Amuse Your Mind at WonderWorks Museum Pigeon Forge

WonderWorks in Pigeon Forge is an amusement park for the mind that is a unique place to spend your vacation time in Tennessee. My friends and I toured the WonderWorks Museum after we attended the Hoot N Holler Dinner Show, which is located at the same complex. Not sure what to expect exactly, we entered the museum through an Inversion Tunnel that made one feel as if they were defying gravity and were amazed at what we found. Every display was interactive and with over 55,000 square feet of amusement to enjoy, you can spend hours at WonderWorks. We spent two full hours exploring and playing, and definitely could’ve spent even longer.

A few of my favorite activities at the Pigeon Forge WonderWorks were the Quake Café, which simulates an earthquake; Hurricane Hole, which blew hurricane force winds; 3-D Sound Lab, a pitch black atmosphere where sounds are in 3-D; Motorcycle 360, a ride in which you set atop a motorcycle and spin a full 360; and Bed of Nails, where you can test your pain endurance on a true bed of nails. Other favorites included the motion dance screens, wonderwall body imprints and the bubble lab. Take a stroll through the Far Out Visual Gallery to get a new perspective on the world, and also make time for the virtual air hockey game. It was a blast and fun for families to play together. My absolute favorite element of the museum, however, was the Wonder Coaster ride. My colleague and I got to create our very own virtual roller coaster, and then we got to ride the coaster we created in the 360 degree pitch and roll motion virtual ride!

There are a lot of things to do at WonderWorks in Pigeon Forge. When you visit, be sure to make time for this museum. You’ll be amazed at the activities and leave wondering…”How’d they do that?”

The Pigeon Forge Hoot N Holler Dinner Show is a Hoot for Guests

The Hoot N Holler Dinner Show in Pigeon Forge is a lively, energetic show that has plenty of audience participation and a hilarious cast that keeps show goers laughing from beginning to end. When my friends and I arrived at the show, we were immediately seated, front row, in one of the four-top tables. A delicious Italian salad and bread basket was already waiting for us, and as we began to dine the show began, with Scraps and his troupe of traveling singers and dancers taking the stage. Scraps, the would-be chef, is a hilarious emcee that put a smile on my face from the start. He interacts with the audience, and one of my friends was endlessly targeted as the subject of Scraps’ jokes, much to our amusement.

The three course dinner served during the Pigeon Forge Hoot N Holler Dinner Show was superb, and included baked ziti, stuffed Italian shells and chicken parmesan, all topped off with a Strawberry Shortcake dessert. Of course, you have to be careful eating during this show as laughter can happen at any moment due to the silly antics of Scraps and his traveling troupe. They sing, they dance, and they playfully interact with the audience creating one of the most laid-back yet uproarious show atmospheres I’ve had the pleasure of being at in a while.

This is, without a doubt, one of the funniest dinner shows in the Smokies. Whether they are recreating the telling of Paul Bunyan and his Blue Ox, or Scraps is juggling an assortment of items you’d never thought could be juggled, the Hoot N Holler Dinner Show cast keep the show interesting while the wait staff kept the drinks constantly refilled and the delicious food coming.

Tip: At the end of the show, a tip for your server is appreciated, as it is not included in the ticket price. Also, be sure to ask “What’s in the Box?” It’s a great way to instantly get Scraps in comedian mode. Moreover, because they are located at the WonderWorks complex, its easy to take a tour of the interactive museum directly after the show. Pictures with the cast are also available in the lobby after the show.

Fairfield Inn & Suites in Gatlinburg North Brightens Any Travelers Vacation

Location is key when staying at the Fairfield Inn & Suites in Gatlinburg as they are situated between Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, making accessing the entertainment you choose easier than ever. The Great Smoky Mountains and Dollywood are both just a few miles away. The accommodations at the all-interior corridor Fairfield Inn combine with their location to create the perfect place to stay on your Smoky Mountain vacation.

The Gatlinburg Fairfield Inn & Suites has recently been renovated and now features a very modern design known as the “Green Tea Package.” The design is highlighted by bright colors like oranges, reds and greens and aesthetically speaking, is very pleasing visually. Their lobby is open and spacious and provides an abundance of seating for guests, as well as a dual fireplace and two flat screen TVs. The breakfast area is also rather large, has comfortable seating and serves a deluxe continental breakfast. Other amenities at the hotel include a large fitness room, which is painted in an energetic green color & equipped with a flat screen TV, and is great for getting an early morning start on your exercise. A large outdoor pool with mushroom water feature, zero entry design with small water fountains, and winding slide made this area a main attraction while I visited. The landscaping and design of the recreation area were inviting and accommodating for families.

The room types available at Fairfield Inn Gatlinburg North include standard queen rooms, executive suites and Jacuzzi rooms. The standard queen room is decorated with bright greens and blues, with new case goods and a large flat screen TV adorning the wall. New mattresses have recently been installed in correlation with all of the renovations that have just recently been completed. A large bathroom featured a curved shower rod and generous-sized vanity area. The King Suite and Jacuzzi Suite are both very spacious, with the King Suite providing a small living area with flat screen TV as opposed to the large in-room Jacuzzi found in the Spa room.

Enjoy a Rustic Retreat at the Gatlinburg Bearskin Lodge

Bearskin Lodge on the River in Gatlinburg offers convenient access to all the entertainment Gatlinburg has to offer while also indulging guests in a bit of Smoky Mountain relaxation. The rustic retreat style of Bearskin Lodge welcomes guests in the lobby and the style continues throughout the property. The high rise lodge offers double queen units, which I found to be spacious and inviting from the moment I arrived.

My room had a unique mountain charm about it, and the in-room two person Jacuzzi and fireplace added a relaxing element I look for while on vacation. Moreover, the balcony overlooking the trickling creek flowing by was exactly the type of “rustic experience” Bearskin Lodge strives to create for guests, and I must admit, they achieve that goal and then some. The earthy tones my room was decorated in furthered the inviting atmosphere and the new mattress and bedding provided all the comfort one would need away from home. The bathroom featured a curved shower rod and vanity outside of the bath for extra space for guests. A small fridge was also in-room.

Amenities at the Gatlinburg Bearskin Lodge include wireless in the lobby, hi-speed internet in rooms, a large breakfast room, which serves standard continental breakfast items as well as waffles and biscuits and gravy, as well as a medium sized pool area that is currently undergoing renovations. The pool area will soon be completed and will feature a small pool, lazy river, two fire pits and landscaping. Further renovations at the Bearskin Lodge are scheduled for winter ’09.

The Bearskin Lodge is a perfect place to stay for anyone wanting to enjoy the allure of the Smoky Mountains yet still want to be pampered.

Quaint yet Cozy Accommodations Found at Gatlinburg's Smoky Pines Motel

The Smoky Pines Motel in Gatlinburg is a quaint property located in the Baskins Creek area, just off the parkway in downtown Gatlinburg. The motel specializes in providing hospitable accommodations reflecting the natural aspect of the Smoky Mountains that surround the area. Double/Double rooms and King rooms are the standard room types available, and each has a unique design.

The double/double unit I lodged in reminded me of a cabin in its style and provided more of a homey touch than regular, run-of-the-mill motel rooms. The two double beds, which had pillow top mattresses, were surrounded by rustic lodge décor in earthy tones like greens and browns, with pine ceilings complimenting the entire room and moderately used case goods found throughout. A flat screen TV is also in-room, as are some chairs for relaxing. The bathroom was rather small, but efficient.

The King room was, of course, more spacious than the double/double unit and it also came equipped with a seasonal fireplace. All room types come standard with microwave, mini-fridge and free wireless internet.  Please note, wireless internet is not available during the winter months.

Amenities at the Gatlinburg Smoky Pines Motel include an outdoor pool and sun deck.

Pigeon Forge Fairfield Inn Provides Comfortable Lodging at a Fair Price

The Fairfield Inn & Suites in Pigeon Forge is a great place to stay due to their location and hospitality. Their large lobby features 24 hour FREE coffee and a medium sized breakfast room where a continental breakfast is served. A small fitness center with three machines is available for guests, as is their outdoor pool which is accentuated by beautiful landscaping, plenty of patio seating and a nearby courtyard.

The lodging units at the Sevierville Fairfield Inn allow guests the option of staying in a double queen room or executive suite room, depending on your vacation needs. The double queen room I viewed had new case goods, including a comfortable chair & desk, and also features new down blankets and feather pillows for a relaxing night’s sleep. The décor is chic and minimalist with blues, greens and yellows accenting the room. The bathroom had a new granite vanities and a curved shower rod, creating extra space.

The executive suite at the Fairfield Inn has a separate living area, divided by a half wall, which is outfitted with a large TV, sofa sleeper and stereo system. A queen bed is located in the bedroom, along with a desk & chair, and additional TV.

The Pigeon Forge Fairfield Inn is an all interior corridor property and does have a guest laundry. In the winter of 2009, this property underwent extensive renovations and now features a very modern design known as the “Green Tea Package.” The design is highlighted by bright colors like oranges, reds and greens and includes new case goods for the rooms.

Take a Mountain Escape at Brother's Cove Resort

The Brother’s Cove Log Cabin Resort in Gatlinburg is secluded and provides the “real” cabin experience many Gatlinburg vacationers are looking for. Located off of Wears Valley Road, this sprawling property provides the gorgeous mountain views, top of the mountain setting and the luxurious amenities one expects while staying in a cabin in Tennessee. After winding through the roads leading to Brother’s Cove Resort, I was pleasantly surprised with what I found at the end of the road.

The property offers 1, 2, & 3 bedroom cabins in standard and luxury varieties. While I visited, I stayed in a 1 bedroom luxury unit, which had spectacular mountain views, made even better by the massive picture windows in my cabin. The cabin had an open layout and the fully equipped kitchen and living room flowed nicely together, creating an open space for enjoying family and friends. The living room had extremely comfortable couches, a rock fireplace and flat screen TV. The décor is, of course, rustic lodge themed and incorporates the natural elements of the beautiful Smoky Mountains. A large master bedroom was located on the main level with a Jacuzzi in-room and also had a small sitting area with TV. Downstairs is where the fun begins, as a pool table, large TV and couches are found there, as well as an extra large Jacuzzi on the expansive wrap-a-round porch.

The 300 acre Pigeon Forge Brother’s Cove Cabin Resort also offers a large pool, with covered pavilion and hammocks nearby. Brother’s Cove truly provides the mountain cabin experience, and is an excellent choice if you’d like to be away from the hustle and bustle of the Parkway. The views alone are worth checking in to Brother’s Cove Resort.

The Pigeon Forge All Season Suites is a Sweet Place to Stay for Families

The All Season Suites in Pigeon Forge is a home away from home lodging facility, where the accommodations allow people to feel comfortable yet pampered. There are family suites (one bedroom) and two bedroom suites offered, and both are utilized to showcase the value of the All Season Suites in Pigeon Forge, which are located extremely close to Dollywood. They have a tremendously large lobby with a fireplace and televisions and an abundance of seating for guests enjoyment. There are also two computers in the lobby for guest use, although wireless internet is available throughout the property. A heated outdoor pool is located right outside the lobby. The All Season Suites provides a FREE full country breakfast to guests which includes the standard continental breakfast items, plus biscuits and gravy and a made-to-order omelet stand, where the creations are absolutely delicious and a great way to start your day.

The One Bedroom Family Suite features a sitting area with TV and sleeper sofa, and efficiency kitchen with everything one would need, except an oven. Dishes can be provided by the front desk with a $20 deposit, which is fully refunded upon return of clean dishes. The bedroom is furnished with two queen beds, for a total occupancy of 6 persons. The interior décor of all the suites are furnished with basic case goods and are highlighted by a floral décor.

The layout of the two bedroom suite is divided with bedrooms (one king and two queen beds, respectively) being on either side of the living room, which has a sofa sleeper and TV. It also features the aforementioned efficiency kitchen. In this traveler’s opinion, the Pigeon Forge All Season Suites is a top choice for families visiting Pigeon Forge due to its budget friendly price and spacious suites.

Accommodations by Sunset Cottage Provide Smoky Mountain Experience for Guests

Accommodations by Sunset Cottage in Pigeon Forge offer luxurious cabins to guests staying in the beautiful Smoky Mountains. They have a wide array of cabins to choose from, ranging in size from one bedroom to eight bedrooms.

During my visit, I lodged in a large five bedroom, three story cabin that was rustic yet relaxing and perfect for my time in Tennessee. The cabin had a very large living area that opened spaciously into the fully equipped kitchen, which had a picnic-style table. The at-home feel of the cabin made fixing breakfast and some dinners a breeze, and was especially ideal for when traveling with kids. The cabin had a massive wrap-a-round porch, on two levels, creating plenty of space for lounging and relaxing. The large hot tub and rocking chairs on the porch didn’t hurt either! The master bedroom was very spacious as well, and provided a small area with TV and recliner, as well as huge master bath with walk-in shower, large Jacuzzi and dual sinks. The upstairs housed two bedrooms, with two bathrooms, each decorated in lodge-type décor. Large picture windows are found throughout the cabin, which provide beautiful views of the area.

The downstairs was where the fun was located, as an air hockey table, pool table, fireplace and TV with DVD player and plenty of seating was found there, as well as two more bedroom and two more bathrooms. This cabin was everything I could’ve hoped for while staying in the Smoky Mountains, and I am sure the Pigeon Forge Accommodations by Sunset Cottage will be able to fulfill your needs as well.

Pigeon Forge Mountain View Condos offer Great Rates & Great Location

The Mountain View Condominiums in Pigeon Forge are one of the newest facilities in Pigeon Forge, as they just opened last year. The design of the property is such that it feels like an apartment complex but detailed enough to create a resort environment. There is a clubhouse and outdoor pool on-site, as well as a business center and wireless internet throughout.

The condo units at Mountain View come in one, two and three bedroom varieties and are 940 sq. ft., 1044 sq. ft. and 1370 sq. ft. respectively. While I visited the complex, I had the pleasure of viewing all three unit types, and all have a modern Asian flair to their design and are very spacious. The one bedroom unit has an open floor plan, with a full kitchen, which features granite counters and modern appliances, flowing nicely into the dining and living area, which is furnished with new furniture, a small fireplace and a flat screen TV. The living area also has a small half bath as well as bunk beds in a small alcove area. The master bedroom features a comfortable king bed and flat screen TV and is highlighted by a huge master bath with a walk-in shower, dual sinks and a large Jacuzzi.

The two bedroom unit is virtually the same as the one bedroom unit except it has a full second bedroom which includes an additional full bath. The three bedroom unit ups the ante by featuring an additional bedroom with two twin beds which share a full bath with the non-master second bedroom. All bedrooms, except for the twin rooms at Mountain View, feature flat screen televisions. Plus, every unit at the Pigeon Forge Mountain View Condos also has a balcony.

Stay & Play in the Mountains at Hearthside Cabin Rentals

Hearthside Cabin Rentals in Pigeon Forge specialize in luxurious accommodations off the beaten path. For a true Smoky Mountain experience, a cabin is a great way to stay in Pigeon Forge, and Hearthside Cabins excel in customer satisfaction. The Rocky Branch Recreation Center is available to cabin guests in certain areas, and it includes an indoor heated pool, basketball court, horse-shoes and picnic pavilion. Many of the Hearthside Cabins have swimming access in various resorts.

The three bedroom cabin I stayed in while visiting was everything I could ask for: cozy, rustic and peaceful with a touch of luxury. It featured lodge-style décor, a full country-style kitchen which flows nicely into the open living room that is furnished with comfortable leather couches, a stone fireplace and TV and DVD player for guest enjoyment. The cabin had a very large master bedroom with large sitting area with TV for relaxing. There was also a huge wrap around deck highlighted by a large 5-person hot tub, wooden rocking chairs & porch swing. Downstairs provided plenty of entertainment as it had a pool table, leather couches, a huge ’50 TV, wet bar with fridge and CD player. The other two bedrooms are located downstairs as well, and share a bathroom.

There are a lot of options when staying at the Pigeon Forge Hearthside Cabin Rentals, as they have cabins in one, two and three bedroom layouts in economy, standard and luxury varieties. However, because of their variety of options, they have something for everybody, in every price range.

Cherokee Lodge in Pigeon Forge Offers Affordable Luxury

The Cherokee Lodge in Pigeon Forge is an all-new condominium development promising luxury and convenience for families vacationing in Pigeon Forge. Offering two and three bedroom condos, the Cherokee Lodge has something to fit everyone’s needs.

While I was in Pigeon Forge, I stayed in a two bedroom condo that was spacious and appointed with luxurious amenities and decorated in earthy tones and décor that reflected the heritage of the Great Smoky Mountains. The fully equipped stainless steel kitchen flowed nicely into the dining area and living room, all of which had exceptional case goods and hardwood flooring. The living room had very comfortable furniture that was great after a long day at Dollywood, and was also equipped with a large flat screen TV and gas fireplace. A sizeable balcony was accessible from both the living room and master bedroom and provided a nice respite in the mornings and nights. The master bedroom was adorned with luxurious bedding and comfortable beds, and featured a master bath with walk-in shower, large Jacuzzi tub and granite vanities. The second bedroom featured a queen bed and a nice size bathroom with curved shower rod. Every condo comes standard with washer/dryer. All bedrooms also come with a flat screen TV.

On site amenities at the Pigeon Forge Cherokee Lodge include a big pool with zero entry accessibility, a mushroom water feature and spiraling slide with plenty of patio seating for guests. An exercise room with a treadmill, elliptical machine, free weights and exercise ball is also available.

Oak Tree Lodge Pigeon Forge Provides Home Away From Home for Vacationers

The Oak Tree Lodge in Pigeon Forge Tennessee is a charming property located right on the Parkway, granting easy access to all Pigeon Forge attractions. The building is decorated in quaint yellows and greens, with red awnings, creating a country-like atmosphere in the middle of Pigeon Forge. The amenities at the Pigeon Forge Oak Tree Lodge include a large indoor pool with plenty of indoor and outdoor patio seating, as well as a small breakfast room that serves a continental breakfast (including biscuits & gravy) from 6:30am-9:30am. An exercise room is slated to open sometime soon, as is the revamped outdoor pool, in which they are installing new water features. Wireless internet is available throughout the property.

The rooms at the Pigeon Forge Oak Tree Lodge come in standard and Jacuzzi varieties. The standard rooms are furnished with two queen beds, nice case goods, fridge, and decorated in earthy tones like mauves and light browns. The bathrooms are laid out nicely, with a granite vanity located outside of the bathroom as well as one being located inside the bathroom for guest convenience. The property is a mix of interior and exterior corridor rooms. Approximately half of the interior rooms have balconies, and the interior rooms come furnished with a café style table & chairs, as opposed to the non-balcony rooms, which come with a sofa. All rooms have all new mattresses.

The Jacuzzi suite is furnished with an extra large fireplace, which helps create a nice atmosphere, a large in-room Jacuzzi, a microwave & fridge, as well as a sofa and larger-than-normal balcony. It is reasonably priced and an excellent value for guests.

Luxury Abounds at Mountain Vista Condos in Gatlinburg

Mountain Vista Condominiums in Gatlinburg, Tennessee is a luxurious place to stay while visiting the beautiful Smoky Mountains. Located in the Baskins Creek area in downtown Gatlinburg, Mountain Vista is tucked away in a quiet area but has easy access to all of the entertainment and outdoor fun available, and is located on a Trolley stop for guest convenience. The five-story property offers two bedroom condos at a reasonable rate, especially considering the lavish appointments found inside.

Upon arriving at Mountain Vista, I found a massive lobby with rustic décor, a large lounge area with plenty of seating and a fireplace and flat screen TV for guest enjoyment. As I made my way to my condo, I was thoroughly impressed by the newness of the property. Although it opened in October 2006, none of the newness has worn off. When I entered my condo, I was even more impressed, as the unit was luxurious in design and layout and had vaulted ceilings. The fully equipped kitchen, adorned with granite and tile, opened spaciously into the dining area and living room, all of which were equipped with elegant case goods enriching the quality of comfort of the units. The living area was appointed with leather couches, a large flat screen TV, gas fireplace and provided balcony access. The balcony was very relaxing and roomy, and mine overlooked their large pool area. The master bedroom made me feel pampered, as the case goods were of the quality you’d expect to find in a home, as were the bedding & linens. The master bath was also opulent due to its size, dual sinks, large walk-in shower and large Jacuzzi. In the second bedroom I found two queen beds, and their adjoining bathroom was spacious as well, and was equipped with dual sinks. Both bedrooms had a TV & DVD player.

The Gatlinburg Mountain Vista Condos amenities reflect the natural aspect of the area, with a creek trickling by the generous-sized pool area, which has a large pool, hot tub, fire pit, beautiful landscaping and plentiful patio seating for guests.

FantasyWorld Resort Orlando is a Family-Friendly Option for Vacationers

FantasyWorld Resort in Orlando is a sprawling 35 acre resort with a plentiful amount of amenities to please even the most discernable guest. Upon arriving at the resort, I found their large lobby had an array of seating, a large flat screen TV, small game room and pool table, children’s activities center and business center for guest use. The other impressive amenities at this resort include 3 swimming pools, 5 lighted tennis courts, lighted basketball court, small exercise room, bar on-site serving light fare, shuffle board, kids playground with sand, life-size chess set and a water wars game. The FantasyWorld Resort has a revamped pool area with a zero entry design which includes water features. Wireless internet is also available throughout the resort, and there are no resort fees at this property. Also, cribs are available at no additional charge, but no rollaways are available. Complimentary shuttles to attractions are also available to guests.

The accommodations at this Spanish style resort are of the two bedroom/two bath condo variety and sleep up to six. The layout of the units include an upstairs and downstairs, with the full kitchen, dining and living room area, and one of the two bathrooms located downstairs. The kitchen, although somewhat small, does come stocked with all appliances and utensils one would need, and the living room includes a flat screen TV with screened in balcony/patio access. The two bedrooms are located upstairs with one outfitted with two twin beds with TV, and the other outfitted with a king bed and TV. A washer/dryer is also located upstairs. The units are all decorated in a tropical/floral décor.

This resort is not handicap accessible, so be aware of this before making reservations.

FantasyWorld is also home to FantasySurf, where guests can catch the ultimate indoor wave.  There is an additional charge for this activity.

Afford a Nice Vacation at EconoLodge Orlando

The EconoLodge Inn & Suites in Orlando boasts over 650 rooms, a large lobby with gift shop and a great location for easy access to all things Orlando. The lobby also features a large game room, complete with air hockey and basketball shooting game. Wireless Internet is available throughout the hotel and FREE shuttles are scheduled to the parks as well. An extra large pool area makes relaxing easy for guests as it includes a spacious pool, hot tub, kids area and plenty of patio seating for sunning. A Pool Bar & Café is also open from 8am-12am, as weather permits.

The accommodations at Orlando’s EconoLodge have been recently renovated to create a warmer and more inviting experience for guests. The walls have been painted a warm peach color, and are accented by new bedding and carpet, as well as new case goods. The bathrooms are standard but the EconoLodge has implemented curved shower rods to create a more spacious feel and the vanities are larger than normal. The Deluxe Rooms are very similar to the standard room although they do include a microwave and fridge, and guests are guaranteed to be poolside when they reserve a Deluxe Room.

Jacuzzi Suites and Kitchenettes are also available at this property. Please call for special availability of these rooms. The Jacuzzi Suites are very nice and include the largest Jacuzzi I’ve ever seen, and the Orlando EconoLodge is one of the few properties on I-Drive that have Jacuzzi Suites.

Country Inn & Suites Orlando Makes Guests Feel Right at Home

The Country Inn & Suites in Orlando Florida offers cozy accommodations at reasonable rates, with a bit of southern hospitality thrown in for good measure. Their large lobby boasts a breakfast room that holds up to 75 people, where a delicious hot breakfast including biscuits & gravy, eggs, sausage, waffles, and the other continental items are served to guests. A gift shop featuring Florida souvenirs and Disney paraphernalia is also available, as well as a computer for guest access and small fitness center for guests who like to exercise away from home. A large game room featuring air hockey is located on the ground floor, just steps away from their medium sized pool.

My King Suite had a small living area upon entering which housed a queen sleeper sofa, a microwave and mini-fridge, as well as standard size television. The bedroom, of course, had a king bed, television, in-room safe and was decorated in greens and purples. There is no door between the bedroom and living area but there is a divider-style hallway so some separation can be managed. The bathroom has a large vanity area & curved shower rod for extra space. All of the carpet has recently been replaced in all rooms, as has the chairs and sofas. Coming this fall, all of the bedding and curtains are changing to a style that includes greens, reds and golds.

The Standard Double Queen room at Country Inn & Suites Orlando offers two queen beds, a standard ’27 television, in-room safe, café style table & chairs, moderately used case goods, with new flat screen televisions and armoires coming in the fall. All rooms do have fresh paint on the walls, and high ceilings, making the rooms feel extra spacious.

Wireless Internet is available throughout the building and there is also a guest laundry.

Comfort & Convenience can be found at Orlando Metropolitan Resort

The Metropolitan Resort in Orlando Florida is a large property with over 500 rooms and plenty of amenities to satisfy the needs of Orlando travelers. Located on I-Drive, they provide easy access to Orlando attractions while also maintaining a peaceful and relaxing environment for guests. Upon arriving at the Orlando Metropolitan Resort, I was impressed by their large lobby which was inviting and was also home to Cargo Bar & Grill, a gift shop, business center, small game room and Hertz Rent-a-Car. A few of the other great amenities at this resort include an extra large pool area featuring Ripp’s Pool Bar and plenty of patio seating for relaxing and sunning by the pool. Plus, guests get full complimentary access to the adjacent YMCA, which has a large assortment of cardio machines, weights, and an enormous pool with lap lanes and diving boards. Tennis courts are also located on-site. Breakfast is served at Cargo Bay, and prices are as follows: for a continental breakfast it is $3.99; for a full American buffet breakfast it is $6.99.

The rooms at the Orlando Metropolitan Resort come in standard or deluxe varieties, with the difference between the two essentially being that the standard rooms are exterior corridor rooms and the deluxe rooms are interior corridor rooms. The spacious rooms come stocked with two queen sleep number beds and include a microwave, fridge, desk and comfortable chair, all decorated in light yellows, with browns and maroons interspersed throughout. All rooms have been recently renovated, and the new case goods, bedding and décor create an appealing atmosphere for guests. The bathrooms also provide extra space as they include a very nice granite vanity outside of the bath, with a sink and vanity inside the bathroom, and a curved shower rod has also been implemented.

Beginning early summer 2009, the interior corridor portion of the Metropolitan Resort will change to a Radisson hotel, while the exterior corridors will retain the name Metropolitan Resort. They will share all amenities and have one central lobby.

Orlando Blue Tree Resort an Oasis of Amenities for Guests

The Blue Tree Resort in Orlando Florida is an all-encompassing resort that is great for families. The lobby of the facility includes Kids Place, complete with games and toys, and flat screen television and business center for guest convenience. There are a lot of amenities at the Orlando Blue Tree Resort, including 4 outdoor pools ( and each has different features and different ambiance), a marketplace, guest laundry, 24 hour security, shuffle board, a huge game room with a variety of games including air hockey, sand volleyball court, mini-golf (free to guests,) BBQ grills and basketball and tennis courts. Plus, there is a large fitness center boasting plenty of equipment, a television and pool views for guest enjoyment. There are no resort fees at this property.

The accommodations at Blue Tree Resort come in one or two bedroom varieties. The one bedroom unit has a full kitchen, a living room with television and sofa sleeper as well as balcony or patio access. A tropical décor accents the unit throughout, including the bedroom which is equipped with a flat screen TV. The bath is somewhat small, but a curved shower rod has been implemented for added space. Cribs and high-chairs are available too, at no extra charge.

The two bedroom unit at the Orlando Blue Tree Resort has a larger kitchen, dining and living area and also has balcony/patio access. The master bedroom has a flat screen TV and master bath with the aforementioned curved shower rod. The vanity is located outside of the bath to make getting ready in the morning easier than ever. The other room housed two twin beds, which has access to a medium sized bathroom. The layout overall, of both units, is spacious and relaxing.

Rodeway Inn Maingate Orlando Offers Cozy Accommodations at Great Rates

The Rodeway Inn Maingate Orlando offers affordable yet cozy accommodations for guests who plan to save on lodging and spend on entertainment. The layout of the Rodeway Inn includes 4 buildings, with a courtyard and pool area located in the middle of the grounds. The courtyard area is nicely landscaped and very open, and the pool area is large and provides plenty of space in a secluded environment. The hotel does offer juice and donuts in the morning for guests, but there is no breakfast room. The lobby does have several couches, where wireless internet is available, and there is also a large gift shop, where guests get a 10% discount. A guest laundry, with 6 machines is also available for guest convenience, as well as a Disney Shuttle. Also, when staying at the Orlando Rodeway Inn Maingate kids under 12 eat free at IHOP & Shoney’s with a paying adult.

The standard double rooms offered at the Kissimmee Rodeway Inn Maingate include two double beds, standard case goods that have seen a little wear, with a floral/tropical décor. The unit has a small bath, with vanity on the outside, and the room also comes with a café style table & chairs. The rooms are all impeccably clean and at an average rate of just $30 a night, they can’t be beat. Other room types, including kitchenette rooms and rooms with microwaves & fridges are also available.

This property has no elevators, so keep that in mind when making reservations.

Days Inn Maingate Orlando Serves Up Deals to Guests

The Days Inn Maingate East Orlando offers great rates, a convenient location and a full hot breakfast (seasonal) for guests vacationing in Orlando Florida. This tourist class hotel has 400 rooms, shuttles for all the attractions like Disney & Universal, and a new gift shop coming soon offering souvenirs & sundry items. The Safari cafeteria, where the breakfast buffet is served, is very large. The breakfast buffet offers a full hot breakfast from 7am-11am, with a multitude of items, and is usually $3.99 for adults and kids eat free. Note: The Safari Cafeteria is currently closed, as of November 13, 2009.

The Orlando Days Inn Maingate buildings are organized around a large, landscaped courtyard boasting a large playground with sand, BBQ area, extra large pool, which is heated in the winter, and also has plenty of patio seating for guests.

The accommodations at the property are standard double rooms, which comes with two double beds equipped with beauty rest mattresses. The floral décor is accented by moderately used case goods, and the room includes a standard size TV with a Nintendo gaming system. The rooms are very clean and although the bathrooms were small, they have implemented a curved shower rod to add extra space. New renovations are coming soon, with plans to install new carpet, bedding, and drapes in the works. The outside of the buildings are all getting touched up too, with a Terra Cotta style design. Microwaves & fridge’s can be rented, for $10 a day.

Orlando Days Inn Convention Center Budget Friendly Option for Travelers

The Days Inn Convention Center Hotel in Orlando is located on International Drive, right next to the Orange County Convention Center. Their location is great for both attraction seekers and business travelers. Their lobby has a cozy sitting area with large flat screen TV and computer and printer/fax available to guests. An IHOP is located on property and kids 12 and under eat FREE with a paying adult. There is a medium sized pool area located on property as well, with a new kids play area coming soon. A small fitness center with three items is also available to guests.

The standard rooms at the Days Inn Convention Center Orlando feature two double beds and standard amenities such as coffee maker, hair dryer and alarm. A lot of changes are coming to the Days Inn, including new bedding, new carpet, new granite countertops for the vanities (all being completed within months) and new case goods will be coming next year. New beds have already been installed, and in 1/6 of the rooms flat screen televisions and microwaves and fridges are currently available. The bathrooms were all done last year and feature new tile and curved shower rods.

The Orlando Days Inn Convention Center Orlando is a budget-friendly property that strives to accommodate families and travelers as well as create memorable experience for all.

Excel Management Offers Excellent Orlando Vacation Homes

Excel Management & Rentals in Orlando is an exceptional vacation home company offering the very best for their guests in Orlando vacation homes. While I stayed in Orlando, I lodged in a 4 bedroom vacation home in the gated community of Glen Eagles at Remington. The house was tastefully decorated in earthy tones like brown, green, gold and deep red. The layout was very spacious and offered a very large kitchen and living room area, which had comfortable couches and chairs, as well as a flat screen television. Just off the living area, two French doors led to a nice sized pool, which was screened in, with patio seating. The master bedroom, located on the ground floor, is large, and comes with a comfortable bed, flat screen TV, and an extra spacious master bath with dual sinks, whirlpool tub and walk-in shower.

The other three bedrooms were located upstairs and the superior quality of Orlando Excel Management properties is reflected here, just as well as it was downstairs. Very nice case goods complimented the layout of the rooms, of which two bedrooms housed a queen bed and the fourth had two twin beds. Two bathrooms were located upstairs as well, so no one has to worry about sharing one bathroom with a large family.

All vacation homes rented by Excel Management have different décor and layouts, but the consistency of their quality does not change. Another plus is their check-in procedure – you do not have to go to their office, you simply receive you key code and drive directly to your vacation home which is a great convenience.

Bill Haley's Original Comets Show in Branson Rockets to Success

One of the newest shows in town, Bill Haley’s Original Comets, has a new home this year at the Andy Williams Moon River Theater. Previously, they were located at the Dick Clark American Bandstand Theater and performed in a very entertaining afternoon production known as 2 O’Clock Rocks, which featured “Diamond” Dave Somerville, original lead for “The Diamonds” & McKenna Medley (Bill Medley’s Daughter), as well as Bill Haley’s Original Comets. This year, The Comets star in their own show, celebrating not only the beloved music of the 50s & 60s, but also the innocence of the days when poodle skirts and saddle shoes were all the rage.

Bill Haley’s Original Comets in Branson treats guests to their fantastic hits, and of course, a bit of comedy to spice things up! They begin their set with “Shake, Rattle & Roll” and dive right into other hits like “House is Rockin,” which is a great live performance, and “See You Later, Alligator,” as well as a medley of lesser known hits like “Crazy Man Crazy,” “Dim, Dim the Lights,” “Mambo Rock” & “Rock-A-Beatin' Boogie.” “Rock the Joint” and a Louis Armstrong infused “What a Wonderful World” were also standouts. My favorite, though, would have to be their performances of “Rockin Robin” & “Rock Around the Clock.” They were spot on during these segments, and really brought the house down.

The gentlemen who perform in this show are really amazing, and their showmanship and talent really shines on the stage. Marshall Lytle and Joey d'Ambrosio, both 75, play their instruments with the energy and enthusiasm of teenagers, all the while performing tricks and showboating with the best of them. However, I have to pay special tribute to their drummer, Dick Richards, who at the young age of 85 did a great job of banging those drums. His drum solo totally blew me away!