IMMERSE 2018 is one of Orlando’s most encompassing art event featuring more than 1,000 artists. The diverse cast, including professional organizations like Cirque du Soleil and the Orlando Philharmonic as well as individual artists from local colleges and public schools, create an unforgettable and inspiring experience. IMMERSE 2018 will take place this year October 19 and 20. First launched by the Creative City Project in 2012, this event has been taking over the streets of downtown Orlando since 2012 when the premiere event launched. For two nights each year since IMMERSE showcases the best performance and installation artists in Orlando. The event has grown over the years from the collaborative efforts of thousands of artists supported by tens of thousands […]

Grab a stein and get ready to celebrate! Although Bavaria is many miles away, Central Florida enjoys it’s very own Orlando Downtown Oktoberfest celebration on October 7, 2018. Across downtown, restaurants and other locales offer beer and German specialties in on honor of the holiday. Additionally, on the first Saturday in October you’ll enjoy Blocktoberfest on Wall St. Plaza – a free Oktoberfest party with eight locally owned participating locations all on one block. Here’s a peek at some of the fun you can expect at Orlando Downtown Oktoberfest. Plenty of Revelry and Merrymaking It’s not just the beer that accounts for the jolliness associated with this holiday. In 1810, the original Oktoberfest took place as part of the wedding […]

With its rich wildlife, Florida offers plenty of ecotourism opportunities. On your next Orlando getaway, spend some time getting to know Florida’s manatees. You can spot these gentle giants congregating in natural springs near Orlando during winter and swimming freely along the Florida coast during summer. As a threatened species, manatees are protected by law, so it is important to maintain a respectful distance when observing them. Boardwalk viewing and passive observation tours are great ways to enjoy the manatees’ company. Here are three places to safely enjoy encounters with wild manatees near Orlando. Blue Springs Located just under one hour from Orlando, Blue Spring State Park is the closest place to observe manatees in their natural habitat. This designated […]

Universal Studios™ Orlando is nearly three decades old, and in that time, many things have changed. Only two attractions from the park’s opening remain, which are E.T. Adventure and Universal’s Horror Make Up Show. Rides have come and gone to ebb and flow with what is popular at the time, and some areas of the park are even on their third attraction change. The limited area at Universal Studios means that every bit of space matters, so the choice of attractions is critical. Let’s take a look at some of the attractions that have been pushed out to make way for the new and exciting options we have today. Ghostbuster’s Spooktacular This attraction was an original when the park first […]

A Central Florida favorite since the early 2000s, The Orlando Watersports Complex (OWC) is a watersports park designed for wakeboarding, wake skating, knee boarding, and waterskiing – with a twist. Guests can be towed by suspended cables or by top-of-the-line Correct Craft boats. Now nearly 20 years old, OWC is well-established as a venue for riders of all levels. Whether you’re wanting to try watersports for the first time or you’re a seasoned professional, OWC has you covered. A huge benefit to OWC’s layout is how long it allows you to spend on the water. They are one of the only facilities in the United States that has two cableways – one for beginner/intermediate use, and one for their “slider” […]

Wondering what to do after dinner in Orlando? Avoiding the afternoon heat? Either way, evenings in Orlando offer plenty of family-friendly fun in mild weather. The late sunsets make Orlando nights perfect for enjoying outdoor entertainment. Check out our selection of nightly indoor and outdoor family-friendly things to do in Orlando. CityWalk From mini-golf to nightlife, Universal Citywalk™ boasts plenty of evening fun. Savor the flavors of the Caribbean at Bob Marley – A Tribute to FreedomSM or indulge in decadent milkshakes and Steampunk décor at the The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen™. There are several souvenir shops where you can find Harry Potter and Minion gear well as smaller boutiques with unique gifts. Duck into the theater […]

Experience some of the best cuisine Orlando has to offer during Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining Month from August 24th until September 30th. Last year more than 50 bars and restaurants participated in a citywide showcase of specially designed menus some featuring delicious dishes only available during this event. At $35 per person, you can enjoy a unique three-course meal in one of Orlando’s best restaurant. Orlando’s Magical Dining Month is perfect for celebrations of all kinds. Look forward to a list of participating restaurants, including classic Rosen Hotels & Resorts favorites such as Cala Bella, Shōgun Japanese Steakhouse, Jack’s Place, and a Land Remembered, at www.visitorlando.com/magicaldining. With all of these amazing dining options, you’ll want to make sure you book […]

Are you a classic and rod car fan? The Cruisin’ Downtown Deland Classic Car Show is the place to go on Saturday August 18 and its free! (Who doesn’t love a free event?) Walk among classic cars parked along Main Street while a DJ plays all day from 3 p.m. – 7 p.m. This family-friendly event also has prizes and giveaways for everyone throughout the day including entertainment just for the kids. Enjoy delicious food from Brickhouse Grill and squeeze in some shopping as well. It is a great opportunity to get amazing souvenirs and taste delicious food. From Rosen Inn at Universal, the Cruisin’ Downtown Deland Classic Car Show is a straight drive north on I4. It is truly […]

Orlando has a lot of entertainment to offer with its theme parks, restaurants, shopping, professional sports teams, and concert venues. Consider checking out Universal CityWalk™ for an Orlando night out like no other. There, you can find a unique blend of night life, great dining experiences, a movie theater, mini golf, and much more right next to the world-famous Universal Studios® theme parks. Night Life Some of the most popular night life spots, include: Red Coconut Club™ – This is a casual Cuban-themed dance club, with a dance floor on the ground level and lounge above. Come any night to hear a live band play all your favorite classics and Latin music. Pat O’Brien’s® – Find yourself on Bourbon street […]

One of the things you need to check out during your Orlando visit is the Dr. Phillips Center. Opened in 2014, this breathtaking theater has featured several notable plays and musicals such as Phantom of the Opera, Wicked, The Lion King, and The Book of Mormon. Coming to the Dr. Phillips Center in June 2018 is yet another Broadway hit, the rock musical Rent. Rent: 20th Anniversary Tour Since its debut in 1996, Rent has become an American classic and international phenomenon. It is Broadway’s 11th longest running show, with 5,123 performances, and 4 Tony Awards. Rent features a year in the life of 7 young artists, detailing their struggles with money, love, and HIV/AIDS in the East Village in […]