Party Through The Parks - Coasters & Coasters BlogCoasters & Coasters Bloghttp://www.partythroughtheparks.com/coasters-coasters-blog/2013-05-19T13:41:02ZSquarespaceSea Dog Brewing Co.http://www.partythroughtheparks.com/coasters-coasters-blog/2013/4/30/sea-dog-brewing-co.htmlPartyThroughTheParks2013-04-30T16:47:46Z2013-04-30T16:47:46ZA new pub has opened up near Downtown Disney. Here you'll find lots of Sea Dog's own beer, a full bar and a full lunch and dinner menu, along with 2 different Happy Hour times.

Location
8496 Palm Pkwy.
Phone:(321) 329-5306
This is in the same plaza as Kobe and Hooters, on Palm Pkwy, just off Hwy. 535 (Vineland). If you are coming from West I4, take the 535 exit and turn right at the first light (Palm Pkwy.) then the shopping plaza will be on your right. (Do not drive into the Crossroads Plaza, you cannot get here through there.)

Hours
11:30am - 2am

Happy Hours
Monday - Friday • 4pm-7pm
Late Night Everyday • 10pm-12am
2 for 1 Specials on select Beer, Wine & Well Drinks.
$.50 Oysters & Peel n' Eat Shrimp • Half-off Appetizers
 
 

Beer Menu
All Pints $4.50
Shipyard Blue Fin Stout
Sea Dog Hazelnut Porter
Old Gollywobler Brown Ale
Sea Dog Old East India Pale Ale
Sea Dog Pale Ale
Windjammer Blonde Ale
Sea Dog Bluepaw Wild Blueberry Ale
Shipyard Monkey Fist
Shipyard Summer Ale
Shipyard Light Ale

Seasonal Brews Also on Tap - ask for the day's selection
Ciders & Non-Alcoholic beer - ask for the day's selection

Pub Blends
Ask you bartender which beers they recommend to make a pub blend. 

Beer Sampler
Can't decide? They offer a 4 beer sampler for $5.50

Mug Club
Have your very own mug waiting for you each time you visit with multiple perks throughout the year. $50 membership fee. Click here to read more details. 
 

Review 4/28/13
We stopped by to enjoy a few brews over the weekend and really liked the new place. It's a very large space, concerte floors, with an urban style with a hint of steampunk in their bottle light fixtures. There's a huge square bar, tons of booth or high top seating and lots of light from the windows with a full view of I4 just outside. Plenty of tvs as well. They also have a patio out in the back.

We'll be back soon to do a full report of beer and food, but we wanted to get this info out now for you. We're most interested in the late night happy hour. C'mon $.50 oysters and cheap beer? Yeah, we'll be back.
 
 

Check out SeaDogBrewing.com for more information.

]]>Halloween Horror Nights 2013 Dates Announcedhttp://www.partythroughtheparks.com/coasters-coasters-blog/2013/4/23/halloween-horror-nights-2013-dates-announced.htmlPartyThroughTheParks2013-04-23T17:46:22Z2013-04-23T17:46:22ZApril 23, 2013
Today Universal Orlando Resort announced this year's Halloween Horror Nights dates. We'll have our official page up and running closer to the event, but in the meantime you can start booking your trip now.

September
20, 21, 26, 27, 28, 29

October
3, 4, 5, 6, 10, 11, 12, 13, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 31

November
1, 2 

]]>Meet Days of our Lives Stars at Universal Orlandohttp://www.partythroughtheparks.com/coasters-coasters-blog/2013/1/26/meet-days-of-our-lives-stars-at-universal-orlando.htmlPartyThroughTheParks2013-01-26T16:56:23Z2013-01-26T16:56:23ZSaturday, February 23, 2013

Stars of NBC's daytime drama Days of our Lives will be at Universal Orlando on Saturday, Feb 23 for autograph signing and a Q&A session with fans.

Meet John Aniston, Camila Banus, Shawn Christian, Casey Deidrick, Galen Gering, Kate Mansi, Eric Martsolf, Peggy McCay, James Scott and Arianne Zucker.

There will be autograph-signing sessions from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and noon to 2 p.m. at Universal CityWalk.

At 3:45 p.m., there will be an hourlong Q&A session with the cast inside Universal Studios theme park at the Animal Actors Theater. The actors will also appear in that night’s Mardi Gras parade in the park.
(Admission to the theme park required for these events. Actors & times subject to change.)

Source: OrlandoSentinel.com 

]]>Annual Passholder Monthly Discounts at Universal Orlando Resorthttp://www.partythroughtheparks.com/coasters-coasters-blog/2013/1/8/annual-passholder-monthly-discounts-at-universal-orlando-res.htmlPartyThroughTheParks2013-01-09T00:37:02Z2013-01-09T00:37:02ZSummer Premier & Preferred Passholder Offers
Premier & Preferred Passholders receive the following offers during the summer. Bookmark this page as we'll be updating it each month!


Universal CityWalk

  • Buy 1 adult entree, get 1 50% off at the following locations:
    • Pastamore Ristorante & Market
    • Bob Marley – A Tribute to Freedom
    • Pat O'Brien's
      (Valid 5/1-5/31/13)
       
  • Save 25% at Dippin' Dots (Cart only. Valid 5/1-6/30/13)
     
  • Free admission* for you & one guest to Universal CityWalk. Must show valid Premier or Preferred Annual Pass at each venue. Excludes special events. (Valid 5/1-6/30/13)

     *Must be 21 or older for admission and to consume alcoholic beverages; valid photo ID required. Does not include admission to AMC Universal Cineplex 20 with IMAX or the Blue Man Group show. Restrictions may apply. All Hot Deal offers exclude alcohol (unless otherwise noted) and special events and are subject to change without notice. Must present your valid Premier or Preferred Annual Pass to receive discounts. Not valid with other discounts or promotions. Offers subject to change without notice. 
]]>A Year in the Life: Backstage to Onstage at Universal Orlando Resorthttp://www.partythroughtheparks.com/coasters-coasters-blog/2013/1/4/a-year-in-the-life-backstage-to-onstage-at-universal-orlando.htmlPartyThroughTheParks2013-01-04T18:22:54Z2013-01-04T18:22:54Z©Universal/HistoryCenterJanuary 26, 2013 - January 5, 2014
at the Orange County Regional History Center

"In an unprecedented collaboration, Universal Orlando Resort and the Orange County Regional History Center in Orlando, Fla., present A Year in the Life: Backstage to Onstage at Universal Orlando Resort, an exhibition that gives visitors an exclusive look at the extensive process that goes into bringing the theme park's iconic annual events to life.

Opening January 26, 2013, and running through January 5, 2014, the exhibition will change with each Universal Orlando event season: Mardi Gras, Halloween Horror Nights, and the holidays - focusing on The Macy's Holiday Parade and performances by Holiday Music Sensation Mannheim Steamroller.

It also showcases the creative process that brought to life two of Universal Orlando's newest entertainment experiences - the Universal Cinematic Spectacular - 100 Years of Movie Memories lagoon show and the Universal Superstar Parade.

Universal Orlando is the only Orlando destination where guests are not just entertained - they become part of the entertainment, soaring above Hogwarts with Harry Potter, swinging above the streets with Spider-Man, transformed into a banana-loving minion in the hilarious and heartwarming Despicable Me Minion Mayhem ride, and helping Shrek save Princess Fiona in Shrek 4-D.

And this unique collaboration between the museum and Universal Orlando is the first time the public will be able to learn about each step in the story development process that brings the theme parks entertainment experiences and annual events to life."


For more information, visit thehistorycenter.org or call 407-836-8500

PTTP's Comments: This looks like an amazing opportunity to take a peak behind the scenes and learn about how Universal pulls off these events every year. We plan to make it out for a few of them, but if you go, let us know what you thought in the comments. 

]]>Transformers: The Ride 3D at Universal Studios Orlandohttp://www.partythroughtheparks.com/coasters-coasters-blog/2012/11/5/transformers-the-ride-3d-at-universal-studios-orlando.htmlPartyThroughTheParks2012-11-06T02:15:17Z2012-11-06T02:15:17ZGet Ready - It's Time to Prepare for Battle
Grand Opening June 20, 2013!

May 2, 2013
The downtown display was updated early this morning with "Prepare for Battle June 20" added at the top of the sign. Given how ready the ride looks at Universal we're a little surprised the opening date isn't sooner. However, it could start soft open testing at any time, so be sure to follow us on twitter for the latest updates.

May 1, 2013
Transformers have taken over downtown Orlando! They have attached a giant cling of Megatron on the side the Fairbanks building that faces I4 in downtown. There are also 2 cars that are smashed up at the base, along with some rubble and a few N.E.S.T. officers "examining" the scene.

It's quite impressive in person, the photos don't capture its massiveness. 

One of us here at PTTP works downtown, so we'll keep an eye on what's going on.






Opening Summer 2013 - Transformers: The Ride 3D
November 1, 2012
Tonight during the Cinematic Spectacular lagoon show, Universal Studios announced their newest addition to the park - Transformers: The Ride 3D. This immersive 3D ride will be opening Summer 2013.

Watch our lagoon view video of the announcement before Cinematic Spectacular:


View a close-up of Universal's video of the Transformers announcement:


Official Press Release from Universal:

Universal Orlando Resort announced that its next blockbuster attraction will be the widely-popular TRANSFORMERS: The Ride – 3D. The groundbreaking ride – created under license from Hasbro, Inc. and based on its iconic TRANSFORMERS brand – will bring the intergalactic battle between the Autobots and the Decepticons to Universal Studios Florida in summer 2013.


Already a "must-see" at Universal Studios Singapore and Universal Studios Hollywood, TRANSFORMERS: The Ride – 3D is a mind-blowing, action-packed ride experience that you have to see to believe. You will come face to face with Megatron. You will dodge explosions and attacks by the Decepticons. You will fight to save mankind alongside Optimus Prime and the Autobots. It will be the greatest battle you'll ever ride.


Universal worked closely with Michael Bay, the award-wining director of the "TRANSFORMERS" film series and the ride's creative consultant, to create an authentic experience that brings the non-stop action of the films to life. The attraction combines the larger-than-life TRANSFORMERS characters and an exciting storyline with life-like HD CGI media, state-of-the-art 3-D technology and amazing special effects to place riders right in the middle of an epic battle between good and evil.


"We broke the mold and have taken this ride to a new technological level in terms of blending seamless 3-D," said Michael Bay, director of the "TRANSFORMERS" films.


"TRANSFORMERS: The Ride – 3D is the perfect addition to Universal Orlando's thrilling theme park experiences," said Mark Woodbury, president of Universal Creative. "The ride has already proven to be a hit at our Hollywood and Singapore parks, and we're excited that Universal Orlando guests will soon be able to join the Autobots in the fight to save the world."


TRANSFORMERS films, television shows and merchandise have captivated millions of people all over the world. To date, three blockbuster films have been released – "TRANSFORMERS" (2007), "TRANSFORMERS: REVENGE OF THE FALLEN" (2009) and "TRANSFORMERS: DARK OF THE MOON" (2011) – grossing more than $2 billion combined worldwide at the box office. The three films were directed by Michael Bay, executive produced by Steven Spielberg and released by Paramount Pictures.


TRANSFORMERS: The Ride – 3D is slated to open in summer 2013 at Universal Orlando. The attraction will have one of the shortest build times in Universal history – making it one of Universal's most ambitious projects ever. For more information about TRANSFORMERS: The Ride – 3D, visit www.prepareforbattle.com.


Universal's construction crew has been ferociously building this ride since June. We've never seen such fast movement in construction of an attraction. We'll be protecting the AllSpark from the Decepticons before we know it! We estimate that it may be ready as early as May for soft openings (not official, of course!).

What's the ride like? If you've ridden Spiderman over at Islands of Adventure, it's very similar in ride vehicle, and layout. Visit PrepareForBattle.com where you can watch videos about the making of the ride, behind the scenes information and more!

Bumblebee
For the weekend after the announcement, Universal brought out a large-scale model of Bumblebee out in front of the Universal arches. It's a shame it's only for the weekend, as it would be a great promotional item for the attraction.
 

]]>Beer & Wine Available at Magic Kingdom!http://www.partythroughtheparks.com/coasters-coasters-blog/2012/9/13/beer-wine-available-at-magic-kingdom.htmlPartyThroughTheParks2012-09-13T21:11:00Z2012-09-13T21:11:00Z9/13/12
Prohibition at the Magic Kingdom is over! It was announced today during a special preview of the new Be Our Guest Restaurant in the new Fantasyland expansion, that Beer & Wine will be available only during dinner. It will not be available for carry-out, so no wandering around the park with a brewski (at least not yet).

Beer & Wine Offerings
The Beverage Menu has already been posted to the Be Our Guest Dining page.

Beer
Kronenbourg, Hoegaarden Wit, Saison Dupont, Chimay Blue

Wine
An extensive list of French & Californian wines are available, along with one of John Lasseter's own vintages. Click on the photo below for the full menu.
Menu ©Disney

From the Disney Parks Blog:

“As part of the overall theming, we wanted to offer wine that enhances the guest experience and complements the French-inspired cuisine,” says Stuart McGuire, Beverage Director, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. “The wines focus primarily on France’s famous wine-growing regions, including Champagne, Alsace, Loire, Rhone, Burgundy and Bordeaux.

“We’ll also offer the leading French beer, Kronenbourg 1664,” says McGuire. “And, staying in the general region, we’ll also offer Belgian beers.”


PTTP's Thoughts~
We are reading a lot of mixed reviews on this tradition-breaking decision. We see nothing wrong with having a nice glass of wine or beer with your dinner. We assume they will have a serving policy in place, such as maximum of 2 per person. We're sure Disney will be keeping a very close eye on this decision. They won't let it get out of control or be abused. After all, you can't just saunter in and order one to go, so there's no fear of drunk college students waiting in the Pirates queue with you.

Let's face it - this decision was all about the Benjamins. Yes, just think of the extra profit from selling over-priced wine & beer. Will we see beer & wine seep out into other restaurants in the park? Time and the success of this restaurant will be the deciding factor. And to those saying "this is a place for children"? Don't worry, the tourists who want to get sloshed will go over to the real bar - Epcot.

Think of this as WDW's own Club 33...and don't forget - Walt enjoyed cocktails and cigars.

What do you think? Voice your thoughts in the comments.

]]>I-Spy Around Orlando...http://www.partythroughtheparks.com/coasters-coasters-blog/2012/8/14/i-spy-around-orlando.htmlPartyThroughTheParks2012-08-14T12:05:05Z2012-08-14T12:05:05ZA corner of the site for all those cool, funny, unique and downright strange things we come across while living in Orlando that we just have to share. Enjoy!

12-15-12
These guys must've done a great job - we didn't see a single zombie at Universal all night. (spotted in the Universal parking garage).


8-14-12
Spotted this semi traveling along I4 this morning. Headed to Universal? Anyone have any idea what it's for?

]]>The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Universal Studios Expansionhttp://www.partythroughtheparks.com/coasters-coasters-blog/2012/7/29/the-wizarding-world-of-harry-potter-universal-studios-expans.htmlPartyThroughTheParks2012-07-29T17:53:31Z2012-07-29T17:53:31ZWhile nothing has been officially announced by Universal as of yet, it's the worst kept secret that the newly torn down Amity (which housed the Jaws ride) will be the next phase of the Wizarding World expansion. The strong rumors include a Hogwarts Express that you will actually be able to ride between the parks, with stops at both Wizarding World stations. A Gringotts bank dark ride/family coaster is also rumored to be in the works of the new Diagon Alley replica along with new shops, restaurant and more. Check out the leaked blueprints of the area over at ThemeParkInsider.com for more information.

Since we frequently visit Universal, we figured we might as well post a few construction photos on occasion. We won't be delving into park permits, rumors or gossip discussions, just the occasional photo or information that we hear - hey, you never know when we'll spy something very cool!

Be sure to bookmark this page and check back for updates.

8-11-12
Here's a couple pics from today's visit to Universal. We spotted some "finishing detail" cement work and a new section that has been filled with sand. As long as we're allowed, we'll try to always take a pano from this angle to see how it changes over time. (Click photo to enlarge & use arrow keys to scroll photo)
 

7-28-12
Here's a pano of lagoon construction. (Click photo to enlarge & use arrow keys to scroll photo)
 

]]>Where to Watch Sporting Events on TV at the Theme Parkshttp://www.partythroughtheparks.com/coasters-coasters-blog/2012/7/26/where-to-watch-sporting-events-on-tv-at-the-theme-parks.htmlPartyThroughTheParks2012-07-26T17:02:13Z2012-07-26T17:02:13ZAre you a big sports fan and are concerned you will miss the action of the games while on vacation? No worries! You can catch all the action at both Disney and Universal Theme Parks and Resorts.

Walt Disney World:
Below is a list of every bar on Disney property that has a TV. 

  • Victoria Falls, Sanaa Lounge, Maji Pool Bar & Uzima Springs Pool Bar at Animal Kingdom Lodge
  • Crew’s Cup Lounge, Yacht Club Resort
  • Martha’s Vineyard, Beach Club Resort
  • The Wave Lounge at the Contemporary Resort
  • Mizner’s Lounge at Grand Floridian Resort
  • ESPN Club at the Board Walk
  • Muddy Rivers Pool Bar & River Roost Lounge at Port Orleans Riverside
  • Scat Cat’s Lounge at Port Orleans French Quarter
  • Gurgling Suitcase at Old Key West Resort
  • On the Rocks Pool Bar & The Turf Club Lounge at Saratoga Springs Resort
  • Crockett’s at Fort Wilderness Resort
  • Territory Lounge at Wilderness Lodge
  • The three pool bars at All-Star Sports Resorts
  • Banana Cabana at Caribbean Beach Resort
  • Rainforest Cafe at Animal Kingdom
  • Rix Lounge at Coronado Springs Resort - Special "Big Game" Football Party Feb. 3, 2013!
  • Big River Grille at the Board Walk
  • Fulton’s Crab House, Wolfgang Puck Cafe, Paradiso 37, House of Blues and Rainforest Cafe at Downtown Disney
  • Tambu Lounge at Disney’s Polynesian Resort 
  • Swan & Dolphin Resorts: Kimonos, BlueZoo, Cabana Bar & Grill & Shula's Lounge 


Universal Orlando Resort

Universal Studios:
• Finnegan's Pub & Grill
• Chez Alcatraz

Islands of Adventure:
• Backwater Bar

CityWalk
• Cigarz
• Pat O'Brien's
• Nascar Cafe
• NBA City

Royal Pacific Resort:
• Jake's American Bar
• Bula Bar & Grill 

Portofino Resort:
• The Thirsty Fish

Hard Rock Hotel:
• Beachclub Pool Bar 

]]>