Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Harry P Leu Gardens PARK
MAP
( www.leugardens.org ; 1920 N Forest Ave; adult/student $10/3; 9am-5pm) One mile east of
Loch Haven Park is this 50-acre tranquil escape from all the gloss.
International Drive
Like a theme park itself, International Dr (I-Dr) is shoulder to shoulder with high-energy
amusements: sprinkled among the major theme, wildlife and water parks, smaller attrac-
tions shout for attention: Ripley's Believe It or Not, the upside-down WonderWorks and
an indoor skydiving experience. Chain restaurants and hotels also crowd the thorough-
fare.
Check online for combo tickets with Discovery Cove and Aquatica.
Universal Orlando Resort THEME PARK
( 407-363-8000; www.universalorlando.com ; 1000 Universal Studios Plaza; single/both parks
$92/128, discounts on multiday; daily, hours vary) Universal is giving Disney a run for its
money with this mega-complex that features two theme parks, a water park, three hotels
and Universal CityWalk, an entertainment district that connects the two parks. But where
Disney World is all happy and magical, Universal Orlando gets your adrenaline pumping
with revved-up rides and entertaining shows. The first of the two parks, Universal Studi-
os, has a Hollywood backlot feel and simulation-heavy rides dedicated to television and
the silver screen, from The Simpsons and Shrek to Revenge of the Mummy and Twister.
Universal's Islands of Adventure is tops with coaster-lovers but also has plenty for the
little ones in Toon Lagoon and Seuss Landing.
But the absolute highlight - and the hottest thing to hit Orlando since Cinderella's
Castle - is the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Located within Islands of Adventure,
it's easily the most fantastically realized themed experience in Florida. Muggles are in-
vited to poke along the cobbled streets and impossibly crooked buildings of Hogsmeade,
sip frothy Butter Beer and mail a card via Owl Post, all in the shadow of Hogwarts Caste.
The detail and authenticity tickle the fancy at every turn, from the screeches of the man-
drakes in the shop windows to the groans of Moaning Myrtle in the bathroom; keep your
eyes peeled for magical happenings.
Review multiple ticket options online, which can include add-ons like Express Plus
line skipping and a dining plan; resort hotel guests also get nice park perks. Parking is
$16.
 
 
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