Top 5 Universal Orlando City Walk Restaurants

There are so many great restaurants in City Walk.  I thought it would be fun to write a Top 5 City Walk Restaurants list.  So let's get started!




                                              5: Red Oven Pizza Bakery

                 This restaurant has wonderful pizza!  The pizza's are made right after you order, and surprisingly enough, it doesn't take too long for them to bring out your food.  Sadly though, if you don't feel like pizza or salad, you're out of luck.

                                                4: Margaritaville 

               I love the theming in this restaurant!  Sometimes, if you sit on the patio they will have live music playing!  It is a great, fun experience for the entire family.  The food is great, but compared to all of the other City Walk restaurants, it needs to step up it's game.

                                                               3: Antojitos

           This restaurant is another great, family friendly place to eat!  They have a wonderful mariachi band playing inside.  As fun as the mariachi band is if you are visiting with friends or family, it may be hard to hear one another.  The food here is great, and the experience is truly unforgettable!

                                               2: NBC Sports Grill and Brew

              NBC is a great restaurant that you can not miss!  At least you can't miss out of the Large Pretzel!  I highly suggest you do not order a salad if you go here though.   I enjoyed taking a break from the park in the mid afternoon and having an appetizer here.  Sitting by the open windows made for great people watching entertainment. There is a large variety of different foods to choose from which makes this restaurant easy for the whole family to find something!

                                                        1: The Cowfish

          This restaurant has everything from hamburgers to sushi!  The atmosphere is so much fun and the service is great!  The food here is so delicious!  If you are coming here for the first time and can't decide between sushi or a burger, don't worry...you can get the box which contains a small roll of sushi and a slider!  If you go to Universal or City Walk I highly suggest trying out this awesome restaurant!


That was my Top 5 list, what's your's?  Let me know in the comment section below!  I will see you in the next blog!

HHN 25 House Ranking

It may be December, but I'm still not over HHN!  A little while back I wrote my Anticipation Ranking for HHN 25, and thought now, after walking through the houses for myself,  I should write my review. So let's get started!


                                           9:  The Walking Dead

                   I'm sad to say that this house was a HUGE disappointment.  There were practically no props and barley any set design.  The scare actors tried to give it their all, but they didn't have too much to work with.  It was mostly jump scares and there was really no scare factor to this house.


                                                         8: The Purge

                  This house was just another disappointment.  The Purge belongs in the streets, not in a house.  The Purge was my favorite scare zone, so I was excited that it was getting it's own house. I realize that they were planning on this house starting as the Scream house, but something happened and so this house was very last minute.  Still, they could have tried to do more with it.


                                          7: Run:  Blood, Sweat, and Fears

               This house was very confusing if you don't know the back story.  The story is this: there is a new Game show called Run and you are the star!  Competitors from all around the world have come to win, and by win we mean kill each other.  This house wasn't very scary in my opinion.  I felt it could have used a little bit more time and effort.

                                     6: An American Werewolf in London

         I loved the puppets in this house!  They were gigantic and frightening, but the house over all... Not so much.  The set design was great, and same with the puppets and scare actors, but I think the scares just weren't all there.  I was a bit disappointed since it was so high on my anticipation list.

                                       5: Body Collectors: Recollections

        This house's set design was amazing!  The detail, the architecture...it was mind blowing!
I loved the look of this house.  I was caught by surprise from some of the scares, but otherwise it didn't get me that much.  All and all though I love this house!

                                              4: Asylum in Wonderland 3D

            I love 3D houses and this one did not disappoint!  The neon walls, and the colorful lights made it feel like you really were in a a demented version of wonderland!  I could tell that the creative department had a lot of fun with this house.  The masked scare actors were quite terrifying, and the design of the house only added to the coolness of this house!  This house wasn't the scariest, but it sure was fun!

                                                               3: Insidious

         Insidious sure didn't disappoint!  When you are just about to enter the house you see the eerie Insidious house.  It was amazing to me that they built a life size house just for the line! The inside of this house did not disappoint!  The scares from this house were great! The Lip Stick Face Demon got me every time!  The set design was beautiful, in a creepy way, and the scares were perfectly timed. How could I not mention the freaky baby carriage moving all on its own!

                        2: Jack Presents: 25 Years of Monsters & Mayhem

        Being a huge HHN fan, this was like a present from the HHN crew to all of it's fans.  The entire house is like walking through a Halloween Horror Nights museum!  It was amazing!  The scares were perfectly timed and the set design was spectacular!  Don't even get me started on the sfx!  The only tiny problem I had was I felt like there was not enough Jack.  I may have just missed some scenes since I was only able to walk through it once.  Over all though, this house is amazing!  I loved every bit of it!

                                                  1: Freddy VS. Jason 

        I can not express how much I loved this house!  The transfer from the Friday the 13th scenes to the Nightmare on Elm St scenes was so well done, and the scare actors were perfectly casted!  There was one Jason, in the very beginning, and he was towering over everyone!  He was the perfect Jason. The set designs were, as always, mind blowing.  You felt like you were in the movie.  There was one part in the fight scene where Freddy popped out with a Camp Crystal Lake t-shirt.  I thought that was very creative and good way to make you laugh...which doesn't happen that often in the houses!
 

           This was my top list, whats yours?  Let me know down in the comment section below, and I will see you in the next blog!

Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon Opening In 2017

Yes, It's official!  Jimmy Fallon just announced that he will have his very own ride at Universal Orlando!  Since Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon will be taking the place of Twister, Twister will be closing on November 2nd.  I am always sad to see a ride at Universal go and I will be lucky enough to ride Twister one more time on November 2nd. A ride such as Twister needed to be replaced though.  Twister was a great ride in it's day, but now with rides such as Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, The Revenge of the Mummy, and The Amazing Spiderman Ride it is time for a change.
I have always loved Jimmy Fallon, he is a very entertaining host and comedian and I can't wait to see how his ride turns out!          

What are your thoughts about a Jimmy Fallon ride taking over Twister?

Let me know down in the comment section below!  I will see you in the next blog!

Hulk Rollercoaster's Closing

The news is true.  The Hulk is closing, but only temporarily!  The hulk has been said to reopen in the summer or 2016!  Many people have been arguing if it was necessary or not to take down the Hulk and change it up, I personally am sad that is being shut down for the time being, but I am very happy it is getting redesigned. The last time I rode the ride it was very rough, and bumpy.
I have heard that they are going to change the line interior, and possibly the entire track!  I can not wait to see what the Universal Team does with the Hulk!
                                       

Are you excited about the Hulk getting a makeover?  Let me know down in the comment section below!  I will see you in the next blog!

HHN ScareZone Anticipation Ranking

Since my last blog post was about my Anticipation Ranking on the houses for HHN 25, I thought I should give my ranking on the scare zones!  All of the scare zones this year look very unique and eerie! I can not wait to visit these wonderfully frightening scare zones!  So without further adieu, let's get started!


                           6:  Clowns with Chainsaws
                           

This scare zone isn't an official scare zone.  All I know about this scare zone is that there are many wandering clowns with chainsaws, which seems pretty freaky to me!  The reason this is number six on the list is because it isn't an official scare zone, and it has no props.

5:Scary Tales- Steampunk

Scary Tales is a scary steampunk twist on the modern day fairy tales, such as Snow White and Cinderella.  I love the idea of this scare zone, but I feel like it just doesn't have that scare factor that I am looking for.  The scare actors look freaky, don't get me wrong, but it just doesn't deliver much fright to me.  It may be much freakier in person though.

4:  Icons-HHN

The eeriest Icons and most horrifying characters from the last last 25 years have returned!

I, being a huge HHN fan, love the idea of bringing back the old icons from the last 25 years!  They each have their own stage to do their own mini performance, where they each do a 'kill' in their own  terrifying way!  This Scare Zone is defiantly a photo-op type scare zone, like last year's Face Off. The fact that it is a photo-op scare zone makes it a lot less scary, because for some reason, seeing the Caretaker taking a selfie with a teenage girl doesn't seem very scary.

3: Psychoscareapy- Unleashed

The insane inmates of Shadybrook Asylum have escaped and stubbled upon a Halloween Block party in the streets of New York.  They quickly decide they would kill for some costumes of their own!

This scare zone looks awesome!  The scare actors acting is perfect and the props are great!  My only issue with this scare zone is that, it just doesn't seem very frightening, but once I am there in person it will most likely be a lot more frightening!

2: Evil's Roots

Your darkest fears will take root strolling along the horrifying paths of Central Park as you face Evil 

Fairies, Humanoid Bats, Scarecrows, and many more horrors!

This scare zone looks amazing! The props are terrifying, the scare actors' acting is perfect, and the special effects are spectacular!  This scare zone is not used as a photo-op like Icons-HHN because it is too foggy.  I like the fact that it is not a photo-op, because photo-op scare zones aren't very scary.

The only reason this is 2nd on my list and not 1st is because I have been told that it is almost too foggy to where you can't even see the props.

1: All Nite Die-In- Double Feature

The Carey Drive-In Movie Theater has been closed for decades after the gruesome murder during a double feature.  Now it's Lights, Camera, Carnage as the theater named Die-In by the locals lives up to its terrifying name.  This is such a creative idea!  I love the scare actors' acting and the props!  My absolute favorite part about this scare zone is that there are two groups for scare actors.  One is for the old horror movies like Frankenstein and the Invisible Man, and the other is for newer horror movies like The Purge, and Chucky.  Now this scare zone can also be used as a photo-op which is a bit disappointing, but aside from that this is the best scare zone of the year!

That was my Anticipation Ranking for 25's scare zones.  Let me know your ranking in the comment section down below!  See you in the next blog!

HHN 25 Anticipation Ranking

Halloween Horror Nights 25's houses look stupendous this year!  I have not yet had the chance to visit HHN personally, but plan to visit by the first of November.  There has been so much hype for many of the houses this year, such as, The American Werewolf in London, Jack Presents: 25 Years of Monsters and Mayhem, Freddy Vs. Jason, and Body Collectors: Recollections. Not to mention the spectacular scare zones this year that include The All Nite Die-in Double Feature and Evil's Roots!
 With so many great houses this year I thought it would be fun to write my Anticipation Ranking for the houses and scare zones.  Then, once I return from HHN, write about my ranking after I have personally gone through all of them.  Without further adieu, let's get started!



                                 9: The Walking Dead: The Living and The Dead
                     

I have never seen the show before, but from what I gather... it's about zombies.

Yes, I know that it is about more than zombies, but I think the main part is about zombies... and lots of them.  I don't know terribly much about the house either, but from what I can comprehend, you begin at the Terminus "safe-haven" compound, and I imagine it is full of zombies.  After you walk through Terminus you walk onto the loading dock of the Del Arno Food warehouse with packs of "W" walkers in waist high water.  

This house sounds like a lot of fun this year, but compared to all of the other houses this year, it seems to be lacking in a fear factor.

8: The Purge

The Purge House was originally intended to be the Scream house but Universal had to change it at last minute.  The Purge is a 12 hour free-for-all when all crime is legal.  The Purge was a scare zone at HHN 24, and by far it was my favorite scare zone!  Since this house was so last minute, I feel like it didn't have the time needed to make it as great as it was when it was a scare zone.

I personally think it is better to have it on the streets as a scare zone rather than in a house.

7: Run: Blood, Sweat and Fears

Run first debyued as Run: Hostile Territory, back in HHN 16.

Run: Blood Sweat and Fears is a game show where you are the star!

Remember, the more gruesome the death, the higher the ratings!

 I haven't seen too much info on Run but from what I have seen it looks like a very fun, yet scary, house!

6: Insidious 

This house looks very terrifying, and I mean that in the best way!

In this house you are face to face with the evil denizens of the Further- The Long Haired Fiend, The Lipstick-Face Demon, The Bride in Black, and the newest evil...The Man Who Can't Breath. I can't wait to see the Lipstick-face Demon and this house in person!

5: Asylum In Wonderland 3D

I am extremely excited about this house!  It is filled with vibrant colors, amazing art, and scares left 

and right!  Asylum in Wonderland is made to scare you and make you wonder if Alice is imagining this world 

or if it is real.  The fact that HHN is having another 3D house is thrilling!  The whimsical world of Wonderland hopefully gave HHN a lot to work with!

4: Body Collectors: Recollections

The Body Collectors have returned!  When a blizzard rages the Body Collectors prey upon residents of Shadybrook Asylum!  This house is horrific and gory!  From what I have seen the facade is incredible, the scare actors are right on key when it comes to timing and the special effects are amazing!  This is one house I can not wait to visit while at HHN!

3: Freddy Vs. Jason

1... 2 Freddy's coming for you... and Jason.

In this house you will see Freddy and Jason fighting to the death, but don't think they aren't going to try and get you as well!  Using elements from the 2003 thriller film, Freddy Vs. Jason, will drop guests in the middle of the epic battle!  The only reason this is the third on my list is because I heard that in the beginning it is a tad bit slow.  Now, since I have not yet had the chance to check it out for myself, I will have to rely on what others say.  

2: An American Werewolf in London

One of the fan-favorite houses from past years is returning for a comeback...the retelling of the classic horror film, An American Werewolf in London.  I have always wanted to go through this house but never had the chance.  This year with using Express passes there is no way I can pass this one up!  The special effects are wonderful and the story is spectacular!  One of my favorite things that Universal does that is kind of unique compared to other haunted attractions are their use of puppets as opposed to animatronics.  The Werewolf puppets for this house look very live-like and frightening!  

1: Jack Presents: 25 Years of Monsters and Mayhem

Jack is Back and he is inviting you for the ultimate horror reunion.  This house will feature Universal classic monsters and some of the best past HHN themes.  There is no doubt that this house will be one of the best!  Having Jack and all of his ghoulish friends return is perfect for HHN's 25th anniversary!  This house looks equally horrifying and amazing!  I can not wait to see this house for myself!

That was my Anticipation Ranking so let me know yours down in the comment section below! Be looking out for my Anticipation Ranking on the scare zones, and I will see you in the next blog!

Raptors are Loose at Universal Studios Florida!

Just recently Universal released their new meet and greet, " Raptor Encounter".  I have not experienced it myself, but from what I have seen and heard I believe it is very realistic.

In Universal's preview of the attraction they show the family's petting the dino, yet from the videos I have watched they ask you to not touch or "feed" the raptor.
Maybe the reasoning behind this is because the attraction is new.
I am so excited to meet this new dino, and be able to experience it head on for the first time!
Well, see you in the next blog!

  Bailey

Nintendo Is Coming to Universal Studios!

It has recently been announced that Universal Studios has struck a deal with Nintendo for some possible new Nintendo themed rides!
As much as I play the Super Mario Bros games I am very excited about this recent announcement!
I have not heard too much about what their future ride plans are, or if they are going to have an entire area dedicated to Nintendo, such as Diagon Alley,  I guess all we can do is wait!
Personally,  I would like to see either a Super Mario Bros ride or a Mario Kart ride!  It would also be great is they could sell some other Nintendo themed items, like Animal Crossing or Legend of Zelda.
I will be continuing to update you on the newest Universal Studios News!
Well, see you in the next blog!

What Will the NASCAR Grille Be?

There has been a lot of talk recently about what the NASCAR Grille will turn out to be.  Will it be a nice sit-down restaurant like The Yard House, an arcade type restaurant like Dave and Busters, or will it even be a restaurant?
Many question are left unanswered since we have not been hinted about what it could be in the future.  Only time will tell.
I personally hope it will be a Yard House type place.  What would you like to see take the place of the NASCAR Grille?  Let me know in the comments!  See you in the next blog!


                                             Before

After

~Bailey

                                             

Top 10 Things You Must Do at Diagon Alley

Last Time I visited Universal I was able to experience the new Wizarding World of Harry Potter's Diagon Alley!  It ia amazing on so many levels!  the attention to detail is mind blowing, the rides are amazing and don't even get me started on the food!  Today I will tell you the Top 10 Things You Must Do at Diagon Alley!

                        10: The Tales of the Beddle the Bard

This Performance is very fun and enjoyable for many fans of the Harry Potter Series.  

For people who are not fans of Harry Potter will still enjoy this wonderful show!

9:The Knight Bus

The Knight Bus is an interactive character meet and greet with The Knight Bus Driver and The Talking Shrunken Head.  It is a funny and fun experience!  I highly recommend taking a few minutes to stop by and take a picture!

8:Explore the Shops!

This is an ABSOLUTE MUST DO! 

The Shops are so true to the books are wonderfully detailed!  I was so overwhelmed by how detailed it all was!  Definatly take time to do this!

 7:  Knockturn Alley

 This place is very creepy and you feel like a death eater could jump out at any moment!

It is very dark and slightly hard to see, but I think that is the point.

I recommend Knockturn Alley for death eaters of all ages!

6:  Pumpkin Juice

Pumpkin Juice may sound gross, but trust me, it's not!

It tastes like a pumpkin pie in a bottle!  The bottle is fun to keep afterwards for water or any drinkable beverage!

5: ButterBeer Icecream

I can not even begin to explain how amazing this is!  It tastes just like ButterBeer, but with a nice texture!  To be honest Butterbeer ice-cream is now my new favorite Ice-cream flavor!

4: ButterBeer/Frozen ButterBeer

Of course you have to taste Butterbeer while at Universal!  It doesn't matter if you only take two sips then throw it away, it is the experience and just being able to say that you have tasted Butterbeer!

3: Interactive Wands

When I first found out about this I was extremely excited!  Universal Creative really outdid themselves with making you feel immersed as a wizard!  Now it does take practice because more than likely you will fail the first time.  Trust me, I made a full of my self by trying to do Wingardium Leviosa, I was pronouncing it right and everything!  It may be expensive, but it sure is worth the money!

2:  Hogwarts Express

This ride is absolutely amazing!  You need to have a park to park ticket to ride the Hogwarts Express, but it is worth ever single penny!  If you enter from King's Cross Station there is a small deli where you may purchase food items or drinks to take on the train ride.  It is even a different ride experience if you go from King's Cross Station to Hogsmeade!

1: Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts

This ride is like no other!  It is themed just right and

oh so much fun!  The line is fun to be in, the pre show is amazing, and the ride is unbelievable!  

I don't want to give away any spoilers, but all I can see is the #1 MUST DO while in Diagon alley!

What is your favorite thing to do in Diagon Alley?  Do you agree with my list?  Let me know down in the comment section below!  Well.. see you in the next blog!

~Bailey