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.