Central Florida’s theme parks, those engines of fantasy that draw untold millions from around the world, are also popular places for off-site events of every kind, from private dining and cocktail receptions to complete corporate buyouts of certain areas.
With Disney’s huge addition to Fantasyland leading the way, this ever-expanding universe of attractions is expanding again. Here’s a sneak peek:
Universal Orlando Resort announced that The Wizarding World of Harry Potter will add a new themed area in 2014, Diagon Alley, with new shops, restaurants and an interactive ride based on Gringotts Bank from the Harry Potter book series.
A re-launched, multi-sensory Test Track at Epcot lets attendees create their own virtual concepts and then board “SimCar” ride vehicles to race through a series of thrilling performance tests.
Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin opened at SeaWorld Orlando in May, highlighted by a state-of-the-art, interactive ride that takes guests on an exciting journey through the dangers and wondrous beauty of Antarctica. The new “realm” touts itself as the coldest theme park attraction in the world and guests have the option to select “mild” or “wild” versions of the ride.
Legoland Florida recently unveiled World of Chima, presented by Cartoon Network. The centerpiece attraction, the Quest for CHI, features an interactive water ride where guests set off on an otherworldly and super-wet adventure. World of Chima features 2 million Lego bricks, bringing the total number in the park to 58 million.
Universal Orlando Resort, in conjunction with Loews Hotels & Resorts, will open a new on-site property in early 2014, Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort, which at 1,800 rooms will be the largest of Universal’s four on-site hotels. Amenities will include a “retro” bowling alley and Universal Orlando’s first lazy river.
