Bob Sehlinger's Blog, page 1280

TNA Wrestling Returning to Universal Studios Florida

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TNA Wrestling Impact is returning to Universal Studios Florida

Earlier this year, TNA Wrestling pulled up stakes and left its home in Universal Orlando’s soundstages, ending the resort’s last regular television production. Now, we have word of a reversal in course, as TNA Wrestling is returning to Universal Studios Florida and will resume regular filming there in November.

The first new episode of TNA Impact will be recorded live at Universal Orlando’s Soundstage 19 on November 21-23, 2013. In the past, guests wishing to be part of the studio audience could attend free of charge. Since production typically occurs inside the soundstages, we anticipate little to no impact on crowds or touring inside the parks on broadcast days. Keep an eye on Universal’s production website for information on how to attend.

Here is the complete press release from TNA:

TNA LAUNCHES UNPRECEDENTED “WHERE ACTION NEVER ENDS” 24/7 CROSS-PLATFORM PROGRAMMING TNA BRINGS FANS CLOSER THAN EVER BEFORE TO THE REAL LIVES OF WRESTLING SUPERSTARS

Coming off the heels of one of TNA’s highest-attended “Bound For Glory” Pay-Per-View events to date, TNA Wrestling announces a 24/7 cross-platform programming initiative, “Where Action Never Ends,” beginning today. Marking an evolution in the way fans experience professional wrestling, through this initiative, cameras will be rolling on the TNA superstars at live events, on the road and in their homes, giving viewers the chance to experience IMPACT Wrestling 24 hours a day/7 days a week.

How this will work: Fans will see compelling, “cameras everywhere” content infused into IMPACT Live on Spike TV every Thursday from 9-11 p.m. ET. For the remaining 166 hours of the week until the next show, they will also have the chance to see many of the wrestlers they love and storylines they follow unfold as this exclusive content filmed during the week will be presented online at www.impactwrestling.com, on social channels including YouTube, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram, as well as a variety of new distribution channels in the coming months.

A longtime valued partner, Universal Studios in Orlando, Fla, will serve as the hub for TNA’s revolutionized programming strategy with shows primarily taping at their location, along with some IMPACT shows that will be filmed on the road from different markets. The first IMPACT show scheduled from Orlando will air live on November 21.“The way that people view television has dramatically shifted, and it is incumbent upon us to deliver a modern, revolutionized way of watching professional wrestling to our fans,” said President Dixie Carter. “Our reality is that we only have 82 minutes of programming each week and a large roster of talented professionals that deserve more exposure. With our new ‘Where Action Never Ends’ creative direction, we will deliver just that for both them and the fans.”

Carter continued, “Bringing live events to our fans across the globe will remain a vital element of TNA’s business; however, our renewed focus, as it relates to our television programming, will shift from live event touring to 24/7 show content, so that fans can really get to know our talent. And, in making Orlando’s Universal Studios our programming hub, we have the powerful combination of state-of-the art production facilities and incredible soundstages that will make it easier for us to launch this new production-intensive initiative. We will also be working with Universal to develop new and creative ways for park guests and fans from around the world to experience a unique TNA attraction.”

“Universal Studios Florida Production Group is pleased to be TNA Wrestling’s partner as it launches its 24/7 cross-platform initiative ‘Where Action Never Ends’,” said Pamela Tuscany, Vice President and General Manager, Universal Studios Florida Production Group. “We look forward to the successful launch of ‘Where Action Never Ends’ giving viewers the chance to experience IMPACT Wrestling 24 hours a day/7 days a week.”

Along with a refreshed creative approach, several new characters will be announced in the coming months. In recent weeks, fans have already seen Ethan Carter III (EC3) and Lei’D Tapa, TNA’s newest Knockout. Universal Studios will also serve as the primary training facility for TNA talent moving forward, providing the opportunity to train and develop talent on an ongoing basis.The strength and success of TNA’s programming worldwide is at an all-time high. TNA Wrestling ratings around the world are seeing significant increases particularly in important international television markets such as the UK and Germany where the show is the number one wrestling program on television. Additionally, TNA recently inked new deals with distribution partners in Portugal and New Zealand, renewed a multi-year deal in France, and recently-launched programming in India is performing beyond expectation.

“A decade ago, TNA started as a Pay-Per-View only company only and has grown into a global success. I am more excited than ever about our ‘Where Action Never Ends’ creative direction and what will become the next evolution of professional wrestling,” said Carter.

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Published on November 04, 2013 09:00

Universal Dining: Mama Della’s at Loews Portofino Bay (Photo Review)

By Seth Kubersky

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The chickens welcome you to Mama Della’s!

With Bice, The Palm, and two Emeril’s — not to mention Pat O’s, Jimmy B’s, and Mr. Gump’s — the Universal Orlando Resort packs in more name-brand dining options per square foot than anywhere else in Orlando, including the sprawling Downtown Disney. With so many restaurants within steps to each other, a few are bound to get lost in the shuffle. Last month I returned to Loews Portofino Bay Hotel for a photo dining review of Mama Della’s Ristorante, one of my favorite underrated eateries inside Universal’s hotels.

Mama Della’s is located on the lowest level of Portofino Bay Hotel’s waterfront plaza, between Sal’s Market Deli and Trattorio del Porto. You can self-park at the hotel, and the restaurant will validate; or park in Universal’s main garage and take a scenic water taxi from CityWalk.

Mama’s home is filled with small side rooms, each with its own style.

Priced between the luxurious Bice and the family-oriented Trattorio del Porto, Mama Della’s is themed after an Italian grandmother’s home, complete with ceramic brick-a-brac and a large hearthstone fireplace.

The fireplace at the center of Mama Dell’s main dining room.

An actress portraying “Mama” herself serves as hostess (sadly, she had the night off during our Sunday night visit) and strolling musicians perform popera and Italian-American love songs tableside. The eccentric decor has been toned down a bit over the years, but you can still find more than a few colorful chickens on display.

Kitschy ceramic chickens, the hallmark of every fine Italian home.

My grandparents collected Lladro figurines of sad-eyed children,so who am I to judge?

Also, complimentary shawls and reading glasses are no longer listed on the menu, as the were when the hotel opened, but the staff will scramble to accommodate if you request them. Service was exceptionally attentive during our last visit, perhaps because it was a slow night; no fewer than 4 employees (not counting entertainers) saw to our needs.

Of course, most grandmothers don’t have a professional open kitchen looking into their living room.

The menu changes regularly, but always centers on refined renditions of rustic homestyle Italian favorites. In other words, if you are used to Olive Garden, Mama’s kitchen may shock your system with fresh ingredients and expert preparation.

My all-time favorite veal chop with mushroom stew is tragically no longer offered, but there should still be plenty on the bill of fare to satisfy. On our visit, we availed ourselves of September’s Magical Dining Month discount fixed-price promotion, but all the items we ordered were representative of ones found on the regular menu, only in larger and more expensive portions.

Following the fabulous bread service (don’t miss the rosemary bread with roasted garlic) we began with tuna tartare with fennel and orange, a delicious combination that was a refreshing change from the sushi-style tuna seasoning I’m used to; and a caprese red and yellow tomatoes, roasted peppers, soft-textured fresh mozzarella.

Not your sushi bar’s Tuna Tartare.

Heirloom caprese with fresh mozzarella.

Main courses included Veal Marsala, which was not a flat pounded cutlet but a thick, juicy strip akin to pork belly, dressed with a rich wine sauce, roasted potatoes, and garlic sautéed broccoli rabe; and a hearty layered lasagna stuffed with large chunks of ground beef and pork, imaginatively enhanced with flavors of fennel and anise.

Veal Marsala.

Meat lasagna.

After two home-run courses, desert was a surprising letdown. The tiramisu was tasty, if intensely alcoholic, but the creme brûlée had an inconsistent texture, and the sugar crust was torched past the border of “carmelized” into bitter-burnt.

Tiramisu. Beware of breathalyzer tests after eating this!

Creme brûlée, blackened Cajun-style…

Mama Della’s pricing pushes it into the “special occasion” category for most people, but you can save calories and cash by ordering an appetizer or two and splitting one of the oversized entrees. But if you can afford it, Mama makes some of the best Italian in town, in an intimate yet unpretentious environment.

You can book reservations at Mama Della’s through Open Table. Once you’ve eaten then, please leave us your opinion in the comments below.

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Published on November 04, 2013 03:00

Frozen Characters Now Meeting in Norway

By Rikki Niblett

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Frozen is slated to be Disney’s next big hit movie, and now guests have the opportunity to meet with two of the stars of the movie, Anna and Elsa. Guests can meet these two beautiful new sisters at Epcot in the Norway Pavilion inside Puffin’s Roost.

Guests enter this location, found next to the Kringla Bakeri, to see a beautifully themed, but relatively small meet and greet area. The line for the attraction is outdoors, so be prepared to wait in the elements. (And to smell the perfume!)

Once you head inside, the room is very warm and inviting, with colors of red and gold, but beyond the large glass windows you can see that it is most definitely a frozen wonderland, featuring a beautiful glacial castle.

When guests meet with the two characters, Anna appears very bubbly, where as Elsa seems a bit more icy. (I wonder why? Ha ha!) Both their costumes are simply gorgeous, and I think are fitting for both characters, based on what I know so far, anyway.

These characters are scheduled to be in this location until January 4, 2014, as of right now. Meeting times seem to be at 11:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., 1:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m., 3:00 p.m., 4:50 p.m., 5:50 p.m., and 6:50 p.m. Be sure to check a Times Guide in case things change.

In addition, a new gallery is opening in the Stave Church, which is at the entrance to the pavilion. The gallery will showcase how the culture of the country helped to inspire the filmmakers of the movie.

Frozen officially opens in theaters on November 27.

When you stop and see Anna and Elsa…be sure to ask about Olaf…he’s always getting into some sort of mischief!

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Published on November 03, 2013 12:44

Magic Kingdom Observations: October 28, 2013

By Daisy Lauren

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This morning before I’d even opened my eyes I’d already decided that tonight had to be spent at the Magic Kingdom! It had been nearly a week since I’d been in the park, and I was missing it. I thought you guys would enjoy going with me – so imagine that after work you’re hitting the road and heading for the most magical place on Earth!

As you can see from the photo above, it wasn’t a slow night but I have certainly seen it more crowded. It was also that time of night when folks start clustering around Main Street waiting for the events of the night to start taking place.

At just a bit before 7 pm, I had one hour before the first parade and four hours until park closing! The night was young, and the weather was perfect! In the past few days fall has arrived at Walt Disney World! When I arrived at the park the thermometer in my car said it was in the high 70s, but when I left the temperature was about 10 degrees cooler. Very pleasant, though I must admit I rolled down the sleeves on my shirt by the end of the night. (Wimpy Floridian!)

I waited around a bit hoping that we would get an amazing sunset, but it seemed like it was just going to be gray. I fired off a few obligatory castle shots and then headed off towards Tomorrowland.

After crossing over the bridge I found that both Stitch’s Great Escape and Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor had a 10 minute wait! I also spotted that Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin had just a 20 minute wait and Space Mountain only 35 minute! The wait times were very reasonable! Of course, I was heading where there was no posted wait time: the PeopleMover! The ride was great as, always, but it experienced a breakdown that kept us stuck for a little while. Much to my dismay, that sunset I’d been waiting for happened while I was trapped on the ride!

Oh well- guess I’ll just have to go back! After the PeopleMover I headed back towards Fantasyland, crossing in front of the Tomorrowland Speedway which had a 20 minute wait. I couldn’t resist a ride on Mad Tea Party with only a 5 minute wait! I tried to take pictures for you guys, but they were very spinny! Next, I headed over to The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh but couldn’t bring myself to wait 35 minutes. So I decided to stop for a little snack instead!

This is the Strawberry Shortcake Sundae from Storybook Treats (menu). It’s just what the name implies, with a base of light cake covered in strawberries, ice cream, and heavy whipped cream. Is it the best or most unique thing you could have when visiting Magic Kingdom? Certainly not! But for $5.53 after tax, it struck my fancy and was a delicious treat. I enjoyed this as I strolled back to Under the Sea ~ Journey of the Little Mermaid. I noted on the way that Enchanted Tales with Belle only had at 30 minute wait! The Little Mermaid only had a 10 minute wait by the time I got there!

I really like this ride despite what a lot of the online community says. Maybe it is because I grew up with the film and characters, but I’m just so happy to have a ride for this great movie! Once I was off this ride I decided to head over towards Peter Pan. I thought maybe if I looked pitiful enough they’d open it up for me… no such luck! November 14 can’t get here soon enough!!

After this I walked through Liberty Square, taking in a quick ride on The Haunted Mansion with only a 10 minute wait! I scooted back toward Big Thunder Mountain and Splash Mountain to check wait times. They were 20 minutes and 15 minutes, respectively. And then I heard something I can’t resist… the last train! I don’t know what it is, but when I’m lucky enough to hear that the last train of the night is leaving I just have to take it! So I ran up the stairs and caught the train right back to Fantasyland!! As we were chugging along I decided no matter the wait that I was riding Dumbo! Lucky for me the wait was only 5 minutes!

After this I grabbed a spot in New Fantasyland for the Wishes fireworks. I’d decided to carry my tripod and wanted to see if I could get a few decent photos. You can be the judge of whether I was successful!

After the fireworks, while folding up my tripod I realized that I was getting really tired! I knew that if I wanted to sneak out during the second parade and avoid some of the crowds I had time for one last ride. I decided to speed walk over to Pirates of the Caribbean to end with a classic!

And with that my night was over, and now it was just the steady crawl to make it to the exit. I made the mistake of trying to duck through the gift shops, forgetting what time of day it was! If you have shopping to do I recommend you take some time during the heat of the day when the attraction lines are very long but the shops are still doable. In the last few hours the park is open the shops on Main Street become pandemonium! It is also worth noting that the shops will normally stay open an hour past park closing, but they do stay busy.

Another tip for getting out of the Magic Kingdom if you’re not staying at a Disney Resort is to take the Ferry Boat. While the Monorail line stays consistently packed all the way to the Transportation and Ticket Center, the Ferry Boat line empties into a large holding pin. Most guests crowd one side, but they do not let more people into this holding area than the Ferry can hold. So even if you grab a bench as far from the loading area as you can get – you’ll still get on the Ferry! Enjoy not having to wait elbow to elbow with the crowd. This is one place it’s nice to come in last! Just remember that the Ferry Boats have tons of spiders for some reason, so be careful leaning on anything.

I hope that I will “See Ya Real Soon” in a future blog post! Does anyone have requests for park report or other topics? I love bringing the parks to you! Please let us know in the comments below and as always thanks for reading!

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Published on November 03, 2013 03:00

SATURDAY SIX: Top Six Photo Connect Experiences at Universal

By Derek Burgan

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This week’s SATURDAY SIX looks at the Top Six Photo Connect Experiences at Universal. I personally feel that the Photo Connect Star Card is – hands down – the best value in any of Orlando’s theme parks. For $59.95 you get every on-ride photo, every meet and greet photo, all the special Photo Connect “hot sets” like Sneetch Beach in Seuss Landing and the Daily Bugle front page photo at the Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man and any picture taken by one of the photographers in front of the parks. I can talk about the Star Card package all day long, so just do yourselves a favor and buy it for your next trip to the parks. Anyhoo, here’s a look at the top six Photo Connect Experiences at the Universal Orlando Resort…

# 1 – Transformers Meet and Greet

Megatron

Transformers: The Ride-3D, itself, is incredible, but the attached Supply Vault gift store is no slouch, either, offering a ton of unique and exclusive Transformers merchandise (including the chocolate Allspark, EVAC action figure, and pressed pennies). But what might be the biggest “wow” moment overall is meeting the Transformers, themselves. Located directly across from the attraction is a special Photo Connect picture area. Completely themed to the government run N.E.S.T. look that the ride building has, this area allows you to meet and take pictures with Optimus Prime, Bumblebee, and Megatron. Seeing these incredible walk-around characters in person is one thing, but seeing them walk around is another. Jaw dropping. Rumor is that Universal spent over $20,000 for each one of these suits, and you can see every single penny spent.

Be sure to head to the Photo Connect counter after having your picture taken to ask for the special Autobot and Decepticon borders that can be added onto the pictures.

# 2 – MEN IN BLACK Alien Attack

MIB: Alien Attack

Everyone remembers the big E-Ticket rides at Universal like Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, Revenge of the Mummy, and Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit. But one of the biggest crowd pleasers is MEN IN BLACK Alien Attack. My personal favorite shooter attraction in Orlando, MEN IN BLACK has one of the best queues in the park and then throws you into an awesome shooter where instead of LCD screens and cardboard cutouts, you’re shooting at elaborately themed physical props. It also can provide one of the best on-ride photos if you know when the picture is being taken (after the first alien attack after you drive into the alley way).

Be sure to ask at the Photo Connect counter after the ride for the lasers to be added in, and – if there are any empty seats in your ride vehicle – ask for the spots to be filled up with aliens and/or MIB agents.

# 3 – Donkey (with Shrek and Fiona)

Fiona, Donkey, and Shrek

One of the absolute most underrated gems of Universal Studios Florida is just standing back and watching Donkey interact with guests during his meet and greet located outside Shrek 4-D. Think Turtle Talk with Crush, except Donkey is hilarious. Sometimes you’ll just have Donkey for the photo, while other times both Shrek and/or Fiona will join in. Not only will you enjoy your time with Donkey, but hang around and share a laugh while others have their turn.

# 3 – The E.T. Adventure Gift Shop photos

Several of Universal’s attractions don’t have on-ride photos, but most of them have interesting pictures you can take either in the queue or outside the attraction. E.T. Adventure is the last man standing from the good ol’ days of Universal Studios Florida. It was an opening day attraction and is the only one left form that era. The forest queue is – to this day – one of the best in any theme park. The ride itself is a favorite of mine. The first half recreates the moments from the E.T. film while the second half is like a bizarre acid trip from Steven Spielberg and shows us E.T.’s home planet.

While E.T. Adventure has no on-ride photo, it has two opportunities in the attractions gift shop. There is one photo op set set up where you can get on a bike with E.T. in the front basket. The other set is a closet in which one or two people can sit with E.T. The people working inside the gift shop are pretty strict when it comes to trying to take your own pictures of either of these two sets, but the good news is that both pictures are included with the Star Card package.

# 2 – The Simpsons Couch Gag

The newest Photo Connect experience is already one of the best. Outside of The Simpsons Ride, guests take a seat on the iconic Simpsons couch (which is MUCH harder than it looks) and take their picture in front of a green screen. Given directions on how to “act,” three photos are taken, and afterwards the Photo Connect employees add in the backgrounds. There are six different backgrounds available: the standard Simpsons living room, Kang and Kodos looking at you as part of their “Earth Family” zoo, two sharks circling you (pictured), burglars carrying you away, and a Vegas-style photo that has elephants, magicians, dancers, and more. Because all photos are included with your Star Card package, you can get them all!

# 1 – Spider-Man Comic Book Photo

Spider-Man!

I love everything about this photo op. The picture is actually taken across the street from the Adventures of Spider-Man ride and, like the Simpsons couch gag photo, it is taken in front of a green screen. Like at the Donkey meet and greet, Spider-Man takes time to talk to each guest, and this can provide a really special moment for kids. But the best part is this picture is put out as a cover of a comic book. Just perfect for Marvel Super Hero Island. Beyond perfect. Be sure to ask at the Photo Connect counter for them to add the webbing in.

One last plug to head over to AmazingPictures.com and get the Star Card package for your next Universal trip (you can also get it while inside either park). If you’re a fan of photos, like my family is, you’ll be blown away by how much is included with this package, not to mention there is a free app for your smart phone (iPhone and Android), which gives you immediate access to your pictures in order for you to send to people or share on social media.

See you next weekend for the latest edition of the Saturday Six. If you had fun, be sure to check out The Magic, The Memories and Merch! articles or head on over to the TouringPlans.com Podcast Network and check out Universal NOW! and Pardon the Pixie Dust (especially this episode where we do a live dramatic reading of the Jingle Cruise script).

Special thanks to Jesus Navarro, Amber Burgan, Gavin Christo, Chris Buckner, Josh Germain and Universal NOW!s Brandon Glover for their assistance with this article.

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Published on November 02, 2013 09:00

Observations From Disneyland: October 30, 2013

By Guy Selga Jr.

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“When two holidays collide”

Disneyland is in that weird time of year where it is transitioning from one holiday to the next. Snow has been added to Sleeping Beauty Castle, but fall colors still are found up and down Main Street, U.S.A.

A closer look at the castle snow. They still have to add the rest of the holiday decorations such as snow flakes, lights, etc. Those should be in place soon.

More pictures after the jump.

Disneyland’s Christmas tree is being constructed in the backstage area next to the tram route.

That’s a lot of signs.

The big news of the week is the “Thor: Treasures of Asgard” meet and greet that opens November 1 in Innoventions. Here I am awkwardly posing with Thor. Here’s how our encounter went down:

I walk up and say, “Hello, Mr. Thor, I’m not familiar with your work.”

Thor: “Well, I am the god of Asgard”

Me: “Ok”

Thor: “Ok”

Anyway, I wont go in to too much more detail about the meet and greet. I already posted my thoughts and a video of the entire experience here.

Looping back to Main Street, the Penny Arcade facade is getting some refurbishment work done.

Wednesday was one of those painfully perfect Southern California days. 70 degrees and not a cloud in the sky. Also, the crowds were extremely low. We predicted a crowd level of 1.2 out of 10, and it ended up being a 1.3.

When the park has low crowds I like to make Fantasyland my first stop of the day just to see how much I can get done. I managed to get through all Fantasyland attractions with minimal waiting in about 75 minutes.

Mr. Toad

Disneyland has some great weather vanes. I should do a post with all the weather vanes Disneyland has. Remind me to do that some time.

Dumbo is closed for refurbishment. It will reopen on November 15, 2013.

Look at how great that Cheshire Cat is on the Alice in Wonderland wait time sign!

Another great Fantasyland sign.

What did I eat today?

The Carne Asada & Red Chile Enchilada Platter from Rancho Del Zocalo (see menu). I do not have a strong opinion of the food at Rancho. I think it’s criminal to serve bland Mexican food in a part of the country where delicious Mexican food is plentiful. With that being said, this is probably their most edible entree. You may be asking why do I eat there if I don’t like the restaurant? To give every dining establishment in the resort equal coverage, I rotate through all the restaurants every couple of months.

“it’s a small world” is also down for its holiday overlay installation. It will reopen on November 8, 2013.

The line for Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage is mercifully short on days like this. The posted wait was 10 minutes, but I ended up waiting less than 5.

Santa hats at Tomorrow Landing.

That is all for this week!

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Published on November 01, 2013 13:30

Limited Time Magic for November 4 – 8

By Rikki Niblett

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©Disney

Looks like it’s time for more Limited Time Magic tours, as both coasts will have exclusive experiences available next week.

At Walt Disney World, guests will get to take a backstage tour of Disney’s Animal Kingdom. While here, they will get to experience the grounds through either a zookeeper or veterinarian’s eyes. The tour will get to visit the Animal Programs area to see where the animals actually live. They will also get to see the Animal Health area, where they will visit the fantastic medical center.

Tours start at 1 p.m., with one tour each day. Twenty five guests will be able to participate. Guests will have until 2:59 p.m Eastern Time today to sign up and may do so via the Disney Parks Blog.

©Disney

Over at Disneyland, guests are invited to take a tour of the Disneyland Dream Suite. Here, you will be invited to explore the suite found directly above Pirates of the Caribbean. This area was originally planned for Walt Disney, himself, until his untimely passing in 1966. It was finally brought to life in 2008.

Update: One tour will take place daily with 25 participants chosen. Guests may sign up at the Disney Parks Blog. Entries for this tour must be received by 2:59 p.m. Pacific Time.

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Published on November 01, 2013 09:15

A Visit to the Chase Lounge at Epcot’s American Adventure

By Rikki Niblett

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Since Chase started sponsoring the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival a few years ago, it has operated a special lounge that guests who are Chase cardholders can visit. Last year, the lounge was in the Festival Center (the former Wonders of Life Pavilion), but this year it moved to the American Adventure Parlor.

The lounge can be found on the right hand side when you are looking straight at the Pavilion. You will most likely find a line of other guests waiting to head inside. (Capacity limits the number of guests allowed up at a time.)

Once you reach the front of the line and show your Chase card (any Chase card will work), you and up to nine guests may proceed using either the elevator or the stairs.

Once you reach your final destination, you can choose to go left or right. If you choose to head to the right, you will be greeted with tables, as well as two Coke Freestyle machines, where you can drink as much as you want. In addition, coffee is available. Select beer and wine options are also being sold, if you would like to imbibe.

If you head left, you will make your way to the larger of the two rooms. Here, guests can enjoy a sports game on TV, play board games, charge their phones, and nap. (I saw many people napping in the sweet, cool air conditioning after a long morning in the park!)

There are a ton of interesting items scattered all around the lounge. I also enjoyed looking out the front window and seeing all the people who were enjoying the festival strolling by with Spaceship Earth in the distance.

One nice perk is that all Chase card members can get preferred viewing of IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth, as long as wristbands (which are distributed on a first come, first served basis) are still available. In addition, preferred seating for the Eat to the Beat concerts is being offered, but that is only for Disney Chase card holders.

The lounge is open Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays until the Food & Wine Festival concludes on November 11, 2013.

For those of us who are uber nerds, getting the opportunity to head up into this private space is a thrill. It’s always neat to see areas that are usually off limits to the average guest! (For me, that’s four lounges down…a bunch more to go!)

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Published on November 01, 2013 03:00

A Visit To the Chase Lounge at Epcot’s American Adventure