Wonderworks Orlando Wonderful Combination of Education & Fun

WonderWorks in Orlando, Florida is an interactive and informative playground. This is a place where adults and children will feel free and safe to play at their own pace. There is an even split between virtual games that require some guidance and others that are self-explanatory fun. The virtual games such as the flight simulators that mock the flights of the Discovery Space Shuttle and an F18 fighter jet do require some initial instructions from an adult but create a tremendous sense of independence once working. There are also many virtual games throughout the laboratory that allow a person to control their video game avatar by the movement of their own body.

However, not all of the thrills at Orlando's WonderWorks are grand technological innovations. One area of the Illusion Room allows the visitor to create a bubble large enough to stand in! Likewise, the giant WonderWorks piano in the Sound Room is pure fun for everyone. Take note, however, that the sound booth in the Sound Room simulates an old time radio story that may be frightening to young children.

As the tour winds down be sure to allot some time to the many virtual rides as the lines can be long for the Create-Your-Own-Coaster virtual simulator and the flight simulators. Likewise, the top floor is an actual arcade complete with black lights and a prize counter, so bring some spare change.

Tips: Though the establishment is entirely safe, remind children to not move on to the next room without an adult as the exhibits are numerous and varied, making it difficult to relocate eachother. A two hour time slot should be the minimum to tour and play sufficiently. The top floor also contains a laser tag course that costs extra money.

Orlando's Pirate's Dinner Adventure a Swashbuckling Success

A showing of Pirates Dinner Adventure in Orlando is a night-long adventure that will bring you into the action from start to finish. Though show times are at 8 get there at least twenty minutes early to get your ticket in a timely fashion and enjoy the complimentary before-show appetizers of salmon, pasta, and lamb. The pre-show area contains a bar, a gift shop, pirate museum, art photo portraits, face painting, and "gypsies" that will read your palm or pull a tarot card for you.

Though the show is slated to start at 8, the pre-show, which sets up the plot, lasts from 8-8:30. At 8:30 guests are ushered into the main seating area with their respective pirate leading the way (guests are seated according to the pirate whom they are to root for during the show, designated by colors.) The main seating area is a sight to behold. A fully equipped and decorated pirate ship, sat in water, is surrounded by stadium seating. Throughout the show the audience watches as the pirates partake in contests that require remarkable feats of strength, stunts, and mock fighting. These are real athletes with many talents.

When the food is served, be prepared to choose between salad or a delicious cream of vegetable soup (my favorite!) and between shrimp or pork to be served with your chicken. Rooting on your respective pirate makes the evening full of energy and children will love the action of the sword fights, rope swinging, and pyrotechnics that Orlando’s Pirates Dinner Adventure has to offer.

Tips: Dark meat is served as a default- you can upgrade to white meat at the ticket window for an extra $4. A tip is not included in your ticket and it is explicitly specified at the end of the show that a $5 tip per adult and $3 tip per child is expected for the waiter or waitress.

Chomp into Some Fun at Orlando's Gatorland

Gatorland in Orlando, Florida is a sure site to see that departs from any conventional theme park Orlando is known for. While much more zoo than theme park, Gatorland's abundance of entertainment will instantly please. Entrance into the park is more than a breeze, with a separate window for customers with Etickets (however, decide beforehand if you or any member of your party would like the opportunity to sit on a gator during your visit! This will be asked at the ticket window.)

Upon entrance to the park, which is made up mostly of boardwalks, one is met with nearly 200 baby alligators sunbathing in the waters that the boardwalk surrounds. Upon looking around to the other sides of the boardwalk visitors will surely see gators larger than any other they have previously encountered, and surely in the safest setting they should ever hope to.

Once at the main boardwalk visitors have an array of things to see and do. . While there are many opportunities to take unique pictures and eat exotic foods (be sure to try some deep-fried alligator while visiting), the boardwalk offers the most prized encounters at Gatorland, such as the "Dog Gone Gator" AKA Chester, a 13 ft. 5 in, 950 lb gator who was once known for eating dogs in a Tampa neighborhood. This heavyweight can be seen in his personal habitat as close to a person as if he were at their feet. For more close encounters, buy some bait along the walkway and feed it to any of the gators that rest in the waters around the park.

Kids will love the train that runs around Jungle Crocs of the World and the Gator Gully Splash Park. Also, don't miss out on seeing the other animals Orlando's Gatorland hosts, such as peacocks, tortoises, Sandhill Cranes, turkeys, emus, parrots, goats and cows. Stop at Allie's Barnyard or the Very Merry Aviary to feed and pet these other creatures.

Tips: Check the show schedule to see the Gator Jumparoo Show or the Gator Wrestlin' Show, these thrills aren't offered anywhere else. Be sure to allow at least two hours to tour the park.

Outta Control Dinner Show in Orlando offers Outta Control Laughs

The Outta Control Dinner Show in Orlando offers a convenient and affordable dinner show option for the Orlando visitor. While most dinner shows in the area maintain big productions with pre-shows, lots of waiting, and high prices, The Outta Control Dinner Show is both accessible and intimate. With seating for 125 and a one-man show to watch, dinner is far more like an evening at a comedy club with an exceedingly attentive wait-staff than a night at a dinner show.

The comedy of Tony Brent keeps the atmosphere light and the audience involved. Children will enjoy the close interaction with Brent and the prop comedy while adults get plenty of laughs from his impersonations and improvisations. By the end of the hour-and-a-half show my table of twelve had participated in two of Brent's tricks and we were all racked with laughter.

Dinner at Orlando's Outta Control Dinner Show is served instantly upon being seated with salad and popcorn ready at the tables in large bowls to be passed around as if at a family dinner. All of the food and drinks are refilled continuously. I looked down more than once to find that my glass had been removed and replaced without my ever having noticed its absence! The fresh hand-tossed pizza keeps the communal atmosphere going and the all-you-can-eat characteristic also keeps children involved. Likewise, adults will surely appreciate the unlimited beer and wine. After all of the main courses are served to your heart and stomach's content, a delicious chocolate cake is served to finish off the show.

Tips: Be sure to call ahead and make reservations after you have bought your tickets- seating is limited and shows sell out frequently. Arrive early as seating is unassigned. Remember cash for a well-deserved waiter tip.

Country Tonite in Branson is a Good Show for the Whole Family

The Country Tonite Show in Branson, Missouri, performing in the new Oak Ridge Boys Theater, is a good show the whole family can enjoy. After being absent on the Branson scene for a couple of seasons, Country Tonite is back, and they are trying to bring the magic formula back too. Overall, the show succeeded, but there was a noticeable difference between the seasoned performers and new performers that I think a little more practice will cure.

The show blends new country and old country, with featured songs including Alan Jackson’s “Little Bitty,” Craig Morgan’s “Little Bit of Life,” and Rascal Flatts’ “Me and My Gang.” “Me and My Gang” was one of the best songs of the show, as the singers, David, Jason, Kim and Kenya, and the dancers, really hit every note and step on this routine. Kenya had a powerful voice, evident when she sang Trisha Yearwood’s “Heaven, Heartache and the Power of Love” and Kim did a great job on Sugarland’s “Want To.” David had a good voice too, showcased brilliantly on “Lay Me Down” by Tim McGraw during their patriotic salute to veterans. Another favorite segment of mine was when the fiddle player was featured, as he is a great instrumentalist, and made me start tapping my toes!

Bob Nichols is the featured comedian, and although he was corny, his humor had me laughing and put a smile on my face. The audience participation was also fun and provided a nice transition for the performers.

Branson’s Country Tonite is a good show now that has the potential to be great. With a few tweaks, and maybe a few more shows under their belt, it will be a success.

Branson's Noah~The Musical an Impressive, Can't Miss Show

Noah the Musical in Branson, Missouri is a spectacular production I recently had the pleasure of attending. The newest show in Branson, this Sight and Sound Production encompasses everything a live show should, including a great set, amazing characters and a story that captured my attention and held it throughout the 2 ½ hour show.

The theater housing the Sight and Sound Noah The Musical is an impressive one, and this story of epic proportions became even more impressive once the stage was unveiled. More than any other Branson show, Noah the Musical is a true Broadway-style production of Bibilical proportions. For starters, there is the 300 degree wraparound stage that puts audience members inside the story, along with awesome 3D video imaging enchancements, pyrotechnics and laser lighting special effects. The set pieces are also awe-inspiring as they have a replica of the ark, a 40 foot high set piece builit on the stage, and once you are placed inside the ark, the show’s animals and design really come to life. It felt like it was honestly raining during the flood sequence! And, the animatronic animals are so realistic my guests and I were trying to figure out which ones were real and which ones were fake. The singing is also done very well, and this cast of over 50 characters is truly talented. Some of the songs lasted a little too long, but overall they were a great way to tell the story of Noah, his family and their struggle to fulfill God’s wish.

The only real downside to this Branson show is how busy it is. When I viewed the show it did take a while to park and get to our seats. So, be sure to allot yourself enough time to get to the theater, find a parking space and get to your assigned seats. Then, once the show starts, you’ll find the show truly was something worth waiting for!

Boxcar Willie Hotel Branson a Hidden Treasure

The Boxcar Willie Hotel in Branson is a secluded property in the midst of Ozark Hills and Branson entertainment. A bit off the beaten path, it is still easily accessible to Celebration City, Roy Rogers Museum and Titanic. Plus, they have some of the best scenery and landscaping around due to their location, something I found very relaxing during my visit.

The rooms have been newly updated with new carpet and bedding, plus they have new Serta Perfect Sleeper mattresses, which made my stay extra nice and comfortable. Their case good are also new and bring a nice modern touch to the room. The armoire also had a newer ’27 television, which I appreciated and the standard table and chairs were comfortable and in great condition. Plus, the rooms come standard with coffee maker and mini-fridge, a great convenience while traveling. The bathroom was divided, with the vanity on the exterior of the room, but the space does feel bigger due to the layout and design. The overall décor of the room is a Railroad motif, referencing its founder, Boxcar Willie himself.

The amenities provided at the Branson Boxcar Willie Hotel were very nice, with my favorite being the pool area. They have an extra large indoor pool, enclosed with a cathedral wood-beam/sun room design that made the area very inviting. In addition, they also had a hot tub and sauna for guests.

If you happen to be traveling with pets, this is a great choice due to their designer dog dishes for use during your stay, daily gourmet canine cookies, and take-home toy. No other Branson hotel takes care of your pet like this hotel! This property is a great choice for families, groups and seniors.

Rosebud Inn Branson a Blooming Success for Guests

The Rosebud Inn Branson Missouri is a secluded yet easily accessible property I found to be quite pleasing during my stay. The location was a big plus, as it takes away the hustle and bustle of “The Strip” while still remaining right in the action of Branson Shows and Attractions.

The hotel was also renovated a few years ago, with new exterior siding and design. The renovations really make the property pop, and bring the hotel up a notch. The rooms have also been updated, with new bedspreads, mattresses, carpet and drapes, and they were very clean. The rooms are also very spacious and feel bigger than a standard hotel room. There was no coffee maker in room and mini-fridges are not available.  The case goods are a bit dated, and could be replaced, and the TV was somewhat small, but overall I was pleased with the price and the quality of the property. The layout of the bathroom varies per level, with some vanities inside the bathroom and some outside. My room had the vanity inside the bathroom, which I prefer. There was also free Wi-Fi, which I took advantage of, and it worked great throughout my stay. Plus, the hotel is a completely non-smoking property, a definite bonus.

The indoor corridor, elevator equipped Branson Rosebud Inn also serves a deluxe contintental breakfast from 7am-9:30am that includes biscuits and gravy. The Breakfast Room is also a nice size and is equipped with two televisions. I really enjoyed the pool, as it allowed me to take full advantage of the scenic area the hotel encompasses. Pool hours are from 8:30am-10:00pm.

This is a good choice for seniors and adults visiting Branson, especially if you’re planning on shopping as it’s centrally located between the three main Branson outlet malls.

Grand Oaks Hotel Branson is a Grand Choice for Families

The Grand Oaks Hotel in Branson, Missouri is centrally located to all of Branson’s activities and the all indoor corridor property offers reasonably priced accommodations with several amenities that made my visit very pleasing.

The property is divided into two buildings, with Building 1 done in a French Country décor and Building 2 done in a California Beach design. Both buildings have an extended continental breakfast available, with hot items alternating from biscuits and sausage gravy to waffles and eggs. Even better are the two pools available, an outdoor pool at Building 2 and an indoor pool in Building 1. Both pools were a nice medium size and the indoor pool area had a nice open feel to it reminiscent of a sunroom. Plus, there were also two hot tubs available in the pool area as well. There is also a guest laundry available, and a small fitness center, which has daily usage fee of $3 per room.

The double queen rooms at the Branson Grand Oaks Hotel are of medium size and felt somewhat small at times, but they were very well taken care of and very clean. I stayed in Building 1, and found the bathroom’s two sinks very convenient and the ’27 television was a nice touch. There are also Jacuzzi rooms available which had an extra large feel to them. The Jacuzzi was located in the main room, not the bathroom, which is always a plus in my book.

This property is a good choice for families and is especially recommended for families with teenagers due to its location and layout.

Condos in the Ozarks Branson Showcases the Natural Side of Branson

The Condos in the Ozarks in Branson, Missouri is a peaceful golf resort situated in the Ozark Hills. It is located a bit outside of Branson, about 10 minutes from the Branson Landing, and offers guests a different side of Branson. Upon my arrival, I noticed the several activities they offered, including golf (of course!), an activities center with games, food and a small movie theater, plus there are two pools, a children’s playground area and tennis and basketball courts. So, there was definitely enough to keep the whole family busy and entertained right at the resort.

The condos offered are two bedroom, and are classified as Bluffs, Lakes or Pinnacles based on their location and size. The Bluffs condos are the smallest at 925 square feet, and the Pinnacles are the largest at 1300 square feet. The Bluffs condos are also in a more wooded area, and the Lakes and Pinnacles are located closer to the golf course. The two bedroom condos are moderately priced and offer a full kitchen, with pots and pans, plus there is a washer/dryer in every condo. I found these items to be very useful during my stay. The bedrooms and bathrooms were both spacious and provided plenty of room for me and my guests. The décor is different in every condo, but the one I stayed in had a nice warm feel and was decorated in earth tones.

Overall, I found Branson Condos in the Ozarks to be a good choice for families wanting to experience the other side of Branson while also having access to all of Branson’s entertainment. Plus, the price is lower than many other condos, making it easy on the budget.

Branson's Gazebo Inn Charming yet Affordable

The Gazebo Inn in Branson, Missouri is a charming property offering quaint accommodations for Branson visitors. It is themed with flair reminiscent of Victorian architecture and this appeal is carried throughout the property. It is in a great location, too, which made visiting shows like Andy Williams and Spirit of the Dance very easy. But, the outdoor essence of the Ozarks is also captured in their rear building, which is surrounded by woods and has a great feel to it.

The rooms are standard, but are very clean and feature a floral décor. The rooms were updated about a year ago, and the updates have held up well. I found the Gazebo Inn Branson to be very comfortable and accommodating, not to mention easy on the wallet. The Double Queen room I was in had nice case goods, a mini-fridge which was convenient and a curved shower rod in the bathroom which made the small space seem bigger. The King room I viewed was also very clean and very similar to the Double Queen room, except for the fact it had a sleeper sofa and table with chairs. This room would be a good choice for couples or families with very small children.

The amenities featured at the Gazebo Inn were minimal, but I loved their pool area. The pool, although situated towards the front of the hotel, felt very secluded and had a garden feel to it. Plus, it is open 24 hours, so swimming under the stars is always an option! The property does offer a free continental breakfast with limited options. Their breakfast area is rather small, but since it is not much of a “sit down” breakfast it worked well.

This property is a good option for couples and seniors.

Angel Inn in Branson a Haven for Travelers

Branson’s Angel Inn is a nice, accommodating property featuring budget friendly yet extremely clean rooms. Upon check-in, I noticed a well-kept lobby, which included a breakfast room in the rear, complete with a TV. The breakfast room also served hot items daily, alternating between French toast and Biscuits & Gravy, and was a nice way to save a few bucks each day. The indoor pool was also connected to the lobby area and featured all new flooring. Plus, the pool was of a nice size and the area was very well kept.

Another feature I enjoyed was the well kept grounds. The staff of Angel Inn Branson pays a great attention to detail in maintaining a nice ambiance and it was noticeable throughout. Even my double queen room had been inspected twice for cleanliness, something I found reassuring. The room itself was basic in design, with a Floral Country décor. The rooms do feature granite countertops in the bathroom, curved shower rods, table and chairs, and every room has new pillow top mattresses. The layout of the property also offers a bit of seclusion, as the rear section has a wooded view, great for travelers who want a bit of quiet to go along with their entertainment schedule.

I would recommend this property for seniors and families.

AmazInn & Suites Branson Features Amazing Renovations

The AmazInn & Suites in Branson, Missouri is a newly renovated property that satisfied my lodging needs, both in price and accommodations. The hotel is an outdoor corridor, colonial style property located on three flat acres on Shepherd of the Hills Expressway. The renovations AmazInn & Suites have made are apparent from check-in, as the lobby emanates a warmth and overall atmosphere that is maintained throughout.

The property offers Double Queen rooms and King Suites, all equipped with pillow top mattresses. All rooms have been completely updated and are furnished with new carpet, bedding, linens and curtains. The case goods are a bit dated and the TV is standard, but the room does feel spacious. The bathroom area is small, with the vanity in the exterior of the room, but the implementation of a curved shower rod does give the feel of extra space.

The King Suite is also a nice choice as it was equipped with a whirlpool tub for one in the bathroom , along with a sofa sleeper, table and chairs and microwave and fridge. The décor was nice and if the extra money is available, it is a nice choice for couples.

Two other elements of Branson’s AmazInn & Suites I thoroughly enjoyed were the pool & breakfast area. The pool is very big, enough so that it didn’t have a crowded feel, and it was in a secluded section of the property facing trees rather than highway. Plus, it had all new pool furniture. The breakfast room was great because it had a nice ambiance along with a large flat screen television which was nice to watch while dining on the delicious hot item FREE breakfast offered.

Days Inn Branson a Good Place to Spend Your Days in Branson

The Days Inn in Branson, Missouri is in a great location, with easy access to all Branson Shows and Branson Attractions. During my visit, I stayed in a double double room. It was a standard room, with standard amenities, and had a nice floral décor. The bathroom vanity was separate from the bathroom, and the shower had a curved shower rod, which made the space feel larger. The case goods were a bit dated, but they were on par for other properties in this price range. There are king rooms and double queen rooms available too, and they are exactly the same as the double double rooms in both layout and design. Also, Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel.

The real highlight of the Days Inn was the pool area. It was a section in and of itself and offered an extra large pool, a children’s pool, a Jacuzzi and children’s play area. It is ideal for families on a Branson vacation as it gives the kids, and mom and dad, a nice place to play while they stay. Plus, it is somewhat secluded so the space feels relaxing.

The Branson Days Inn also offers breakfast each morning, although it is served at an adjacent Restaurant, Elenita’s, which is just a short walk from the hotel. It may be a bit of an inconvenience for seniors, but I felt it was convenient enough and the breakfast did offer waffles, which is always a plus!

Overall, this property is a great choice for families and I would recommend it to any family traveling to Branson, Missouri.

Branson's Best Lives Up To Its Name

Branson’s Best in Branson, Missouri is in a great access location and has extra features which make a stay at this property more pleasant. For instance, they have a late check-out time of 1pm, which is a nice convenience for all Branson visitors. Plus they offer a free hot breakfast with over 20 items with an additional dessert bar, which offers ice cream and cobbler, in the evening, all of which is complimentary.

The double queen and single king rooms I toured were of standard size and included basic amenities. However, they were very clean and had been updated, about a year ago, with new furniture, bedding and a new granite bathroom countertop. Plus, the property is equipped with electronic locks, a safety feature I prefer. Overall, the rooms were simple but nice and the only feature I would have preferred was larger bathrooms. In addition to the aforementioned items, the king rooms are the same, except for the fact they have a table and chairs in room.

Another point I enjoyed was the location of their outdoor pool. It was to the rear of the property, instead of towards the street, which made swimming much more enjoyable. Plus, it was of a nice size and well maintained.

I would recommend the outdoor corridor Branson’s Best property for families and seniors traveling on a budget or for those seeking to spend more money on activities than lodging.

Branson's Whispering Hills a Rolling Success

The Whispering Hills Hotel in Branson is a guest-friendly property offering basic yet quality amenities. Upon my arrival at the property I checked into a double queen room. The room was standard, but it was also very well maintained and there was a new Country Charm décor, complete with new pictures and paint. Plus, I was informed the comforters and bedding will be updated soon as well. There was also a new granite vanity for the bathroom, although the layout of the rooms at this property had the vanity outside of the bathroom, which is an inconvenience for some. However, the small bathroom does seem larger due to the use of curved shower rods. The rooms are smaller than those at their sister property, the Savannah House, and the case goods are a bit older, but it was still a nice, clean, well-kept room.

Two major benefits of the property are the completely non-smoking aspect of the property, as well as the wireless internet throughout the hotel. As far as the other amenities go, they do have a smaller breakfast area offering a free hot breakfast, as well as a free dessert bar offered each evening. The outdoor pool was of an average size, but was nicely kept. The only slight downside is its location near the front of the property, which situates the pool near Shepherd of the Hills Expressway. Other than that, I was satisfied with my stay at the Branson Whispering Hills Hotel and would recommend it for any Branson traveler on a budget.

Savannah House Branson a Hidden Gem

Savannah House Branson is a hidden gem located on Expressway lane. Its location is secluded, with Branson shows and attractions easily accessible. The property is an all indoor corridor, two building hotel with unique features such as two breakfast rooms and two pools, making amenities available to guests no matter which building they are assigned.

From the moment I entered the Branson Savannah House I was pleasantly surprised by the attention to detail and overall presentation of the property. The lobby features a library-like sitting area, complete with leather sofas. Plus, as I walked to my double queen room the hallways, which have just recently been repainted and decorated with new pictures, smelled great and was very inviting. The room was also a nice surprise, as it had all new carpet, fresh paint, new bedding, new drapes and new granite countertops in the bathroom. The case goods were also quality furnishings and the television was a nice 27 inch set. The room was also very clean and had a new quality to it that showed great care and attention by the staff at the Savannah House.

Another benefit is the hot breakfast items, including eggs and biscuits and gravy, which are served each morning. They were free and delicious. Plus, the two pools mentioned earlier are very nice, one of which is very large and has just been retiled.

This property is highly recommended for seniors and adults who are on a budget but still want a quality property.

Hotel Grand Victorian Branson is a Grand Place to Stay

Branson’s Hotel Grand Victorian is a beautiful property centrally located on the Branson Strip. During my visit, I found the property to be well worth the nightly rate for several reasons. The attention to detail, amenities provided and many updates throughout the property all cater to the Branson visitor.

First and foremost, the design of the property is pure Victorian, and has an almost palace like feel to it. It provides the initial ambiance guests are looking for when they arrive at their lodging establishment. Upon entering the hotel, I noticed great care had been dedicated to the lobby and the breakfast area, situated in the back of the large lower level, was of a nice size and offered hot items, such as biscuits and gravy. Even better were the two pools available, one indoor and one outdoor. The best thing about their indoor pool is the fact it is a salt water pool rather than a chlorine-based pool. The saltwater pool is easier on the hair, skin and senses rather than chlorine pools, and the smell is much nicer! Their outdoor pool is also situated nicely towards the rear of the property so the view is of natural surroundings rather than a lobby or Hwy. 76.

The rooms at the Hotel Grand Victorian Branson are in superb condition as they have just received all new updates, including new beds, curtains, bedding, shower heads and carpet. They really feel like a new hotel room at a new property rather than one that has been in Branson for several years. Many of the rooms also offer balconies overlooking the Branson strip, which is a nice touch. The Hotel Grand Victorian also offers several sitting areas throughout the property, a nice-sized game room, guest laundry and fitness center, although the fitness center is somewhat small.

I would recommend this property for families, couples, and travelers looking for a little something extra from their hotel while visiting Branson.