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Walt Disney World has revealed a brand new offer for Walt Disney World Resort hotel stays starting in early 2024 exclusively for Disney Visa card members. Disney Visa Cardmembers can save up to 35% on stays at Walt Disney World Resort hotels in early 2024. Walt Disney World have announced that Disney Visa Cardmembers can save up to 35% on stays most Sunday through Thursday nights from January 9, 2024, through February 22, 2024, and most nights from February 25, 2024, through March 24, 2024. Disney Visa Cardmembers can also save up to 20% on stays most Friday and Saturday nights from January 12, 2024 through February 24, 2024. Here is the complete list of savings and hotels: Save up to 35% on most Sunday through Thursday nights from January 9 through February 22, most nights from February 25 through March 24, and save up to 20% on most Friday through Saturday nights from January 12 through February 24 at: Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village Disney’s BoardWalk Inn Disney’s Contemporary Resort Disney’s Old Key West Resort Disney’s Riviera Resort Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Disney’s Yacht Club Resort The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa – Deluxe Studios Save up to 35% on most Sunday through Thursday nights from January 9 through February 22, most nights from February 25 through March 24, and save up to 10% on most Friday through Saturday nights from January 12 through February 24 at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. Save up to 30% on most Sunday through Thursday nights from January 9 through February 22, most nights from February 25 through March 24, and save up to 20% on most Friday through Saturday nights from January 12 through February 24 at: Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Disney’s Beach Club Resort Save up to 30% on most Sunday through Thursday nights from January 9 through February 22, most nights from February 25 through March 24, and save up to 10% on most Friday through Saturday nights from January 12 through February 24 at: The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground Disney’s Art of Animation Resort – Family Suites Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside Save up to 25% on most Sunday through Thursday nights from January 9 through February 22, most nights from February 25 through March 24, and save up to 10% on most Friday through Saturday nights from January 12 through February 24 at: Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort Disney’s All-Star Music Resort Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort Disney’s Pop Century Resort Save up to 15% on most Sunday through Thursday nights from January 9 through February 22, most nights from February 25 through March 24, and save up to 10% on most Friday through Saturday nights from January 12 through February 24 at: Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Disney’s Beach Club Villas Disney’s BoardWalk Villas Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows Save up to 10% on most Sunday through Thursday nights from January 9 through February 22, most nights from February 25 through March 24, and most Friday through Saturday nights from January 12 through February 24 at: Disney’s Art of Animation Resort – Little Mermaid Standard Rooms The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa The number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited. Savings are based on the non-discounted price for the same room. Length of Stay Requirements: Minimum – 1 night Maximum – 14 nights Important Details Must use a valid Disney Visa Card or Disney Rewards Redemption Card to pay the deposit. Disney Visa Cardmember must stay in the room. Additional per-adult charges may apply if more than 2 adults per room at Disney Value, Moderate and Deluxe Resorts, and Studios at Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts. Cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion. Advance reservations are required. Offer excludes the following room types: 3-bedroom villas, Tower Studios at Disney’s Riviera Resort, Cabins at Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, Bungalows at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows, and The Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort. Valid admission is required to enjoy theme parks and is not included in this offer. Beginning January 9, 2024, theme park reservations will no longer be required for date-based tickets. For other admission types, theme park reservations may be required. For the latest news and information from throughout Central Florida, here at Gotta Go Orlando we keep you informed throughout the day, every day. You can also keep up to date with us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel, for the best of Orlando.

World Paella Day rolls around on September 20, and Jaleo is honoring the holiday with two full weeks of paella specials. Celebremos! Jaaleo at Disney Springs is celebrating World Paella Day, and 20 years of Paella Fest now through until October 1, 2023 The chefs at Jaleo have been crafting their favorite versions of this beloved dish, and honoring the experts around the world who have helped master their signature paellas. For two weeks, Jaleo will be serving up limited edition paellas, available only for the festival. Check out the menus below and make your plans for Paella Festival! Join Jaleo in Orlando and celebrate Paella Fest! Paella is technically the name of the shallow pan it is cooked in, not the dish itself! Paella originated in Valencia, Spain sometime in the 19th century, and is traditionally made with chicken, rabbit, saffron, beans, and tomatoes. So, when Jaleo make paellas that are not authentically Valenciana, they call them arroces. Each day during Paella Fest Jaleo will feature a different paella or arroces. Try them all and get the true taste of Spain! WOOD-FIRED PAELLA, ROTATING DAILY Monday: Arroz con Verduras Paella of seasonal vegetables Tuesday: Arroz con Pollo y Verduras Paella of chicken, vegetables and mushrooms Wednesday (World Paella Day!): Paella Valenciana A true classic of chicken, rabbit, and artichokes Thursday: Arroz a Banda con Gambas Paella of sepia sofrito and head-on shrimp Friday: Alcachofas y Setas Rice with artichoke hearts, mushrooms, and piquillo peppers Saturday: Bogavante y Costillas Rice with vegetable sofrito, cuttlefish, pork ribs and whole lobster Sunday: Fideuá Negra con Pescado y Mariscos Thin pasta in squid ink, sepia sofrito, baby squid and bronzino with saffron alioli Celebrating the traditional as well as the cutting-edge, Jaleo offers a taste of Spain in a festive, stylish, and casual atmosphere. First opening in downtown Washington, DC in 1993, Jaleo has evolved to represent modern Spain at every moment. With each new restaurant in Maryland, Virginia, Las Vegas and Orlando, it embraces the local community while staying true to its roots: providing a comfortable, welcoming space in which to explore, discover and share the incredible spirit of Spain. At Jaleo, plates are designed to be shared. But these are not just any small plates. They’re the best authentically Spanish and local ingredients, simply prepared, and enjoyed with good friends and conversation. Inspired by the traditional dishes of José’s childhood and elevated through his experiences, talents and creativity, Jaleo’s cuisine is authentic Spain with finesse. Along with signature tapas, the savory paellas, superb sangria, and a wide selection of the finest Spanish cheeses, wines, and sherries ensure that you’ll always find something wholly unique and exciting. It’s tradition and whimsy, all in one bite. For the latest news and information from throughout Central Florida, here at Gotta Go Orlando we keep you informed throughout the day, every day. You can also keep up to date with us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel, for the best of Orlando.

The Tampa Bay Rays have announced a deal to build a new stadium in St. Petersburg, ending speculation about the Rays relocating to another city. Recently there has been much speculation that the Tampa Bay Rays would pack their bags and leave St Petersburg for a shiny new ballpark in Nashville, Orlando, or Tampa, and with the Rays' current 30-year lease at the domed Tropicana Field ending in 2027, the franchise had been actively considered moving elsewhere. But now the speculation is over, as today, Tuesday, September 19, the Rays have announced that there's no place like home, and will continue to call St Pete home as they reveal plans to build a new ballpark as part of a redeveloped Tropicana Field, but will it increase the consistently low attendance? The Rays have officially announced that they have reached an agreement with the city of St. Petersburg and Pinellas County to build a new, $1.3 billion ballpark as part of the redevelopment of the Tropicana Field site. There is still a public approval process that must take place over the next few months, but this is the first time the Rays have reached this step in their long-running pursuit of a new ballpark. As a result, it appears more likely than ever that the club will remain where they’ve been since their inaugural season in 1998: in downtown St. Petersburg. “I am incredibly excited. This is a big, meaningful and really positive development,” team president Brian Auld said. “I also feel a ton of pressure to make sure that we can execute on this vision that particularly the mayor of St. Petersburg has entrusted us to deliver, but also the county commissioners. So we’ve got a lot of work ahead of us.” The Rays’ proposal features an approximately 30,000-seat ballpark (with the capacity expanded to 35,000 for special events) with three seating levels, a fixed roof, an artificial turf field, operable walls and a pavilion design. The Rays would pay for more than half of the stadium’s estimated cost, with the city and county covering approximately $600 million and the Rays responsible for the rest. According to the agreement, the entire investment in the development project is projected to be more than $6 billion. Approximately 15-20 acres, including the ballpark and two event parking garages, would be owned by Pinellas County, leased to St. Petersburg and subleased to the Rays on a 30-year lease agreement with options to extend it to 40 years. The club’s current 30-year use agreement at Tropicana Field expires after the 2027 season. If the agreement is approved and everything goes according to plan, ballpark construction would be begin in late 2024 and be completed by late ‘27, with the Rays playing there on Opening Day 2028. In January, St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch selected the Rays and their development partner Hines as his preferred choice to redevelop the Tropicana Field site, with the ballpark just one part of the development plan, which also includes multifamily housing units, office and medical space, retail space, hotel rooms, senior living residences, an entertainment venue, conference and meeting space, the Woodson African American Museum of Florida and parking. But what about the Rays low attendance? the Rays believe that a new ballpark, combined with the redeveloped area around it and their continued success on the field, will drive further interest and higher attendance numbers. “We think there’s a number of things that are going to allow us to materially increase attendance going forward,” Auld said. “The first is that we’re going to have a better ballpark surrounded by a world-class destination, so we expect more people to come to enjoy that incredible ballpark and all the wonderful things we’re going to have around it." For the latest news and information from throughout Central Florida, here at Gotta Go Orlando we keep you informed throughout the day, every day. You can also keep up to date with us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel, for the best of Orlando.

The Walt Disney Company is developing plans to accelerate and expand investment in its Parks, Experiences and Products segment to nearly double capital expenditures over the course of approximately 10 years to roughly $60 billion. The Walt Disney Company is developing plans to accelerate and expand investment in its Parks, Experiences and Products segment to nearly double capital expenditures over the course of approximately 10 years to roughly $60 billion, including by investing in expanding and enhancing domestic and international parks and cruise line capacity. Today, Tuesday, September 19, Senior Disney executives, including Chief Executive Officer Bob Iger and Disney Parks, Experiences and Products Chairman Josh D’Amaro, are gathered with Wall Street analysts and investors at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida for an investor summit focused on Disney’s Parks business and its track record of investing aggressively and intelligently in experiences that leverage the powerful and ever-growing library of Disney stories, which has proven incredibly effective. Central to the business’s growth strategy will be a focus on stories, scale, and fans. Stories All over the world, Disney leverages its incomparable library of intellectual property through immersive storytelling experiences in its Parks and Resorts, on board its cruise ships, and through its consumer products and licensing business. The Parks business serves as a powerful platform where Disney’s beloved stories come to life in innovative ways, and where fans across generations and geographies can connect with and explore the Disney brands and franchises they love, from Avatar to Zootopia, and everything in between. Disney continuously reimagines its theme park offerings to appeal to more guests by incorporating new stories from its popular films and series. Disney Parks has seen growth following previous periods of significant investment, which included the additions of Cars Land at Disney California Adventure, Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland Resort and Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World, Avengers Campus at Disney California Adventure and Walt Disney Studios Park in Paris, and more. Today, as Disney considers future growth opportunities, there is a deep well of stories that have yet to be fully explored in its theme parks. Already, new Frozen-themed lands are coming to Hong Kong Disneyland, Walt Disney Studios Park in Paris and Tokyo Disney Resort, as well as a Zootopia-themed land at Shanghai Disney Resort. However, Disney will explore even more characters and franchises, including some that haven’t been leveraged extensively to date, as it embarks on a new period of significant growth domestically and internationally in its parks and resorts. Scale Today, Disney has the largest physical footprint of any global theme park travel business, with 12 parks across six sites around the world. Its newest resort, Shanghai Disney Resort, opened in 2016. Disney Cruise Line visits 94 ports in 40 countries, and Disney’s industry-leading consumer products division brings Disney IP into fans’ homes across the globe. Notably, Walt Disney World Resort is twice the size of the island of Manhattan, Disneyland is the most “Instagrammed” place on Earth, and tens of millions of guests travel on Disney’s transportation networks each year. Disney’s Parks business is a key driver of value creation for the company, and positive segment results in recent past quarters through FY23Q3 have come in part from strong performance at Disney’s international parks, particularly those in Asia. Shanghai Disney Resort and Hong Kong Disneyland, which have both shown meaningful growth coming out of the pandemic through Q3 FY23, have even further growth opportunities with the expansions set to open later this year. However, in addition to development plans already underway, there is significant room for further expansion on land and at sea. In fact, Disney Parks has over 1,000 acres of land for possible future development to expand theme park space across its existing sites – the equivalent of about seven new Disneyland Parks. Meanwhile, Disney Cruise Line serves as a powerful ambassador for the brand in ports and markets around the globe beyond its theme parks, including Australia and New Zealand for the first time later this year, extending the reach of Disney’s high-quality experiences. As previously announced, over the next two years, Disney will nearly double the worldwide capacity of its cruise line, adding two ships in fiscal year 2025 and another in 2026, delivering even further growth potential and introducing new markets to Disney experiences, including a new homeport in Singapore beginning in 2025 to expand its reach further into the Asia-Pacific region. Fans Today, Disney has seven of the top ten most attended theme parks in the world, including Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom Park, which has been the #1 attended theme park on earth for decades. Disney Parks welcome approximately 100 million guests each year. Yet there is still enormous untapped potential for reaching more consumers. According to Disney’s internal research, there is an addressable market of more than 700 million people with high Disney affinity it has yet to reach with its Parks. In fact, for every one guest who visits a Disney Park, there are more than ten people with Disney affinity who do not visit the Parks. As Disney expands its footprint and offerings, not only will the company be able to reach more of its existing fans, but it will create new fans and loyal consumers. As the company develops plans to accelerate and expand investment in its Parks business, it looks forward to introducing fans to more of the most powerful characters and stories, expanding its global footprint, advancing its state-of-the-art commercial capabilities, and leveraging its unmatched global talent to forge new relationships with new generations of fans around the world. For the latest news and information from throughout Central Florida, here at Gotta Go Orlando we keep you informed throughout the day, every day. You can also keep up to date with us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel, for the best of Orlando.

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus is set for a spectacular return, and after a break of over five years, the greatest show on earth is heading back on the road. Back in March we brought you the exciting news that Florida based Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey is making a comeback after 5 years. The famous animals of the circus are now gone, confined to a bookmark in history, with the reimagined Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey inviting families to a spectacle of superhuman feats, pushing the limits of possibility, while thrilling families and fans of all generations. Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey is owned by Feld Entertainment, a worldwide production company headquartered in Palmetto, Florida. Feld produce and present live touring family entertainment experiences throughout their world, including Monster Jam, Monster Energy Supercross, Disney On Ice, Marvel Universe LIVE!, and Jurassic World LiveTour. Across the brand portfolio, the numbers are impressive, with Feld Entertainment having entertained millions of families in more than 75 countries and on six continents. The reimagined Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey is returning for the first time since the circus ended with a farewell tour in 2017 that sold out venues across the country, and although it was billed at the time as the end of the line for the circus, many fans held onto the hope that the show would make a return in the future. Now as The Greatest Show On Earth makes its comeback, fans throughout North America are excited for the return of such an iconic show, which will see the show embark on a mammoth tour which will criss-cross the country, premiering on September 29, 2023 in Bossier City, Louisiana, before rolling into Orlando's Amway Center from January 12 - 15, 2024, with tickets on sale now. In reviving the near 150-year-old tradition, Feld Entertainment have held auditions for the reimagined Ringling Show around the world, including Mongolia, Ethiopia, Argentina, France, and more! The new show has been in rehearsals for months now, with Feld Entertainment saying that the audience will get closer to the action than ever before at the reimagined circus. using an immersive, 360-degree environment and new technology. Guests will witness daring and never-before-seen acts on the high wire, trapeze, bicycle, and much, much more. Let's check out a sneak peek of just some of the amazing performers from around the globe who will now perform in the greatest Show On Earth! Double Wheel of Destiny Acts include the jaw-dropping, high-speed Double Wheel of Destiny act, a rarely-attempted twist on a circus favorite, featuring Ray Navas and his team of acrobats performing daring back-and-forth jumps between both wheels at crazy heights up to 30 feet above the ground. The Black Diamond Trio The Black Diamond Trio is an all-female acrobatic hand-to-hand balance trio hailing from Ethiopia. The award-winning trio has performed across the world at the International Circus Festival of Nikulin in Moscow; Afrika! Afrika!, The André Heller circus show in Germany; the International Circus Festival of Italy; the Circus Harlekin in Uetendorf, Switzerland; and more. The High-Flying Troupe Brother Imagine the ultimate playground, where seesaws flip and send you floating high in the sky. Add to the scene the high-flying Troupe Brothers from Mongolia, a specialized teeterboard troupe composed exclusively of Polish acrobats who have performed for audiences across the country. The Tic Tac Trio The Tic Tac Trio is joining Ringling as the featured acrobatic troupe using the Korean Teeterboard apparatus. Their backgrounds include experience in martial arts, parkour, and dance. They have previously performed around the world on stages such as the Flic Flac Circus, Circ Raluy Legacy, Monte Carlo Circus, and much much more! Yab Brothers Sisay Abebe and Yabu, better known as Yab Brothers, are a two-man Ethiopian Risley performance act. After first meeting at Circus Ethiopia where Abebe had been training, they discovered their destiny and formed a partnership, performing spectacular single, double, and twisting flips. Human Rocket Act featuring Skyler Miser Eighteen-year-old Skyler Miser has been an entertainer since childhood, and you’re guaranteed to have a blast once she takes the stage in The Greatest Show On Earth® as Ringling’s very own Human Rocket. Or maybe it’s more Skyler that’s having a blast — quite literally. You could say performance is in her DNA— Skyler’s parents, Tina and Brian Miser, starred as Human Cannon Balls in previous Ringling shows dating back to 1999. They passed their passion on to Skyler, who first made her way to the Ringling stage at the age of 13 after attending circus school and appearing in the Peru Amateur Circus. Troupe Ethio Salem Hailing from Ethiopia, meet Troupe Ethio Salem – 6 young men perform amazing acts, including hoop diving, Chinese pole, club juggling, and a solo cyr wheel act. They have been performing together since they were young, working hard to perfect their skills. They have previously performed at the International Golden Elephant Circus Festival in Spain. The Flying Caceres The Flying Caceres was created by Miguel Caceres in 1982 for the 112th Edition of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey, which then became the featured attraction of the 140th edition in 2010. With spectacular experience as a flying trapeze artist since the age of 4, Miguel Caceres is the first flyer ever to present both a triple and a triple-and-a-half somersault in the same act. Since then, the Flying Caceres has performed throughout the United States with both the Red and Blue units of Ringling at Circus Circus Hotel and Casino, the Big Apple Circus, Bentley Bros. Circus, the Royal Hanneford Circus, Tarzan Zerbini Circus, Hamid Circus Royale, and more. Wesley Williams “The One Wheel Wonder” World-renowned unicyclist Wesley Williams “The One Wheel Wonder” is joining The Greatest Show On Earth! Wesley is a Guinness World Record holder for the tallest rideable unicycle (30 feet!) and is in the “see it to believe it” realm of talent that makes up the fabric of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey. The exciting news is that rehearsals for The Greatest Show On Earth are now complete, and the cast and crew are loaded up and heading to Bossier City for the official opening on September 29. We can't wait to see this new show the it arrives home in Florida! For the latest news and information from throughout Central Florida, here at Gotta Go Orlando we keep you informed throughout the day, every day. You can also keep up to date with us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel, for the best of Orlando.

How about skipping the theme parks and going out on a boat instead? Orlando-area lakes are fantastic for cruising around on a pontoon or powerboat. Book a jet ski, take your kids out on a tube, or rent a fishing boat to make an epic catch. Nestled in the heart of the Sunshine State, Orlando, Florida, is renowned for its theme parks and entertainment. But what might be the most prominent part of Orlando’s outdoor culture is its pristine lakes and waterways, which offer a serene escape for boating enthusiasts of all kinds. Whether you're a local looking for a weekend adventure or a tourist seeking a unique experience, Orlando's boating scene has something for everyone, from floating parties to active water sports to eco tours. Not sure how to get on the water during your visit to Orlando? Download the GetMyBoat app. GetMyBoat is the world’s largest boat rental platform, bringing thousands of boat rentals and on-water experiences to your fingertips. In Orlando alone, you can find dozens of great boats for rent and charter, plus plenty of other watercraft like jet skis and kayaks. Best Lakes for Boating in Orlando Orlando's lakes are the crown jewels of its boating scene. Lake Eola, situated right in the heart of downtown, offers a unique urban boating experience, allowing you to paddle around the iconic swan boats and take in stunning skyline views. It has a vibrant park and surrounding art installations, creates an urban oasis. For a more natural escape, Lake Apopka provides a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers, with its expansive waters and diverse wildlife. The marshes and wetlands of this lake will offer you the escape and connection with nature, which can be much-needed after busy days at theme parks and other attractions of Orlando. You could spot alligators, herons, and even an eagle or two. The Butler Chain of Lakes, a collection of interconnected lakes, offers serene waters framed by luxurious estates – perfect for a leisurely cruise. Admire the mansions that you cruise past, stop for a swim, roll out a floating mat, or enjoy water sports like tubing and wakeboarding. Renting a Boat in Orlando The diversity of Orlando's waterways means that there’s a diversity of boats and boat types you can choose from when you want to get out on the water. On average, you can expect to spend around $75 to $125 per hour for a basic pontoon rental, depending on the size and features of the boat. More luxurious and specialized options, such as yachts or ski boats, will run higher in price, ranging from $180 to over $400/hour. Here are some great options for renting a boat in Orlando, depending on your desired experience and budget: For Luxury and Large Groups Boating Looking for an elevated experience, or want to host a celebration on the water in Orlando? Why not take it on a yacht? Yachts are great venues for hosting your favorite people — a captain and crew can help take care of the navigation and special details while you enjoy cruising on Orlando’s beautiful waterways. Some great boats and yachts you can rent in Orlando include: 1. This Regal Luxury Yacht Cruise with Captain Avery around Orlando, starting at just $700 for a day rental. This yacht accommodates up to 12 passengers and is perfect for hosting a celebration on the water. You can enjoy the services of the captain and crew member, who can arrange catering for you onboard or you can bring your own food and drinks if preferred. Choose your itinerary - whether you want to cruise, stop for a swim at a sandbar, or even enjoy water sports. 2. Captained Riverboat Charters This large riverboat can accommodate up to 25 passengers, and comes with a captain and crew to help you host the perfect day on the water. Plan a birthday party, family reunion, retirement party, or other celebration in Orlando onboard this great riverboat. Cruise through canals of Orlando’s waterways and marvel at wildlife (including alligators!) while enjoying all the comforts you’d need onboard. For Water Sports Adventurers Just because you’re on a lake doesn’t mean you can’t surf! Orlando’s lakes offer great opportunities for surfing the wake behind a boat. Rent a wake boat that includes the gear you’ll need and you’ll be surfing behind the boat in no time. It’s a fun way to be active, outdoors, and on the water. Some great wake boats you can book in Orlando include: 1. This Moomba Wakeboard Boat With a grill onboard so you can BBQ on the water, what’s not to love? This awesome wake boat is perfect for families with kids who want to tube, water ski, or wakeboard. You can spend the whole day cruising around the lakes of Orlando making memories with your loved ones, enjoying a cookout on the water. 2. This Super Air Nautique G23 Cruise the lakes or Intracoastal waterways on this wake boat, enjoying wake surfing, wakeboarding, even hydro-foiling, a new water sports craze that is exciting to learn. This boat accommodates up to 10 passengers, and you can even book a boat captain who is a water sports coach to help new beginners get up and ride the wake for their first time. For Boating on a Budget Pontoon boats are a popular choice for groups, offering spacious decks for picnics and relaxation. Other watercraft you can consider renting for an adventure on the waterways of Orlando include kayaks and canoes, which are perfect for those who want to get up close and personal with nature, exploring the nooks and crannies of the lakes. They are also very budget-friendly, making them affordable options for travelers looking to save their cash for Disney. Another style of boat and experience you can have in Orlando on the water is a fishing adventure. Fishing boats cater to anglers looking for their next big catch, and you can either rent a boat on your own or book a fishing charter with a local guide who will take you to the best secret spots to make an epic catch. Here are some great boats you can rent in Orlando that won’t break the bank: 1. A Godfrey Pontoon Rental For just $425 for a full-day rental, this pontoon is perfect for families looking to cruise leisurely around Orlando. Connect your music to the Bluetooth speakers, roll out a floating mat or stop at a sandbar for a swim. Pontoons are great for groups, since you have ample space to spread out and they offer a smooth ride if you’re traveling with small children or elderly folks. You can even bring your furry friends (up to 20 pounds) onboard too! 2. REGAL LS2 Bowrider Rental Starting at just $130/hour, this bowrider is great for smaller groups looking to cruise the lakes of Orlando or other waterways around Central Florida. Bring drinks and snacks onboard and don’t forget to pack your swimsuit and plenty of sun protection. It’s fantastic for small group celebrations or just getting out on the water and relaxing, with a captain who can provide a flexible itinerary depending on which part of Florida you want to explore. Orlando, Florida, is not just about theme parks – its lakes provide a tranquil and scenic playground for boating enthusiasts. With reasonable rental prices, a variety of lakes to choose from, unique sights to explore, and a wide range of boat types available, there's no shortage of options for a memorable boating experience. Whether you're captivated by urban charm or the allure of untamed nature, Orlando's boating scene offers a remarkable journey on its pristine waters. For the latest news and information from throughout Central Florida, here at Gotta Go Orlando we keep you informed throughout the day, every day. You can also keep up to date with us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel, for the best of Orlando.

Reflections is a celebratory launch of Orlando Ballet’s 50th season and offers a look back as well as ahead in terms of how the organization has evolved from its very humble start to become one of Central Florida’s leading performing arts organization. Reflections is a celebratory launch of Orlando Ballet’s 50th season and offers a look back as well as ahead in terms of how the organization evolved from its very humble start to becoming one of Central Florida’s leading performing arts organizations. Taking place at Dr Phillips Center from September 21 – 24, 2023., Refections features Paul Taylor’s “Company B” & Balanchine Ballet: Serenade. Get tickets now. The evening will begin with the premiere of Orlando Ballet's anniversary film that tells a story about love for the art form and the risk-taking that helped build the organization, including missteps and victories that occurred along the way. The fascinating film features conversations from many of the talented artists and community leaders who were involved from the beginning while the organization celebrates today’s highly respected professional dance company. In honor of this milestone, Artistic Director Jorden Morris has curated a sophisticated season that doesn’t just challenge his dancers but gifts the audience with new productions never-before performed or seen in Orlando. Paul Taylor’s “Company B” Iconic ballets earn that distinction by being innovative, timeless, and for always stirring up a range of emotions. While dramatically different artists, choreographers Paul Taylor and George Balanchine define iconic ballet through their artistic creativity, influence, and endurance. Set during World War II, Juilliard-trained Taylor’s wildly popular “Company B,” is a lively yet poignant representation of good, old-fashioned American optimism set against the stark and painful realities of war. Taylor’s self-described modern “dance scribbling” and avant-garde style are fittingly supported by a musical backdrop by The Andrews Sisters, whose recognizable songs carry the audience and dancers through a journey of love and loss. Taylor’s masterful choreography balanced by simple, subtle sets and costumes, makes for a mesmerizing dance experience for all. Balanchine Ballet: Serenade Russian-born George Balanchine’s universally beloved Serenade presents elegance and highly structured movement fostered by the choreographer’s renowned musicality. Serenade will be performed to live music by the Bach Festival of Winter Park, conducted by John Sinclair. The production includes 28 dancers in gauzy blue attire, performing four unique movements before a minimalistic backdrop of blue. Serenade has no plot; rather this ballet thrives emotionally and visually on the choreographer’s preference for precision and graceful movement inspired by Balanchine’s affection for all things Tchaikovsky. Balanchine is said to have been influenced by Tchaikovsky’s lush and hypnotizing “Serenade for Strings in C, Op.48,” setting the framework for his textured, thrilling variations that create an intoxicating experience of pure dance. Artistic Director Jorden Morris notes that the performance’s conclusion of a woman being lifted off the stage toward the light serves as a quiet nod to Orlando Ballet’s next 50 season For the latest news and information from throughout Central Florida, here at Gotta Go Orlando we keep you informed throughout the day, every day. You can also keep up to date with us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel, for the best of Orlando.

Celebrate with poolside festivities for all ages, Michelin dining, redesigned suites ideal for family travel, and much more. This festive season, escape to Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort, a AAA Five Diamond Resort where the most wonderful time of the year includes palm trees twinkling in glittering lights, heated infinity-edge pools and a lazy river, and elevated resort offerings such as rooftop Michelin-starred dining complete with dazzling fireworks views. Plus, a special connectivity to Walt Disney World Resort enables guests to experience magical holiday events at the Disney Theme Parks, such as "Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party" at Magic Kingdom Park, and the brand-new nighttime celebration "Disney Jollywood Nights" at Disney's Hollywood Studios. Four Seasons features holiday activities for all ages, complimentary all-day kids club programming, decadent food and beverage selections, and the premier accommodations in Orlando, including recently renovated Park View Deluxe Suites. Family Activities & Kids Club Fun Several different poolside experiences throughout the five-acre Explorer Island water park appeal to all age groups, making the resort an ideal option for multi-generational travel. While adults relish the sanctuary of the Oasis adult-only pool, kids will have a blast zooming down the waterslides and floating on the lazy river, while little ones will enjoy the zero-entry interactive splash zone. The whole family will enjoy the infinity-edge Explorer Pool, featuring holiday movie classics on the Dive-In Movie screen such as Elf and The Grinch Who Stole Christmas. The Kids For All Seasons complimentary kids camp, open daily for ages 4-12 with interactive programming, has an array of organized activities planned for resort guests throughout the festive season. From story time with Santa and Mrs. Claus, gingerbread crafts, "Winter Sing-Along" supervised swim time and much more, the Kids For All Seasons team has a thoughtfully orchestrated schedule to provide fun for all ages. On Saturday nights, parents can experience a romantic evening to themselves while kids ages 4-12 are entertained with paid evening programming from 5:00-8:00pm at "Explorer Island Takeover", and teens ages 13-17 enjoy an after-hours movie and swim from 8:00pm-10:00pm. Additionally, families have the option to dine together at Ravello, and then let little ones enjoy supervised play time while adults soak up a few peaceful moments. Parents/caregivers can savor a glass of wine, or perhaps Chef Fabrizio's limoncello trio, while kids are entertained with the new "Pasta & Play" offering, available December 26-29 and January 3-5. Children ages 4+ can enjoy complimentary post-dinner activities with the Kids For All Seasons team, with games on the nearby spa lawn starting at 6pm (parents retrieving children at or before 9pm). Holiday Dining Christmas Day, Monday, December 25, 2023: Indulge in a decadent holiday buffet at the Michelin-recommended Ravello, offered from 2:00 pm – 9:00 pm for USD 150 per adult and USD 55 per child (ages 2 to 12). The Michelin-starred Capa Steakhouse will offer its full a la carte menu from 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm on Christmas Day, in addition to holiday specials. New Year's Eve, Sunday, December 31, 2023: On New Year's Eve, Ravello will offer a delicious buffet from 5:00 pm – 11:00 pm for USD 180 per person and USD 55 per child (ages 2-12). Capa will offer a five-course prix-fixe menu from 5:00 pm – 12:00 am for USD 360 per adult and USD 68per child (ages 2-12). New Year's Eve Celebrations Families can ring in the New Year with a kid-friendly party in the Grand Ballroom from 6:30 pm – 10:30 pm, with a balloon drop at 10:00 pm. Families are welcome to attend complimentary, or kids ages 4-12 can be signed in with the Kids For All Seasons team. The price of entry for supervised activities is USD 75 per child, or USD 100 per child including a children's dinner, served until 9pm. More fun awaits at The Lobby Bar, featuring a full à la carte menu and live entertainment from 5:00 pm to 12:30 am, with a Champagne toast at midnight. Character Dining The holidays are even merrier with a special visit from beloved Disney characters at the Good Morning Breakfast with Goofy and His Pals, offered every Thursday and Saturday morning at Ravello, and select Tuesdays during the Festive season: December 19 and December 26. The fun-filled breakfast includes an amazing buffet of breakfast favorites including an omelet station, and a photographer will be on-site to capture cherished memories-in-the-making. All is Calm, All is Bright at The Spa Take time out of the busy holiday season to unwind and rejuvenate the mind, body, and spirit with a signature treatment at The Spa. The "Winter's Wonder Facial" treatment features a combination of refined hyperbaric oxygen and Cryo globes to achieve intense hydration, brightening and toning. This treatment is available for 50 minutes at USD 310, or 80 minutes for USD 380. A seasonal spin on The Spa's Vibrational Sound Therapy, the "Bowls Will Be Singing" treatment aids in restoring the natural rhythms of the body and mind on a cellular level, as vibrations from Himalayan singing bowls placed on and around the body inspire a state of euphoric calm. This treatment is available for 50 minutes at USD 220, or 80 minutes for USD 320. At The Salon, unwind with Merry Manis & Mistle-Toes nail treatments, and holiday hair appointments with the Salon's International Creative Director and Master Stylist Alejandra Bell. Four Seasons guests enjoy complimentary access to Spa relaxation areas, including the co-ed indoor and outdoor Tranquility Lounges, the post treatment Solarium Lounge with zero gravity loungers and his-and-hers locker rooms with aromatherapeutic steam room, al-fresco whirlpool terrace, ice fountain and custom Experience Shower. Celebrate the Holidays at Walt Disney World A spectacular season of holiday joy awaits at Walt Disney World Resort with enchanting events offered at all four Disney Theme Parks and beyond, beginning November 9, 2023. Everyone will feel extra merry and bright at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park featuring festive entertainment and décor in every land, including a merry menagerie of winter animal puppets, flotillas, amazing holiday scenes during Tree of Life Awakenings. At Magic Kingdom Park, enjoy the spectacular sights, lights and décor, plus guest favorites like Jingle Cruise. New this year, guests will love the Frozen Holiday Surprise, a holiday celebration. Discover Mickey and the gang at Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party, complete with a nighttime fireworks spectacular and more holiday themed entertainment. At EPCOT, become immersed in a global collection of traditions and tastes, as well as the Candlelight Processional, all during EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays presented by AdventHealth. Experience Yuletide adventures at Disney's Hollywood Studios, featuring the magical holiday effects of Sunset Seasons Greetings, special seasonal cheer in Toy Story Land, as well as the all-new, separately ticketed event Disney Jollywood Nights, featuring themed celebrations, live music, festive fireworks and more merriment. Guests of Four Seasons who wish to explore the excitement of the Walt Disney World Resort Theme Parks can enjoy access to the resort's lobby level Disney Planning Center. Staffed by Disney Cast Members, the Disney Planning Center team offers complimentary assistance with all Disney needs, including assisting guests with purchasing Park tickets conveniently on site, making Disney dining reservations, and much more. Additionally, the resort offers complimentary transportation in a luxury motor coach to the four main Disney Theme Parks. Resort Reservations For more information on reserving a winter getaway or to plan ahead for a springtime escape, visit the web site or call 1-800-267-3046. For the latest news and information from throughout Central Florida, here at Gotta Go Orlando we keep you informed throughout the day, every day. You can also keep up to date with us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel, for the best of Orlando.

A brand new chocolate shop and cafe opened recently in Orlando, and you are gonna want to try it soon! With over 150 different amazing chocolate delicacies, AJ Chocolate House is truly a place to come unwind and enjoy the sweetest things life has to offer. Whether you want to get together with an old friend to enjoy great chocolates or a slice of delicate cake with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate, or simply need to find the perfect gift for a chocolate lover, AJ Chocolate House is a welcome new addition to Winter Park. AJ Chocolate House is a European fine chocolates artisan manufacturer making handmade chocolates according to the finest Belgian traditions. Their confectionery recipes are the creation of our in-house chocolatiers and the founder himself – Algimantas “AJ” Jablonskas who founded AJ Chocolate House in 2002, in Vilnius, Lithuania. AJ uses only the best quality chocolate there is – Belgian Couverture Chocolate to create delicate chocolates, cakes, and desserts. Visit AJ Chocolate House at 552 S Park Avenue, Winter Park. For the latest news and information from throughout Central Florida, here at Gotta Go Orlando we keep you informed throughout the day, every day. You can also keep up to date with us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel, for the best of Orlando.

Ealy this morning a real life black bear went on vacation to the Magic Kingdom theme park in Walt Disney World causing a frantic search. Today Monday, September 18, a large area of Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World failed to open with the rest of the theme park a a black bear was spotted by cast members shortly before park opening. Adventureland, Liberty Square, and Frontierland were all closed until early afternoon, with Cast Members sectioning off the huge section of the park from the public. The bear had reportedly made itself comfortable in a tree located near Big Thunder Mountain Railroad in Frontierland. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) were called, and had officers rush to the theme park to help locate and capture the bear. At the time, Walt Disney World commented, "As shared by the FWC, staff are on site and working on capturing and relocating the bear." The latest news is that the FWC have safely captured the adult, female bear in a backstage area of Magic Kingdom near the Rivers of America. The bear is safe and will be relocated to the Ocala National Forest. The entire Magic Kingdom reopened to guests at around 1pm. For the latest news and information from throughout Central Florida, here at Gotta Go Orlando we keep you informed throughout the day, every day. You can also keep up to date with us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel, for the best of Orlando.

GET READY! Seminole Hard Rock Tampa’s annual “Monster’s Ball” is back in Hard Rock Cafe on Saturday, October 28. Shaq is coming to party this spooky season in Tampa! The basketball legend is set to spin as DJ Diesel at The Monster Ball at Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Tampa on October 28. DJ Diesel will be joined by Sara Benyo, with the entire extravaganza hosted by Brian Fink of 93.3FLZ. The Hard Rock Cafe will be transformed with spooky lightning and decor, with the Halloween Party starting at 10pm and continuing late into the evening. General admission tickets are $60, and available now. For the latest news and information from throughout Central Florida, here at Gotta Go Orlando we keep you informed throughout the day, every day. You can also keep up to date with us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel, for the best of Orlando.

Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens celebrate Sunset at the Zoo, every fourth Friday of the month from May through September! Sunset at the Zoo returns to Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens this Friday, Septrmbe, 22, 2023. Sunset at the Zoo has been taking place on the fourth Friday of every month from May to September, with the zoo opening at 5 pm, with lots of fun until the sun goes down, including music, inflatable games and of course the chance to see some favorite animals after the heat of the day. Sunset at the Zoo allows friends and families to enjoy some extra-hours fun—but with an added twist as this years event will be celebrating the connections that inspire people to take action for wildlife, while also forging connections with different cultures in our communities. Join the Sanford zoo at the last Sunset At The Zoo for this season, with this Friday's event celebrating Hispanic culture, complete with activities, food and educational opportunities. Highlights include: Live music provided by Joey & Jenny Duo Tasty food truck options like The Bruja’s Table and A Lo Cubano Kitchen Plus other one-night only food options DJ Darren spinning your favorite tunes Themed crafts & family activities “The Zoo is a place for the community, and we want it to feel welcoming to all communities and cultures,” said Richard E. Glover, Jr., the Zoo’s CEO. “We’re very excited to roll out this newly imagined version of our favorite summer event and look forward to celebrating with our patrons.” Last admission for the event is 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $6 per person when purchased online and $8 per person at the gate. For the very latest news and information from Orlando and Central Florida, check back often here at Gotta Go Orlando as we keep you informed throughout the day, every day. You can also keep up to date on our socials, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel, your free guide to Orlando. Please Note: Gotta Go Orlando is your free guide to all the amazing happenings in Orlando. Every day we offer the most up to date news and information on the best of Orlando and Central Florida. We are supported by our advertisers via digital ads, sponsored content, and affiliate links, articles may be paid for, or contain affiliate links where we could earn money if you purchase products or services via a link our site.