Owing to its world-famous theme parks, resorts and golf courses, there is never a bad time to visit Orlando! However, for anyone visiting the sunshine state’s adventure playground in summer 2013, here is a glimpse at the attractions which make this year so spectacular.
1. A new patch of magic in the Magic Kingdom
Walt Disney World has unveiled the biggest expansion in the Magic Kingdom’s history, New Fantasyland, and visitors in 2013 will be the first to look at this exciting new area. Divided into the Enchanted Forest and Storybook Circus, New Fantasyland boasts attractions such as the Barnstormer roller coaster, Under The Sea – a journey through Alan Menken’s award-winning music from The Little Mermaid, several character meet and greet opportunities and an updated Dumbo the Flying Elephant ride. That’s enough to fit in without the Magic Kingdom’s pre-existing attractions, which include the three “Mountains” (Space, Splash and Big Thunder Railroad), the Haunted Mansion and the classic It’s A Small World.
2. Face the machines at Universal Studios’ new Transformers attractions
If being able to experience the shocking new Transformers 3D ride isn’t enough of an incentive to visit Universal Studios, visitors now have a chance to meet Optimus Prime, Bumblebee and Megatron afterwards. Other hit movies featured in Universal attractions include The Mummy, Shrek, Twister and Men in Black, putting guests right at the heart of cinema. At Universal’s sister park, Islands of Adventure, visitors can witness the new high-definiton technology of the popular Spider-Man ride and see other favourites like The Incredible Hulk coaster and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
3. Fly like Iron Man on water with a FlyBoard
Orlando is a haven for extreme sports enthusiasts and flyboarding, in which users operate a water-powered jet pack, is the latest trend. With the ability to reach up to 30ft, flyboarders enjoy an unparalleled rush of adrenaline which is not for the fainthearted. Guests will be required to sign release forms and should ensure that they have an adequate holiday insurance policy in place before taking part.
4. Feel the Antarctic chill at Seaworld
In Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin, visitors to Seaworld Orlando can take a break from the sweltering heat of Orlando’s subtropical climate and enjoy a trackless ride through the world’s most remote (and one of its most expensive) destinations. With options for a “mild” or “wild” journey across the seventh continent, this teeth-chattering experience is suitable for anyone but particularly for nervous riders who would prefer not to take on the monstrous Kraken roller coaster or Journey to Atlantis.
