The Polite Pig Disney Springs Serves Up Modern Barbecue and Cocktails on Tap

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April 14, 2017

The Polite Pig Disney Springs opened its doors to the general public on April 10th. This newest restaurant is located in the Town Center Neighborhood of Disney Springs. The Polite Pig is now serving Modern Barbecue dishes and a variety of cocktails on tap. Here is our review of the meal we had there this week.

If you are stopping by The Polite Pig Disney Springs for something to eat you can enter from the side door and hop on line to order. The menu includes Snacks, Salads, Sandwiches, From The Smoker Meals, Market Sides and Desserts. They do not have an allergy-friendly menu. However, our Server told us the Chef will speak with you individually to determine what choices may be available for you based on your specific allergies. For example, the Coffee Rub Brisket and the Maple Glazed Salmon are gluten-free.

The Disney Dining Plan is accepted and will cost you one Quick Service credit. You can choose a Salad, or Sandwich, with one side, and a soft drink beverage. We feel the best choice for your Quick Service Credits are the “From The Smoker” options as each of these is served with your selection of Meat, Slaw, Texas Toast, and one Market Side as well as your soft drink. One word of note here, the Desserts each cost $7.00 and are therefore not included in your meal under the Disney Dining Plan. You will need to purchase these separately as the idea is that dessert, under the use of a Quick Service Dining Credit, typically costs $5.00 or less.

Once you have placed your order you can find a seat. Place your Number on your table and a Server will bring you your food when it is ready. This concept is quite similar to Be Our Guest in the Magic Kingdom where you receive a Red Rose that is essentially a GPS for the Servers to locate you within the restaurant. The high ceilings and the exposed ductwork are interesting but are also a magnet for sound! It gets very loud in there.

The Sauce Bar has a variety of jarred sauces as well as the traditional pump sauces. The pump sauces were covered with clear plastic cups and we decided not try any of those.

There is a soft drink station against one wall with Sweet Tea, Unsweet Tea, and Fountain Beverages.

We started with the Hop Salt Pretzel Snack option. This was our least favorite part of the meal. The pretzel was room temperature and quite dry. The Hop Salt gives the pretzel a strong flavor. The Beer Cheese was barely warm and did not add much to the pretzel. The IPA Mustard, on the other hand, was quite good. This condiment added great flavor to the pretzel.

The Sandwich option we chose was The Southern Pig. This particular item was our favorite item of the evening. The pulled pork is tangy and quite flavorful. The apple slaw placed on top adds a nice flavor and texture combination to the pork. The Toasted Bun is very good with a nice, almost slightly sweet, flavor.

Dessert was the Orange Blossom Honey Cake. This sweet treat was good with a sweet citrus flavor. The cake is moist and the frosting is not overdone. Our favorite part of the cake is the drizzle of Orange Blossom Honey on top.

If you are just looking to enjoy a beer, a cocktail, or a pitcher of beer or cocktails you can step up to the Polite Pig’s Indoor/Outdoor Patio Bar. What we love about this bar is that it begins outside, and extends into the restaurant via open sliding glass doors. This location makes for a nice spot to gather with friends to socialize while enjoying an adult alcoholic beverage.

The Polite Pig serves up Beer, Cocktails and Wine. While this may not sound like something new, the interesting point here is that they are all served on tap. This new concept is sure to be a favorite amongst many visitors. Since we were driving, we did not indulge this time around. I will visit with friends soon and certainly try a cocktail or two from The Polite Pig’s Indoor/Outdoor Patio Bar.

In addition to the Indoor Seating, and Indoor/Outdoor Patio Bar, there is outdoor patio seating at tables with umbrellas. As you can see, the outdoor tables are already quite popular.

The Polite Pig Team Members are perfectly polite and more than willing to assist with any questions. Felix was our Server and he was really a fun guy. Trisha answered some additional questions we had on our way out.

Overall, the Polite Pig Disney Springs is a nice place to enjoy a meal and some adult beverages. We recommend the Sandwiches and are planning to go back to try some of the From The Smoker options as well as a cocktail or two on tap. We do agree that the prices are a bit steep for what you get. Most Quick Service restaurants offer the sandwich along with a side. The Polite Pig offers the Sandwich and that is it; unless you want to spend an additional $6.00 for one side. With the sandwiches costing between $11.00 and $15.00 the price jumps up pretty quickly. There is the option of purchasing three sides for $15.00 which may be a good idea. However, you will not be able to enjoy any of the smoked meats in that scenario. The Polite Pig Disney Springs is now open and ready to serve up Modern Barbecue and Cocktails on Tap.

Will you be stopping by to enjoy a meal, or a beverage, at the Polite Pig Disney Springs? Please leave your comments in the box below.

DisneyNature heads under the Sea with all new trailer for “Dolphins”

By

Chip

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April 14, 2017

With just a week until Earth Day and the theatrical debut of the fun and breathtaking new movie “Born in China,” Disneynature reveals a sneak peek at its next movie, “Dolphins,” which comes out in time for Earth Day 2018.

From a year in the lives of a family of Alaskan brown bears to the plight of a baby chimpanzee who finds himself all alone, Disneynature blends state-of-the-art nature filmmaking with Walt Disney’s signature storytelling. In 2018, Disneynature dives under the sea to frolic with some of the planet’s most engaging animals: dolphins. Echo is a youngster who can’t quite decide if it’s time to grow up and take on new responsibilities—or give in to her silly side and just have fun. Dolphin society is tricky, and the coral reef that Echo and his family call home depends on all of its inhabitants to keep it healthy. But Echo has a tough time resisting the many adventures the ocean has to offer. Through the eyes of a carefree dolphin, enjoy Disneynature’s next True Life Adventure–coming Earth Day 2018.

“Dolphins” is directed and produced by the same team who brought “Bears” and “African Cats” to the big screen in 2014 and 2011.

You can see the trailer play in front of Disneynature’s “Born in China” starting April 21 in theatres nationwide.

Star Wars Days returns to Legoland Florida in May

By

Chip

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April 14, 2017

This May, the creativity of the LEGO^® building system meets the thrilling adventures and beloved characters from “a galaxy far, far away” when LEGO^® Star Wars™ Days returns to LEGOLAND^® Florida Resort.

Authorized by Lucasfilm, this year’s event will double the fun on two weekends – from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, May 6 and Sunday, May 7, and from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, May 13 and Sunday, May 14.

In MINILAND USA, kids can explore some of the most famous scenes from the Star Wars™ saga made out of 1.5 million LEGO bricks, including detailed displays inspired by “Star Wars – Episode IV: A New Hope,” “Star Wars – Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back” and “Star Wars – Episode VI: Return of the Jedi,” plus giant LEGO models of Darth Vader, Darth Maul and R2-D2.

Kids also can:

Create a giant LEGO^® Star Wars™ mural, brick by brick
Build their own LEGO^® Star Wars™ model
Search for LEGO droids throughout MINILAND USA to unscramble a secret message
Learn tips and tricks from our LEGO Master Model Builders
Build the world’s largest LEGO Yoda model
Meet LEGO Darth Vader
Dress up as their favorite LEGO^® Star Wars™ character and participate in our intergalactic costume parade (ages 12 and under)

…and much, much more, including giveaways, fun photo ops, opportunities to win LEGO^® Star Wars™ prizes and exclusive retail offers.

New this year: Are you more rookie or Wookiee? Test your family’s Star Wars™ knowledge and LEGO building skills against other families during a just-for-fun competition!

All activities will take place both weekends and are included with all forms of park admission. No extra ticket or Jedi mind tricks required! It’s the only LEGO^® Star Wars™ theme park event in Central Florida.

Join us. It is your destiny!

More than 50 rides, shows and attractions inspired by the LEGO and DUPLO^® brands await at LEGOLAND Florida Resort, including experiences based on “The LEGO Movie™,” LEGO NINJAGO^®, LEGO NEXO KNIGHTS™, LEGO City, LEGO Technic and LEGO Friends.

For more information, including savings on advance purchase of admission tickets, multi-tier annual passes, special events, educational programs, services for guests with disabilities, VIP experiences, military discounts and much more, visitwww.LEGOLAND.com/florida, or call (877) 350-5346.

Star Wars 40th Anniversary Celebration in Pictures and video!

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 14, 2017

40 YEARS OF STAR WARS PANEL during the 2017 STAR WARS CELEBRATION — Harrison Ford, Kathleen Kennedy, George Lucas, Billie Lourd and Mark Hamill (Photo by Gerardo Mora/Getty Images for Disney)

Star Wars 40th Anniversary Celebration in Pictures and video! — Harrison Ford, Kathleen Kennedy, George Lucas, Billie Lourd and Mark Hamill (Photo by Gerardo Mora/Getty Images for Disney)

What a great day to be a Star Wars fan! Star Wars Celebration Orlando kicked off with an epic tribute for the Saga’s 40th Anniversary featuring surprise guests including George Lucas, Kathleen Kennedy, Warwick Davis, Hayden Christensen, Ian McDiarmid, Dave Filoni, Anthony Daniels, Peter Mayhew, Billy Dee Williams and Mark Hamill and Harrison Ford.

The panel’s finale was an emotional tribute to Carrie Fisher with remarks from her daughter Billie Lourd and a surprise appearance by legendary composer John Williams, who conducted the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra while they played “Leia’s Theme.”

Did you go to the Star Wars Celebration? What was your experience?

GERARDO MORA/GETTY IMAGES FOR DISNEY

Here is the live video from yeserday:

Adorable Disney Bow Ties and Neck Ties for Your Little One

By

Danielle

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April 14, 2017

While out with friends at the mall last week we happened upon a cute kiosk of hair bows featuring lots of Disney characters. My son was so excited, and was so wanting one as a bow tie, especially a Mickey one, but alas they just didn’t work for that. So I of course went on the hunt, and I found these adorable Disney Bow Ties and Neck Ties by ATARAHSCREATIONS on Etsy!

Each of these fabulous ties are handmade by the designer, and you can choose from a bow tie, neck tie, or even both! The ties come already tied, with a velcro fastener so they are easy to put on. They are made to fit from newborns all the way to tween sizes, so none of the littles are left out. Dad might be a bit jealous though. I love that there’s quite a few Disney choices, including Maui from Moana, I’m sure he would say “You’re Welcome” if he saw it. I love finding a cute and dapper way to dress up with Disney touches!

Mickey Classic
Mickey Icon
Mickey Plaid
Olaf
Lightning McQueen
Dory
Maui
Captain America
Star Wars
This one isn’t Disney, but a lot of the preschoolers are also loving Paw Patrol these days too!

What do you think of these dapper little Disney Bow Ties and Neck Ties?

KIDZ BOP Kids to Rock Legoland Florida Resort April 28-30

By

Lisette R

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April 13, 2017

KIDZ BOP fans, get ready for the best news ever! The No. 1 music brand for kids will deliver three days of high-energy fun during KIDZ BOP Weekend April 28-30 at LEGOLAND^® Florida Resort, an inaugural event exclusive to the multi-day vacation destination #BuiltForKids.

The KIDZ BOP Kids will kick off their 2017 Best Time Ever tour with two live concerts daily at the newly renamed KIDZ BOP Stadium, an outdoor venue within the LEGOLAND theme park on the shore of Lake Eloise. The family friendly shows will include songs from their latest album, “KIDZ BOP 34,” and other favorite pop hits that will get kids and parents dancing along. Meet-and-greet opportunities* with The KIDZ BOP Kids – Ahnya, Cooper, Freddy, Isaiah, Julianna and Sierra – will follow each concert.

All activities during KIDZ BOP Weekend, including the concerts and meet-and-greets*, are included with all forms of park admission. No extra ticket required!

KIDZ BOP Weekend LEGOLAND Florida Resort
Friday, April 28	Saturday, April 29	Sunday, April 30
The KIDZ BOP Kids Live in Concert, 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., The KIDZ BOP Stadium, Pirates’ Cove	The KIDZ BOP Kids Live in Concert, noon and 4 p.m., The KIDZ BOP Stadium, Pirates’ Cove	The KIDZ BOP Kids Live in Concert, noon and 4 p.m., The KIDZ BOP Stadium, Pirates’ Cove
The KIDZ BOP Kids Meet-and-Greet*, 12:30 and 4:30 p.m., next to Lakeside Sandwich Co.	The KIDZ BOP Kids Meet-and-Greet*, 1 and 5 p.m., next to Lakeside Sandwich Co.	The KIDZ BOP Kids Meet-and-Greet*, 1 and 5 p.m., next to Lakeside Sandwich Co.
Concerts and meet-and-greets included with all forms of park admission*

* Space is limited. First come, first served

According to Victor Zaraya, president of KIDZ BOP, fans can look forward to an entirely new KIDZ BOP experience at the 2017 show. The ultimate family friendly live concert will feature brand-new songs and choreography, plus several fun surprises. The tour is headlined by the newest group of KIDZ BOP Kids, who were introduced in January with the release of “KIDZ BOP 34.” The KIDZ BOP Kids have been named Billboard Magazine’s “No. 1 Kids’ Artist” for the past seven consecutive years.

“[This] is our biggest show yet,” Zaraya said. “KIDZ BOP’s Best Time Ever tour provides returning fans with many fun surprises and new fans with their very first concert experience.”

In December 2016, KIDZ BOP and LEGOLAND Florida Resort announced a multi-year alliance making KIDZ BOP the official music partner for the popular Central Florida vacation destination. In their music video for “The Weekend Whip,” the theme song for the “LEGO^® NINJAGO^®: Masters of Spinjitzu” TV show, The KIDZ BOP Kids demonstrate five “signature” ninja hand moves guests can use to defeat villains and capture a high score on LEGO NINJAGO The Ride, a groundbreaking new attraction that anchors the theme park’s recently opened LEGO NINJAGO World expansion.

More than 50 rides, shows and attractions inspired by the LEGO and DUPLO^® brands await at LEGOLAND Florida Resort, including experiences based on “The LEGO Movie™,” LEGO NEXO KNIGHTS™, LEGO City, LEGO Technic and LEGO Friends. Upcoming events included with park admission include LEGO^® Star Wars™ Days (May 6-7 and 13-14) and LEGOLAND Knight Lights (every Saturday and Sunday in July, plus Tuesday, July 4).

For more information about visiting LEGOLAND Florida Resort, including savings on advance purchase of admission tickets, on-site accommodations, multi-tier annual passes, special events, educational programs, services for guests with disabilities, VIP experiences, military discounts and much more, visitwww.LEGOLAND.com/florida, or call (877) 350-5346.

Will you be checking out KIDS BOP Weekend at Legoland Florida Resort? Please leave your comments in the box below.

LucasFilm Releases Touching Video Tribute to Carrie Fisher

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 13, 2017

This heartwarming tribute to Carrie Fisher was just released today by Lucasfilm. Her daughter, Billie Lourd introduced the footage which was shown during the opening event of “Star Wars Celebration” in Orlando.

This tribute will put a smile on the faces of all Star Wars fans as we remember our beloved Princess Leia. What did you think of this touching tribute?

Credit:LucasFilm

Thinking about a Magical Disney Vacation? As a contributor to Chip and Co. and an agent with MickeyTravels, LLC, I’d love to help you save time and money planning your next Disney vacation. My services are always FREE! Send me a message or email me at [email protected] and let’s start planning today. Follow me on Facebook for the latest Disney tips and tricks.

Join the Star Wars Celebration with ThinkGeek Geeki Tikis and More!

By

Danielle

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April 13, 2017

The Star Wars Celebration in Orlando has officially begun, and what better way to celebrate than with ThinkGeek‘s out of this Galaxy Star Wars exclusives! As part of the celebration, they have launched series 2, of their amazing Star Wars themed Geeki Tikis, a personal favorite of mine.

Along with the Star Wars Geeki Tikis – Series 2, Series 1 has also available again, for any of us who may have missed out before. On top of other great collectibles we’ll check out below, ThinkGeek is also offering a free collectible pin, with any Star Wars Purchase of $50 or more! Just use the code: POODOO at checkout.

Star Wars Geeki Tikis – Series 1 by ThinkGeek

The Mos Eisley Kon-Tiki Bar is the only wretched hive of scum and villainy where you can count on every drink to come with a little umbrella. You’re welcome to come in any time of day, but you’d better leave your blaster and lightsaber by the door. Serenaded by the soothing notes of Figrin D’an and his Modal Nodes’ ukuleles, you can drape a flower lei around your neck and enjoy your Mai Tai in complete relaxation.

Star Wars Geeki Tikis – Series 2 by ThinkGeek

Speaking of which, let’s check out the new Series 2 Star Wars Geeki Tikis. This time around, you can choose to drink with C-3PO, a Jawa, a Tauntaun, a Tusken Raider, a Wampa, or Wicket. Little guy can hold his alcohol. Each holds about 14 oz. and has a contrasting interior, which will make you happy when you get to the bottom of the drink and have to ask, “But why is the rum gone?” Or at least, it’ll entertain you a little. We think the lack of rum has something to do with moisture farming, but you didn’t hear it from us.

Star Wars Geeki Tikis – Jabba the Hutt & Salacious Crumb by ThinkGeek

These two characters are special. You already knew that. But they’re extra special as Geeki Tikis because Jabba and Salacious Crumb are only available on the site and at the ThinkGeek booth during Star Wars Celebration, April 13-16, and are limited to a single run. Sip your tropical drink while playing sabacc in the Khetanna’s fully-equipped casino or relaxing in the comfort of its sports book and taking in the pod racing. Just be sure to drink responsibly.

Now that we’ve checked out the incredible Geeki Tiki collection, let’s check out the other three exclusive ThinkGeek items available for the Star Wars Celebration.

The Rey Kensington Leather SW Watch – Nixon x ThinkGeek Exclusive

This epic timepiece is the Nixon Kensington Leather Watch, Rey edition. From their Kensington line explicitly for the ladies.

Nixon designed this watch with a canvas & leather watchband inspired by Rey’s desert outfit, a seconds hand modeled after Luke Skywalker’s lightsaber, the Rebel Alliance symbol on 12 o’clock marker, and a back engraved with a silhouette of Rey’s head and her words, “Follow me.” You bet, Rey. Where do we sign up?

Star Wars – The Ultimate Vinyl Collection

The ultimate collection spanning the original six episodes of Star Wars brings some of your favorite movie compositions to you pressed on to vinyl. The LPs are presented in a black, soft-touch laminated slipcase with an embossed, hot silver foil Star Wars logo. The soundtracks come in deluxe gatefold sleeves replicating the original artwork. Bonus points, this includes a digital download card for one complete box set.

Last but not least are two little cuties that I might love almost as much as the Geeki Tikis! The Star Wars R2-D2 Mini Backpack Keychain and Star Wars BB-8 Mini Backpack Keychain feature our favorite side kick droids that can tag along with us, to which ever reaches of the galaxy we may go!

Star Wars R2-D2 Mini Backpack Keychain

Keep R2-D2 with you wherever you go with this mini backpack keychain. This mini version may not be able to hold a full-sized lightsaber, but he’ll still look cute as all get out dangling from your bag.

Star Wars BB-8 Mini Backpack Keychain

Transport your BB-8 in mini backpack form with this fancy keychain. Always keep BB-8 by your side very much like how Rey did in Star Wars: The Force Awakens. Just, instead of rolling around, you’ll be toting him around on your bag. It’s as cute as it sounds.

These Star Wars Celebration exclusives from ThinkGeek are truly amazing! If you’re fortunate enough to be visiting the Celebration, be sure to check out the ThinkGeek booth near the 501st Legion at booth # 2532! If you aren’t able to go, don’t worry ThinkGeek won’t be leaving fans out of all the fun! Keep an eye on Twitter, Facebook, or Google+ while the con is going on, and may find the the action brought straight to your door.

May the Force be with you!

Easter Fun This Sunday at the United Kingdom Pavillion in Epcot

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 13, 2017

Easter fun for kids of all ages will be taking place in Epcot Easter Sunday April 16 2017 at the United Kingdom Pavilion in World Showcase. The festivities will even include a visit with Mr. and Mrs. Easter Bunny!

There will be an Easter Egg hunt for guests ages 3 to 9 every 10 minutes from 11:00am-3:30pm. For kids ages 8-12 there will be an Easter Egg Relay every 40 minutes starting at 11:40 with the last relay starting at 3:40. For Disney’s youngest guests there will be a smaller Easter Egg Hunt especially for ages 3 and under. Mr. and Mrs. Easter Bunny will be there from 11:30-4:00 for meet and greet photos. Plan on arriving up to 30 minutes early for the scheduled events.

This event will be fun for the whole family. Do you plans to hop over to Epcot on Easter Sunday?

Thinking about a Magical Disney Vacation? As a contributor to Chip and Co. and an agent with MickeyTravels, LLC, I’d love to help you save time and money planning your next Disney vacation. My services are always FREE! Send me a message or email me at [email protected] and let’s start planning today. Follow me on Facebook for the latest Disney tips and tricks.

Live-Action “Beauty And The Beast” Surpasses The $1 Billion Mark!

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 13, 2017

“Beauty and the Beast” viewers around the world pushed Disney’s live-action adaptation past the $1 billion mark at the global box office! This makes it 2017’s highest-grossing film worldwide to date, and the highest grossing live-action movie musical of all time.

Disney just wanted to say ‘Thank you’…

Club 33 is Coming to Walt Disney World

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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April 13, 2017

It’s official Walt Disney World will be getting their very own Club 33 this fall. The news was confirmed by Senor Vice President of Sales and Services, Claire Bilby.

The elite Club 33 is a unique membership club founded by Walt at the Disneyland Resort in California. When Club 33 comes to Walt Disney World members will enjoy legendary guest service at four themed locations around Walt Disney World Resort that are uniquely themed to Walt and Lillian’s travels around the globe.

Club 33 is currently located at Disneyland Resort, Shanghai Disneyland and Tokyo Disneyland. Pricing at Disneyland is a $25,000 initial membership fee, with annual dues of $10,000. The membership is limited to the location you join, one membership does not include access to other clubs. Guests interested in joining can email Disney for more details at [email protected].

This is definitely exciting news for Disney enthusiasts. We will be sharing additional details as soon as they become available.

Are you a member of Club33 or have you been invited as a guest? We would love to hear all about it!

Thinking about a Magical Disney Vacation? As a contributor to Chip and Co. and an agent with MickeyTravels, LLC, I’d love to help you save time and money planning your next Disney vacation. My services are always FREE! Send me a message or email me at [email protected] and let’s start planning today. Follow me on Facebook for the latest Disney tips and tricks.

SeaWorld Orlando is Ready to Rush the Rapids with all new ride Infinity Falls in 2018

By

Chip

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April 13, 2017

SeaWorld Orlando announces its latest world-class attraction, Infinity Falls, to debut summer 2018. Thrilling rapids will roar through the brand new rainforest river experience, while adventure-seeking guests plunge down the world’s tallest river rapid drop.

“We are constantly looking at new ways to amaze our guests – Infinity Falls will do that, and more,” said Jim Dean, President of SeaWorld Orlando Parks. “From the excitement of the thrilling rapids, to the unique vertical lift element, it will be an adventure that appeals to the entire family. Infinity Falls continues our commitment to investing in our park, and developing new ways to entertain and inspire our guests with meaningful, fun-filled vacations.”

To bring Infinity Falls to life, designers were inspired by the rainforests of South America and the flowing rivers found within. Each raft will twist and turn through a lush jungle environment as guests experience the feel of exhilarating Class IV rapids. A unique vertical elevator will lift each raft for a dramatic launch into the river, 40 feet below.

“Water makes up more than 70% of our planet,” said Brian Morrow, Vice President of Theme Park Design Experience. “We developed Infinity Falls to tell new stories that showcase the beauty and sheer power of water and the amazing wildlife that lives in it. The result is a new river rapids adventure for our guests to explore, and actively help freshwater ecosystems in a way that only SeaWorld can bring to life.”

The addition of Infinity Falls is the perfect addition to SeaWorld’s ever-growing ride portfolio. From the roller coaster thrills of Mako, Manta and Kraken to the water flume fun of Journey to Atlantis, Infinity Falls will soon join the park’s famed attractions as a must-do experience in Orlando.

Infinity Falls will be the centerpiece of a newly themed surrounding area, fully immersing guests in a rainforest canopy. After riding the rapids on Infinity Falls, the entire family can explore the village and take part in interactive experiences that combine play with education to create a positive impact on freshwater ecosystems. SeaWorld’s Animal Ambassadors will also provide up-close encounters with animals native to South America.

Infinity Falls will open at SeaWorld Orlando in summer 2018.