Kissimmee — Beachcomber Pete Travel Adventures

Future World, Epcot Center

One of the two sections of Epcot Center, Future World is a place where imagination becomes reality and tomorrow is as close as a breath away. Visitors explore how advancements in technology shape the world and allow humans reach out to the stars.

Future World is divided into eight attractions. The first stop for many visitors is Spaceship Earth, which is inside the park’s spherical icon near the Epcot entrance. The slow-paced ride lasts 16 minutes and takes patrons on a trip through space and time that is suitable for all ages. It even features interactive touch screens that let guests get a glimpse of what their future selves may look like.

One of the hottest attractions at Epcot is the fast-paced Test Track Presented by Chevrolet. Get in the driver’s seat by creating a virtual car, and then test-drive it through a wild track. Guest can gun their vehicles up to 65 mph and produce original TV commercials for their designs.

Take a simulated hang-gliding flight over California at the Soarin’ attraction. Guests who want to fly even farther can blast off to the Mission: SPACE Pavilion. There, they board a motion simulation ride where they will train before embarking on a mission to Mars.

For a change of pace, the Land Pavilion keeps everyone’s feet on the ground with 6 acres to explore. Families can try a boat ride at Living with the Land, and then catch a fun film starring animated friends from The Lion King.

Head over to the Imagination Pavilion and take a tour through the sensory labs of the Imagination Institute with Figment, a purple dragon. Visitors of all ages can conduct music, play with lights and video, and watch a live digital imaging show.

Equipped with a gigantic aquarium, The Seas with Nemo & Friends Pavilion is home to one of the world’s largest man-made oceanariums. The attractions star the characters from Finding Nemo. Guests can take a spin on The Seas with Nemo & Friends ride, chill out at the Turtle Talk with Crush show, and marvel at the Sea Base and Caribbean Coral Reef Aquarium.

Find out how the future will be powered at the Universe of Energy. Alternative energy is the star at this pavilion. Solar panels cover the roof and power the vehicles for the multimedia Ellen’s Energy Adventure ride.

Filed Under: Epcot Center, featured, Florida, Future World, Kissimmee, Orlando, Walt Disney World, World Showcase

France Pavilion, Epcot Center

Epcot Center’s World Showcase provides visitors with the opportunity to experience the unique cultures and traditions of regions from across the globe. The France Pavilion at Epcot Center is easily one of the park’s most popular destinations, as the area catapults visitors to the quaint streets of Paris. Complete with shops selling authentic French wares, architectural details reminiscent of the City of Light, and a view of the Eiffel Tower in the distance, the French Pavilion is enough to convince even the most discerning traveler that they have crossed the ocean and are visiting the streets of Paris.

Culinary Exploration: Foods in the Pavilion
The foods and culinary traditions of France are perhaps one of the country’s greatest sources of price. Epcot’s France Pavilion does not neglect this phenomenon, but instead presents visitors with multiple opportunities to savor the delicacies of the “cuisine française.” Epcot guests can sample the scrumptious baked goods found throughout France in the Boulangerie Patisserie, while the Bistro de France gives visitors the opportunity to experience the hustle and bustle of a modern cafe. Les Chefs de France is another option in the France Pavilion, serving a wide selection of entrees that are typical of dishes served in the various regions of France.

Enjoying the Parisian Atmosphere

Perhaps one of the most incredible aspects of a visit to the French Pavilion is how successfully Epcot has managed to replicate the ambiance of a Parisian neighborhood. Street performers dot the landscape, just as the artists do on the streets of the French capital. Of course, Disney fans will not be disappointed to discover that the area serves as a second home to popular characters such as Belle and the Beast. Other French characters also make appearances in the France Pavilion, adding to the overall draw of this dynamic destination.

For those who feel passionate about all that France has to offer, the France Pavilion as Epcot is perhaps one of the most authentic French experiences on this side of the Atlantic. From the delicious foods to the charm of the performers and characters, there is truly something for everyone in this area of Epcot. In addition to the authentic shops, restaurants, and decor, the French Pavilion also offers visitors the chance to watch “Impressions de France,” a film giving a visual tour of the many attractions of the nation.

Filed Under: Epcot Center, featured, Florida, France, Kissimmee, Orlando, Paris, United States, Walt Disney World, World Showcase

World Showcase, Epcot Center

The World Showcase at Epcot Center is always one of the most enjoyable areas of the park to visit. The idea behind World Showcase is for visitors to get a general impression of all the countries that represented by pavilions at the attraction. The idea is not to give a literal, exact representation of the particular country. It is more an attempt to convey an impression or general idea of the spirit and culture of the country represented. There are 11 country pavilions for visitors to explore at World Showcase.

World Showcase Plaza

This grand plaza welcomes visitors as they enter World Showcase. The highlight of the area is a giant lagoon that has water taxis that slowly ferry people across the lagoon. In the center of the plaza is a very fun attraction, a series of fountains that visitor will especially appreciate on hot days. Visitors frolic and splash around the fountains all day, allowing themselves to enjoy a real spirit of fun.

The best parts of the World Showcase are the individual pavilions that make up the park. Here are some of the pavilions that visitors often remark as particular highlights during their tours.

Mexico

The highlight of this pavilion is a giant pyramid that is modeled after an Aztec temple where hundreds of human sacrifices occurred.

Norway

The focus here is on the Viking heritage with the pavilion being built to look like a medieval Viking town complete with a fortress.

China

Visitors will enjoy lots of impressive architecture that is modeled after the Temple of Heaven and the Forbidden City in Beijing.

France

The French pavilion is a recreation of a Paris street view. It features a sidewalk café, fountains and beautiful French architecture. There is also a park where visitors will enjoy taking a moment to rest their tired legs.

Germany

This is one of the most diverse pavilions as there are parts celebrating all 16 of the states in the German Federation. There is lots of great food and shopping here.

Italy

This pavilion is a recreation of the famous St. Marks’s Square in the heart of Venice. The gondola rides are one of the highlights.

United States of America

Visitors will find the highlight of the home country pavilion to be the show called “Adventures in America.” It has a cast of hundreds and features many of the most famous figures in American History. It is educational and very entertaining.

Filed Under: Epcot Center, Florida, Future World, Kissimmee, Orlando, Walt Disney World, World Showcase

Epcot Center, Walt Disney World Resort

Epcot Center is an amazing part of the overall Disney World Resort experience. There are two distinct areas at Epcot that have many fascinating exhibits, rides, and attractions. Future World focuses on technology, while World Showcase features the cuisine and culture of eleven different countries.

Future World
In Future World a guest will experience technology from the past, the present, and into the possibilities of the future. One of the highlights of Epcot is Spaceship Earth, the huge silver ball that is the signature of Epcot. Inside is a ride that takes visitors on a journey of man’s history and all the technological advances along the way. Children and adults will love Captain EO, which features Michael Jackson as the commander of a spaceship in a 4D movie experience. Mission Space is a thrill ride that offers two different levels, one with G force, the other without. This ride takes place in a mock-space capsule. In Test Track, a visitor can design his or her own car and then experience how the design stands up on the track. Soarin’ is a simulated ride in which guests sit in a hang glider that “flies” over California. These are but a few of the attractions to experience in Future World.

World Showcase
Themed pavilions offer guests the opportunity to explore the unique culture of several countries. The countries showcased are France, Germany, China, Italy, Japan, Canada, Mexico, Morocco, Norway, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Within each country is a variety of restaurants, attractions, and stunning architecture. The following is a more detailed description of a few of these countries.

Finally, Illuminations, a massive nighttime event that includes lasers, fireworks, videos, fire, and phenomenal music, should be on any visitors list of must-see attractions.

Filed Under: Epcot Center, Florida, Future World, Kissimmee, Orlando, Walt Disney World, World Showcase

Universal Studios Orlando

Orlando, Florida is the ultimate destination for theme park fun, catering to kids of all ages (and kids at heart!). For die-hard movie-goers and roller-coaster enthusiasts, you cannot get much closer to the fun than Universal Studios Orlando. From movie-themed rides to live stunt shows, the Universal parks go above and beyond your average theme park entertainment.

Universal Studios Orlando is comprised of two separate theme parks: Universal Orlando, and Universal’s Islands of Adventure, and Wet ‘n Wild water park. Universal Orlando brings you directly to the heart of the movies, with behind-the-scenes sneak peeks, thrilling rides, and special events year-round. The park is a real, working production studio, so you never know what you will find when you come for a visit. Experience Shrek in 4-D, ride through the sky with E.T., or come face-to-face with dinosaurs in Jurassic Park. Finding a show for any age group is easy at Universal Studios Florida. Toddlers and preschoolers will love singing along with Barney & Friends, while Terminator 2: 3-D will entertain older children and adults.

Universal’s Islands of Adventure is a theme park unlike any other. Join your favorite superheroes at Marvel Super Hero Island, play around in Toon Lagoon, or make your way through Seuss Landing, based on the books of Dr. Seuss. Enjoy a special effects display at Poseidon’s Fury. For true aspiring students of Hogwarts, Islands of Adventure is the only place where you will find The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Visitors to Central Florida visiting universal Studios will find a great place to cool off right next door, Wet ‘n Wild has a little bit of something for everyone. Thrilling water rides like The Black Hole: The Next Generation and Brain Wash will take adventurous park goers on watery journeys full of excitement. For the youngest water enthusiasts, Blastaway Beach is the perfect place to hang out. Made especially for kids, this park has 15 water slides and a 60-foot sand castle.

Universal Studios Orlando is more than just movie rides and thrilling acrobatic displays. Fun lies around every corner without even having to set foot into the parks. Universal City Walk has restaurants and entertainment ranging from Hard Rock Cafe to Blue Man Group. No matter your age or interest, there is sure to be something for you at Universal Orlando.

Filed Under: Central Florida, featured, Florida, Kissimmee, North America, Orlando, United States, Universal Studios

Kissimmee Chain of Lakes, Florida

Bass fishermen delight in the fish teeming through the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes in Florida’s South Osceola County. The series of 20 lakes begins just south of Orlando, connected by canals and waterways winding through the lush “river of grass” Everglades and eventually leading to Kissimee River. Water recreation, fishing, hiking, birdwatching and hunting abound among the 100,000 acres of the lakes’ surface water.

The largest lakes in the Central Florida chain are the 18,810-acre Lake Tohopekaliga, called Lake Toho, 2hu and West Lake by locals; the nearly-35,000-acre Lake Kissimmee; and East Lake Tohopekaliga with nearly 12,000 acres. Other notable lakes in the system include Lake Cypress, Lake Hatchineha, Lake Marian and Lake Jacksoon.

Nearly 42 miles in circumference, Lake Toho is the largest lake in Osceola County and is connected to East Lake Tohopekaliga by three-mile Canal 31. The shore of Lake Toho is home to Lakefront Park, where a three-mile picturesque walking path showcases the Kissimmee area’s beauty. Jogging, walking and enjoying the abundant alligators, turtles and waterfowl are favorite activities along the trail. Park visitors enjoy a miniature lighthouse, playground, barbecue grills, a fishing pier, a bait shop, basketball and volleyball parks and a pavilion/picnic area. Boaters and anglers can access the lake’s waters, connector canals and the entire chain of lakes using the park’s boat launch ramp.

More wildlife and birds live along the shores of the chain’s Lake Kissimmee. Drive along Joe Overstreet Road for incredible viewing of the lake’s spectacular bald eagles, sandhill cranes and whooping cranes. The lake shores are home to bobcats and white-tailed deer and a bustling state park. The park offers a unique 1876-era “cow camp” for visitors to learn about Florida’s cowboy heritage, 13 miles of hiking trails and six miles of equestrian trails. Full-amenity campsites, a picnic pavilion and more rustic camping areas are also available at Lake Kissimmee State Park.

The lake system is the perfect locations for short- and long-distance canoeing. A handful of islands within Lake Kissimmee make a great scenic backdrop to a day of water sports. Paddle-boarding, air-boating, water skiing and swimming are other popular activities at the system of lakes.

For many, bass fishing is the biggest draw to the chain of lakes. Many fishing tournaments take place in the system’s many lakes, including the Southern Open at Big Toho Marina at the end of January.

Whether visitors are looking for a place to catch some bass, hike along scenic trails, gaze at bald eagles or enjoy the company of friends in a peaceful setting, there is plenty to see and experience at Kissimmee Chain of Lakes.

Filed Under: Central Florida, featured, Florida, Kissimmee, Kissimmee Chain of Lakes, North America, United States

Sea World, Florida

Located in the city of Orlando, Florida’s Sea World theme park is a fun place for the whole family. Featuring rides, shows and plenty of aquatic wildlife, Sea World Orlando is a prime vacation destination for adults and children of all ages. Due to its location in one of the most well-developed cities in the entire state of Florida, there are plenty of places to stay and other things to do, as well.

The main draw to Sea World Orlando has to be the animals. The park is home to Beluga whales, penguins, dolphins, flamingos, manatees, seals, sea lions and more. Visitors can get up close and personal with a shark before heading over to check out playful otters swimming in the water, polar bears chilling on the rocks and colorful parrots sitting in the trees. And, of course, Sea World Orlando is famously home to killer whales that are arguably one of the biggest attractions of all.

Then you have the shows, many of which feature the highly trained animals that make the park their home. All shows are family friendly, and range from incredibly funny to thought provoking times where visitors learn about ecology and animal preservation. Sea lions Clyde and Seamore are among the main stars of several shows, much to the delight of audiences. Sesame Street characters also make regular appearances, and special shows are planned during Christmas, Halloween and other holiday seasons. The show put on regularly by Shamu, the park’s most famous killer whale, and his Orca friends is by far the most popular with almost all visitors.

In addition to the animals and shows, visitors may board different rides for an entirely different park experience. Ride everything from the Journey to Atlantis or the Manta, which feature a soaking splash of water, to the Kraken, a thrilling roller coaster that takes its passengers on twists and turns at top speeds. Rides and games for children are also available in Shamu’s Happy Harbor.

Once your time at the park is complete, venture out into Orlando for even more fun and recreation at Discovery Cove, Universal’s Island of Adventure or even Disney World. You can also choose to make a short trip to Kissimmee and visit award-winning museums and restaurants, or simply explore the communities of St. Cloud, Winter Park or Mount Dora and see what adventure Central Florida has to share with you and your family.

Filed Under: Florida, Kissimmee, Orlando, Sea World, United States

Walt Disney World, Florida

Walt Disney World, Florida is widely considered by many people to be the best theme park in the world. Located in Lake Buena Vista, Florida, just outside of Orlando, Walt Disney World is the flagship theme park of the many amazing Disney theme parks found around the world. Walt Disney World is a theme park that has something to offer to people of all ages. Parents will enjoy it just as much as their kids do. Take a look at everything this magical theme park has to offer its visitors. There are five main areas for visitors to enjoy at Walt Disney World.

The Magic Kingdom

This is the oldest part of Walt Disney World. It is modeled on Disneyland in California. The Magic Kingdom is the most popular part of Walt Disney World. With more than 17 million people passing through its gates every year, The Magic Kingdom is the most popular theme park in the world. This is the place that is full of Disney characters and rides, and it is the most exciting area for kids visiting Walt Disney World.

Epcot Center

This area is dedicated to international culture and technological innovation. There are 11 different pavilions that each feature cultural attractions from a specific country. Future World is the area of Epcot Center that showcases the technology of the future.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

This is one of the most popular areas of Walt Disney World. There are lots of rides and attractions based on Disney films. This includes popular attractions of movie studios that Disney has purchased, such as Lucasfilm, which holds the rights to Star Wars, and Pixar, which has produced the most popular animated films of the last few decades.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

This is one of the more interesting areas of the park and is wildly popular with visitors. It is sort of a crossover between a zoo and a traditional theme park. There are lots of animal-themed rides for visitors to enjoy. There are also many animal enclosures where visitors can take a close look at exotic wildlife attractions.

Downtown Disney

This is the area of the park where adults can get away from the kid-themed entertainment for a while. There is a section of Downtown Disney called Pleasure Island, where there are lots of night clubs, bars and restaurants that cater to a more mature crowd. This is the area of the park where all the nightlife is.

Filed Under: Central Florida, featured, Florida, Kissimmee, North America, Orlando, United States, Walt Disney World

Golf Courses in Kissimme Florida

Many visitors come to Kissimmee, Florida each year because of the wonderful weather the area is famous for. Still others travel to Kissimmee due to its proximity to Florida’s many amusement parks. One of the other main reasons travelers come to Kissimmee though is because of the wide variety of golf courses that can be found in this beautiful area. There are a number of Golf Courses in Kissimmee for every golfer, from the golfer just starting out, to the more seasoned pro. Three great golf courses for travelers to visit in Kissimmee are the Falcon’s Fire Golf Club, Kissimmee Golf Club and the Walt Disney World Golf Complex-Lake Buena Vista Course.

One great golf course to check out while on a trip to Kissimmee is Falcon’s Fire Golf Club. Falcon’s Fire Golf Club is considered one of the best public golf courses in the Orlando, Florida area. The club was designed by Rees Jones and features beautiful and stimulating holes. In addition, this golf course is conveniently located close by to many of the areas hotels and other attractions.

Another great golf course that visitors will want to be sure to visit while in Kissimmee is the Kissimmee Golf Club. This public golf course is located close to Disney World and is a great place for parents to visit and shoot a few holes at in between trips to the park. The Kissimmee Golf Club is famous for its course difficulty and also for the beautiful, classic FL scenery that can be viewed while golfing this courses 18 holes. Additionally this club offers Junior Golf Programs for younger golfers to take advantage of while on their vacation in FL.

A not to be missed golf course in Kissimmee is the Walt Disney World Golf Complex-Lake Buena Vista Course. This course is known throughout the world and has played host to a number of PGA Tour events. The location has also received 4 stars from Golf Digest, making it a truly challenging course even for experienced golfers. This golf course also is special because it is located within the Disney World Resort complex making it a fabulous destination for those staying within the park.

Kissimmee, Florida is truly one of the great golf destinations in the state of FL. There are a number of beautiful courses, both public and private, that offer golfing fun for golfers of all experience levels.

Filed Under: Attractions Kissimmee, Central Florida, featured, Kissimmee, Orlando, United States

Lake Kissimmee, Florida

Lake Kissimmee, Florida is a part of a system of Kissimmee Chain of Lakes Area, (KCOLA) which stretches from Polk to Osceola Counties. Lake Kissimmee is the furthest south of this system’s waterways. The lake is a popular outdoor playground for anglers, boaters, hikers and nature lovers vacationing in Central Florida.

Lake Kissimmee State Park, located in the town of Lake Worth offers a wide variety of activities for visitors, including fishing, boating, hiking, water sports and camping. The park has facilities for both tent and RV camping.

Lake Kissimmee is home to many species of animals. Patient visitors to the area can see alligators, deer, wild turkey, eagles, osprey and herons. Nature photography is a popular activity at Lake Kissimmee with many opportunities to catch these creatures in their native environment.

Anglers can enjoy catching a number of species that reside in Lake Kissimmee, including bluegill, crappie and catfish, but it’s known for largemouth bass fishing. Catching the lake’s large bass is a must-do for many travelers to the area. Many anglers enjoy year-round fishing, Mid-winter temperatures can be chilly, but warm up by mid-day. Licenses are required for both residents of the state and visitors.

Lake Kissimmee is a boater’s paradise with 35,000 acres of waterway to explore. You can launch your boat from the state park or a number of private launches in the Kissimmee area. Kayakers and canoeists also enjoy the beautiful scenery along the lake, which is known as the headwaters to the Everglades.

Campers can choose from a number of campgrounds around Lake Kissimmee, both private and public. Many campgrounds cater to anglers and boaters with information about weather conditions and recent catches.

Hiking is a popular activity around Lake Kissimmee. The state park has 13 miles of hiking trails. Visitors can also hike at other nature parks in the area.

Lake Kissimmee State Park offers a program that allows visitors a look at the life and livelihood of a Florida cowboy in the 1800s. Both adults and children will enjoy this recreation of ranch life that was part of the history of this region. Park employees play the characters of these 19th century cowhands that rounded up cattle, using the cracking whips that gave them the name “Crackers.”