Summer may be over but that doesn’t mean it’s too late for a last-minute family getaway. Schedule a trip to Universal Studios Orlando and enjoy some of the best prices of the year on dining, shopping, attractions, hotels and entertainment.

STAY

Stay at the Gaylord Palms where kids eat free and area attractions are only minutes away. Luxurious rooms, two on-site pools, a Canyon Ranch spa, golf putting course and croquet lawn offer something for everyone in the family.The Gaylord Palms is conveniently located in the heart of Central Florida near dozens of theme parks including Walt Disney World, SeaWorld’s Discovery Cove and Universal Orlando. A shuttle service is available to all guests for easy transportation to and from the parks. Book two nights from now until November 15 and enjoy $50 in resort credits at a rate of $149 a night. 407.586.2000.

PLAY

Become part of the adventure when you visit the world’s premier movie and tv based theme park. Get your adrenaline pumping at Universal’s newest coaster, Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, or face your fears as you plunge into the darkness at Revenge of the Mummy. Everyone in the family will have fun at attractions like E.T. Adventure and Terminator 2: 3-D. These state-of-the-art rides make you part of the action with high-tech special effects and multi-sensory entertainment. Famed personalities also abound at Universal. Check out The Simpsons Ride for a wacky journey through Springfield to Krustyland. The kids will especially enjoy Shrek 4-D as they join the lovable ogre in his attempt to free Princess Fiona. Get the whole family laughing at the Horror Make-up Show or sing along at Beetlejuice’s Graveyard Review. While visiting, park guests have the choice of over 10 dining locations including Lombard’s Seafood Grille, Monsters Cafe and Mel’s Drive-In modeled after the famous restaurant in the classic film American Graffiti.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Get ready for an epic journey when you step into Universal’s Islands of Adventure theme park. The magic is real at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter where guests can experience a Triwizard Tournament on the coaster Dragon Challenge or soar over Hogwarts on the family ride Flight of the Hippogriff. See all the familiar wizarding establishments when you walk past the Hogwarts Express and through the streets of Hogsmeade. The spectacularly themed world also offers fun shops and places to dine.

Rip Ride Rockit

Exhilarating entertainment can be found on each of the park’s seven themed islands. Experience the action of all your favorite comic book characters when you visit Marvel Super Hero Island. Climb aboard The Incredible Hulk Coaster for high-speed fun or see 3-D at The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man. Across the park, the young at heart will especially enjoy Seuss Landing.  The beloved children’s book characters come to life with fun rides such as The High in the Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride or a meeting with world’s most mischievous feline at The Cat in the Hat. More amazing entertainment can be found on the park’s remaining islands: Toon Lagoon, Jurassic Park, The Lost Continent and Port of Entry. While visiting, be sure to schedule breakfast at Confisco Grille for a memorable meal accompanied by the park’s animated characters as they pose for pictures, sign autographs and interact with everyone at the table.

GOING ON NOW:
Halloween Horror Nights
Named ‘Best Halloween Event’ by Amusement Today, this annual attraction now in its 21st year, draws hundreds of thousands of people. Guests are in for a terrifying experience with all new haunted houses, scarezones and shows. Tickets and vacation packages are on sale now can be purchased at www.halloweenhorrornights.com/orlando. This event sells out fast so be sure to buy tickets early!

As a renowned family destination, the memories made here are sure to last. With so much to do, the level of adventure is indescribable. Thrilling rides, innovative attractions and memorable characters offer something for all ages. Read more in the October issue of At Home Tennessee magazine.

Halloween Horror Nights