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8/26/2026 • Blog, Cruises, Disneyland, Sandals & Beaches, Universal Studios Orlando, Walt Disney World •
We are a Disney family. Always have been. Some of my favorite memories of my children live inside those park gates, and at 16, my baby girl is still a joy to be with. She is not the eyerolling, hood-up, "this is so cringe" teenager the internet loves to warn you about. We actually like each other. We talk, we hang out, we genuinely enjoy each other's company. And still — I was nervous about this trip. What I Was Nervous About Here is what I was working with. We had exactly one day for one park, tacked onto the end of a four-day volleyball tournament. Her body was already wrecked, sore feet, tired legs, and I was about to ask it to walk 20,000 steps through the Orlando heat in July. This was also our first Disney trip as a party of 3 without her older brother. No other […]
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3/17/2026 • Blog, Epic Universe, Tips, Universal Studios Orlando •
If you’re planning a trip to Universal Epic Universe at Universal Orlando Resort, one land you definitely don’t want to skip is The Isle of Berk. Inspired by the beloved How to Train Your Dragon movies, this incredible land brings Vikings, dragons, and adventure to life in such a fun and immersive way. It truly feels like you’ve stepped right into the world of Berk! The moment you step into The Isle of Berk, you’re instantly surrounded by giant Viking statues, colorful village buildings, and dragons everywhere you look. It really does feel like you’ve stepped right into Berk. You might even run into some familiar faces like Hiccup, Astrid, Gobber, and the hilarious twins Ruffnut and Tuffnut. Within the land you’ll find dining, shopping, three rides, a show, and a playground for little ones. There’s even a meet and greet with Toothless! Rides Hiccup’s Wing Gliders - Height Requirement: […]
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![Universal Orlando Mardi Gras 2026 Guide: Concerts, Food, Parade, and Tips You Need to Know]()
2/18/2026 • Blog, Holidays & Events, Universal Studios Orlando •
If you’re planning a trip to Universal Orlando Resort in the spring, you may be wondering: Is Universal Orlando Mardi Gras worth visiting? The answer is a resounding yes! Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval is one of the best seasonal events at Universal Studios Florida. This fan-favorite celebration features live concerts, an incredible nighttime parade, global food booths, and nonstop entertainment—all included with your regular park admission. Whether you’re a foodie, music lover, or visiting with your family, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of Universal Orlando Mardi Gras. Are Universal Orlando Mardi Gras Concerts Free? Yes! One of the biggest highlights of Universal Mardi Gras is the live concert series, which is included with your park ticket. On select nights, major artists from pop, rock, country, and R&B perform live at the Music Plaza Stage. Past performers have included chart-topping favorites and nostalgic […]
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![Your Rainy Day Survival Guide at Epic Universe!]()
2/13/2026 • Epic Universe, Universal Studios Orlando •
How to make the most of your day at Epic Universe in the rain! 1. Know Which Rides Stay Open These attractions remain operational—even in rain (except during thunderstorms): *Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment (Dark Universe) *Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge (Super Nintendo World) *Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry (Ministry of Magic) *Constellation Carousel (Celestial Park) Plus, even if queues are mostly outdoors, Le Cirque Arcanus (Wizarding World) and The Untrainable Dragon show (Isle of Berk) usually operate with covered lines and indoor seating. You don’t want to miss these! 2. Pack Smart Rain Gear *Lightweight, compact ponchos (buy in advance—they’re cheaper and pack smaller) *Water-resistant shoes or covers, plus extra socks *Quick-dry clothing *Ziploc bags for electronics and essentials *Umbrella 3. Hit Outdoor Attractions FIRST! *Hiccup’s Wing Gliders, Curse of the Werewolf, Mine-Cart Madness, Donkey Kong 4. Embrace Indoor Attractions & Entertainment *Use rainy periods to explore inside: *Dark Universe: Monster: Unchained, shops, Monster Makeup Experience […]
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10/24/2025 • Blog, Reviews, Universal Studios Orlando •
If you love grilled food and are hoping for a great one during your next Universal Orlando vacation, look no further than Bigfire. Located in Universal Citywalk, Big Fire is home to all things cooked over an open flame, and just a short walk from either of the two theme parks. My husband and I love a steak, so we knew we had to give this a try on our most recent trip. We were seated upstairs near a faux fireplace. Luckily it didn't give off any real heat as we were hot from the Florida sunshine. We began our meal with the hearth oven baked bread. This bread is served with an herbed butter and peach preserves. We also tried the wood charred brussels sprouts. I love brussels sprouts and these did not disappoint. They are served over a toasted almond puree which added a nice contrast in texture. […]
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8/26/2025 • Blog, Universal Studios Orlando •
Planning a trip to Universal Orlando Resort? Keep in mind, you’ll be busy walking, riding, laughing, exploring, making memories, and working up a thirst! That’s where Universal’s refillable mug options come in handy. Whether you're staying at a Universal hotel or heading into the parks, there are ways to save on drinks and stay refreshed. Resort Refillable Mugs If you're staying at a Universal hotel, you can purchase a refillable resort mug for unlimited drinks at your hotel only. That includes soda, coffee, tea, and slushies at the resort’s self-serve stations. How it works: *Buy once, refill throughout your stay *Use only at your hotel (not in the theme parks and not at other resorts) *Great for coffee in the morning or a soda by the pool *Cost: Usually $10–$20, depending on length of stay* Park Refillable Freestyle Cups Inside the theme parks and CityWalk, you’ll find Coca-Cola Freestyle refillable […]
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4/29/2025 • Blog, Universal Studios Orlando, Walt Disney World •
There are so many people on a Walt Disney World vacation that add to the magical feeling of your vacation that it’s easy to get confused on who to tip and how much is appropriate to thank them for helping you out so here’s a list of people to thank and general ranges for appropriate amounts to help answer your questions. Transportation Once you arrive in Orlando, if you are not renting a car, as many people don’t, you need to get to your resort and may have a rideshare driver, a shuttle service, or a private car driver. Rideshare apps will give you some options for tipping, usually 15-25%. Shuttle service drivers are usually tipped for handling your baggage – usually $1-3 per bag. Lastly, private drivers should be tipped between 15-25% of your ride fare of which some companies will charge an amount in advance. Bring along cash […]
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![What is Epic Universe?]()
2/4/2025 • Blog, Epic Universe, Universal Studios Orlando •
Universal Orlando Resort is always at the forefront of thrilling experiences, and with the unveiling of their brand-new park, Epic Universe, it’s clear that they’re setting a new standard for immersive entertainment. Opening in 2025, this highly anticipated addition promises to be a game-changer for the theme park world, introducing cutting-edge technology, innovative attractions, and an entirely new level of storytelling. Epic Universe is Universal's fourth theme park at its Orlando Resort, and it’s set to completely transform the guest experience. With the park's introduction, visitors can expect new lands, blockbuster attractions, and plenty of surprises around every corner. The concept is centered around one core idea: expanding Universal’s immersive storytelling and bringing guests into new worlds with a level of detail and interactivity never seen before. Key Details About Epic Universe: • Opening Date: Grand Opening on May 22, 2025 • Location: Epic Universe will be located near Universal's […]
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3/4/2024 • Tips, Universal Studios Orlando •
Will you be traveling to Universal Orlando with an infant? Our family recently visited with all of our children the youngest being not quite one year old. While traveling with an infant can make your trip more complicated, here are 5 tips to help take the stress out of your next Universal Orlando vacation. 1. Plan mid-day breaks. Universal Orlando has some great shows that will help you beat the heat and give your little one a chance to rest. One of our favorite shows to do this is Animal Actors on Location. This is an outdoor shaded theater with seating and is a great show for all ages. We also like to make mid-day dining reservations for a chance to cool off. 2. Have groceries and baby essentials delivered to your resort. Our family always has a service deliver basic groceries and bottled water to our resort. This is […]
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9/10/2024 • Blog, Reviews, Universal Studios Orlando •
If you are weighing the idea of staying on property or off for a Universal Orlando vacation, consider the following list of benefits of enjoying one of Universal's incredible properties. • Early Admission to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Volcano Bay. You are able to get in 1 hour prior to the public. • Shuttle busses to the theme parks and CityWalk, however, all of the resorts are within walking distance if you would like to take a leisurely walk to and from the parks. • Charging privileges with your room key. • Complimentary transportation to Sea World and Aquatica. • If golf is on your agenda, you are given priority tee times and complimentary transportation to select area golf courses. • Shop, shop, shop throughout the Universal property and enjoy complimentary delivery of packages to your resort. • Being on-site also provides easy access to and from […]
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