Endless Summer

First opened in 1990, Universal Studios Florida is the first theme park at Universal Orlando Resort. It's designed to immerse guests in the world of movies, television, and pop culture. The park features various themed areas, each hosting attractions based on popular films and TV shows. Key areas include Production Central, New York, San Francisco, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Diagon Alley, World Expo, Springfield (home of The Simpsons), and Hollywood. Attractions range from high-tech thrill rides to family-friendly experiences. Popular rides include Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, The Simpsons Ride, and Revenge of the Mummy. The park also offers live shows, character meet-and-greets, and seasonal events like Halloween Horror Nights. Universal Studios Florida continually updates its attractions to keep up with current pop culture trends, ensuring a fresh experience for repeat visitors.

Universal Orlando Resort in Orlando, Florida features three theme parks: Universal Studios Florida, Universal's Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay water park. Universal Studios focuses on movie and TV-based attractions, while Islands of Adventure offers more thrill rides and fantastical themes. Volcano Bay is a tropical-themed water park with various slides and relaxation areas. A major highlight is The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, which spans both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, connected by the Hogwarts Express train ride. The resort includes CityWalk, an entertainment, dining, and shopping district. There are also several on-site hotels offering various themes and price points. Universal Orlando is known for its high-tech rides, immersive environments, and attractions based on popular franchises like Harry Potter, Marvel superheroes, and Jurassic Park.

The Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World in Florida is one world-renowned theme park that captures the essence of Disney's enchanting storytelling and imaginative worlds. Originally opened 1971, it serves as the flagship park of the Walt Disney World Resort. The Magic Kingdom is divided into six themed lands and each area is meticulously designed to immerse guests in unique experiences, from the swashbuckling adventures of Pirates of the Caribbean to the whimsical delights of It's a Small World. The iconic Cinderella Castle stands as the park's centerpiece, offering a picturesque backdrop and a symbol of the magic that Disney is known for. The Magic Kingdom also features a variety of parades, fireworks, and character meet-and-greets, creating unforgettable memories for visitors of all ages. Whether you're a fan of classic Disney attractions or seeking new adventures, the Magic Kingdom promises a day filled with wonder and excitement.

We just got back from a weekend stay at Universal's Stella Nova Resort and are pleased to report that we had a very enjoyable stay. This all new hotel was recently opened and while still working out some of the "bugs", is a great place to call home for your next Universal Orlando vacation. It's very well themed, has spacious rooms overlooking Epic Universe, and features a large pool area. There are multiple dining options on-site as well as a number of restaurants within 10 minutes. With all the construction going on in the area, it made for quite the trek to the parking garage at CityWalk. Shuttle bus service would probably have been quicker but we like to drive since we get free valet and prime parking with our annual pass. At just $113 a night for a passholder rate, this hotel is a really good value. There are no resort fees but on-site parking costs $30 per night.

The Hotel Landy Orlando Universal Boulevard is one of the newer Marriott branded hotels located near the Universal Orlando Resort in Orlando, Florida. Recently converted from the former Crowne Plaza, this hotel is a good value for the price and is very well located near Universal, SeaWorld Orlando, the Orange County Convention Center and the International Drive attractions. Located approximately two miles from the main parking garage by Universal’s CityWalk and near the all new Epic Universe them park, this 400-room hotel features studios as well as one- and two-bedded rooms as well as junior suites and a Presidential Suite. Amenities include a heated outdoor pool, fully equipped fitness center and an on-site restaurant that is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner service. There is also more than 14,500 square feet of event space that can accommodate up to 420 guests. Check out our full tour and review: https://endlesssummerflorida.com/hotel-landy-marriott-orlando/

Located on the grounds of the Orlando World Center just minutes to the front entrance of the Walt Disney World Resort, Marriott's Sabal Palms is a the perfect spot for a family or large group as they feature spacious two-bedroom villas with living areas and full kitchens. Surrounded by the Hawk’s Landing Golf Course, each villa has two-bedrooms and features a fully equipped kitchen, living / dining area and a screened patio. Additionally, the resort shares amenities and dining options with the adjacent Marriott Imperial Palms / Royal Palms as well as the 2,008 room Marriott Orlando World Center. Check out our full tour of Marriott's Sabal Palms at: https://endlesssummerflorida.com/marriott-sabal-palms/