Orlando Gateway Hotel
7299 Universal Boulevard
After having sticker shock over the exorbitant amount our first hotel stay was in Orlando, on-site at Universal at the Royal Pacific Hotel, we decided that since we were planning on just taking off the next morning, it made more sense for us to find a different, cheaper hotel for our second night. We have frequently stayed at Best Western hotels so we usually check those out first before moving on to something else. That's when we came across the Orlando Gateway Hotel. This really seeemed to meet our needs for the night.
We checked in around 10:15pm after our full day at Universal. The room didn't really seem that special, but it wasn't bad in any way. It was exactly what we needed. We were so exhausted we just wanted to go to bed.
About ½ hour after we woke up, our toilet broke and started spewing water from the tank so Tom had to turn the water off and call the front desk. Luckily, we were checking out soon.
I wouldn't say there's anything super special about this hotel, but it definitely gets the job done. And it felt clean. I feel like that's the most important thing when it comes to hotels.
Saturday, May 5, 2018
Friday, May 4, 2018
Universal Studios
WARNING: This will be a very long post with lots of pictures! Hopefully, there's some good information in here for you to help with your vacation planning! Now, let's get started!
World Expo
Attractions:
1. Fear Factor Live – Live Show – No height requirement
2. Kang & Kodos' Twirl 'n' Hurl – Aerial carousel – Over 48” or with an adult
3. Men in Black: Alien Attack – Interactive Dark Ride – Over 48” or over 42” with adult
With a posted time of 50 minutes, we only waited 15 minutes with Express Passes. We absolutely love this ride. It's so much fun to shoot all the aliens! Make sure you keep the button pressed down the whole time to get the most points.
4. The Simpsons Ride – Motion Simulator – Over 48” or over 40” with adult
5. The Simpsons Character Zone – Character Zone – Sideshow Bob and Krusty the Clown, plus possibly the members of the Simpson family
Dining:
1. Bumblebee Man's Taco Truck
Mexican street food, Quick Service Dining, Starting at $7
2. Cletus' Chicken Shack
chicken & waffle sandwich, chicken arms, chicken thumbs, Quick Service Dining, Starting at $9
3. Duff Brewery
Quick Service Dining, Starting at $8
4. Flaming Moe's
fruit-flavored drinks, Quick Service Dining
5. Krusty Burger
Krusty Burger, Clogger Burger, The Ribwich, Sideshow Bob Foot Long, The Heat Lamp Dog, Quick Service Dining, Starting at $8
6. Lard Lad Donuts
giant pink donuts, Quick Service Dining, Starting at $4
7. Lisa's Teahouse of Horror
pre-packaged items like salads, veggie sandwiches, turkey wraps, hummus, fruit plates, fruit cups and yogurt, Quick Service Dining, Starting at $7
8. Luigi's Pizza
individual pizzas – cheese, vegetarian, Meat Liker's, Quick Service Dining, Starting at $7
9. Moe's Tavern
try the love tester machine, Quick Service Dining
We were excited to go in here because the last time we came, it was closed by the time we got around to it. This time, we sat at the bar and ate a Big Pink (yes, they sell the big pink donuts from Lard Lad's at the bar in Moe's) while my husband ordered a Duff and my son ordered a Flaming Moe. It's almost worth it to get this drink just to watch the guy pour it! It's so much fun to see it bubble. It's just an orange soda with a dry ice cube in the bottom (in a little compartment so you can't actually touch it). And the Big Pink is seriously one of the tastiest donuts I've ever had. It's so light and fluffy and there's just the perfect amount of frosting on top for my liking.
10. The Frying Dutchman
Basket O' Shrimp, Basket O' Calamari, Basket O' Bait, Clam Chowd-arr, Quick Service Dining, Starting at $9
Woody Woodpecker's KidZone
Attractions:
1. A Day in the Park with Barney – Live Show – No height requirement
2. Animal Actors on Location! – Live Show – No height requirement
3. Curious George Goes to Town – Play area – No height requirement
4. E.T. Adventure – Dark Ride – Over 48 inches or over 34” with adult
The posted time was 20 minutes and we waited 5 minutes with our Express Passes. Honestly, the ride is fine. It's super weird. And I wanted to like it because so many people have said how much they like it. But I just couldn't get past how uncomfortable I was. I didn't know if I was going to be able to make it through the whole ride. My hips were WAY to big to be comfortable. But still, I guess the ride was pretty cool, definitely old, but classic. Plus, I really enjoyed the pictures my son got to take after the ride in the gift shop.
5. Fievel's Playland – Play area – No height requirement
6. Woody Woodpecker's Nuthouse Coaster – Vekoma Junior Coaster – Over 48” or over 36” with adult
With a posted time of 45 minutes, we only waited 5 minutes with Express Passes. It was pretty similar to Flight of the Hippogriff. It was fun, but very short (good thing we didn't wait very long).
7. Meet Spongebob Squarepants – Character Zone – Spongebob and Patrick
Dining:
1. KidZone Pizza Company
pizza, chicken fingers, chef salads, Quick Service Dining, Starting at $8
Hollywood
Attractions:
1. Universal Orlando's Horror Make-Up Show – Live Show – No height requirement
2. Studios Brass Band – Musical Show – TV and movie theme songs
3. Universal's Superstar Parade – Parade – Spongebob Squarepants, Dora & Diego, The Secret Life of Pets, and Despicable Me characters
4. Character Party Zone – Character Zone – meet some of your favorite theme park characters
5. Hollywood Character Zone – Woody Woodpecker, Curious George, Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Homer, Bart, Marge, Lisa, Marilyn Monroe, Betty Boop, Lucille Ball, Hello Kitty, Doc Brown
6. Meet Shrek & Donkey – Character Zone
Dining:
1. Cafe La Bamba
Character Breakfast and Premium Dining Experience, Quick Service Dining, Starting at $8
2. Mel's Drive-In
50's drive-in – burgers and fries, chicken sandwiches, chicken fingers, floats and milk shakes, Quick Service Dining, Starting at $8
3. Schwab's Pharmacy
ice cream sundaes, milk shakes, malts, banana splits and ice cream floats, Quick Service Dining, Starting at $5
Production Central
Attractions:
1. Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem – 4D Motion Simulator – Over 48” or over 40” with an adult
This was one of our longer waits of the day with the posted time being 100 minutes and our wait time with Express Passes (from the point where we got in line to when we actually got on the ride – not that waiting room you go into for the opening info) was 20 minutes. There are a couple rooms before that are like ride intros, but it's still just waiting in my opinion. We love this ride. It's so much fun and the story is absolutely adorable.
2. Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit – X-Car Music roller coaster – Over 51” but under 79”
This was the first time my son was tall enough to ride this. They even pulled him out of line to check his height and he JUST made it. I'm talking potentially less than a centimeter, folks. And he had the time of his life. He almost chickened out about 5 times, but he eventually got on the ride and at the end, it was his new favorite! This is a real rollercoaster that takes you on spins and huge plunges. The posted time for this ride was 75 minutes and with Express Passes, my son and husband only waited 10 minutes.
3. Shrek 4-D – 4D ride – No height requirement
4. Transformers: The Ride-3D – 4D motion based dark ride – Over 48” or over 40” with adult
This was one of our favorite rides 3 years ago and it didn't disappoint this time around either. The posted wait time 65 minutes and with Express Passes, we waited 10 minutes. This ride is great about putting you into the story and really making you think that you're a real character in this high-speed chase to get the Allspark and keep it away from Megatron.
5. Meet the Transformers – Character Zone – Optimus Prime, Bumblebee, and the evil Megatron
We were able to get in line just as they were switching from Megatron to Optimus Prime. Owen was really excited to meet him. They're so huge. I only wish the pictures could do the transformers justice in really showing how big they are. We only waited about 5 minutes in this line.
Dining:
1. Beverly Hills Boulangerie
breakfast croissants, sandwiches, soup, salads and freshly baked pastries, Quick Service Dining, Starting at $3
2. Bone Chillin
beverage stand, frozen slush drinks, beer, and mixed drinks, Quick Service Dining, Starting at $4
3. Universal Studios' Classic Monsters Cafe
chicken, pizza, salads, Quick Service Dining, Starting at $8
New York
Attractions:
1. Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon – 4D Ride
2. Revenge of the Mummy – Launched roller coaster and dark ride – Over 48”
3. The Blues Brothers Show – Live show – No height requirement
4. Beat Builders – Musical Show – percussion show that incorporates materials and equipment found on a typical construction site
5. Marilyn and the Diamond Bellas – Musical Show
6. Sing It! – Musical Show – singing competition where powerhouse vocalists battle for a cappella supremacy
Dining:
1. Finnegan's Bar and Grill
Irish dishes – potato and leek soup, bangers and mash, shepherd's pie, corned beef and cabbage, fish & chips, Casual Dining, Starting at $10
2. Ben & Jerry's
cones, sundaes and shakes, plus delicious smoothies, Quick Service Dining, Starting at $5
3. Louie's Italian Restaurant
the Bronx's best pizza, spaghetti & meatballs, fettuccini, meatball subs, salads, plus gelato & Italian Ice, Quick Service Dining, Starting at $7
4. Starbucks Coffee
Quick Service Dining, Starting at $2
San Francisco
Attractions:
1. Fast and Furious: Supercharged
2. Flying Fish Market – Action Show – acrobatic fish tossing – located right by New York
Dining:
1. Lombard's Seafood Grille
New England clam chowder, bay shrimp Cobb salad, fish & fries and a catch of the day, Casual Dining, Starting at $11
2. Chez Alcatraz
homemade chips, flatbread, and specialty drinks, Quick Service Dining, Starting at $4
3. Richter's Burger Co.
double cheeseburgers that you top yourself at the fixins bar, plus chicken sandwiches, grilled chicken salads and milk shakes, Quick Service Dining, Starting at $8
4. San Francisco Pastry Company
pastries, soups, and sandwiches, Quick Service Dining, Starting at $3
The Jaws shark is in this area near the waterfront.
World Expo
Attractions:
1. Fear Factor Live – Live Show – No height requirement
2. Kang & Kodos' Twirl 'n' Hurl – Aerial carousel – Over 48” or with an adult
3. Men in Black: Alien Attack – Interactive Dark Ride – Over 48” or over 42” with adult
With a posted time of 50 minutes, we only waited 15 minutes with Express Passes. We absolutely love this ride. It's so much fun to shoot all the aliens! Make sure you keep the button pressed down the whole time to get the most points.
4. The Simpsons Ride – Motion Simulator – Over 48” or over 40” with adult
5. The Simpsons Character Zone – Character Zone – Sideshow Bob and Krusty the Clown, plus possibly the members of the Simpson family
Dining:
1. Bumblebee Man's Taco Truck
Mexican street food, Quick Service Dining, Starting at $7
2. Cletus' Chicken Shack
chicken & waffle sandwich, chicken arms, chicken thumbs, Quick Service Dining, Starting at $9
3. Duff Brewery
Quick Service Dining, Starting at $8
4. Flaming Moe's
fruit-flavored drinks, Quick Service Dining
5. Krusty Burger
Krusty Burger, Clogger Burger, The Ribwich, Sideshow Bob Foot Long, The Heat Lamp Dog, Quick Service Dining, Starting at $8
6. Lard Lad Donuts
giant pink donuts, Quick Service Dining, Starting at $4
7. Lisa's Teahouse of Horror
pre-packaged items like salads, veggie sandwiches, turkey wraps, hummus, fruit plates, fruit cups and yogurt, Quick Service Dining, Starting at $7
8. Luigi's Pizza
individual pizzas – cheese, vegetarian, Meat Liker's, Quick Service Dining, Starting at $7
9. Moe's Tavern
try the love tester machine, Quick Service Dining
We were excited to go in here because the last time we came, it was closed by the time we got around to it. This time, we sat at the bar and ate a Big Pink (yes, they sell the big pink donuts from Lard Lad's at the bar in Moe's) while my husband ordered a Duff and my son ordered a Flaming Moe. It's almost worth it to get this drink just to watch the guy pour it! It's so much fun to see it bubble. It's just an orange soda with a dry ice cube in the bottom (in a little compartment so you can't actually touch it). And the Big Pink is seriously one of the tastiest donuts I've ever had. It's so light and fluffy and there's just the perfect amount of frosting on top for my liking.
10. The Frying Dutchman
Basket O' Shrimp, Basket O' Calamari, Basket O' Bait, Clam Chowd-arr, Quick Service Dining, Starting at $9
Woody Woodpecker's KidZone
Attractions:
1. A Day in the Park with Barney – Live Show – No height requirement
2. Animal Actors on Location! – Live Show – No height requirement
3. Curious George Goes to Town – Play area – No height requirement
4. E.T. Adventure – Dark Ride – Over 48 inches or over 34” with adult
The posted time was 20 minutes and we waited 5 minutes with our Express Passes. Honestly, the ride is fine. It's super weird. And I wanted to like it because so many people have said how much they like it. But I just couldn't get past how uncomfortable I was. I didn't know if I was going to be able to make it through the whole ride. My hips were WAY to big to be comfortable. But still, I guess the ride was pretty cool, definitely old, but classic. Plus, I really enjoyed the pictures my son got to take after the ride in the gift shop.
5. Fievel's Playland – Play area – No height requirement
6. Woody Woodpecker's Nuthouse Coaster – Vekoma Junior Coaster – Over 48” or over 36” with adult
With a posted time of 45 minutes, we only waited 5 minutes with Express Passes. It was pretty similar to Flight of the Hippogriff. It was fun, but very short (good thing we didn't wait very long).
7. Meet Spongebob Squarepants – Character Zone – Spongebob and Patrick
Dining:
1. KidZone Pizza Company
pizza, chicken fingers, chef salads, Quick Service Dining, Starting at $8
Hollywood
Attractions:
1. Universal Orlando's Horror Make-Up Show – Live Show – No height requirement
2. Studios Brass Band – Musical Show – TV and movie theme songs
3. Universal's Superstar Parade – Parade – Spongebob Squarepants, Dora & Diego, The Secret Life of Pets, and Despicable Me characters
4. Character Party Zone – Character Zone – meet some of your favorite theme park characters
5. Hollywood Character Zone – Woody Woodpecker, Curious George, Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Homer, Bart, Marge, Lisa, Marilyn Monroe, Betty Boop, Lucille Ball, Hello Kitty, Doc Brown
6. Meet Shrek & Donkey – Character Zone
Dining:
1. Cafe La Bamba
Character Breakfast and Premium Dining Experience, Quick Service Dining, Starting at $8
2. Mel's Drive-In
50's drive-in – burgers and fries, chicken sandwiches, chicken fingers, floats and milk shakes, Quick Service Dining, Starting at $8
3. Schwab's Pharmacy
ice cream sundaes, milk shakes, malts, banana splits and ice cream floats, Quick Service Dining, Starting at $5
Production Central
Attractions:
1. Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem – 4D Motion Simulator – Over 48” or over 40” with an adult
This was one of our longer waits of the day with the posted time being 100 minutes and our wait time with Express Passes (from the point where we got in line to when we actually got on the ride – not that waiting room you go into for the opening info) was 20 minutes. There are a couple rooms before that are like ride intros, but it's still just waiting in my opinion. We love this ride. It's so much fun and the story is absolutely adorable.
2. Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit – X-Car Music roller coaster – Over 51” but under 79”
This was the first time my son was tall enough to ride this. They even pulled him out of line to check his height and he JUST made it. I'm talking potentially less than a centimeter, folks. And he had the time of his life. He almost chickened out about 5 times, but he eventually got on the ride and at the end, it was his new favorite! This is a real rollercoaster that takes you on spins and huge plunges. The posted time for this ride was 75 minutes and with Express Passes, my son and husband only waited 10 minutes.
3. Shrek 4-D – 4D ride – No height requirement
4. Transformers: The Ride-3D – 4D motion based dark ride – Over 48” or over 40” with adult
This was one of our favorite rides 3 years ago and it didn't disappoint this time around either. The posted wait time 65 minutes and with Express Passes, we waited 10 minutes. This ride is great about putting you into the story and really making you think that you're a real character in this high-speed chase to get the Allspark and keep it away from Megatron.
5. Meet the Transformers – Character Zone – Optimus Prime, Bumblebee, and the evil Megatron
We were able to get in line just as they were switching from Megatron to Optimus Prime. Owen was really excited to meet him. They're so huge. I only wish the pictures could do the transformers justice in really showing how big they are. We only waited about 5 minutes in this line.
Dining:
1. Beverly Hills Boulangerie
breakfast croissants, sandwiches, soup, salads and freshly baked pastries, Quick Service Dining, Starting at $3
2. Bone Chillin
beverage stand, frozen slush drinks, beer, and mixed drinks, Quick Service Dining, Starting at $4
3. Universal Studios' Classic Monsters Cafe
chicken, pizza, salads, Quick Service Dining, Starting at $8
New York
Attractions:
1. Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon – 4D Ride
2. Revenge of the Mummy – Launched roller coaster and dark ride – Over 48”
3. The Blues Brothers Show – Live show – No height requirement
4. Beat Builders – Musical Show – percussion show that incorporates materials and equipment found on a typical construction site
5. Marilyn and the Diamond Bellas – Musical Show
6. Sing It! – Musical Show – singing competition where powerhouse vocalists battle for a cappella supremacy
Dining:
1. Finnegan's Bar and Grill
Irish dishes – potato and leek soup, bangers and mash, shepherd's pie, corned beef and cabbage, fish & chips, Casual Dining, Starting at $10
2. Ben & Jerry's
cones, sundaes and shakes, plus delicious smoothies, Quick Service Dining, Starting at $5
3. Louie's Italian Restaurant
the Bronx's best pizza, spaghetti & meatballs, fettuccini, meatball subs, salads, plus gelato & Italian Ice, Quick Service Dining, Starting at $7
4. Starbucks Coffee
Quick Service Dining, Starting at $2
San Francisco
Attractions:
1. Fast and Furious: Supercharged
2. Flying Fish Market – Action Show – acrobatic fish tossing – located right by New York
Dining:
1. Lombard's Seafood Grille
New England clam chowder, bay shrimp Cobb salad, fish & fries and a catch of the day, Casual Dining, Starting at $11
2. Chez Alcatraz
homemade chips, flatbread, and specialty drinks, Quick Service Dining, Starting at $4
3. Richter's Burger Co.
double cheeseburgers that you top yourself at the fixins bar, plus chicken sandwiches, grilled chicken salads and milk shakes, Quick Service Dining, Starting at $8
4. San Francisco Pastry Company
pastries, soups, and sandwiches, Quick Service Dining, Starting at $3
The Jaws shark is in this area near the waterfront.
Friday, April 27, 2018
Universal Studio Resort as a Plus-Size Woman
3 years ago, I had trouble on a couple rides. And by trouble, I mean that I couldn't ride some of them. It didn't bum me out too bad because I knew that was a big possibility. And I wanted to let everyone know about my experience, but I quickly forgot about it because I was a little embarrased. Well, I don't care that much anymore. I'm roughly the same size now that I was then. And in case you were wondering, I do eat healthy and I do work out. I'm just fat. Oh well!
Here are my stats:
Height: 5 foot 6 inches
Weight: 324 pounds
Bust: 53 inches
Hips: 57 inches
Thighs: 50 inches
Pant Size: 24
And here's a picture of me in all my fat glory!
Rides that we rode:
Universal Studios –
1. Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
I wasn't able to ride this. I feel like it was close, but I just couldn't get it to close. I mostly have troubles with the ones that close over your head.
2. MEN IN BLACK Alien Attack
I fit on this one just fine. No problems!
3. Woody Woodpecker's Nuthouse Coaster
I didn't have any troubles fitting on this one, but it definitely felt safer to ride it by myself and to have my son sit with my husband instead.
4. E.T. Adventure
So, I was able to fit on this, but not comfortably at all! This ride squeezed my hips so bad, I almost couldn't make it through the whole thing!
5. Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
I had zero issues fitting on this ride.
6. TRANSFORMERS: The Ride 3-D
Again, this ride is pretty easy to fit in. I love those bench seats!
Islands of Adventure –
7. Skull Island: Reign of Kong
There are no kinds of restraints on this one and it's a bench seat so there were no fit issues.
8. The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man
This is another bench seat that I had no problems with.
9. Jurassic Park River Adventure
No fit issues on this bench seat.
10. Flight of the Hippogriff
This one fit exactly like Woody Woodpecker's Nuthouse Coaster. I fit fine, but I'm more comfortable with my son riding with his father.
11. Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
I tried the test seat outside of this one and just couldn't make it. I tried, but it didn't close to the point that I could ride.
12. The High in the Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride!
No fit issues on this one either.
Now, there are plenty more rides that we didn't go on. But this is my personal experience from our most recent trip. On our last trip, I also rode Cat in the Hat, Pteranodon Flyers, and the Simpson's Ride. You shouldn't have any problems with those. Basically, the rule for me is: if there's a test seat, I probably won't fit. Unfortunately, that's just the way it is right now.
Here are my stats:
Height: 5 foot 6 inches
Weight: 324 pounds
Bust: 53 inches
Hips: 57 inches
Thighs: 50 inches
Pant Size: 24
And here's a picture of me in all my fat glory!
Rides that we rode:
Universal Studios –
1. Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
I wasn't able to ride this. I feel like it was close, but I just couldn't get it to close. I mostly have troubles with the ones that close over your head.
2. MEN IN BLACK Alien Attack
I fit on this one just fine. No problems!
3. Woody Woodpecker's Nuthouse Coaster
I didn't have any troubles fitting on this one, but it definitely felt safer to ride it by myself and to have my son sit with my husband instead.
4. E.T. Adventure
So, I was able to fit on this, but not comfortably at all! This ride squeezed my hips so bad, I almost couldn't make it through the whole thing!
5. Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
I had zero issues fitting on this ride.
6. TRANSFORMERS: The Ride 3-D
Again, this ride is pretty easy to fit in. I love those bench seats!
Islands of Adventure –
7. Skull Island: Reign of Kong
There are no kinds of restraints on this one and it's a bench seat so there were no fit issues.
8. The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man
This is another bench seat that I had no problems with.
9. Jurassic Park River Adventure
No fit issues on this bench seat.
10. Flight of the Hippogriff
This one fit exactly like Woody Woodpecker's Nuthouse Coaster. I fit fine, but I'm more comfortable with my son riding with his father.
11. Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
I tried the test seat outside of this one and just couldn't make it. I tried, but it didn't close to the point that I could ride.
12. The High in the Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride!
No fit issues on this one either.
Now, there are plenty more rides that we didn't go on. But this is my personal experience from our most recent trip. On our last trip, I also rode Cat in the Hat, Pteranodon Flyers, and the Simpson's Ride. You shouldn't have any problems with those. Basically, the rule for me is: if there's a test seat, I probably won't fit. Unfortunately, that's just the way it is right now.
Sunday, April 22, 2018
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Ok, this is going to be a long one, but it has a lot of information! I just love the wizarding world because you truly feel like you've stepped inside J.K. Rowling's brain when she was envisioning what she was writing. So, without further adieu:
Hogsmeade in Islands of Adventure
Attractions:
1. Flight of the Hippogriff – Vekoma Junior Coaster – Over 48” or over 36” with adult
The posted time for this ride was 45 minutes, but with our Express Passes, we only waited 12 minutes. I love this coaster. It's so much fun! And perfectly themed. I love seeing Hagrid's Hut and Hedgwig.
Side Note: How great is it that there's a water fountain in this line?
2. Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey – RoboCoaster G2 – Over 48”
I couldn't ride this (didn't fit in the test seat out front), but my husband and son had a great time. They thought it was awesome! Owen wanted to ride it again. The posted time for this ride was 60 minutes, but with our Express Passes, we only waited 15 minutes. It's a continuous loading ride, which I thought was pretty cool.
3. Hogwarts Express: Hogsmeade Station – Park Connector – Over 48” or with an adult
Our wait time on this one was only 10 minutes with our Express Passes. I just LOVE the Hogwarts Express.
Side Note: There is an awesome photo op with the Hogwarts Express (not the one that moves, but a permanent feature) and frequently, a conductor! It's located just inside Hogsmeade near Honeydukes.
I have some grievances with this ride and it has nothing to do with the ride itself. First, we rode the Hogwarts Express 4 times before finally being able to sit next to the window. This may not seem like a big deal to some people, but when you have adults leaning forward, not paying attention to the window, and blocking half of it, it DOES become a big deal to a sweet little 8 year old that just wants to see what's happening. Second, during one of our trips, there was a family in the same compartment as us and the adults spent half the time yelling at each other. We were very uncomfortable and I just felt bad for their kids. Please don't do this. Third, I overheard a woman saying that the Hogwarts Express wasn't a ride, it was just transportation (“but at least it was better than the monorail”). Really? If you truly feel that way, please just make sure you don't ruin it for the people that really feel the magic and see it as a fun ride in itself!
Dining:
1. Hog's Head – located in the back of Three Broomsticks – Butterbeer, Pumpkin Juice, beers, specialty drinks, wine, spirits, and mixed drinks
2. Three Broomsticks – 'Great Feast Platter', Fish and Chips, Shepherd's Pie, Beef Pasties, Turkey Legs, and fresh vegetables
We ate here the last time we visited in 2015 and it was delicious, but that line can get pretty long at peak eating times.
Shows:
1. Frog Choir – vocal stylings of this small choir of Hogwarts students, accompanied by the smooth bass rumbles of their giant croaking frogs
2. Triwizard Spirit Rally – cheer on students from Hogwarts, Beauxbatons, and Durmstrang as they lead the excitement for the Triwizard Tournament.
Entertainment:
1. Ollivanders – 1 person (usually a child with a birthday button) is chosen to choose their own wand
2. The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts
We got so lucky when it came to watching this! First of all, it was SO crowded for the first showing. I just can't emphasize this enough. We chose to skip the first showing and ride Forbidden Journey instead. That turned out to be the best decision we could have made because as we were exiting the gift shop, the lights started. We quickly started walking to the bridge toward Jurassic Park and what do you know, it wasn't too busy! We weren't right up against the railing, but honestly, that wasn't necessary. It was truly amazing. I almost started to tear up. You HAVE to see the lights. It truly goes through every house and then ties them all together.
Shopping:
1. Dervish and Banges – Sneakoscopes, Sectrespecs, omnioculars, quidditch needs, clothes
2. Filch's Emporium of Confiscated Goods – apparel, house crest banners, stationary, toys
This shop is located at the end of the Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride. We bought a Marauder's Map here for a friend's son and I got an awesome Hogwarts frame. It's very cool because it really seems like you're in the basement where Filch would keep confiscated goods.
3. Honeydukes – acid pops, exploding bonbons, cauldron cakes, fizzing whizzbees, chocolate frogs
4. Ollivanders – wands
5. Owl Post – stationary, quills, seals, ink, stamps, and owl-related toys and gifts – mail your letters complete with a special Hogsmeade postmark here
We bought a fun Hufflepuff lanyard, postcards, and some stamps here. Make sure you go out the door by the covered area with benches to get them stamped and mailed. Everyone we sent one to really loved them! We also sent some to ourselves to keep as souvenirs.
Diagon Alley in Universal Studios
Attractions:
1. Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts – Roller Coaster & 4D dark ride – Over 48” or over 42” with adult
I personally couldn't ride this one (didn't fit in the test seat out front), but my husband and 8-year-old son rode it. This was our first ride of the day during Early Admission so we only waited about 5 minutes. They said it was really neat and they truly felt like a side character in the movie.
2. Hogwarts Express: King's Cross Station – Park Connector – 48” or with an adult
We ended up riding this twice: once in the morning and then once at night. And neither time we rode it, did we wait very long. Granted, we had Express Passes, but they didn't really seem necessary either time. The first time, we waited 5 minutes. The second time, we waited 10 minutes. Please see grievances above!
All of that being said, have a great attitude, and definitely ride it going both ways. It's a little different each way which makes it just that much more fun!
Dining:
1. Eternelle's Elixir of Refreshment – small beverage kiosk with Gillywater and specialty elixirs
2. Florean Fortescue's Ice-Cream Parlour – soft-serve with fantastic flavors like Butterbeer, Sticky Toffee Pudding, Earl Grey and Lavender, etc. plus pastries, crumble cake, and shortbread.
3. Leaky Couldron – Bangers and Mash, Fisherman's Pie, Toad in the Hole, Ploughman's Platter
We ate here the last time we visited in 2015 for breakfast and it was awesome! I definitely recommend it.
4. The Fountain of Fair Fortune – serves beer
5. The Hopping Pot – walk-up counter serving beer and other drinks
Shows:
1. Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees – singing sensation of the wizarding world
2. The Tales of Beedle the Bard – trunk show of wizarding fairytales
Entertainment:
1. Gringotts Money Exchange – ask a Gringotts goblin any question you want, and trade your currency for Gringotts bank notes
2. Knight Bus – talkative shrunken head and driver
Make sure you walk around to the back of the bus to take a look inside
3. Ollivanders – 1 person (usually a child with a birthday button) is chosen to choose their own wand
I was hoping that my little man (8) with his Birthday button was going to be chosen, but there was a slightly older girl (probably 12) also with a Birthday button so she was chosen instead. He was a little sad, but maybe next time (fingers crossed)! Anyway, it was still a great show. This was our second time here and it just never gets old! Whether child or adult, I totally recommend waiting for this show. We ended up waiting 15 minutes from the moment we got in line to the moment we were brought into the wand room. I really enjoyed how they made sure to have the shorter people in your party (kids) in front with everyone else filing in behind them.
Shopping:
1. Borgin and Burkes – Death Eater masks, skulls, costume replicas, apparel, accessories, jewelry, and collectibles.
2. Madam Malkin's Robes for All Occasions – hats, authentic Hogwarts uniforms, ties, scarves, sweaters, as well as jewelry
3. Magical Menagerie – Crookshanks, Fang, Buckbeak, Scabbers, owls
4. Ollivanders – wands
It is always super crowded every time we've been in here so you really have to hold on to your loved ones and maneuver around all the people. And the lines to buy a wand a usually pretty long.
5. Quality Quidditch Supplies – sweaters, brooms, Golden Snitches, Bludgers, Quaffles, and more
6. Scrubbulus – writing supplies, ink, inkwells, feather quills, parchment, notebooks, journals, bookmarks, backpacks, stationary sets and seals, envelopes and postcards
7. Sugarplum's Sweetshop – candies, fudge, Every Flavor Beans
8. Wands by Gregorovitch – wands
9. Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes – novelty joke shop, Pygmy Puffs, U-No-Poo pills, Skiving Snackboxes, Puking Pastilles
My son bought an awesome pink Pygmy Puff here! He just treasures this thing and while I'm not a huge fan of stuffed animals (because they just don't get played with in our house), it just seems like a completely different story when it's a cute little Pygmy Puff.
10. Wiseacre's Wizarding Equipment – crystal balls, telescopes, hourglasses
This is where we bought our Hufflepuff stein! I love it! I think it's adorable and I can't wait to find a spot to display it!
Hogsmeade in Islands of Adventure
Attractions:
1. Flight of the Hippogriff – Vekoma Junior Coaster – Over 48” or over 36” with adult
The posted time for this ride was 45 minutes, but with our Express Passes, we only waited 12 minutes. I love this coaster. It's so much fun! And perfectly themed. I love seeing Hagrid's Hut and Hedgwig.
Side Note: How great is it that there's a water fountain in this line?
2. Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey – RoboCoaster G2 – Over 48”
I couldn't ride this (didn't fit in the test seat out front), but my husband and son had a great time. They thought it was awesome! Owen wanted to ride it again. The posted time for this ride was 60 minutes, but with our Express Passes, we only waited 15 minutes. It's a continuous loading ride, which I thought was pretty cool.
3. Hogwarts Express: Hogsmeade Station – Park Connector – Over 48” or with an adult
Our wait time on this one was only 10 minutes with our Express Passes. I just LOVE the Hogwarts Express.
Side Note: There is an awesome photo op with the Hogwarts Express (not the one that moves, but a permanent feature) and frequently, a conductor! It's located just inside Hogsmeade near Honeydukes.
I have some grievances with this ride and it has nothing to do with the ride itself. First, we rode the Hogwarts Express 4 times before finally being able to sit next to the window. This may not seem like a big deal to some people, but when you have adults leaning forward, not paying attention to the window, and blocking half of it, it DOES become a big deal to a sweet little 8 year old that just wants to see what's happening. Second, during one of our trips, there was a family in the same compartment as us and the adults spent half the time yelling at each other. We were very uncomfortable and I just felt bad for their kids. Please don't do this. Third, I overheard a woman saying that the Hogwarts Express wasn't a ride, it was just transportation (“but at least it was better than the monorail”). Really? If you truly feel that way, please just make sure you don't ruin it for the people that really feel the magic and see it as a fun ride in itself!
Dining:
1. Hog's Head – located in the back of Three Broomsticks – Butterbeer, Pumpkin Juice, beers, specialty drinks, wine, spirits, and mixed drinks
2. Three Broomsticks – 'Great Feast Platter', Fish and Chips, Shepherd's Pie, Beef Pasties, Turkey Legs, and fresh vegetables
We ate here the last time we visited in 2015 and it was delicious, but that line can get pretty long at peak eating times.
Shows:
1. Frog Choir – vocal stylings of this small choir of Hogwarts students, accompanied by the smooth bass rumbles of their giant croaking frogs
2. Triwizard Spirit Rally – cheer on students from Hogwarts, Beauxbatons, and Durmstrang as they lead the excitement for the Triwizard Tournament.
Entertainment:
1. Ollivanders – 1 person (usually a child with a birthday button) is chosen to choose their own wand
2. The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts
We got so lucky when it came to watching this! First of all, it was SO crowded for the first showing. I just can't emphasize this enough. We chose to skip the first showing and ride Forbidden Journey instead. That turned out to be the best decision we could have made because as we were exiting the gift shop, the lights started. We quickly started walking to the bridge toward Jurassic Park and what do you know, it wasn't too busy! We weren't right up against the railing, but honestly, that wasn't necessary. It was truly amazing. I almost started to tear up. You HAVE to see the lights. It truly goes through every house and then ties them all together.
Shopping:
1. Dervish and Banges – Sneakoscopes, Sectrespecs, omnioculars, quidditch needs, clothes
2. Filch's Emporium of Confiscated Goods – apparel, house crest banners, stationary, toys
This shop is located at the end of the Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride. We bought a Marauder's Map here for a friend's son and I got an awesome Hogwarts frame. It's very cool because it really seems like you're in the basement where Filch would keep confiscated goods.
3. Honeydukes – acid pops, exploding bonbons, cauldron cakes, fizzing whizzbees, chocolate frogs
4. Ollivanders – wands
5. Owl Post – stationary, quills, seals, ink, stamps, and owl-related toys and gifts – mail your letters complete with a special Hogsmeade postmark here
We bought a fun Hufflepuff lanyard, postcards, and some stamps here. Make sure you go out the door by the covered area with benches to get them stamped and mailed. Everyone we sent one to really loved them! We also sent some to ourselves to keep as souvenirs.
Diagon Alley in Universal Studios
Attractions:
1. Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts – Roller Coaster & 4D dark ride – Over 48” or over 42” with adult
I personally couldn't ride this one (didn't fit in the test seat out front), but my husband and 8-year-old son rode it. This was our first ride of the day during Early Admission so we only waited about 5 minutes. They said it was really neat and they truly felt like a side character in the movie.
2. Hogwarts Express: King's Cross Station – Park Connector – 48” or with an adult
We ended up riding this twice: once in the morning and then once at night. And neither time we rode it, did we wait very long. Granted, we had Express Passes, but they didn't really seem necessary either time. The first time, we waited 5 minutes. The second time, we waited 10 minutes. Please see grievances above!
All of that being said, have a great attitude, and definitely ride it going both ways. It's a little different each way which makes it just that much more fun!
Dining:
1. Eternelle's Elixir of Refreshment – small beverage kiosk with Gillywater and specialty elixirs
2. Florean Fortescue's Ice-Cream Parlour – soft-serve with fantastic flavors like Butterbeer, Sticky Toffee Pudding, Earl Grey and Lavender, etc. plus pastries, crumble cake, and shortbread.
3. Leaky Couldron – Bangers and Mash, Fisherman's Pie, Toad in the Hole, Ploughman's Platter
We ate here the last time we visited in 2015 for breakfast and it was awesome! I definitely recommend it.
4. The Fountain of Fair Fortune – serves beer
5. The Hopping Pot – walk-up counter serving beer and other drinks
Shows:
1. Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees – singing sensation of the wizarding world
2. The Tales of Beedle the Bard – trunk show of wizarding fairytales
Entertainment:
1. Gringotts Money Exchange – ask a Gringotts goblin any question you want, and trade your currency for Gringotts bank notes
2. Knight Bus – talkative shrunken head and driver
Make sure you walk around to the back of the bus to take a look inside
3. Ollivanders – 1 person (usually a child with a birthday button) is chosen to choose their own wand
I was hoping that my little man (8) with his Birthday button was going to be chosen, but there was a slightly older girl (probably 12) also with a Birthday button so she was chosen instead. He was a little sad, but maybe next time (fingers crossed)! Anyway, it was still a great show. This was our second time here and it just never gets old! Whether child or adult, I totally recommend waiting for this show. We ended up waiting 15 minutes from the moment we got in line to the moment we were brought into the wand room. I really enjoyed how they made sure to have the shorter people in your party (kids) in front with everyone else filing in behind them.
Shopping:
1. Borgin and Burkes – Death Eater masks, skulls, costume replicas, apparel, accessories, jewelry, and collectibles.
2. Madam Malkin's Robes for All Occasions – hats, authentic Hogwarts uniforms, ties, scarves, sweaters, as well as jewelry
3. Magical Menagerie – Crookshanks, Fang, Buckbeak, Scabbers, owls
4. Ollivanders – wands
It is always super crowded every time we've been in here so you really have to hold on to your loved ones and maneuver around all the people. And the lines to buy a wand a usually pretty long.
5. Quality Quidditch Supplies – sweaters, brooms, Golden Snitches, Bludgers, Quaffles, and more
6. Scrubbulus – writing supplies, ink, inkwells, feather quills, parchment, notebooks, journals, bookmarks, backpacks, stationary sets and seals, envelopes and postcards
7. Sugarplum's Sweetshop – candies, fudge, Every Flavor Beans
8. Wands by Gregorovitch – wands
9. Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes – novelty joke shop, Pygmy Puffs, U-No-Poo pills, Skiving Snackboxes, Puking Pastilles
My son bought an awesome pink Pygmy Puff here! He just treasures this thing and while I'm not a huge fan of stuffed animals (because they just don't get played with in our house), it just seems like a completely different story when it's a cute little Pygmy Puff.
10. Wiseacre's Wizarding Equipment – crystal balls, telescopes, hourglasses
This is where we bought our Hufflepuff stein! I love it! I think it's adorable and I can't wait to find a spot to display it!
Saturday, April 21, 2018
Toothsome Chocolate Emporium and Feast Kitchen
We didn't spend very long at CityWalk. It was literally enough to time to take 1 picture with the Universal globe and eat dinner at Toothsome Chocolate Emporium and Feast Kitchen. Then, we went back to our hotel to rest up for our entire day at Universal that was sure to be exhausting. So first, here's our review of Toothsome:
First of all, this building is amazing! And if you can see it at night all lit up from the water, it's even cooler. It really looks like the chocolate factory of my dreams. When we walked in, they said it would be a 1 hour wait, but since we had preferred seating (which we got by staying at Royal Pacific), it ended up being only a 30 minute wait. To pass the time, we did some shopping in their gift shop. I got a candy jar and Owen got a chocolate bar and a jar of cotton candy. The inside of this restaurant is themed even better than the outside! It's truly amazing and definitely something to see.
For starters, we got the warm chocolate almond bread with salted caramel butter. I only knew to get this because of the recommendations from others and I'm so glad we did! It was delicious! We received the bread almost immediately after ordering.
For dinner (which we got within 30 minutes of being seated), Tom ordered the short ribs with cheesy grits and a chocolate gremolade. This was seriously one of the best things I've ever eaten. When we return, I want to come back to Toothsome just so I can order this again. It was that good. The short ribs in the gremolade were so juicy and buttery that they melted in my mouth. And the grits. Wow. I have literally never had good grits before I ate these bites of heaven. I know, dramatic, but really, it was one of the best meals I've ever eaten.
I got the wild mushroom, chicken risotto. It was really good too. But it just didn't compare to my husband's dish.
Owen ate really well (a rarity for him). He just got the chicken fingers and fries with applesauce, but he said it was quite good.
For dessert, we got the chocolate bread pudding and a cookie jar milkshake. Both were amazing. Again, we only knew to get the bread pudding based on other's recommendations. Apparently, these people really know what they're talking about because it was amazing! And the milkshake was great! I especially liked how it was in a plastic jar that you get to take home so when we couldn't finish it all right there, we just took it back with us to sip on slowly during our water taxi back to the hotel.
Overall, we had an amazing meal and we wouldn't hesitate to come back on our next trip to Universal.
Now, like I said, we didn't do anything else at CityWalk while we were there, but here's a list of all the things you can find in this area.
Dining
1. Hard Rock Cafe Orlando
2. Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville
3. Emeril's Restaurant Orlando
4. Antojito's Authentic Mexican Food – made from scratch mexican street faire, live mariachi music on select nights
5. Starbucks
6. Bubba Gump Shrimp Company – restaurant and market/shrimp and other favorites
7. Cinnabon
8. Pat O'Brien's Bar
9. BK Whopper Bar
10. Panda Express
11. Moe's Southwest Grill
12. Bob Marley – A Tribute to Freedom – jamaican influenced
13. Red Oven Pizza Bakery – neapolitan style pizza, stone oven, fast cooking
14. Cold Stone Creamery
15. Menchie's Frozen Yogurt
16. Vivo Italian Kitchen – classic Italian food with open expo kitchen
17. Hot Dog Hall of Fame – hot dogs and sausages from all over the US
18. Bread Box Handcrafted Sandwiches – soup, salad, sandwich, sweet treats
19. The Cowfish Sushi and Burger Bar – custom designed burger or sushi or a combo, spiked milkshakes, premium saki
20. NBC Sports Grill & Brew – upscale sports bar
21. The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen – steak and seafood, all day brunch, gourmet chocolates, one of a kind desserts – milkshakes!, steampunk theme
22. Voodoo Doughnut – sinfully delicious, delightfully weird line-up of creations
23. Lone Palm Airport – fly by for island eats and outdoor drinks
24. Red Coconut Club – vintage vegas with a tropical twist
25. Fusion Bistro Sushi & Saki Bar
26. Fat Tuesday
Entertainment
1. AMC Theatres Universal Cineplex 20 and IMAX
2. Bob Marley – A Tribute to Freedom
3. CityWalk's Rising Star (Karaoke Club featuring Live Band and Backup Singers & Dancers)
4. The Groove
5. Hard Rock Live, a separate performance venue adjacent to the Hard Rock Cafe
6. Red Coconut Club
7. Blue Man Group Sharp Aquos Theatre
8. Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville, live bands take to the restaurant's stage to perform every evening
9. Hollywood Drive-In Mini Golf – a mini golf course harkening back to 50's era drive-in movies. The facility has two different and intricately themed courses: “The Haunting of Ghostly Greens” and “Invaders from Planet Putt-Putt”
Shopping
1. Tommy Bahama
2. BMG Gear
3. Fossil, Inc.
4. Fresh Produce
5. Quiet Flight Surf Shop
6. Universal Studios Store
7. Hart & Huntington Tattoo Company Element Skateboards
First of all, this building is amazing! And if you can see it at night all lit up from the water, it's even cooler. It really looks like the chocolate factory of my dreams. When we walked in, they said it would be a 1 hour wait, but since we had preferred seating (which we got by staying at Royal Pacific), it ended up being only a 30 minute wait. To pass the time, we did some shopping in their gift shop. I got a candy jar and Owen got a chocolate bar and a jar of cotton candy. The inside of this restaurant is themed even better than the outside! It's truly amazing and definitely something to see.
For starters, we got the warm chocolate almond bread with salted caramel butter. I only knew to get this because of the recommendations from others and I'm so glad we did! It was delicious! We received the bread almost immediately after ordering.
For dinner (which we got within 30 minutes of being seated), Tom ordered the short ribs with cheesy grits and a chocolate gremolade. This was seriously one of the best things I've ever eaten. When we return, I want to come back to Toothsome just so I can order this again. It was that good. The short ribs in the gremolade were so juicy and buttery that they melted in my mouth. And the grits. Wow. I have literally never had good grits before I ate these bites of heaven. I know, dramatic, but really, it was one of the best meals I've ever eaten.
I got the wild mushroom, chicken risotto. It was really good too. But it just didn't compare to my husband's dish.
Owen ate really well (a rarity for him). He just got the chicken fingers and fries with applesauce, but he said it was quite good.
For dessert, we got the chocolate bread pudding and a cookie jar milkshake. Both were amazing. Again, we only knew to get the bread pudding based on other's recommendations. Apparently, these people really know what they're talking about because it was amazing! And the milkshake was great! I especially liked how it was in a plastic jar that you get to take home so when we couldn't finish it all right there, we just took it back with us to sip on slowly during our water taxi back to the hotel.
Overall, we had an amazing meal and we wouldn't hesitate to come back on our next trip to Universal.
Now, like I said, we didn't do anything else at CityWalk while we were there, but here's a list of all the things you can find in this area.
Dining
1. Hard Rock Cafe Orlando
2. Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville
3. Emeril's Restaurant Orlando
4. Antojito's Authentic Mexican Food – made from scratch mexican street faire, live mariachi music on select nights
5. Starbucks
6. Bubba Gump Shrimp Company – restaurant and market/shrimp and other favorites
7. Cinnabon
8. Pat O'Brien's Bar
9. BK Whopper Bar
10. Panda Express
11. Moe's Southwest Grill
12. Bob Marley – A Tribute to Freedom – jamaican influenced
13. Red Oven Pizza Bakery – neapolitan style pizza, stone oven, fast cooking
14. Cold Stone Creamery
15. Menchie's Frozen Yogurt
16. Vivo Italian Kitchen – classic Italian food with open expo kitchen
17. Hot Dog Hall of Fame – hot dogs and sausages from all over the US
18. Bread Box Handcrafted Sandwiches – soup, salad, sandwich, sweet treats
19. The Cowfish Sushi and Burger Bar – custom designed burger or sushi or a combo, spiked milkshakes, premium saki
20. NBC Sports Grill & Brew – upscale sports bar
21. The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen – steak and seafood, all day brunch, gourmet chocolates, one of a kind desserts – milkshakes!, steampunk theme
22. Voodoo Doughnut – sinfully delicious, delightfully weird line-up of creations
23. Lone Palm Airport – fly by for island eats and outdoor drinks
24. Red Coconut Club – vintage vegas with a tropical twist
25. Fusion Bistro Sushi & Saki Bar
26. Fat Tuesday
Entertainment
1. AMC Theatres Universal Cineplex 20 and IMAX
2. Bob Marley – A Tribute to Freedom
3. CityWalk's Rising Star (Karaoke Club featuring Live Band and Backup Singers & Dancers)
4. The Groove
5. Hard Rock Live, a separate performance venue adjacent to the Hard Rock Cafe
6. Red Coconut Club
7. Blue Man Group Sharp Aquos Theatre
8. Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville, live bands take to the restaurant's stage to perform every evening
9. Hollywood Drive-In Mini Golf – a mini golf course harkening back to 50's era drive-in movies. The facility has two different and intricately themed courses: “The Haunting of Ghostly Greens” and “Invaders from Planet Putt-Putt”
Shopping
1. Tommy Bahama
2. BMG Gear
3. Fossil, Inc.
4. Fresh Produce
5. Quiet Flight Surf Shop
6. Universal Studios Store
7. Hart & Huntington Tattoo Company Element Skateboards
Friday, April 20, 2018
Travel Snacks
I researched a lot for our road trip, especially since we were going to be in the car for approximately 40 hours total. One of the things that I probably read a good 10 blog posts or more about was Travel Snacks. I wanted to know what everyone else brought so that I could use their food/snacks as inspiration for what we should bring. I started making a list WEEKS before we left. My husband helped me come up with some ideas. I noticed that a lot of people that made these lists were really focused on healthy food items. And while I don't like to eat like crap on my vacations, I like to have a nice mix of healthy and junk foods. Otherwise, I'll be craving something sweet and end up buying something way worse than a cookie. Here's what we came up with!
Meats:
1. summer sausage
2. beef jerky
3. beef stick (slim jim)
4. pepperonis
Crackers:
5. Seasoned crackers
6. wheat thins
7. roasted garlic triscuits
8. chex mix
In The Cooler:
9. Veggies (broccoli, carrots, celery, cucumbers, red peppers)
10. Dill Dip (for the veggies)
11. Fruit (bananas, raspberries)
12. Go-Gurt
13. Laughing Cow Cream Cheese Wedges
14. cheese cubes
Desserts:
15. Milano cookies
16. zebra cakes
17. chocolate chip cookies
18. Pudding
19. Jell-O
Other:
20. applesauce
21. variety pack of chips
We also brought things to make sandwiches for when we were on the road during lunch. We didn't want to stop at fast food restaurants so we figured sandwiches would be cheaper and healthier. And these snacks lasted us our entire trip! We definitely didn't go hungry.
What are some of the snacks you bring on a road trip?
Meats:
1. summer sausage
2. beef jerky
3. beef stick (slim jim)
4. pepperonis
Crackers:
5. Seasoned crackers
6. wheat thins
7. roasted garlic triscuits
8. chex mix
In The Cooler:
9. Veggies (broccoli, carrots, celery, cucumbers, red peppers)
10. Dill Dip (for the veggies)
11. Fruit (bananas, raspberries)
12. Go-Gurt
13. Laughing Cow Cream Cheese Wedges
14. cheese cubes
Desserts:
15. Milano cookies
16. zebra cakes
17. chocolate chip cookies
18. Pudding
19. Jell-O
Other:
20. applesauce
21. variety pack of chips
We also brought things to make sandwiches for when we were on the road during lunch. We didn't want to stop at fast food restaurants so we figured sandwiches would be cheaper and healthier. And these snacks lasted us our entire trip! We definitely didn't go hungry.
What are some of the snacks you bring on a road trip?
Sunday, April 15, 2018
Universal Orlando Resort Hotel
Royal Pacific Hotel
6300 Hollywood Way
We arrived around 4:30pm. There was a line for check-in but it seemed to move pretty fast. Our room wasn't ready yet so they gave us a couple free drink/dessert tickets to use at one of the hotel restaurants. They also gave Owen a birthday button and a card with a free dessert ticket. We were also welcomed with some leis. That was a fun polynesian touch. We picked up our Universal tickets from the kiosk.
We also decided to go ahead and use our free drink and dessert tickets so we went to Jake's American Bar. It took a while and we didn't end up leaving until almost 6pm. I got a Blue Crush and Tom got a Ginger Crush. They were pretty good. They definitely give you that island feel. We shared a Jumbo Dark Chocolate cupcake with Nutella inside and cream cheese frosting. I felt like it was almost a little dry, but really good. And it was huge! Owen got brownies and a root beer float. Even though it took us a while to get out of there, at the end of the day, we only payed $4 so we made sure to tip well.
We did eventually get a text saying that our room was ready so we dropped some stuff off before going to CityWalk.
Our room was beautiful and clean. It was spacious and everything I could ask for from a hotel room. We had a great view of the pool. Plus, we were on the 3rd floor which was actually the lobby floor so it was very convenient.
The next morning, we had to check out very early so that we could get to the parks before early admission. Apparently, there are many ways to check out. I thought it was very cool that you could check out from your TV, but that wasn't available while we were there so we ended up calling. You just leave a message with your name and room number and that's it! You're checked out.
We will 100% be staying here again in the future! I just loved it! And next time, maybe we can stay even longer.
We arrived around 4:30pm. There was a line for check-in but it seemed to move pretty fast. Our room wasn't ready yet so they gave us a couple free drink/dessert tickets to use at one of the hotel restaurants. They also gave Owen a birthday button and a card with a free dessert ticket. We were also welcomed with some leis. That was a fun polynesian touch. We picked up our Universal tickets from the kiosk.
We also decided to go ahead and use our free drink and dessert tickets so we went to Jake's American Bar. It took a while and we didn't end up leaving until almost 6pm. I got a Blue Crush and Tom got a Ginger Crush. They were pretty good. They definitely give you that island feel. We shared a Jumbo Dark Chocolate cupcake with Nutella inside and cream cheese frosting. I felt like it was almost a little dry, but really good. And it was huge! Owen got brownies and a root beer float. Even though it took us a while to get out of there, at the end of the day, we only payed $4 so we made sure to tip well.
We did eventually get a text saying that our room was ready so we dropped some stuff off before going to CityWalk.
Our room was beautiful and clean. It was spacious and everything I could ask for from a hotel room. We had a great view of the pool. Plus, we were on the 3rd floor which was actually the lobby floor so it was very convenient.
The next morning, we had to check out very early so that we could get to the parks before early admission. Apparently, there are many ways to check out. I thought it was very cool that you could check out from your TV, but that wasn't available while we were there so we ended up calling. You just leave a message with your name and room number and that's it! You're checked out.
We will 100% be staying here again in the future! I just loved it! And next time, maybe we can stay even longer.
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