Pulse of Central Florida

I’m always on the lookout for fun things to do in Central Florida, so when I heard about the Grande Lakes Adventure Course, I had to check it out.

While I believe this is primarily marketed to guests of the multiple Grande Lakes properties (Ritz-Carlton Grande Lakes and JW Marriott Grande Lakes), this and other recreation activities are open to the public.

There are two courses to choose from. The Discovery Course consists of 35 Aerial Walkways, a Zip Line and a Swing. The Exploration Course seems more geared to a younger audience, or maybe those afraid of heights, as it’s only set 15-feet above ground.

Welcome to Grande Lakes Adventure Course!

Looks Awesome, Doesn't It?

Zip Line!

There's the Exploration Course, a.k.a., the Wimpy Course

We opted to skip the Adventure Course on our trip to Grande Lakes because it was a scorcher of a day in Orlando this past Saturday, but I’m definitely looking forward to swinging on the ropes when the weather gets a little cooler.

For More Info, Contact the Grande Lakes Adventure Desk at 407/393-4007.

If you’re looking for a new way to spend Memorial Day weekend, why not hop on one of the first direct Southwest Air flights to Beaches of South Walton?

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Beaches of South Walton is the 26-mile stretch of Northwest Florida’s Gulf Coast, home to 15 distinct beach communities, including Seaside, the town made famous by the movie “The Truman Show.”

Beyond the sugary white sand beaches, the communities have numerous activities to enjoy such as eclectic art galleries, golf, shopping and award-winning restaurants. If you’re a nature lover, you’ll feel right at home among the state parks and rare coastal dune lakes.

For more information on Beaches or to book travel, visit: BeachesofSouthWalton.com.

Universal Orlando Resort has announced their annual Summer Concert Series line-up. These concerts are a value-add to the regular admission and annual passholders.

I have to say I’m not all that impressed. I’m sure any tourist would be more-than-thrilled to get to experience one of these artists or bands free with their paid admission; however, as a Central Florida resident, I don’t feel compelled at all to purchase a ticket or annual pass simply to see a show (except for maybe with the exception of Pat Benetar, who I’ve seen before).

What about you? Any of the concerts you’re dying to go to? Have you seen any of these artists live before?

For additional details on dates, times, and artists visit Universal Orlando’s website.

Calling all nerds!

Calling all Star Wars fans!

Dates for Disney’s annual Star Wars Weekends have been announced. They are as follows:

• May 21 – 23
• May 28 – 30
• June 4 – 6
• June 11 – 13

Star Wars Weekends is something both locals and tourists look forward to every year. If you’re not familiar, this event celebrates the phenomenon that is Star Wars, and features special events, shows, memorabilia, and more! This is not a special event that requires a separate ticket; regular admission tickets give guests access.

We’ve never experienced Star Wars Weekends but would definitely love to check-it-out this year.

You can get complete information on this event here.

Didn’t even know Disney’s Blizzard Beach–one of two massive Disney water parks–was even closed? The park has actually been shut down since early January (a slow tourism season for Central Florida) for refurbishments. But just in time for Spring the park is scheduled to reopen on the 24th of this month.

We’ve never been to Blizzard Beach but have heard great things about it! Have you been?

You can purchase tickets to the park here. (In the interest of disclosure, this is not an affiliate link.)

Klynn and I don’t typically cover “touristy” things too often because…well, that’s not the point of our blog! But sometimes there are some touristy things right under our noses that are too good, yet we don’t even realize it.

Courtesy of Yelp! Orlando*, last night we had the opportunity to experience Cirque du Soleil’s “La Nouba” show, at Downtown Disney. We’d both seen the show before, but believe us it’s just as good the second time-a-round (and probably the third, fourth, fifth….). Seriously, if you’ve never seen “La Nouba”, or any Cirque show for that matter, you’re really missing out. Yes, tickets are a bit pricey, but during non-peak seasons they often run deals for local residents. I can assure you, though, you will appreciate spending the money.

Cirque du Soleil has its roots in Canada but has multiple shows across the US. “La Nouba” found its home in Central Florida nearly a decade ago. I first saw it about eight years ago, and was awstruck. There are a few things to keep in mind when you see “La Nouba”:

• There’s alot going on. You probably won’t catch everything but be sure to look everywhere…up, down, in front and behind!
• The music is live! Yes, there’s a full band (look closely) and amazing vocalists.
• It’s funny, moving, and bizarre.
• These performers are hella talented!
• There are no tricks – it’s all real.

Of course, cameras/photography isn’t allowed in the Cirque venue during performances, but I did manage to catch some photos towards the end of the show:

Here’s a spoiler (don’t hit play if you don’t wanna see it):

Wanna find out more about Cirque du Soleil and/or “La Nouba”? Check out their website or Follow them on Twitter.

* We received complimentary tickets for this show. Thanks, Yelp!

We all know how upset I was when I first found out Virgin Megastore was leaving what must be a now desolate Downtown Disney. Well, yesterday I ran across a Tweet stating that food monger McDonald’s is now pulling out of its Downtown Disney location. It’s last day of operation is April 30th. Apparently its replacement is the I’ve-never-heard-of-it Pollo Campero.

According to the original article featured on “The Daily Disney” blog, this pull-out has been planned by Disney for several years, and that “their partners are ever-changing.”

I don’t know…. What do you think? Is there more to this story?

Party time, party time! It’s Mardi, Mardi, Mardi time!

Universal Orlando Resort has just released the line-up for this year’s talent for Mardi Gras at Universal Studios. Many of the performers have appeared at the Mardi Gras event time-and-time again (please, can we give KC & The Sunshine Band and Kool and The Gang a reprieve?), but several are interesting and I’d definitely be up for seeing!

Artists like:

• Heart
• Blondie
• Sheryl Crow

Here’s a full line-up of the bands and performers (of course, times & talent subject to change):

Mardi Gras concerts run every Saturday evening from February 6th through April 17th. Times vary so be sure to confirm yours before heading-out to the park.
For complete information on to purchase tickets* for this year’s Universal Studios Mardi Gras click here.

If you’ve never been to Mardi Gras it’s an extremely fun event, and the concerts are value-added with your admission ticket.

* this is not an affiliate link, and we do not receive any money if you buy tickets

Brrr…would someone please turn the heat on? No, wait – that would melt everything!

I have been wanting to experience the Gaylord Palms Hotel’s ICE! since the first year they brought the exhibit to Central Florida but I’ve just never taken the time…until now! (Of course, I’d take any opportunity to visit the Gaylord Palms property because it’s one of the finest in the area.) Not familiar with ICE!? Well, after this post you will be, and you’ll want to jump in your car and head to Kissimmee right away!

Currently showing now through January 3rd of next year, here’s mine and klynn’s experience at ICE!

THE INTRODUCTION
Guests are immediately introduced to ICE! when pulling-up to the resort. The decorations are gorgeous, and even viewable from the Interstate.

SUITING-UP
Yes, that sign above reads nine degrees! Holy cold! So you’d better be sure a heavy coat is in order (provided by Gaylord Palms).

SOUVENIRS
Any Orlando attraction would be incomplete without a souvenir shop. So if you want to take a piece of ICE! home with you, you have your pick!

For our complete photo library of the exhibit view the gallery below or visit our Flickr set.

Overall an awesome experience, and definitely something I would do again in the future!

Here are a few tips–from my perspective–that will help you have an enjoyable experience when you visit ICE! at Gaylord Palms Hotel:

• Visit during the week, Monday through Thursday.
• Bring a pair of gloves with you. If you don’t have any, BUY SOME! (My hands were painfully cold by the time I was finished walking through the exhibit.)
• Be aware there is a parking fee of $12.
• Walk around the hotel when you’ve finished touring ICE! The Gaylord Palms Hotel is gorgeously decorated during the holiday season.
• There are various ticket packages, including online discounts, packages that include parking, and season passes. You can find out more about these by clicking here

One thing I did not have the opportunity to experience because of time constraints, is a new show tied to ICE! called Luminescence. It’s a Cirque-type show and free to all guests visiting the Gaylord Palms Hotel. I’ll definitely be heading back out to watch this show before the holidays are over.

PLEASE NOTE: While this is not a sponsored post, “Pulse” was provided two complimentary tickets to experience the ICE! exhibit. Many thanks to the Gaylord Palms Hotel team for offering-up an opportunity to visit.

Can’t wait to see ICE! again next year!

Man am I excited about this! The world’s largest rubber band ball (according to Guinness World Records) is paying a visit to Central Florida. It’ll actually be on display at Ripley’s Believe It Or Not Orlando Odditorium.

Why am I so excited? Because about six years ago I started my very own rubber band ball. It doesn’t, however, compare to the gargantuan one that will be at Ripley’s.

Believe it or not (no pun intended) I couldn’t seem to find any information about the dates of the display – perhaps it’s going to be a permanent fixture. You can always e-mail Ripley’s at museum@ripleysorlando.com, though, and inquire further.

Ripley’s in Orlando is located:

8201 International Drive
Orlando, Florida 32819

General Information: 407.363.4418

If you’re interested you can read our review of a recent visit to Ripley’s Believe It Or Not in Orlando.