Top Pick: Tusker House
Located in Disney's Animal Kingdom park, this character breakfast is the perfect way to start your day.  The character interaction is excellent, they even do a parade with the kids.  There are a variety of food options on the buffet and all of them are delicious. We feel this is the best tasting food of any other character buffet. 
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​Runner up:  Tie between Topolino's Terrace and Cape May Cafe
​Topolino's at Disney's Riviera Resort offers a character brunch with Mickey, Minnie, Donald, and Daisy. The food is good and the characters do a good job of interacting with the kids. 
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Cape May Cafe is located at Disney's Beach Club resort and a short walk from Epcot. Minnie's Beach Bash Breakfast is the perfect start to kick off your day at Epcot. Minnie, Donald, Daisy, and Goofy are dressed up for a day at the beach at this yummy breakfast buffet. 

Top Pick: Artist Point-Story Book Dining with Snow White
Located at Disney's Wilderness Lodge resort, Artist Point is one of the best character dining experiences on property. With Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs plus the evil Queen appearing, you never know what is going to happen during your meal.  Set in the enchanted forest, this meal takes you through the story of Snow White and her friends. Start off with a wicked cocktail mixed with unique flavors such as the Enchanted Apple or the non-alcoholic Transformation Potion, complete with a bottle of blue "potion." Shared appetizers are a hit here along with the Magic Mirror slow-braised veal shank. The "Hunter's Gift to the Queen" dessert was our favorite!

​Runner Up: Chef Mickey's
Chef Mickey's is the OG of character meals so we had to include it. Serving breakfast, brunch, and dinner at the Contemporary Resort you will find the fab five at this all-you-can eat buffet. The food is just ok but the character interaction is fun, especially for a first visit.  Reservations can be hard to get so plan ahead. 

Top Pick: Cinderella's Royal Table
Dining in Cinderella's Castle is an experience everyone should have. Once you enter, Cinderella is there to greet you. After a quick photo, you will make your way up the winding staircase to the grand dining room. With floor to ceiling stained glass windows, it is a sight to be seen! The food is ok, nothing incredible, but that’s not really what you’re paying for anyway. You’re paying to eat INSIDE the castle, and meet some Disney Princesses while you’re at it.
Pro Tip: We suggest booking a Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique appointment before your meal so your little princess will be "picture perfect."  

​Runner Up: Akershus Royal Banquet
Situated in the Norway Pavilion at EPCOT, this princess dining experience is a great alternative to CRT. The Norwegian Castle has a medieval vibe authentic to the land. While the menu seems "adventurous,"  we found plenty of options to satisfy our group of picky eaters.  The princess interaction is also really good here. 

Top Pick: Be our Guest
As one of the most sought after reservations, Be Our Guest is a not to be missed experience.  Walking into the castle feels like you stepped inside the Beauty and the Beast Movie. The west wing even has the famous rose! While you are eating, The Beast himself walks around the dining room waving at his guests. Once you are finished eating, you can take a photo with him before exiting the castle.  Lunch and dinner are priced the same with a prix fixe menu. The food isn't the best meal on property but it's not the worst either.  This one is our favorites for the experience, it's a must-do if you haven't before. 

Runner Up: Jungle Navigation Co. LTD Skipper Canteen
Tucked away in Adventureland across from the Jungle Cruise ride, Skipper Canteen is a hidden gem. You might miss it as you walk by.  The servers are funny, the theme is cute, and the food, while adventurous, was surprisingly good. 

Top Pick: Space 220
One of our favorite restaurants on property, Space 200, is a dining adventure.  It begins when you first walk in and are transported to space via an elevator that simulates real-time rocketing into orbit. While dining, you are surrounded by a full panoramic view of space. The multi-course, prix fixe menu is upscale and modern. Food is just as incredible as the atmosphere here, we all ordered something different and every bite was better than the next. The "atmospheric cocktails" are unique and an experience of themselves. Make sure to try one of the cocktails with a pop rocks rim.  Kids love the non-alcoholic moon rocks drink that fizz. 

​Runner Up: Le Cellier Steakhouse
Tucked in Epcot's Canada pavilion, Le Cellier Steakhouse is delicious. This Disney Signature restaurant offers Canadian cheddar cheese soup, Filet Mignon, Poutine, and Canadian Ice Wine.  Lunch and dinner reservations can be hard to snag but we have found walk-up availability at off times of the day. 

Top Pick: Roundup Rodeo BBQ
This brand new restaurant can be found in Toy Story Land.  The menu is traditional BBQ served family style with some Pixar flair thrown in. Guests will dine among “play sets” of a western town and train station while "rodeo festivities" take place during the meal. Guests will also spot representations of Pixar characters as toys and game pieces set the playful scene in what is sure to be a lively and memorable dining experience (though it is not a Toy Story character meal). 

​Runner Up: Sci-Fi Dine-In
Unique, fun, and silly are all words to describe this Hollywood Studios favorite.  Sci-Fi Dine-in pairs traditional cheeseburgers and fries with zombie movies and waitresses on skates all while dining inside an old 1950s car. 

Top Pick: Yak & Yeti
Set in Asia, this beautifully themed restaurant offers flavorful Asian Fusion cuisine with special Disney touches. Our favorite dish is the fried pineapple and cream cheese wontons. 

Runner up:  Satu'li Canteen
While this is just a quick service, it deserves a mention. Satu'li is the primary dining spot for Pandora-the World of Avatar. The menu is inspired by Pandora's bounty with an international influence to the cuisine. Customizable bowls and steamed pods along with unique drinks and desserts are available for lunch and dinner. 

Top Pick: The Boathouse
The Boathouse is known for its fresh seafood, top-notch theming and gorgeous outdoor seating. The steak options are also very good. We have never had a bad meal here. A plus is that it's always easy to get a table here, even the same day. The kids love sitting in the big boat so as your hostess if you can sit there. 

​Runner up: Homecomin' by Chef Art Smith
If you love fried chicken then you have to try Homecomin' by celebrity chef Art Smith. This restaurant celebrates Southern and Florida cuisine. While the fried chicken is what this restaurant is known for, the boozy drinks and moonshine are the highlight. The food is rich and savory comfort food and the service is friendly.  Get the Church Lady Deviled Eggs, they are incredible. 
They also offer a Rise n' Shine Brunch on the weekends that is a perfect adult way to start your day before shopping at Disney Springs. 
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Top Pick: Yachtsman Steakhouse
Located at Disney's Yacht Club resort, this Signature restaurant is worth the cost. Specializing in delicious grain-fed beef steaks, the restaurant has a glass-walled butchering room where guests can actually see their steaks being prepared! The steaks are the best on property and the service is excellent. Take your time to enjoy this delectable meal starting with the lobster bisque and ending with the Brulé Cheesecake, every bite is something to savor. 

​Runner up: Narcoosee's
Narcoossee’s at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort has panoramic views of Seven Seas Lagoon with the Magic Kingdom as it's backdrop. Time your meal right and watch the fireworks and the Electric Water Pageant while you dine.  Seafood is the primary breadwinner here, but Narcoossee’s also has wonderful steak, pasta, chicken, and veggie dishes.

Top Pick: Beaches & Cream
Located at Disney's Beach Club Resort, Beaches & Cream is a 50s style diner with delicious burgers and other diner food but the desserts are the real draw.  Home to the famous Kitchen Sink, an eight-scoop ice cream sundae made for sharing, is served with every topping in the house! This is a great spot to grab a treat after a long day at the parks. You can walk here from Epcot through the international gateway. 

Runner Up: California Grill
As a Signature Restaurant, snagging a dinner reservation can be tough but you can walk in and sit at the bar for drinks and dessert or order off the full menu.  There is a dress code, so you have to be prepared to dress a little bit nicer than you might for a normal day at the theme parks. The restaurant is at the top of Disney’s Contemporary Resort and overlooks the Magic Kingdom.  If you time your arrival right, you can watch the fireworks while you sip on some bubbly. California Grill offers one of the best fireworks dining experiences at Walt Disney World Resort. Lights dim as the music is piped into the restaurant—immersing Guests in the magic of the night.

From delightful delicacies at Be Our Guest restaurant to the whimsical atmosphere of Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater, there is no shortage of amazing restaurants in the Disney parks. Ultimately, the best way to decide which Disney restaurant you'd like to visit is to think about what appeals to you and your family. Whether it's the amazing ambiance or the unique menu items, these restaurants offer something for everyone. A visit to Disney should include an unforgettable dining experience that you'll be talking about for years to come. So make sure to bring your appetite and get ready for a magical meal! 

To conclude, Disney restaurants have something for everyone, from the pickiest of palates to the wildest of imaginations. Whether you're looking for a magical atmosphere or delicious dishes, Disney has it all. As the famous saying goes, "You can't spell Disney without 'dine', so make sure to make a reservation at one of your favorite Disney restaurants and make your next visit a truly unforgettable experience.​

Do you want to feel the magic of Hogwarts like Harry Potter and his friends? Then you’ll need to make a visit to Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure in Orlando, Florida and buy the park-to-park ticket. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter allows you to journey through two magical worlds - Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley - via the iconic Hogwart’s Express. From the Triwizard Tournament, to butterbeer tasting, to spellbinding entertainment, to themed thrill rides - this is the ultimate fan experience and you won’t want to miss it. In this article, you’ll learn all the details you need to plan your visit, from ride options to restaurant recommendations. So buckle up and hold on, it’s time to experience the adventure of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
 
Step inside the story of Harry Potter when you walk the streets of Dragon Alley where hidden dangers are located beneath Gringotts bank, then travel to the village of Hogsmeade and into Hogwarts castle for a spellbinding journey.

​Things to do while exploring the lands
 
Gringotts Money Exchange: Ask Gringotts goblin any questions you have, and trade your U.S. currency for Gringotts bank notes in $10 or $20 denominations. The bank notes can be used for purchases within Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade.
 
Knight Bus: Parked on the London embankment is the purple, triple-decker bus, which stranded witches and wizards flag down in emergencies.
 
Ollivanders: Here you can purchase your own wand that is special just for you. The walls are covered from top to bottom with different options. You can also use your wand to do different spells of your own at 34 different spots in both lands.
 
Dervish and Banges: this store sells all kinds of different magical things like broomsticks, quidditch supplies and a variety of Hogwarts apparel.
 
Magical Menagerie: this is a store full of plush fanatics beasts from the Harry Potter books and movies.
 
Weasley’s Wizarding Wheezes: this store is full of toys and different items from the book and movies.
 
Madam Malkin’s Robes for All Occasions: in this store you can find all kinds of different apparel to look just like a Harry Potter character.
 
Borgin and Burkes: in the this store you will find all kinds of props from the Harry Potter movies.
 
The Owl Post: in this store you can buy Hogwarts stationary and then you can send your mail to its destination and it will be postmarked from Hogsmeade. *Make sure you bring your own stamps to not have to pay extra for this.

Exploring the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is an unforgettable experience that brings the beloved books and movies to life. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or simply looking for a unique and magical adventure, the two lands of Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade will ignite your imagination. From enchanting shops and thrilling rides, to show-stopping light displays and a wide range of beloved eateries, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. And who knows, you might just find your very own wand at Ollivanders. So don’t wait for your own Hogwarts letter – go explore the Wizarding World of Harry Potter like a pro and let the magic begin!

​To make it a reality, contact Lesley Deaton at 704-868-6382 or ldeaton@mdvtrips.com for help with your Universal Orlando Resort Vacation.

Planning your trip to Universal Studios Orlando is a breeze with the help of an experienced travel planner. One of the many benefits of using a travel planner for your vacation is that you will have knowledgeable assistance as you decide how to best use your time. When visiting a theme park, it is beneficial to know where you are going, what you need to see and how to get the most out of the investment you’ve made.

​A few of our travel planners have recently visited Universal Studios Orlando, and they have compiled a few thoughts on how you can save time, ride the best attractions and feel confident as you navigate Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. When you work with one of our planners, you will have the benefit of expert guidance and experienced help at every step! You will find great tips and planning advice from some of our agents below.

VIP Tours are a great way to see more! 
“If you are only spending a few days in the parks, consider a VIP tour as a way to maximize your time. You will have an expert guide, and you will get front-of-the-line access to many of the best attractions. While you are in the parks, consider purchasing a refillable mug to save time and money. Express Pass is a great way to shorten the time you may wait in lines. You can get Express Pass for free by staying at a premier resort, or you can add it to your tickets for an additional cost. Use a lanyard as a way to keep your ticket handy, saving you time at the park entrances and when renting lockers!”
 
Creating priceless memories 
We believe your time is valuable, which is why our goal is to ensure that you get the most out of your time and money when visiting Universal Orlando Resort. These tips are only a few examples of the knowledge and insight each of our agents has on maximining your time and enjoying every second of your vacation. Reach out to us to learn more about how you can plan the trip of a lifetime for your family! ​

Are you looking for the ultimate aquatic adventure? Dive into the warm waters of Volcano Bay in Orlando - a revolutionary theme park from Universal Studios. With its exhilarating water slides, tranquil beaches, and unique volcano centerpiece, it’s the perfect spot for a summer getaway. Volcano Bay offers more than just a great time - it also redefines the standard for water parks, providing guests with a host of innovative amenities and attractions to enjoy. In this article, we’ll explore all of the magical experiences that await you at Volcano Bay. From vivid Polynesian-inspired architecture and imaginative water slides, to immersive attractions and world-class cuisine, Volcano Bay delivers a truly one-of-a-kind experience. Come see why this is the hottest new aquatic theme park in Orlando!

​A trip to the tropics is not complete without a tropical drink and Volcano Bay has everything you would crave. From kid-friendly dishes to grownup bites, there are more than 60 unique menu items to choose from all inspired by the flavors of the South Pacific. The Dancing Dragons Boat Bar or Kunuku Boat Bar have beer, wine, tropical specialty drinks in a souvenir cup. The Feasting Frog, Bambu or Kohala Reef Restaurant & Social club have all your quick service meals covered. From burgers to salads even the most finicky eater will find something palatable. All these treats are available for delivery if you choose Premium Seating!

Let’s talk attractions! Volcano Bay seventeen things to do from the Aqua Coaster to the Lazy River everyone in your party will find something to do. For those that are not into water slides there are four amazing areas to enjoy calm waters: Waturi Beach, The Reef, Puka Uli Lagoon, and Kopiko Wai Winding River. Want a thrill, there are several slides to choose from, there are racers, body slides, and slides with drops. The Ko’okiri body plunge has a 70 degree fall for 125 feet of thrilling fun. Raft slides range from two person tubes to five-person thrill rides through dark caverns of Krakatau. You don’t have to haul your tube to the top of the slide either, Volcano Bay has that all covered for you! The Aqua coaster should not be missed but don’t forget your goggles! 

 
TIP: If you stay at The Cabana Bay Beach Resort or The Aventura Hotel the water theme park is a short walk and from all the other hotels it is easily accessible with resort bus transportation. Volcano Bay is a great place to relax as a family while you are visiting the Universal Resort in Orlando and a great place to step away from the fast-paced schedule of a theme park trip.
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You can have this experience for yourself and your family!
To schedule your Universal Orlando Resort vacation, contact:
Jennifer Marshall
​Phone: 253-951-9770
Email: jinoue@mdvtrips.com 

When you visit the Universal Orlando Resort, you may be tempted to move quickly through the CityWalk area as you go from security to the park entrances. There is so much to see and do inside the parks, but don’t miss out on what UOR has to offer outside of the gates. CityWalk is approximately 30 acres of fun, entertainment and more food than you could possibly eat on one visit! On your vacation, take some time to stroll this beautiful area, listen to music, have a drink by the water or sit down to an amazing meal.
 
CityWalk at Universal Orlando is the “Epicentre of Awesome”, and this is not an empty claim. This is a place for the entire family, offering something to see or something to experience around every corner. One of the most obvious things to do at CityWalk is EAT!

​With around two dozen options to choose from, you can’t go wrong.

Take a Seat 
At the end of a busy day in the theme parks, you may want a slow-paced meal during which you can take a seat, have a drink and enjoy high-quality food. If a sit-down meal is what you are looking for, you have the following options:

Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food
Bob Marley – A Tribute To Freedom
The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar
Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville
VIVO Italian Kitchen
The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium and Savory Feast Kitchen
NBC Sports Grill and Brew
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. and Market
Bigfire
Hard Rock Café Orlando
Pat O’Brien’s
 
While not required, reservations can make it a bit easier to get a table at your restaurant of choice. You can do this by calling Universal Orlando Resort’s dining line at 407-224-FOOD or by visiting the website.

​In a Hurry? 
If you prefer a faster and more casual meal experience, there are plenty of options available to you. CityWalk boasts a wide variety of food kiosks, drink carts and fast-service restaurants where you can grab to a quick bite and get back to your day of fun in the parks. These include:
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Red Oven Pizza Bakery
Voodoo Doughnut
Starbucks
Cinnabon
Cold Stone Creamery
Hot Dog Hall of Fame
Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt
Burger King Whopper Bar
Bread Box Handcrafted Sandwiches
Moe’s Southwest Grill
Panda Express

A sanctuary for the senses, an all-pool villa ALL five-diamond resort & five stars Forbes, Banyan Tree Mayakoba welcomes you to the essential Banyan Tree experience. A resort that provides a joyful habitat for the spirit, a place where ancient civilizations embrace each other and where the passionate nature of Mexico is soothed by the gentle touch of the Far East. In the ancient Maya language, Mayakoba means village over water. Banyan Tree Mayakoba is located in a private gated community linked by canal waterways, the resort is surrounded by an arcadia of untouched nature in a carefully maintained ecosystem. With a private pool for every villa or plunge pool for every suite, an array of international culinary offerings, a PGA golf course, a signature Banyan Tree Spa and curated experiences for all ages. Through the expansion, Banyan Tree Mayakoba offers villas, beachfront pool suites, including 7 lagoon & sunset rooftop pool villas. Minimum villa size is 3,145 sq ft.
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Grand Velas Riviera Maya is an AAA Five Diamond Luxury Ali-Inclusive resort located in the most sought-after region of the Mexican Caribbean, just 35 minutes from the Cancun international Airport and 10 minutes from Playa del Carmen. Visitors can't help but be carried away by the area's breathtaking enchantment, with its lush jungle greenery and turquoise ocean waters. A wide range of attractions, many famous world-wide, are located just a short distance from the resort, making it the perfect option for both adventure and deep relaxation. Clients enjoy the jungle's mystique and endless ocean views at this resort for all ages. A different side of the Mexican Caribbean in the Zen Grand Ambiance surrounded by pristine jungle, or ocean breezes in the Ambassador and Grand Class Ambiances. If they explore the entire resort  will find the  SE Spa and eight restaurants, the Kids' Clubs , Teens' Club, an Eco-tour,  miniature golf and much more, for a vacation that's anything but ordinary.  
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Opened September 1, 2018, Solaz is a sanctuary for guests seeking an immersive destination experience. A masterpiece in modern design, the hotel features iconic architecture with a vast private collection of original works of art, and endemic landscaping which paints a beautiful scene full of life and color, cradled by two natural rock beds allowing guests to enjoy the swimmable beach. Designed as a contemporary cascading architectural sculpture, each of the 128 guestrooms offer breathtaking panoramic sea views from your private balcony/terrace and a dedicated Artisan (butler) service. Indulge in gastronomic offerings that satisfy the soul. Al Pairo seafood market prepares local dishes with fresh ingredients from the sea. For contemporary Mexican fare, Cascabel is a vibrant venue. Take in the sounds of lapping waves and breathtaking, unobstructed sunrise and sunset views at Mako. Cap off the day with a glass of wine from La Cava’s selection of more than 2,500 bottles, or enjoy a treat from Dos Penisulas chocolateria. Positioned in the most desirable location with equal proximity to San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas, the Art and Soul of Baja awaits you.
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If paradise had a name, it would be Turks & Caicos. My husband and I first visited Beaches Turks & Caicos in 2008 for our honeymoon. We’ve been on many vacations since then, but have always talked about the crystal clear waters we experienced on Provo. We were excited to bring our girls, 10 & 12, to the island and found it to be just as beautiful as we remembered. 
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There’s nothing better than the convenience of an all inclusive. With 22 different dining options, there’s something for everyone to love for each meal… and plenty of snack options in between! This resort has five different distinct villages each with a variety of room types. We’d love to help you find the one that’s best for you!

We loved our vacation on Royal Caribbean and would definitely do it again. As an avid Disney cruiser, there were some things we missed but the entertainment and activities for our 12 year old was everything we wanted and more. We also enjoyed the Casino every night, that was a lot of fun!

Book a suite category to have access to the suite pool and lounge.  The pool was so serene and relaxing, the lounge had delicious snacks and drinks, the service was impeccable.