The world famous Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier, one of the busiest tourist destinations on the Space Coast, has been undergoing a $3.5 million redevelopment over the winter that is seeing the piers retail and dining locations transformed. New offerings at the Pier include a new souvenir shop, customizable grab-and-go options, a new daquiri bar, and Pier 62 Oceanfront Restaurant & Bar, a wholly reimagined concept with a brand-new menu, including a full sushi bar and sake cocktail offerings. Pier 62 Oceanfront Restaurant & Bar, which takes its name from the year the pier opened, moves into the space where Pelican's was located on Cocoa Beach Pier. The new restaurant is now fully open, with customers already enjoying the new look restaurant, and it's delicious new menu. The restaurant features a brand-new menu, including a full sushi bar and sake cocktail offerings. Show here is the Dungeness Crab, Katsu Sando, and New England Lobster Roll. Pier 62 Oceanfront Restaurant & Bar offers ocean views and sun-painted Florida skies through its floor to ceiling windows. Pier 62 includes a new outdoor bar with seating and roll-up windows for guests to take in the oceanfront views and exquisite Florida sunsets. In addition to the new retail and dining options coming to Coca Beach Pier, the renovated Pier will now feature five family-style changing and restroom facilities allowing families the opportunity to change in comfort after a long day of hitting the surf and sand. Since its construction in 1962, the Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier has provided lasting memories for millions of visitors year after year. The renovation of existing locations on the Pier, as well as the addition of exciting new food concepts, is the Pier’s biggest enhancement in more than 40 years. For more information on new projects led by Westgate Resorts at its Pier and other properties across the country, please visit www.westgateresorts.com. As always, keep checking back with us here at Gotta Go Orlando as we continue to bring you the latest news and information from around Orlando and Central Florida. You can also discover our latest news, views, and more on our socials, follow Gotta Go Orlando on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, don't forget to subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel for all the latest from Orlando's Theme Parks, Attractions and more. Please note: Some posts may contain affiliate links which means we could earn money if you purchase products or services via our site.

The blot on the landscape of Orlando is finally going to be removed. Crews have arrived at the site of the Orlando FreeFall attraction at ICON Park on International Drive to finally begin the work that will see the towering reminder of a tragic night back in March last year, that saw 14 year old Tyre Sampson, a tourist visiting Orlando with friends, lose his life while riding the FreeFall The family of Tyre Sampson had already made it clear that they wanted the ride to be dismantled before March 24, the first anniversary of the the teen's death. According to a report on Channel 9, the family said they’re relieved this process has begun, with Attorneys representing his mother saying it’s a long time coming. Since earlier today, Tuesday, March 7, workers have been on-site, constructing fencing and installing tarp around the ride. Workers were also seen on the ride itself. SlingShot Group have said that next week there will be a crane on-site to help with the process of removing the ride from I-Drive, SlingShot Group say that the process of removing the ride will last throughout next week. Following an agreement with the state back in February, the owner and operator of the Orlando FreeFall attraction at ICON Park, Orlando Eagle Drop Slingshot agreeing to not operate the Drop Tower anywhere within Florida and will NOT reapply for a permit to do so in the future for this ride or any similar style of ride. As well as agreeing not to operate the ride in Florida, the owners paid a fine of $250,000 that the state announced on November 22 last year, when it was revealed that the state had filled an administrative complaint alleging multiple violations of Florida law in relation to the tragic death of the teenager Tyre Sampson. Last year, Orlando Eagle Drop Slingshot stated that they would be dismantling the attraction at ICON Park following the end of the investigations, and this is now what is thankfully happening. Tyre Sampson, 14, tragically died during his spring break trip earlier this year to Orlando, when he fell from the Orlando FreeFall ride at Icon Park. On November 22, last year, Florida officials announced an administrative complaint alleging multiple violations of Florida law in relation to the tragic death of the teenager totalling $250,000. Sampson, a 14-year-old from Missouri, fell from the ride on March 24, sparking an ongoing series of lawsuits and investigations surrounding the tragic incident. The state said that the operator of the Orlando FreeFall made “manual adjustments to the ride resulting in it being unsafe” and allowed the harness’ restraint opening to be “almost double” of the normal opening range. “These misadjustments allow the safety lights to illuminate, improperly satisfying the ride’s electronic safety mechanisms that allow the ride to operate even though Mr. Sampson was not properly secured in the seat,” “As noted in the report, there are many other potential contributing factors that may have played a role in the incident. And that is what our department is continuing to investigate.” An autopsy report revealed Tyre Sampson weighed 383 pounds and according to a manual produced by the manufacturer of the ride, Funtime Thrill Rides, the maximum weight allowance for Orlando FreeFall is listed as 286 pounds. Weeks after the boy’s fatal fall, attorneys for his family formally filed a lawsuit against Funtime Thrill Rides, the manufacturer; Slingshot Group, the owner-operator in Florida; and ICON Park, which leased the space. The lawsuit alleges the ride’s operators should have known that riders could be “subject to unreasonably dangerous and foreseeable risks, and that serious injury and death of the occupants in the ride could result.” In light of the investigations, lawmakers released a draft proposal to strengthen the state’s safety regulations for amusement park rides, calling for stricter signage requirements, training, safety systems and random inspections.

Connecticut-based Wayback Burgers is planning to open a new drive-thru restaurant in Orlando. One of the nation’s fastest-growing burger franchises, Wayback Burgers has over 170 locations across more than 40 countries. Here in Central Florida, Wayback have a number of franchisee led restaurants, including a location within the Walmart on North Old Lake Wilson Road, Kissimmee, and stand alone locations in Titusville and Daytona Beach. The latest store will be located at 11901 Landstar Blvd, Orlando. Wayback Burgers offers a variety of cooked-to-order, delicious burgers available as a single patty or classic double patties. The “Cheeeesy” is a fan favorite and comes with four slices of melted American cheese and two beef patties cooked-to-order, sandwiched between an inverted, grilled and buttered bun. Going “way” beyond the burger, Wayback Burgers also offers cheesesteaks, crispy and grilled chicken sandwiches, veggie burgers, Impossible Burgers, chicken tenders, fresh salads, and delicious sides, including fries, tater tots, onion rings and mac and cheese bites. As a perfect complement to any meal, Wayback Burgers is famous for its rich, hand-dipped milkshakes, crafted to order with Blue Bunny ice cream and milk. As always, keep checking back with us here at Gotta Go Orlando as we continue to bring you the latest news and information from around Orlando and Central Florida. You can also discover our latest news, views, and more on our socials, follow Gotta Go Orlando on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, don't forget to subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel for all the latest from Orlando's Theme Parks, Attractions and more. Please note: Some posts may contain affiliate links which means we could earn money if you purchase products or services via our site.

Racers, start your engines because RuPaul’s Drag Race is hitting the road and the 2023 Were The World Tour will quite literally be working its way around the world with dates in UK and Ireland, Europe, Asia, Australia, and North America! RuPaul's Drag Race Werq the World Tour takes to the stage at Dr. Phillips Center's Walt Disney Theater on Saturday, June 24. ja, and Vanessa Vanjie Mateo hitting up Florida this June with dates confirmed for Clearwater, Pensacola, Fort Lauderdal, and of course right here in Orlando. RuPaul's Drag Race Werq the World Tour which will also include select finalists from Season 15 of the show, comes to the Dr. Phillips Center's Walt Disney Theater on Saturday, June 24. The show is 18+ with tickets on sale Friday, March 10. For more info go to the Dr Phillips website. As always, keep checking back with us here at Gotta Go Orlando as we continue to bring you the latest news and information from around Orlando and Central Florida. You can also discover our latest news, views, and more on our socials, follow Gotta Go Orlando on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, don't forget to subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel for all the latest from Orlando's Theme Parks, Attractions and more. Please note: Some posts may contain affiliate links which means we could earn money if you purchase products or services via our site.

Canadian twin sister due Tegan and Sara have announced another slate of 2023 tour dates on their Crybaby Tour, which is named after their 2022 album of the same name. The new dates begin on June 14 with a concert in Montreal followed by a show in Toronto the next night. The duo's first U.S. show takes place at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium on June 20 ahead of a swing through the country including shows in Minneapolis, Pittsburgh. New York, Boston,and Georgia, before the tour closes out here in Orlando on Tuesday, October 3. A presale for the new dates is currently underway with general on-sales beginning on Friday, March 10 at 10 am via Ticketmaster. Tegan and Sara began making music as teenagers, pairing their close harmonies with insightful lyrics and catchy melodies. Initially making music inspired by folk but with the edginess of punk, the twin sisters went from low-budget demos to recording albums for Neil Young's Vapor Records. Natives of Calgary, identical twin sisters Tegan and Sara Quin Crybaby, released their current album Crybaby in 2022, which was recorded with producer John Congleton. The jagged synth pop, quirky new wave, and dramatic ballads done with stylistic flair and total honesty were to be expected; the pair collaborating during the songwriting process was a new twist on a successful formula. As always, keep checking back with us here at Gotta Go Orlando as we continue to bring you the latest news and information from around Orlando and Central Florida. You can also discover our latest news, views, and more on our socials, follow Gotta Go Orlando on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, don't forget to subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel for all the latest from Orlando's Theme Parks, Attractions and more. Please note: Some posts may contain affiliate links which means we could earn money if you purchase products or services via our site.

Melia Orlando Celebration Hotel offers luxury and comfort in a South Beach-inspired setting, but did you know that the four star for offers a locals Day Pass? Located in the heart of Celebration, the Melia Orlando Celebration Hotel presents an exclusive Day Pass for locals, featuring a 360-degree, zero-entry outdoor heated pool, hot tub, pool towels, complimentary WiFi, and complimentary self-parking, all for just $60 for a family of four. You can also take advantage of food, beverage and cocktail service for purchase from The Wilson on-property restaurant, Central Florida residents also enjoy the following exclusive benefits at Meliá Orlando Celebration: Zumba classes every Sunday in March at 11 am. For just $10, followed by a free cocktail hour with complimentary mimosas and sparkling wine. Send an email to: melia.orlando@melia.com to reserve your preferred date or arrive to the front desk 20 minutes prior to sign in and pay. Wine and Canvas Art Class every Saturday in March from 6 to 8 pm for just $30 including paints, take home canvas and wine. Sign up and pay via EventBrite. 25 percent discount at The Wilson on-property restaurant on Tuesday, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday Brunch at The Wilson every Saturday and Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Individual resort passes also available for $20 adult and $10 child on week days, and $25 adult and $15 child on weekend. Children ages 3 and under free. For more information, call Meliá Orlando Celebration Hotel at (407) 964-7000 or The Wilson at (407) 964-3258. As always, keep checking back with us here at Gotta Go Orlando as we continue to bring you the latest news and information from around Orlando and Central Florida. You can also discover our latest news, views, and more on our socials, follow Gotta Go Orlando on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, don't forget to subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel for all the latest from Orlando's Theme Parks, Attractions and more. Please note: Some posts may contain affiliate links which means we could earn money if you purchase products or services via our site.

Just in time for Spring Break, Orlando's iconic roadside attraction Gatorland, the “Alligator Capital of the World,” is bringing more cool-down fun for kids and families of all ages with brand new water features. The attractions Gator Gully Splash Park, which is included with the price of admission, now includes a colorful collection of majestic coconut palm sprayers, a radiant butterfly, zany water dragon and of course, brand new gator sculptures to sit on for all the splashes and fun. Gator Gully provides cool to the touch floor panels, shade and vibrant over-sized Adirondack chairs for parents and grandparents to watch the little ones and have fun, too. “We know how much our guests love our Splash Park and cooling off during their visit, so we are working hard to keep making it better,” said Mark McHugh, President and CEO of Gatorland. “Kids, parents and grandparents all have something to enjoy at Gator Gully.” Gatorland is a 110-acre theme park combining Old Florida charm with exciting experiences, exhibits, and entertainment. Originally opened as a roadside attraction in 1949, the iconic park provides affordably priced family fun featuring thousands of alligators and crocodiles, breeding marsh with observation tower, free-flight aviary, nature walk, petting zoo, educational wildlife programs, a train ride, on-site restaurant, and one-of-a-kind shows including Gator Jumparoo, Alligators-Legends of the Swamp, and Up-close Encounters. Popular adventure experiences inside the park include the Screamin’ Gator Zip Line and Stompin’ Gator Off-Road Adventure, plus of course Gator Gully Splash Park! Right now through March 31, Florida Residents get half-off a single day admission ticket. Proof of residency required. Must be purchased at Gatorland Admissions. For more information check out Gatorland's website. As always, keep checking back with us here at Gotta Go Orlando as we continue to bring you the latest news and information from around Orlando and Central Florida. You can also discover our latest news, views, and more on our socials, follow Gotta Go Orlando on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, don't forget to subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel for all the latest from Orlando's Theme Parks, Attractions and more. Please note: Some posts may contain affiliate links which means we could earn money if you purchase products or services via our site.

The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens in Sanford is getting a very special new animal resident for two days in April, the Easter Bunny himself! Celebrate Spring at the Central Florida Zoo during their Hippity Hop Adventure, taking place this year, Saturday, April 1 and Sunday, April 2, 2023. For the first time, enjoy two full days of springtime festivities! Kids and parents alike are invited to enjoy conservation-friendly treat stations, danceable tunes spun by a live DJ, stunning illusions by a local magician, colorful and fun face painting, arts & crafts to boost creativity, inflatable bounce houses… and more! Including spring-themed photo opportunities with the Easter Bunny himself! There will also be Easter-themed enrichment items in the animal habitats so they can join in the springtime celebration too. This year’s Hippity Hop Adventure will take place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with last entry at 3:15 p.m., and is included in general admission to the Zoo. As always, keep checking back with us here at Gotta Go Orlando as we continue to bring you the latest news and information from around Orlando and Central Florida. You can also discover our latest news, views, and more on our socials, follow Gotta Go Orlando on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, don't forget to subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel for all the latest from Orlando's Theme Parks, Attractions and more. Please note: Some posts may contain affiliate links which means we could earn money if you purchase products or services via our site.

Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, Chris Janson, The Mavericks, Niko Moon, and more are set to perform at this year's two day Ocoee Music Festival, taking place on Friday, March 10, and Saturday, March 11. Over 20,000 people are expected at this weekend's Ocoee Music Festival to enjoy epic musical performances, plus an array of festival food, carnival rides for the kids, a unique marketplace, car show, beer garden, and a marketplace with local artisans and craft vendors. The event is free and everyone is welcome to attend, with the festival taking place at Bill Breeze Park, 125 N Lakeshore Drive in Ocoee. On Friday night, music beginning at 5 pm. and on Saturday, the music kicks off at 4 pm. The Ocoee Music Festival (formerly Ocoee Founders' Day Festival) is dedicated to celebrating Ocoee’s small town traditions with music, community, small businesses, and fun. Over the past 27 years, the Festival has grown from a few hundred to 20,000 attendees. 2023 Musical Lineup Friday, March 10 Joan Jett and the Blackhearts Night Ranger The Mavericks Rocktown Saturday, March 11 Chris Janson Niko Moon Chapel Moon Walker Montgomery Mark Houghton As always, keep checking back with us here at Gotta Go Orlando as we continue to bring you the latest news and information from around Orlando and Central Florida. You can also discover our latest news, views, and more on our socials, follow Gotta Go Orlando on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, don't forget to subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel for all the latest from Orlando's Theme Parks, Attractions and more. Please note: Some posts may contain affiliate links which means we could earn money if you purchase products or services via our site.

The CAF AirPower History Tour is coming to Central Florida! On Tuesday, March 14 and Wednesday, March 15, experience the sights, smells and sounds of historic World War II aircraft at Orlando Sanford International Airport. This is a rare opportunity to not only see, but ride some of the rarest World War II bombers including, the B-24 Liberator “Diamond Lil” as part of the Commemorative Air Force's AirPower History Tour. Admission to see the planes is $20 for adults, $10 for children ages 11 to 17 and free for kids 10 and under. Tickets are available for purchase at the event and include a free B-24 cockpit tour. Prices vary if you wish to fly in a plane. There will be five planes featured in this showcase that we're actually used in WWII, for more information, and to book a ride in the warplanes click here. Here is the warplanes that will be in attendance, and information on each plane. B-24 Liberator Diamond Lil You can relive history and ride on one of the rarest WWII bombers in existence by taking a “Living History” Bomber Ride. This unique experience allows you to sit in the veteran's seats. You can see and feel what the veteran's experienced, minus the bullets and the flak. Climb Aboard the Legendary B-24 Bomber. Over 18,000 Liberators were Built and Today Only Two Remain. Boeing Stearman Experience the thrill and joy of an open cockpit biplane. The PT-13 trained more crews than any other aircraft during WWII. Officially Named the Boeing Model 75, This Plane is Almost Universally Known as the "Stearman." The Army Designated it the "PT," the Navy the "N2S", and the Canadians called it the "Kaydet." By Any Name, it is Recognized as the Quintessential Primary Trainer for American Aviators in World War II. T-6 Texan Fly in the legendary trainer of World War II. Our aviators were taught how to fly in the same type of trainer. This is a true warbird ride that will take you back 50 plus years. T-34 Mentor Fly in a former Air Force primary trainer. Property of the Air Force from 1954 to 1970, it is one of the few T-34's still flying with the original 225 HP engine. RC-45J Expediter The C-45 was used during World War II as a multi-engine trainer. It was also used for light cargo transport and general transportation duties, most often as VIP transport. As always, keep checking back with us here at Gotta Go Orlando as we continue to bring you the latest news and information from around Orlando and Central Florida. You can also discover our latest news, views, and more on our socials, follow Gotta Go Orlando on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, don't forget to subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel for all the latest from Orlando's Theme Parks, Attractions and more. Please note: Some posts may contain affiliate links which means we could earn money if you purchase products or services via our site.

Avelo Airlines is continuing to expand its network of flights from its hub at Orlando International Airport (MCO). Recently, low cost airline Avelo Airlines have introduced flights to Binghamton NY, Delaware Valley's Wilmington Airport, and Dayton, OH. Now today, Tuesday, March 7, Avelo have announced exclusive nonstop service to Orlando from the Gulf Coast’s newest airport, Mobile International Airport (BFM). Avelo will be the only airline in Mobile offering nonstop service to The Sunshine State. Service will begin on May 31 to Orlando’s most convenient airport, Orlando International Airport (MCO), with a special inaugural flight on Wednesday, and begin normal operation twice weekly on Thursdays and Sundays on Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft. Introductory one-way fares between BFM and Orlando start at $29. Customers can make reservations at AveloAir.com. Avelo Airlines Chairman and CEO Andrew Levy said, “Mobile – it’s time to say hello to Avelo! We look forward to introducing the Northern Gulf to Avelo’s low fares, industry-leading reliability and caring service. Alabama represents the 22nd state Avelo will serve, and we’ll be taking flight from Mobile’s most convenient airport – which will make getting to Orlando easier and faster than ever. We’re excited to be the only airline in Mobile offering nonstop flights to The Sunshine State.” Avelo will be the only airline serving BFM. Mobile International Airport offers a refreshingly fast, smooth and welcoming hometown airport experience. Its adjacency to downtown Mobile and I-10 make it the area’s most convenient and travel-friendly airport. City of Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson said, “Today’s announcement by Avelo Airlines is a huge step for Mobile International Airport. Not only are we flying from downtown again, but the affordable nonstop flight option to Orlando International will enhance the quality of life for our citizens. We are proud to be the first location for Avelo on the Northern Gulf and look forward to a successful partnership for many seasons to come.” Mobile Airport Authority President Chris Curry said, “We’re excited to have Avelo Airlines join us at Mobile International Airport, bringing us closer to our goal of relocating all commercial air service to downtown Mobile. This nonstop flight to Orlando marks a significant achievement in our efforts to provide low-fare, nonstop travel options and convenience for the residents of Mobile and surrounding areas. We’re looking forward to a successful partnership with Avelo Airlines and are excited to welcome them to Mobile. Hello Avelo.” Visit Mobile President & CEO David Clark “This is the start of a tremendous transformation for our Gulf Coast Communities. The development of the Mobile International Airport, starting with the Avelo announcement today, is one of the most impactful opportunities and economic development initiatives that Mobile can do to increase resiliency. We look forward to welcoming visitors from Orlando and know that our coastal residents will enjoy this amazing opportunity.” Operating a fleet of Boeing NextGeneration 737 aircraft, Avelo serves 36 popular destinations across the U.S., including its five bases at Los Angeles’ Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR), Southern Connecticut’s Tweed-New Haven Airport (HVN), Orlando International Airport (MCO), the Delaware Valley’s Wilmington Airport (ILG) and Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU). For more information visit AveloAir.com

Is Impressions de France at EPCOT being quietly dropped? Impressions de France, located in the French Pavilion at the World Showcase in EPCOT is an 18-minute film showcasing the grandeur, charm and romance of one of Europe’s most enchanting countries, but Walt Disney World appears to giving up on the film, as you can now only watch Impressions de France from 9 am to 9:30 am daily! Seriously, what is the point at all. In previous years the Impressions de France film played throughout the day until it began sharing the theater in January 2020 with the Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along, at which point the film was reduced to the hours of 6:30 pm to 8:45 pm. Now, the Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along which previously ran from 9am to 6pm, will play from 10 am to 8:45 pm. As always, keep checking back with us here at Gotta Go Orlando as we continue to bring you the latest news and information from around Orlando and Central Florida. You can also discover our latest news, views, and more on our socials, follow Gotta Go Orlando on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, don't forget to subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel for all the latest from Orlando's Theme Parks, Attractions and more. Please note: Some posts may contain affiliate links which means we could earn money if you purchase products or services via our site.