive.
7. Citrus Tower, Clermont
141 North Hwy 27, Clermont 
Offering a 360 degree view of eight counties, The Citrus Tower in Clermont is a world famous observation tower complete with a charming gift shop and light show.

8. Weeki Wachee Springs Mermaid shows
6131 Commercial Way, Spring Hill 
Mermaids do exist! Located two hours west of Orlando, Weeki Wachee Mermaids offers live shows and a spring fed waterpark.

9. Holy Land Experience
4655 Vineland Road, Orlando 
Get spiritual this weekend by visiting the Holy Land Experience, conveniently located in Orlando. It's like spending an afternoon inside an interactive bible. Even if you're not religious, it's worth visiting at least once.

10. Bioluminescent lagoon at Merritt Island
Titusville 
Check out the comb jelly and their Bioluminescent properties on this night tour of the lagoon at Merritt Island's National Wildlife Refuge. 

Walt Disney World Resorts List Visited

Updated on Dec/2018

Sort by price low to high

*Campsite at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort $69

Disney's All-Star Movies Resort $92

Disney's All-Star Music Resort $92

Disney's All-Star Sports Resort $92

*Disney's Pop Century Resort $102

Disney's Art of Animation Resort $115

Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort $170

Disney's Port Orleans Resort - French Quarter $170

Disney's Port Orleans Resort – Riverside $170

Disney's Coronado Springs Resort $175

*Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge $284

Disney's Wilderness Lodge $289

The Cabins at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort $299

Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas - Jambo House $332

Disney's Old Key West Resort $355

Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa $355

Disney's Beach Club Resort $356

*Disney's Contemporary Resort $356

Disney's Yacht Club Resort $356

*Disney's BoardWalk Inn $381

*Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas - Kidani Village $398

The Villas at Disney's Wilderness Lodge $401

Disney's Beach Club Villas $404

*Disney's BoardWalk Villas $404

*Disney's Polynesian Village Resort $429

*Disney's Polynesian Villas & Bungalows $439

*Bay Lake Tower at Disney's Contemporary Resort $480

*Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa $517

*The Villas at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa $525

*Visited

Walt Disney World Resorts List by Category

Value Resorts

Moderate Resorts

Deluxe Resorts

Deluxe Villa Resorts

Downtown Disney Area Hotels

Value Disney Resorts

• Disney's All-Star Movies Resort
• Disney's All-Star Music Resort
• Disney's All-Star Sports Resort
• Disney's Art of Animation Resort
• Disney's Pop Century Resort

Moderate Disney Resorts

• Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort
• Disney's Coronado Springs Resort
• The Cabins at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort
• Disney's Port Orleans Resort - Riverside
• Disney's Port Orleans Resort - French Quarter

 

Deluxe Disney Resorts

• Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge
• Disney's Beach Club Resort
• Disney's BoardWalk Inn
• Disney's Contemporary Resort
• Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
• Disney's Polynesian Village Resort
• Disney's Wilderness Lodge
• Disney's Yacht Club Resort
• Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel

Deluxe Disney Villas

News:

The newest DVC property is the Disney's Polynesian Villas and Bungalows. There are 20 Bungalows that sleep up to 8 guests each.  Reminiscent of the South Pacific, the area is surrounded by a plunge pool overlooking the Seven Seas Lagoon and has a view of the Magic Kingdom's fireworks. All of the DVC units are available for rent when not reserved by Disney Vacation Club Members.

• Animal Kingdom Lodge Villas
• Bay Lake Tower at Disney's Contemporary Resort
• Disney's Beach Club Villas
• Disney's BoardWalk Villas
• The Villas at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
• Disney's Old Key West Resort
• Disney's Polynesian Villas & Bungalows
• Treehouse Villas
• The Villas at Disney's Wilderness Lodge
• Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
• Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground

Downtown Disney Area Hotels

• Best Western Lake Buena Vista
• Buena Vista Palace Hotel & Spa
• DoubleTree Guest Suites
• Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista
• Holiday Inn Lake Buena Vista Downtown
• Royal Plaza in Walt Disney World Resort
• Wyndham Lake Buena Vista Resort

Info and pictures taken from http://www.wdwinfo.com

What is the website for The Hub Disney cast members?

http://enterpriseportal.disney.com/site/wdw/




You will need username and password

Top Central Florida Attractions

Aquatica - SeaWorld's Water Park

Amway Arena*

Busch Gardens Tampa

Cirque du Soleil* CLOSED

Daytona Beach*

Daytona International Speedway

Discovery Cove

Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort*

Disney Quest* CLOSED 

Fantasy of Flight

Florida State Parks*

Florida's East Coast Beaches sunrise*

Florida's West Coast Beaches sunset*

Fun Spot Attractions Amusement Parks*

Gatorland*

I-Fly Indoor Sky Diving

Kennedy Space Center & Air Force Space Missile Museum*

Legoland Florida*

Medieval Times*

Old Town*

Orlando Science Center

Orlando Speed World

ICON Orlando EYE area

Richard Petty Driving Experience CLOSED

Ripley's Believe It or Not!

Sea World Orlando*

The Holy Land Experience

Universal Studios Florida & Islands of Adventure*

Universal's CityWalk*

Walt Disney World (Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, Disney Spring)*

Wet 'n Wild* CLOSED

Wonderworks

*visited

Best closest beaches to the Kissimmee/Orlando attractions sunset

Florida's West Coast, sunset

On the west coast of Florida is the Gulf of Mexico, where the water, on average, tends to be warmer and the white sands in some places are a finer grain.  It's about a 90 minute to 150 minute drive from the attractions area.  Some of the beaches we've tried are:

Madeira Beach.- this beach is near a small tourist center which recently completed a multi-million dollar face-lift which has quaint stores, restaurants, buildings and inexpensive tourist trinkets. It is right next to John's Pass, an old style (but up to date) fishing village, where you can rent jet-skis or cross the Pass bridge and go out for the evening on an entertainment boat. You also can go out on a dolphin watch cruise or a deep-sea fishing boat from here.  Sunsets on the beach here are beautiful.  There are usually pelicans around the pass (where boats pass through to the Gulf). This is one of our favorite beach areas because it is low key and quaint looking (when you walk north of John's Pass village). Tip - If you want to beat the parking meters att the beach parking lots, just cross the street to John's Pass shopping area, park there for free for 3 hours. Take I-4 West which will turn into to I-275 South toward St. Petersburg. Before you actually get to downtown St. Petersburg you will see signs directing you to the Gulf Beaches.

Sand Key.- considered by many as being one of the top ten beaches in the U.S.A., this beach is north on Gulf Blvd. from Madeira Beach, at the far northern tip of the same barrier island. Fine powder-white sands endow this splendid spot.

St. Pete Beach (not St. Petersburg Beach) and Pass-A-Grille Beach.- both of these beaches possess fine powder white sands and are wide, with Pass-A-Grille (just south of St. Pete Beach) seeming to be the wider of the two. See directions to Madeira Beach and then go south of Madeira Beach on Gulf Blvd. The non-recommended, but faster, alternate route is to stay on I-275 until you arrive downtown, then watch the exit sign for St. Petersburg Beach (either State Road 682 [a.k.a. Pinellas Parkway] or State Road 693 [a.k.a. Pasadena Blvd.]) It's before The Sunshine Skyway Bridge! (which you should also visit since you are in the area.). "The Pier", a five story building, which looks like an inverted partial pyramid, with shops inside it at the end of a well constructed pier.

Fort DeSoto Park.- like Sand Key above, this is considered by many as being one of the top ten beaches in the U.S.A., enough said. Take I-275 south to the 54th Ave. S./ Pinellas Bayway (679) exit, right, toward the Pinellas Bayway (toll bridge) and once you cross over, bear left on the Pinellas Bayway, following the signs to Ft. DeSoto Park.

Clearwater.- Clearwater Marine Aquarium come explore our unique nonprofit hospital dedicated to rescue, rehab and release of marine animals. See our mission in action as you discover our rehab and surgical areas and get up-close, inspiration from the stories of our resident animals, including Winter the dolphin, who swims with a prosthetic tail. Feed our sting rays, sharks and pelicans, or cruise on a interactive boat safari. Hop aboard a complimentary boat or trolley shuttle to nearby Winter’s Dolphin Tale Adventure. Also Celebrate the Sunset when you combine a sugar-sand beach, street performers and a sunset over the Gulf, you have the perfect recipe to celebrate the end of the day. Your whole gang will enjoy Sunsets at Pier 60, a nightly Clearwater Beach festival. With Mother Nature providing a magnificent backdrop, you’ll see painters at work, admire jugglers, magicians and street performers, listen to music and discover crafts. You may even see fire eaters and stilt walkers – and your little ones will love the well-equipped playground.

Caladesi Island State Park.- Spring is officially here! The mornings are cool, but by mid-morning the sun is high in the sky and the temperatures are perfect. I'm not the only to notice the great weather; it seems that even on a weekday Honeymoon Island State Park and Caladesi Island State Park were the places to be! with Caladesi being named "America's Best Beach" in 2008 by Dr. Beach. A short 20-minute ride on the Caladesi Island Ferry ($14, four hour stay maximum) is all it takes to feel like you are on your own private island.

Best closest beaches to the Kissimmee/Orlando attractions sunrise

Florida's East Coast, sunrise

Cocoa Beach.- probably the fastest one to get to from the Orlando/Kissimmee attractions area. It's an hour drive directly east of the attractions area on the Atlantic Ocean. In many spots, where the ocean meets the land are steeply inclined sand beaches (this may change during hurricane season or major storms), but a few feet from shore it's nice and flat so that you can set up your beach towel. This beach seems to have bigger waves than most of the others and when a storm passes off-shore many surfers are attracted to it. Be careful at this beach (and other east coast beaches) when there is rip-tide. Kennedy Space Center is just a couple of minutes north if you want to make a side trip. Park Yourself by the Shore at the loveliest Lori Wilson Park that offers clean and wide beach, thick with golden-hued sand, the park boasts free parking. Explore-walk the Cocoa Beach Pier. One popular landmark store is Ron Jon Surf Shop (once we parked at Ron Jon's, shopped in the store, then walked to the nearby beach and saved ourselves a parking fee). Take State Road 528 (called the Bee Line Expressway, it's a toll road) East, follow the local signs to to beach, which is just off of highway A1A.

Daytona Beach.- self-proclaimed by locals as "The Most Famous Beach in the World", this beach is popular with tourists and easily accessible from the attractions area, being less than 2 hours drive northeast. Famous years ago for its automobile races on the beach, today cars are still permitted on the beach. Parking is $5 on the beach and free off of the beach. Local proprietors offer jet skiing, windsurfing, para-sailing and boat rentals. There are many events in the Daytona area throughout the year, and getting a hotel during these can prove challenging (Speedweeks, Bike Week, LPGA golf, Coke Zero Speedway, Biketoberfest, Car Show and Swap Meet). Take the Interstate Highway I-4 East (which is really an intra-state highway, and looks more like it goes north than east on your map).

Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse.- just south of Daytona Beach - It is a wonderful old lighthouse completed in 1887, which is fully functioning, in which you are permitted (for an admission fee) to go up its 203 steps to the top and go outside to the walkway which encircles a the top, which has a beautiful 360 degree view of the area (if you walk around). It is said to be the second tallest lighthouse in North America. The admission fee also covers the lighthouse museum, a micro-theater historical film, historical grounds, nature-walk and the gift shop. This is a definite must-do if you are in the Daytona area. 4931 South Peninsula Drive, Ponce Inlet, Florida 32127. From Daytona Beach, take A1A south to the Lighthouse.

Canaveral National Seashore and Merritt Island National Wildlife.- considered one of the most beautiful stretches of beach in the U.S.A., many rare and endangered species call these places home. If you are an eco-tourist, you might consider visiting this environmentally sensitive and protected area, just be ready for the mosquitos if you travel inland because this area is notorious for them. Occasionally you'll hear a story of a rocket part that washes up on shore, and then they caution you about touching it because of the toxic rocket fuel (but also its probably because sometimes they are military payloads). Aside from the rocket stories, it's a wonderful area to visit. The fastest way here is to take State Road 528 (the Bee Line Expressway, it's a toll road) East to Merritt Island, to State Road 3 north. If you want to go to the Canaveral National Seashore, take 528 East to U.S. 1 North, when you get to Titusville, watch the local signs to the beaches (which Canaveral National Seashore beaches start at the latitude of Titusville [3 miles east of it] and run to the north.

Best Disney Quick Service Restaurant QSR

Be Our Guest Restaurant (Magic Kingdom) - Given the insane amount of hype surrounding Be Our Guest Restaurant, some people might be surprised to not find this restaurant at the top of the list. Yes, the theming and attention to detail are great here (just don’t eat in the mess hall–I mean ballroom), and the food is ambitious for a locale in Fantasyland, but it ultimately is just not as good as other restaurants ranking above it. Add to that inflated prices and extremely long lines to get inside for lunch, and you have a restaurant that we view as very good, but overrated. Disney fans love new things so the initial praise isn't surprising, but we expect the luster to wear off after a couple years. We actually prefer Gaston’s Tavern for what it is, but the limited menu precludes it from making this list.

Columbia Harbour House (Magic Kingdom) - Columbia Harbour House has fallen a bit on this list. While we still love it thanks to its solid menu and very relaxed upstairs seating, but it is worth noting that every single good-to-great option is seafood, so in terms of variety it does poorly. Unlike many real world seafood restaurants, the food here isn't 60% breading, 40% seafood. It’s a great place to escape the crowds of the Magic Kingdom. If you’re a seafood fan, Columbia Harbour House could leapfrog several restaurants on this list.
Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe (Magic Kingdom) - Regular readers of this blog may recall that this was once my top counter service restaurant at Walt Disney World, and the original version of this list ranked it at #3 overall. Cosmic Ray’s will always hold a special place in my heart, but over the years, I've come to understand some of the complaints. I still think Cosmic Ray’s is underrated in view of popular sentiment from Disney fans, and it has seen a partial menu refresh, but it’s due for more. There are several good menu items, but just as many that can be described as ordinary. I love the toppings bar, and I feel that Sonny Eclipse is the epitome of the “Disney Details” that make Walt Disney World special. It’s still my sentimental favorite and a place I think most kids (or kids at heart) will love, but the food isn’t as good as the top restaurants on the list. The odd “bay” system also complicates dining here for families, and during busy seasons and prime dining hours, the place is a madhouse.

The Mara (Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge) - The Mara is exactly what you’d expect from a counter service restaurant at Animal Kingdom Lodge: full of unique and adventurous options, at least in terms of counter service dining. The plus side is that it also serves less-adventurous options, like the Pepperoni Flatbread. I've enjoyed everything I've had here, but I can’t point to any entree that blows me away, which causes it to fall to #7. We've yet to try the salmon, BBQ chicken flatbread, or rotisserie chicken, so maybe those will be the entrees that put this over the top for us. The big draw here is the Zebra Domes found in the coolers; make sure to get an order of them to split.

New Captain Cook’s (Disney’s Polynesian Resort) - Two words: Dole Whip. Make that four words: self serve Dole Whip.  Need I say more? Actually, yes, as the self-service Dole Whip is far from the biggest draw here. The menu at Captain Cook’s is also incredibly varied and made-to-order. Thanks to great and made-to-order lunch and dinner options including some unique cupcakes, plus Tonga Toast for breakfast, Captain Cook’s ranks very highly. We highly recommend taking your food outside (the small dining area inside is often crowded, anyway) and enjoying the sights and sounds of the Polynesian while you enjoy your meal.

Tangierine Cafe (Epcot, World Showcase, Morocco) - Despite some really incredible table service options, the counter service food in Epcot’s World Showcase is fairly uninspired. Tangierine Cafe is the big exception, as it offers huge portions for fair prices, and has a fairly non-traditional counter service menu. While it is somewhat adventurous, it’s still tame-enough that most tourists can find something here that they like. We usually split a meal at Tangierine Cafe because it’s that filling. It may be tempting to add the Baklava to your entree for a bargain price, but buyer beware: we find the Baklava disgusting (YMMV).

Flame Tree BBQ (Disney’s Animal Kingdom) - If you love meat, Flame Tree BBQ might sneak into the top spot on this list for you. The 1/2 Slab of St. Louis Ribs that tops Flame Tree BBQ’s menu is the single greatest counter service option in all of Walt Disney World. Other options here sound great, but nothing tops those ribs. The details and view of Everest in the seating area make this a must-try. Only its dessert selection and limited menu for non-carnivores causes Flame Tree BBQ to fall to number 4.

Pepper Market (Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort) - Pepper Market has had a bit of an identity crisis the last few years, going from a la carte to buffet back to a la carte market style ordering. If you’re a huge, value-focused eater, the change away from buffet is probably disappointing. However, we feel this has improved food quality. Portion sizes are still more than ample for most appetites, and the sheer amount of variety here is insane. The new rib entree is the highlight of the menu, and they give Flame Tree BBQ a run for their money, and the Aztec Burger is also a great, unique option that seems of far better quality than any other counter service burger at Walt Disney World. Add to that a variety of good Mexican food, other international options, and pizza, and you have a top notch restaurant for dining.

Sunshine Seasons (Epcot, Future World) - It’s ironic that the top counter service dining option in a Walt Disney World theme park would come from Epcot–the park known for its spectacular World Showcase dining–but not the area of the park generally considered to have amazing dining. Sunshine Seasons offers something for everyone. Delicious sandwiches, chicken, salmon, and an array of amazing desserts. The seating area leaves a little to be desired (perhaps a nice fountain in the middle, wink wink), but overall Sunshine Seasons cannot be beat.

Contempo Café (Disney’s Contemporary Resort) - Already “famous” for its cupcakes, Contempo Cafe is one of our new favorite restaurants. We have dined here several times and always come away happy. Our most recent experience, during which we tried flatbreads and their Mahi sandwich catapulted it to the top of this list. Not only are menu items delicious and unique, but the menu is huge, offering ample variety for everyone in your group. It does lack theming, feeling a bit like a loud food court, but when the monorail zooms by overhead, you realize the Grand Canyon Concourse is all the “theming” it needs.  The important thing to remember here? Save room for dessert.


Also you can try:
Everything Pop Shopping and Dining (Disney's  Pop Century),  Landscape of Flavors (Disney's Art of Animation), Sassagoula Floatworks (Port Orleans French Quarter), Roaring Fork (Wilderness Lodge), Wolfgang Puck Express, Cooke’s of Dublin, Earl of Sandwich (Downtown Disney), Fairfax Fare (Disney’s Hollywood Studios), Katsura Grill (Epcot?), Contempo Cafe (Contemporary Resort), (Magic Kingdom) Casey's Corner, (Animal Kingdom) Yak & Yeti's Cafe, (Hollywood Studios) Starring Rolls Cafe, (Epcot) La Cantina de San Angel, (Epcot) Les Halles Boulangerie Patisserie, Pecos Bill’s Tall Tale Inn and Cafe (Magic Kingdom)

Walt Disney World - Main Entrance Pass Block Out Dates Disney

New official website:

https://blockoutdates.disney.com

2014 Block-Out Dates for the Walt Disney World_® Resort Theme Parks. Please check back monthly for Block-Out Dates. Block-Out Dates are subject to change. You may also call 407-566-5675 (or 8-296-5675) or toll-free 855-706-2516 for a current listing of Block-Out Dates.

News Flash!

As of July 30^th, 2014: Disney's Animal Kingdom_® block–out dates are lifted on 08/02 and 08/09. There are no longer block–out dates at this park for the month of August.

Bookmark blockoutdates.disney.com on your smartphone to check Block-Out dates anytime, anywhere. Your Hub login is required outside the Disney network and carrier data rates apply.

Near Central Florida - Orlando Nature Spring Parks

Nature parks are as abundant in Orlando as roller coasters. A trip to one of these great parks can include swimming, hiking and a close up view of Florida's wildlife. It's a perfect alternative to the theme parks, and it only costs a fraction of the price. Here are some of the most popular natural experiences near Orlando area:


Blue Spring State Park
2100 W. French Ave.
Orange City, FL 32763
386-775-3663
Blue Spring is an important refuge for the West Indian Manatees, one of Florida's most widely known endangered species. These peaceful creatures usually journey down the St. John's River in November, and stay until the early spring. The best viewing times are in the morning and late afternoon. The 7,000 acres of wild scenery also allow plenty of space for camping, boating and swimming. The crystal clear spring is also well-known as a prime spot for snorkeling and SCUBA diving.

Lake Louisa State Park
7305 US Highway 27
Clermont, FL 34714
352-394-3969
Set on the shores of Lake Louisa, Lake Louisa State Park offers a variety of activities to get you in touch with nature. The 4,000 acre state park offers fishing in four different lakes as well as designated trails for horseback riding. There are also campsites available for overnight guests. Visitors can see an abundance of wildlife along the trails, including White Tail Deer, Marsh Rabbits, Alligators and Bobcats. The marshy areas of the park are also home to many species of migratory birds. 

Tosohatchee State Reserve
3365 Taylor Creek Road
Christmas, FL 32709
407-568-5893
Many different species call the diverse habitats in Tosohatchee State Reserve home. The marshes are a major waypoint for migrating birds, allowing for unique birding and photography opportunities. The wooded uplands are home to gray foxes, fox squirrels and a number of bird species, including bald eagles, hawks and owls. Park Rangers offer special tours and programs on a rotating basis, so be sure to call for details.

University of Central Florida Arboretum
4000 Central Florida Boulevard
Orlando, FL 32816
407-823-3146
The 80-acre UCF Arboretum is home to a staggering 600 plant species. Most native Florida species are on display, as are a number of exotic species introduced as a teaching tool for the University's biology programs. Native wildlife also abounds throughout the varied habitats. Visitors can walk themselves through a self-guided tour (maps available) or call in advance to schedule a group session, led by one the school's highly trained botanists.

Wekiwa Springs State Park
1800 Wekiwa Circle
Apopka, FL 32712
407-884-2008
Naturally refreshing springs are one of the main attractions at this state park. Divers can swim deep into the underwater trench, only to be pushed back to the surface by the gentle push of the spring. Canoeing is also especially enjoyable at this park, with so many lakes and streams to paddle down. The park also features boating, camping, hiking, picnic areas and fishing.

Kelly Park
400 E. Kelly Park Rd.
Apopka, FL 32712
407-889-4179
This Orange County Park is filled with fun for you and your family. Kids love this place, so be prepared. The major attraction is Rock Springs, which bubbles up from a rock outcropping and flows into a meandering stream. You'll find most visitors rollicking down the stream in a tube or on a float. There are also picnic pavilions and camping areas if you want to have a bite or spend a night under the stars.

The Nature Conservancy's Disney Wilderness Preserve
2700 Scrub Jay Trail
Kissimmee, FL 34759
407-935-0002
The Nature Conservancy and Disney partnered in 1993 to preserve 12,000 acres of natural habitat critical to the survival of many rare species. Visitors to the preserve can walk a 3-mile hiking trail or take an off-road buggy tour to see conservation in action. Lucky visitors can encounter Florida scrub jays, gopher tortoises, bald eagles and a number of other species as they travel through.

Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park
Canaveral National Seashore
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge
De Leon Springs State Park
Fort De Soto Park

Taken from Orlando Sentinel

Why is Lakeland, FL 1 of the top 10 places to invest in Real Estate?

Why Lakeland Florida?

Over Seven million people within a 100-mile radius Polk County’s population topped 500,000 in 2002 Two International airports within an hour’s drive Located on Interstate 4 in the middle of Florida’s High Tech Corridor 26 million square feet of industrial/warehouse space Lakeland has absorbed over 1,000,000 square feet of space annually since 1987 Headquarters of Florida’s largest private employer, Publix Super Markets Lakeland has an abundant available. Less than one hour’s drive to professional baseball, hockey and football Polk County boasts over 550 lakes and 90 minute drives to beaches on both coasts.

Housing

Lakeland ranked 17th in the United States for the most affordable housing according to a survey compiled by the National Association of Home Builders for the second quarter of 2001. A family earning the median household income in Polk County could afford 83.3 percent of the houses sold during most of 2001.

1992 - 2002 Lakeland Home Sales 
Units Sold Average Price 
1992 1,320 $80,171 
1993 1,141 $74,401 
1994 1,667 $78,844 
1995 1,923 $86,803 
1996 1,760 $84,359 
1997 1,873 $90,176 
1998 1,630 $90,385 
1999 2,219 $93,144 
2000 2,450 $96,907 
2001 2,561 $104,546 
2002 2,629 $108,306 



Location

* 30 minutes from Tampa
* Less than an hour from Orlando 
* 50 miles from the Gulf of Mexico 
* 100 miles from the Atlantic Ocean 
* Midway between Key West and the Georgia state line
* Major east/west highway routes: Interstate 4, U.S. Highway 60, and U.S. Highway 92
* Major highway routes: U.S. Highway 98, U.S. Highway 27 and I-75
* More than 3 million people live within a 50-mile radius, and over 8 million reside within a 100-mile radius
* Rail service - freight and passenger
* Lakeland Linder Regional Airport's 8,500-foot runway is designed for jet use
* Corporate and general aviation accommodations
* Lakeland Regional Airport is the designated reliever for general aviation from Tampa Airport

MESSY: Friday The 13th at Disney Hollywood Studios

Disney parks on both coasts had overly crowded and imperfect events on Friday. However, it was complete chaos at Disney World’s Limited Time Magic event for Friday the 13th at Disney Hollywood Studios. A lack of proper staffing led to a traffic jam heading into the parking lot that lasted for hours (staring around 4:30pm), many guests were ultimately rerouted by security/police to Epcot for parking. The park was gridlocked on Hollywood Blvd and guests had trouble finding where and when the villains would be located in the park and special event merchandise sold out immediately, leaving lots of angry customers (who seemed to be mostly passholders and off duty cast members). Guest Relations processed  a massive list of complaints all night long. However, to his credit, park Vice President was personally taking guest complaints, handing out communication cards and handling issues all night long. You can bet that he was upset with how the event transpired and that there will be some heavy discussions about the situation in Team Disney Orlando come Monday morning.

Many people keep saying "you did not miss anything", "no fun at all", "I better stay on my couch", just to name few...

We hope to see something like a 3-5 days of this special event. Besides that Guest Relations received many complaints, we were hoping to get discount, to be extend event, or/and cast members and friend only show for one day (showing that way the appreciation for their cast members if there is any).

2013 Walt Disney World - Main Entrance Block Out Dates

Last Update: 08/29/2013
Block-Out Dates for the Walt Disney World® Theme Parks. Please check back monthly for Block-Out Dates. Block-Out Dates are subject to change. You may also call 407-566-5675 (8-296-5675) or toll-free 1-855-706-2516 for a current listing of Block-Out Dates.

Magic Kingdom® Park - Main Entrance Passes

• January 2013: Tuesday, January 1 thru Thursday, January 17
• February 2013: none
• March 2013: Sunday, March 10 thru Friday, March 15 and Sunday, March 24 thru Sunday, March 31
• April 2013: Monday, April 1 thru Sunday, April 7
• May 2013: Friday, May 24 thru Sunday, May 26
• June 2013: Monday, June 3 thru Sunday, June 30
• July 2013: Monday, July 1 thru Friday, July 12
• August 2013: none
• September 2013: none
• October 2013: Friday, October 4; Saturday, October 5; Friday, October 11; Saturday, October 12; Friday, October 18; Saturday, October 19; Friday, October 25; Saturday, October 26
• November 2013: Friday, November 1; Saturday, November 2; Friday, November 8; Saturday, November 9; Friday, November 15; Saturday, November 16; Friday, November 22 thru Saturday, November 30
• December 2013: Friday, December 6; Saturday, December 7; Friday, December 13; Saturday, December 14; Friday, December 20 thru Tuesday, December 31

Magic Kingdom® Park - Disney Family Holiday Party Tickets

• October 2013: Friday, October 4; Saturday, October 5; Friday, October 11; Saturday, October 12; Friday, October 18; Saturday, October 19; Friday, October 25; Saturday, October 26
• November 2013: Friday, November 1; Saturday, November 2; Friday, November 8; Saturday, November 9; Friday, November 15; Saturday, November 16; Friday, November 22 thru Saturday, November 30
• December 2013: Friday, December 6; Saturday, December 7; Friday, December 13; Saturday, December 14; Friday, December 20 thru Tuesday, December 31
• January 2014: TBD
• February 2014: TBD

Walt Disney World Top 10 Resorts for Kids

Most people head to Walt Disney World with kids in tow. One of the most important decisions in planning your Disney World vacation is deciding where to stay. And if you will have kids along with you, that decision becomes even more important. So, here are out top 10 Disney resorts for kids.

#10: Port Orleans Riverside - Riverside, along with the other moderate resorts are ok for kids, but honestly, are better for adults without kids. They are quiet and decent resorts, but not anything overly fun or stimulating for kids. Riverside is the one exception, as they have a very fun pool, a cool boat you can ride to Downtown Disney along with the coolest thing, old time bamboo fishing poles you can rent and fish in the river. Riverside is a great resorts as well if you have three kids, as many of the rooms will sleep 5, the only moderate resort that has this amenity.

#9: Pop Century - While Pop Century, and the #8 All-Stars, were built for kids and families, they really aren’t the best resorts for kids. The pools do not have slides, and the resorts tend to get pretty crowded and often loud. Granted, Pop Century is well thought out and it is a fun resort. It has several big pools and a great arcade and food court, and plenty of Disney magic.

#8: All-Stars - While technically I would put All-Star Movies here at #8, in reality, the All-Stars are basically identical with only their theme separating the resorts. These resorts are similar to Pop Century, in not having a slide at the pools, but they have fun themes that kids seem to love. Whether your kids are into Sports, Music or Disney Movies, you can find something at one of these resorts to make your kids happy.


#7: Disney’s Fort Wilderness - Fort Wilderness offers both camping spots for tents, trailers and RVs as well as cool Wilderness Cabins. Kids love camping, and if you don’t want to rough it, the cabins are a great answer. Fort Wilderness has fun activities from campfires at night to hay rides and golf carts you can rent. A fun resort to spend time at for kids and adults.

#6: Polynesian - The Polynesian has many great attractions for kids, a great pool with ultra cool volcano slide, a beach, the monorail and a great view of the Magic Kingdom. The rooms are fun, and you really get into the feel of the Polynesian, especially at night, with the tiki torches. Plus, all kids love sitting on the beach and watching the water parade at night.

#5: Boardwalk Inn - Disney’s Boardwalk Inn is a great kids resort, with a fantastic roller coaster water slide at the pool, a great location near Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios and the Boardwalk right out your door. Not only are there great restaurants on the Boardwalk, including the ESPN Zone, but you can also rent surrey bikes and hang out and watch the buskers, where are a blast.

#4: Wilderness Lodge - The Wilderness Lodge is a great resort for kids, with a fun, swimming hole type pool, great courtyard area and one of the funnest restaurants in Disney, Whispering Canyon Cafe. Plus, there is a great boat ride over to the Magic Kingdom available if you wish. Also, you can get a room with bunk beds, which always seems to solve a few fights over sharing a bed between the kids. Now, you just have to deal with the fight over who gets to sleep on the top bunk.

#3: Beach Club/Yacht Club - While technically the Beach and Yacht Club are separate resorts, in most cases, they really are only one resort. The Beach Club and Yacht Club have the best pool by far at WDW, Stormalong Bay. In addition to the great water slide, this sand bottom pool has a lazy river, a whirlpool and many other fun places to explore. Kind of like having your own water park outside your hotel room. Plus, the Yacht and Beach Club is right next to Epcot, and not far from the Boardwalk and Disney’s Hollywood Studio.

#2: Contemporary - there is just something magical about the Contemporary for kids. I don’t know if it is the monorail running through the lobby every few minutes, or the great views of the Magic Kingdom from the room, or the kids pool that is out in Bay Lake. The rooms are fun, just having been totally redone, and have nice balconies where kids can hang out and watch the fireworks at the Magic Kingdom. Plus, it is only a 5 minute walk over the Magic Kingdom if you don’t want to wait for the monorail, the only resort you can walk to the Magic Kingdom from.

#1: Animal Kingdom Lodge - Well, kind of a no brainer for me. The Animal Kingdom Lodge is my kids favorite resort, and that holds true for most kids I have ever asked. With rooms right on savannas, kids can sit and watch the animals for hours from their rooms. Plus, there is a great pool with super fun water slide and you can even see animals from the pool area. Just a great place for kids to stay, they never seem to complain when you are leaving the parks to head back to the resort.

By www.disneytop10.com

Top 10 Character Meals For Kids @ Walt Disney World

Walt Disney World offers character meals of all types, for both young and old, but with so many to choose from, which ones are right for you. The top 10 character meals at WDW:

#10: 1900 Park Fare - located at the Grand Floridian, 1900 Park Fare has two different character meals. Breakfast is the Supercalifragilistic Breakfast, featuring Mary Poppins, the Mad Hatter and Alice in Wonderland. Dinner is Cinderella’s Gala Feast, featuring, of course, Cinderella. Neither one are fantastic, but if you are looking to do a character meal with Cinderella, and can’t get into our top character meal, 1900 park Fare is a good option, especially if you are staying at the Grand Floridian.

#9: Cape May Cafe - located in the Beach Club lobby, the Cape May Cafe offers a daily character breakfast with Goofy, Pluto and Chip and Dale. Nothing special, but it is usually easy to get into, rarely crowded and a good option for an out of the park character breakfast with decent food.

#8. Liberty Tree Tavern - located in the Magic Kingdom, the Liberty Tree Tavern offers a dinner with Minnie, Goofy and Pluto. Food is served family style, and is usually of very good quality. A nice break from the theme park, let you and your kids have a bit of a rest before getting back to the rides.

#7. ‘Ohana Character Breakfast - located in the Polynesian, ‘Ohana features Lilo and Stich, Mickey and Pluto. Serving breakfast only, this is a good place to stop on your way to the Magic Kingdom. Good food served buffet style, and the chance to see Lilo and Stitch are tough to pass up.

#6. Donald’s Safari Breakfast - located in the Animal Kingdom theme park, eat breakfast with Donald, Goofy, Pluto and Mickey in a safari like atmosphere, featuring buffet service, and a chance to see live animals while you eat.

#5. Crystal Palace - located in the Magic Kingdom, Crystal Palace offers all three meals with Pooh, Tigger, Eeyore and Piglet, practically the only place to see those “characters” on property. Located in probably the coolest building on Disney property, many tables features a great view of the Castle.

#4. Chef Mickey’s - located in the Contemporary Resort, Chef Mickey’s is the home of your friend, Mickey, where he presents you with fantastic food and a loud, fun atmosphere to enjoy your food. You can eat breakfast or dinner with Mickey, Goofy, Chip and Dale, and if lucky, Donald Duck.

#3. Playhouse Disney’s Play ‘N Dine - located at Disney Studios. If you have a toddler who is into Playhouse Disney, this is their chance to eat breakfast or lunch with their TV friends Jo Jo and Goliath from “Jo Jo’s Circus” and June and Leo from “The Little Einsteins”. The atmosphere is loud, featuring all your favorite Playhouse Disney songs, with kids and parents encouraged to sing along.

#2. Princess Storybook Meal - located in the Norway pavilion in Epcot, the Princess Storybook meal is fairly new, and has become one of the most popular character meals at WDW. All three meals are offered, and if you have a princess of your own, this is a must do during your Disney World vacation. Princess that are usually in attendance are Belle, Jasmine, Snow White, Sleeping Beauty, Mary Poppins. During lunch and dinner, Ariel often visits in her royal gown.

#1. Cinderella’s Royal Table - located in Cinderella’s Castle in the Magic Kingdom. What could be more magical than eating with Cinderella in her castle? Nothing, that is why this special character meal appears at number 1 on our list. Breakfast and lunch feature Cinderella, the Fairy Godmother, and usually Belle, Jasmine and Snow White. During Dinner, Cinderella gets a break, and the dinner is hosted by the Fairy Godmother, so make sure you get in for breakfast or lunch if you want to see Cinderella.

Please note Advanced Dinning reservations are strongly encouraged for all character meals. Most of the character meals sell out in advance, even during the slowest times of the year. Dining reservations can be made 180 days in advance, so it is rarely too early to call to make reservation.

By www.disneytop10.com