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Jennifer May 7, 2024 Disney

Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party | 2024

Always a favorite, the beloved Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party is back again for 2024!!! The Halloween fun at Walt Disney World starts in just 3(!) short months, and while it’s not imperative that you buy tickets immediately, it’s a great idea to start planning your trip. Check out our favorite “Not So Scary” tips and tricks so that you’re prepared for all the thrills and chills that the Magic Kingdom has to offer. (updated May 7, 2024)

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MICKEY’S NOT SO SCARY HALLOWEEN PARTY

Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party is a hard ticket event that runs on select nights from August 9 – October 31, 2024, and guests can enter the park as early as 4pm! There’s something for everyone, with 38 available dates and pre-tax ticket prices ranging from $119 to $199 (depending on the date). Tickets are on sale now for guests with resort reservations, and May 15 for everyone! Dates don’t typically start selling out until late June/early July, and historically, Halloween is the first night to sell out.

August: 9, 13, 16, 20, 23, 27, 30

September: 2, 6, 8, 10, 13, 15, 17, 20, 22, 24, 26, 27, 29

October: 1, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 11, 14, 15, 17, 18, 20, 21, 24, 25, 27, 29, 31

2024 NOT SO SCARY MILITARY TICKETS??

Will there be military tickets for Not So Scary this year?? Yes, there will!! And this year, there’s no waiting for details. In a surprising move, WDW is offering military discounts for most nights of the party this year (everything except for Halloween – and Halloween tickets are ONLY sold through Disney). However, they’re nowhere near the discounts available in the past – the biggest advantage is that the tickets are tax-free.

In order to take advantage of these discounts, which are only available to active, reserve, retired, and 100% disabled (with DAVPRM code) military members, the ID holder/spouse must purchase tickets in person at Shades of Green or via email at tickets@shadesofgreenresort.zendesk.com. All tickets purchased at Shades of Green, whether they’re party tickets, Military Salute tickets, Stars and Stripes tickets, or MYW tickets, are tax-free. And now for the pricing; like regular party tickets, pricing is dependent on the party date:

Adult $117/Child (3-9) $107: 8/13, 8/16, 8/20, 8/23, 8/27

Adult $127/Child (3-9) $117: 8/30, 9/2, 9/6, 9/8, 9/10, 9/13, 9/15

Adult $146/Child (3-9) $136: 8/9, 9/17, 9/20, 9/22, 9/24, 9/26, 9/27, 9/29

Adult $166/Child (3-9) $156: 10/1, 10/3

Adult $176/Child (3-9) $166: 10/6, 10/8, 10/10, 10/14, 10/15, 10/17

Adult $186/ Child (3-9) $176: 10/4, 10/11, 10/18, 10/20, 10/21, 10/24

Adult $195/ Child (3-9) $185: 10/25, 10/27, 10/29

MICKEY’S NOT SO SCARY OFFERINGS

The fan-favorite fireworks and the “Boo to You” parade will both be back! This definitely isn’t the scaled-back Disney After Hours BOO BASH of the pandemic, but rather the full Mickey’s Not So Scary of previous years. There will be:

The Boo to You parade features villains, ghouls, and other characters and happens twice per night! Like always, the Headless Horseman will kick off the parade, but new for 2024, the first parade will have an earlier start time, making it easier for families with young kids.

More character sightings around the park than in past years – including new costumes for Mickey and Minnie
Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular with everyone’s three favorite witches!
The Not-So-Spooky Spectacular fireworks hosted by Jack Skellington

Performances by the Cadaver Dans Barbershop Quartet in Frontierland
Treat stops with lots of candy!
Costumes are allowed for all guests
Over 20 attractions, including a Halloween twist at Mad Tea Party, Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor, and Space Mountain. It hasn’t been confirmed whether TRON Lightcycle / Run will be using a virtual queue or just the standby line.
Guests can enter the park as early as 4pm and DO NOT NEED a separate Disney park reservation.

Will you be attending MNSSHP this year? We try to go to MNSSHP every year for one of the early September parties, and we’re hoping to continue that tradition again this year!

Jennifer April 22, 2024 Travel

Waves of Honor Veterans Promotion | SeaWorld & Busch Gardens

Since 2005, SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment (which includes the SeaWorld Parks in Orlando, San Diego, and San Antonio, as well as Busch Gardens Williamsburg and Tampa, and Sesame Place) has offered free admission to active duty US service members and up to three direct dependents. This offer can be used once per calendar year under their Waves of Honor promotion, but Veterans have often been excluded from the promotion, or when available, it has been a 50% discount for the veteran and up to three direct dependents. (updated on April 22, 2024)

But recently, SeaWorld announced an awesome limited-time-only offer for their Waves of Honor promotion, and this one is exclusively for Veterans!! Right now, veterans are eligible to reserve their FREE single-day admission (PLUS three FREE tickets for dependents!), and they can be used through July 7, 2024, at SeaWorld Orlando, SeaWorld San Diego, SeaWorld San Antonio, Busch Gardens Tampa, Busch Gardens Williamsburg, or Sesame Place.

To take advantage of this offer, visit the Waves of Honor website and select a park. When reserving tickets online, you must verify your Veteran status through GovX or ID.me (depending on the park) and show your Military ID or proof of service at the gate when you arrive.

This limited-time Veterans promotion is a great way to beat the summer heat, especially if you’re planning to be in Orlando in the next couple of months! Even though a lot of SeaWorld Orlando is outdoors, you can cool off by sitting in the splash zone during the Shamu or dolphin shows or brave the chilly temps and venture into Antarctica to see the penguins. Plus, you can check out the brand new coaster, Pipeline: The Surf Coaster, that opened last year, or the brand new Penguin Trek coaster set to open this spring.

Waves of Honor Veterans Promo Details

This offer is open to retired and honorably separated US military officers and enlisted personnel. Active duty service members are eligible for four free tickets year-round through the Active Duty Waves of Honor Promo.
Tickets must be reserved online by May 12,2024 and redeemed at the park by July 7, 2024. This offer is not available at the gate.
Currently, there are not any black-out dates listed, but it’s always a good idea to double-check.
If you need more than 4 tickets, you can purchase up to 6 additional guest tickets at 50% off, and those are available year-round.
Looking for more to do in Orlando? Check out these posts:
- Universal Studios Military Freedom Pass
- Disney Military Salute Tickets | 2024

Jennifer December 11, 2023 Travel

Universal Studios Military Freedom Pass | Renewed for 2024!

Universal renewed this popular military offering again for 2024 (details below!)! New in 2021, Universal Studios Orlando rolled out an AMAZING ticket offer for military members and their families. Like Disney, Universal has offered special discounted tickets for military families for over a decade, but this year, with the advent of the “Military Freedom Pass” Universal has really upped the game. (updated 12/11/2023)

Normal Universal Military tickets (which are still available) are good for a set number of days/visits. The Military Freedom Pass is good for (nearly) unlimited entry into the parks for the rest of 2023 AND (almost) every single day of 2024. It’s like a Universal Annual Pass, just without the dining, merchandise, and parking discounts. With a sale this unprecedented, you know I had to buy tickets – so expect to see a lot more Universal content this year!

Military Freedom Pass Pricing

There are two options for the Universal Freedom Pass in 2024 – a 2-park option and a 3-park option.

2-Park Universal Military Freedom Pass
- $210 per adult; $205 per child ages 3-9
- Valid at Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure
- Valid from 11/16/2023 to 12/20/2024 – BLOCKOUT DATES – 12/25/23 – 1/2/24 AND 03/25/24 – 3/31/24
3-Park Universal Military Freedom Pass
- $245 per adult; $240 per child ages 3-9
- Valid at Universal Studios Florida, Universal’s Islands of Adventure, and Universal’s Volcano Bay
- Valid from 11/16/2023 to 12/20/2024 – BLOCKOUT DATES – 12/25/23 – 1/2/24 AND 03/25/24 – 3/31/24

Military Freedom Pass Universal Studios Eligibility

Active or Retired US Military (including National Guard, Reserve, US Coast Guard)
Spouses of Eligible Service Members
DOD Civilians with a valid ID
100% Disabled Veterans

Like all offers, tickets must be used by the same person on all days, and tickets are not transferable. Maximum of (6) tickets per qualifying Military ID. Unlike Disney offers, Universal allows the service member and the spouse to each purchase six tickets as long as they each have a US Military ID.

Tickets are available at Base Ticket Offices or from Shades of Green. They are NOT AVAILABLE at the Universal ticket windows. We picked up our tickets from Shades of Green the day we arrived in Orlando and then activated them at the Universal Studios Ticket Window on our first USO park day. Easy-peasy!! If you’re looking for regular (non-military) Universal tickets, I definitely recommend getting them through Undercover Tourist to save a bit (affiliate link).

Universal Orlando Resort also has 2024 military discounts at their hotels.

40% off stays at Cabana Bay and Aventura
Up to 35% off stays at other Universal Resorts

We like staying at Universal’s Endless Summer Resort (either Surfside or Dockside) because they have 2-bedroom suites that sleep six without using a sofa bed, so there’s plenty of room for the whole fam! So let me know: are you a military family, and will you be getting a Universal Studios Freedom Pass for 2024??

Looking to plan your Universal Studios Orlando trip? Check out these posts:

Jennifer January 27, 2022 Travel

Things to Do in Pensacola With Kids | Florida

Pensacola, located in the Florida Panhandle, is a bustling city with BEAUTIFUL beaches. We’ve visited in the summer and winter, and while most people probably prefer a beach vacation in the summer when the water is warmer, we absolutely love going in the winter while crowds are low. Keep reading to check out some of our favorite things to do in Pensacola with kids.

Beach toys on the white sands of Pensacola Beach

This post may contain affiliate links and we may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you!) if you choose to purchase when you click on the links. Thank you for supporting Love Dwells Here!!

NATIONAL NAVAL AVIATION MUSEUM

The National Naval Aviation Museum on Naval Air Station Pensacola is the world’s largest Naval Aviation museum and one of the most popular museums in the state. While the museum has long been open to the public, NAS Pensacola has been open only to DOD ID cardholders and their guests since December 2019. The museum is currently open for DOD ID cardholders and their guests.

The museum houses an impressive collection of aircraft and free guided tours are offered several times a day from retired military volunteers and I definitely recommend checking those out!

NAS Pensacola is the home of the Blue Angels Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, and if you’re visiting from March-September, you can check out one of their practices. The schedule is posted online here, but as with anything, it’s always subject to change.

FORT PICKENS

Just west of Pensacola Beach on Santa Rosa Island, Fort Pickens is the largest of four forts built in the 1800s to protect Pensacola Bay. Interestingly, it is one of only four forts in the south that was never occupied by Confederate forces during the Civil War and is the only Floridian fort under Union control throughout the entire Civil War.

The kids LOVE wandering around Fort Pickens. We highly recommend picking up the Junior Ranger book from the Fort Pickens Discovery Center and completing it while you explore. Technically the book is for the Gulf Islands National Seashore so you can also pick up a copy at the Fort Barrancas Visitor Center or the Davis Bayou Visitor Center.

With brick tunnels galore, including these mine tunnels, Fort Pickens is a fun place to explore. The tunnel system ultimately led to 3 chambers, each designed to hold as much as a thousand pounds of gunpowder- in the event that the fort was overrun with attackers, the chambers could be detonated.

Open year-round and with self-guided walking tours as well as ranger-led tours, Fort Pickens is a can’t miss stop when you’re visiting the Pensacola area.

GULF BREEZE ZOO

Gulf Breeze, in the middle of Pensacola Bay between Pensacola and Pensacola Beach, has a small-town feel and is home to the Gulf Breeze Zoo. The highlight of any trip to the GB Zoo is definitely the giraffe feeding. The leafy greens are an additional charge, but it’s well worth the $5 to feed all of the giraffes and see their loooooong tongues!

There are 50 acres of wild adventure at the Gulf Breeze Zoo and animals ranging from the goats in the petting area to tigers and gorillas. In fact, there’s something for everyone- click here to read more about our visit to the Gulf Breeze Zoo!

PENSACOLA LIGHTHOUSE

Built in 1859, the Pensacola Lighthouse is still in use by the US Coast Guard. Like the Naval Aviation Museum, the Pensacola Lighthouse and Maritime Museum is located on NAS Pensacola. Currently, only DoD ID cardholders can get through the gate and drive to the lighthouse. However, there are tours available for the general public that include a shuttle to and from the lighthouse, but they do need to be booked ahead of time

If you just want to look at the lighthouse from the parking lot, that’s totally free. But if you want to get an up-close look at the lighthouse, including climbing the 177 steps to the top, then you must purchase a ticket. For less than $10/person, you get access to all the museum exhibits, the grounds, and climbing to the top of the lighthouse. The restored 1869 keeper’s quarters are definitely worth a look!

And check out the view from the top of the Pensacola Lighthouse!

PENSACOLA BEACH WITH KIDS

Perhaps the most popular attraction in Pensacola: the beach. With sugar-white sand and emerald green water, Pensacola Beach is one of the most beautiful in the country.

With an average water temperature of 73° kids and adults alike can enjoy the water year-round.

The (usually) calm waters are great for the little ones- they can splash and play to their hearts’ content without worrying about getting knocked over by waves.

Plus, as the tides change, there are fun tide pools and sandbars to play on!

The kids love digging holes on the beach- maybe even more than making sandcastles! Make sure to fill in any holes with sand before you leave so that people don’t inadvertently trip in them.

One thing to mention, just like at any beach, make sure to check the surf warning flags. On our most recent trip, we were introduced to the purple flag signaling dangerous marine life (like jellyfish). It turns out, there were tons of Portuguese man o’ wars in the water and washing up on the shore. They look more like an inflated plastic bag than a jellyfish, and they can have tentacles up to THIRTY feet long! Definitely worth it to stay out of the water and make sure not to touch the ones washed up on the beach – they can still sting!

WHERE TO EAT IN PENSACOLA

Trying local restaurants is one of our favorite parts of traveling, and Flounders Chowder House is one of our Pensacola Beach faves!

If you love shrimp, the Shrimp Boat Platter is our recommendation since you get to try their fresh-caught shrimp so many ways: shrimp cocktail, shrimp on a stick, beer-battered fried shrimp, popcorn shrimp, “U-Peel-‘Ems,” and coconut shrimp, along with hushpuppies and fries.

Plus, the restaurant has a playground for the littles and offers outdoor seating as well as inside seating with a view of the playground if you want to let the kids play while you eat.

Also a Pensacola Beach institution, Peg Leg Pete’s is another one of our family’s favorites! It’s loved by locals and tourists alike, and has the wait time to prove it! We put our name on the list – a 2-hour wait! – and hung out at our hotel while we waited for a table. Get there early for a shorter wait. You can’t go wrong with any of the grouper entrees and make sure to also get a cup of fish chowder!

PENSACOLA NIGHT SKY

I LOVE beach sunsets, and the ones at Pensacola Beach do not disappoint.

Check out that cute crescent moon in the sky above Pensacola Beach!

Did you know that in the summer, you can see the Milky Way over the gulf?! Pensacola Beach has official stargazing events one weekend a month at the Pensacola Beach Pavillion. In the winter, the Milky Way is not visible, but you can still see tons of stars, more so the further away from the city lights you are. Make sure to bring a tripod if you want to take pictures of the night sky (I forgot mine ????).

Pensacola is a great place to visit with the whole family and I hope we have the chance to get back again soon- I could really use a day (or a few!) relaxing on that sugar-white sand while the kids play in the water, couldn’t you? Have you ever been to Pensacola?? What’s your fave Florida beach??

Jennifer August 17, 2021 Disney

Disney Very Merriest After Hours | Magic Kingdom

Following the announcement of the Disney After Hours BOO BASH for this fall, it came as no surprise that Disney is opting for an After Hours event for the Christmas season as well. The Disney Very Merriest After Hours party is a replacement for the usual Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party that we’ve come to know and love. This 4-hour event runs from 9pm-1am on select November/December evenings and also allows for admission into Magic Kingdom as early as 7pm. Updated 9/13/21 with Very Merriest Military Discount info.

VERY MERRIEST Offerings

Unlike the BOO BASH After Hours event running this fall with no parade and fireworks, VERY MERRIEST After Hours WILL have Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade and Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks show. It appears that while BOO BASH is much more like the Villains After Hours that was offered in 2019, VERY MERRIEST will be closer to the regular Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party – just with fewer hours and no character meet and greets.

Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade
- No details yet as to if this will be running 2x per night like at MVMCP or just once
Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks
- You’ll also be able to enjoy the brand-new fireworks spectacular, Disney Enchantment (part of WDW’s 50th Anniversary celebration), if you’re in Magic Kingdom before the park closes to day guests.
Holiday attraction overlays – yep, Jingle Cruise will be back this year!!!
Character sightings around the park (not traditional meet and greets)
Reindeer Wranglers performances in Frontierland
Club Tinsel Dance Party
Unlimited (select) snacks like ice cream novelties, popcorn, seasonal treats, and select beverages – just like at the other After Hours events
Holiday magic shots from DisneyPhotoPass
LOW WAIT TIMES at over 20 attractions

2021 Disney Very Merriest After Hours Dates/Prices

Very Merriest After Hours will take place on select nights from November 8 – December 21, from 9pm – 1am. Like the other “After Hours” events, this one will take place after the park closes to day guests and does not require the park to close early – a common complaint of MVMCP during the busy holiday season. Tickets go on sale on 8/17/21 for resort guests (including the Swan/Dolphin and Shades of Green) and on 8/20/21 for the general public.

Very Merriest dates and prices are finally out, so without further ado, here are all the details. Prices for November dates range from $169-$209 + tax, and December dates are $209-$249 + tax. Annual Passholders and DVC Members can save $10 per ticket for early November dates. Tickets go on sale online, or call 407-939-4240 on August 20, though guests of select WDW hotels can book on August 17.

November: 8, 9, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 19, 21, 23, 28, 30

December: 2, 3, 5, 7, 9, 10, 12, 14, 16, 17, 19, 21

~~There’s been no mention of military pricing yet but I’ll update again if/when that info is released.~~ BREAKING NEWS — there IS a military discount available for Disney Very Merriest After Hours!! Tickets are non-refundable and sold on a first-come, first-serve basis only through Shades of Green. Prices are as follows, including tax:

November 8, 12, 14, 19: $183.75

November 9, 11, 16, 18: $164.50

November 21, 23, December 3, 10, 17: $222.75

November 28, 30, December 2, 5, 7, 9, 12, 14, 16: $203.25

December 19, 21: No military discount

Will you be attending the new Disney VERY MERRIEST After Hours this year? While I’m totally bummed not to have the Christmas party back in its full form, I’m hoping that we get the chance to check this one out!

Jennifer July 6, 2021 Universal Studios

Universal’s Volcano Bay Height Requirements

Just like at the other Universal Orlando parks, it’s important to be aware of the Volcano Bay height requirements before you even arrive at the park. I’ve always found that knowing what the kids can and cannot ride makes it easier to plan our day and also helps us to combat tears and frustration before we get there.

VOLCANO BAY ATTRACTIONS WITH NO HEIGHT REQUIREMENT

Kopiko Wai Winding River™: A favorite for our crew, this winding lazy river takes you through the park and there are plenty of water features to get you soaked.

Puka Uli Lagoon™ – kids under 48″ must wear Coast Guard-approved life vest: Designed for the little ones, this pool has plenty of water features and you can watch the Ohyah and Ohno riders as they splash into the pool

The Reef – kids under 48″ must wear Coast Guard-approved life vest: This pool is the perfect place to watch people take the Ko’okiri Body Plunge as the clear plexi tube travels through the pool.

Runamukka Reef™ – designed for kids under 54″: Another area designed for little ones, this play structure has geysers, water guns, and slides – and plenty of shade!

Tot Tiki Reef™ – designed for kids under 48″: This splash area is for the littlest kids and features tikis with fountains and a miniature water volcano.

Waturi Beach™ – kids under 48″ must wear Coast Guard-approved life vest: The most recognizable feature of Volcano Bay is definitely Waturi Beach at the base of Krakatau Volcano. This giant pool features waterfalls cascading into the lagoon and switches back and forth between calm waters and a wave pool.

MUST BE AT LEAST 42 INCHES

ika Moana of Honu ika Moana™: This is the green side of the Honu ika Moana slides and it features a five-person raft and plenty of twists and turns.

Krakatau™ Aqua Coaster: This four-person canoe travels through Krakatau Volcano and packs in plenty of thrills. It usually has one of the longest lines in the park so make sure to ride early and use your TapuTapu to hold your spot in line.

Maku Puihi Round Raft Rides™: On these six-person raft rides, travel through a volcanic gorge and spin around as you go down the canyon. With zero-gravity hang time and a funnel, these slides are thrilling!

Punga Racers™: Featuring four lanes, single riders twist and turn on these body slides.

Taniwha Tubes™: These four slides are great for single or double innertube riders but watch out for the spitting tiki statues!

TeAwa The Fearless River™: This isn’t your typical lazy river. The Fearless River is full of rapids and waves, and life jackets are required for everyone.

MUST BE AT LEAST 48 INCHES

Honu of Honu ika Moana™: This is the blue side of the Honu ika Moana slides and it also features a 5 person raft but you go high up on the sides of the massive walls.

Kala and Tai Nui Serpentine Body Slides™: These two slides feature trap doors and intertwining tubes.

Ko’okiri Body Plunge™: With a 125 foot, 70-degree fall, this trap door slide is the tallest in the country. Ko’okiri Body Plunge often has one of the longest lines in the park so we recommend riding early – or getting in line right before closing if you only want to ride once.

Ohyah and Ohno Drop Slides™: Located in the Krakatau Volcano, these two slides end six feet above the water where you fall into the pool.

TIPS FOR DEALING WITH VOLCANO BAY HEIGHT REQUIREMENTS

- Most of the waterslides at Universal’s Volcano Bay have a height requirement to ensure guest safety.
- If your little one is close to a cut-off (42 and 48 inches at Volcano Bay), make sure to practice how to stand up straight before your trip. Kids need to actually bump their head on the measuring guide or be obviously taller than it in order to ride.
- Unfortunately, Volcano Bay does not offer Child Swap like the other Universal Orlando parks. But since there are virtual lines for most slides (set up with your TapuTapu at the slide), it’s easy enough to swap on your own.
- There is plenty for shorter kids to do at Volcano Bay – even more so than Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure. Waturi Beach and Kopiko Wai Winding River are both favorites in our house!

Jennifer June 29, 2021 Universal Studios

Islands of Adventure Height Requirements

We always get asked, “What can my kids ride at Islands of Adventure??” By knowing the Islands of Adventure height requirements before your trip, hopefully, you can come up with a game plan for what to ride, and how to deal with youngsters that aren’t quite tall enough to ride it all.

ISLANDS OF ADVENTURE RIDES WITH NO HEIGHT REQUIREMENT

Caro-Suess-el™: Located in Suess Landing, this traditional carousel of Dr. Suess characters is good for the whole family. You can even make the characters blink, wiggle their ears, and turn their heads! Express Pass is available.

Hogwarts™ Express: This train ride between Universal Studios (King’s Cross Station) and Islands of Adventure (Hogsmeade) does require a park-to-park ticket, but it’s a can’t miss ride for our family. Make sure to do it in both directions because the journey is different each way! Express Pass is available.

One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish™: Similar to Dumbo, this gentle ride takes you up, and down, and all around. Express Pass is available.

Storm Force Accelatron: This classic spinning ride has no height requirement! It’s kind of hidden to the side of The Hulk – so much so that we’ve never actually ridden this one! Express Pass is available.

MUST BE AT LEAST 36 INCHES FOR THESE ISLANDS OF ADVENTURE RIDES

Cat in the Hat™: One of our faves for the best air conditioning, you go through the ride in a couch car as the story of Cat in the Hat is brought to life. Express Pass is available.

Flight of the Hippogriff™: This is the ride in Wizarding World with the lowest height requirement. Kids will love this kiddie coaster as they race through the pumpkin patch and past Hagrid’s hut. Express Pass is available.

The High in the Sky Suess Trolley Train Ride!™: This is a train ride, high in the sky, giving a birdseye eye of Suess Landing. Express Pass is available.

Pteranodon Flyers™ – Guests over 56″ tall must be accompanied by a rider 36-56″: Designed for kids from 36-56″ tall, this one requires an adult companion to ride with the child – but adults cannot ride alone! Soar over Jurassic Park, suspended from a Pteranodon on this gentle ride.

Skull Island: Reign of Kong™: Hop on the bus and join an expedition through Skull Island, but hang on tight because you’ll be getting attacked by dinosaurs in no time. King Kong shows up, and an epic battle ensues. This one can be frightening for young children as it’s quite loud and violent. Express Pass is available.

MUST BE AT LEAST 40 INCHES FOR THIS IOA RIDE

The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man®: Put on your 3D glasses and follow Spiderman as he battles villains throughout New York. This one has you soaring above the streets, scaling tall buildings, and coming face to face with some of the most villainous bad guys around. Express Pass is available.

MUST BE AT LEAST 42 INCHES FOR THESE ISLANDS OF ADVENTURE RIDES

Jurassic Park River Adventure™: Board a tour boat for what should be a scenic tour of Jurassic Park. As things always do in JP, something goes totally wrong, and chaos ensues. You WILL get wet on this boat trip through Jurassic Park, but not soaked like the other IOA water rides. Express Pass is available.

Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges®: Similar to Kali River Rapids at Animal Kingdom, this circular raft ride goes through rapids and under waterfalls. You WILL get wet! Express Pass is available.

MUST BE AT LEAST 44 INCHES FOR THIS IOA RIDE

Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls®: This log flume ride is part coaster, part water ride, and features a 75-foot drop at the end. You WILL get wet. Or, realistically, you will get SOAKED by the water cannons at the end of the ride. Express Pass is available.

MUST BE AT LEAST 48 INCHES FOR THESE IOA RIDES

Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure™: One of the newer rides, this thrilling coaster puts you on Hagrid’s motorbike or in the sidecar for a high-speed journey into the Forbidden Forest. This is often the longest line in the park, but this ride is totally worth the wait. Virtual Queue is available depending on crowds.

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™: Located INSIDE Hogwarts, this is one of the most popular rides in the park – and for good reason. This 3D simulator takes you high above Hogwarts where you’re chased by dragons and dementors. The line for this one is phenomenal as you walk through Hogwarts and see Dumbledore’s office, classrooms, and common rooms. You can walk through the line to tour the castle even if you’re not interested in riding. Express Pass is available.

MUST BE AT LEAST 51 INCHES FOR THIS ISLANDS OF ADVENTURE RIDE

Jurassic World VelociCoaster: Brand new in Summer 2021 and the newest ride at Islands of Adventure, this extreme coaster packs plenty of thrills. It travels over 70mph, has multiple inversions, a zero-gravity inverted stall, and Universal’s steepest drop. Virtual Queue is available depending on crowds, and Express Pass is available.

MUST BE AT LEAST 52 INCHES FOR THIS ISLANDS OF ADVENTURE RIDE

Doctor Doom’s Fearfall®: Prepare to be launched 185 feet in the air, accelerate faster than the space shuttle, and then plunge back to the ground. Express Pass is available.

MUST BE AT LEAST 54 INCHES FOR THIS IOA RIDE

The Incredible Hulk Coaster®: The massive, green coaster has the highest height requirement in any of Universal’s parks. Packed with high speeds, inversions, and thrills, this one is not for the faint of heart. Express Pass is available.

TIPS FOR DEALING WITH ISLANDS OF ADVENTURE HEIGHT REQUIREMENTS

Most rides at Islands of Adventure have a height requirement to ensure guest safety – a sharp contrast from Disney where kids can ride almost everything.
If your little one is close to a cut-off (36, 40, 42, 44, 48, 51, 52, 54 inches), practice how to stand up straight before your trip. Their head has to actually hit the measuring guide or obviously be taller than it, but we’ve seen many kids duck to fit under the guide and end up looking shorter than they actually are. And then, unfortunately, they miss out on the ride.
Child Swap is available at all rides with a height restriction, so make sure to utilize it if you have little ones in your party. Every ride has somewhere that one member of your party can wait with the kids while the rest of the group rides. Then, switch places, and the adult that waited with the little ones can have a chance to ride without waiting in line again. The big kids may even get the chance to ride twice, and both adults get to enjoy the attraction!
While we love going to Disney with kids of all ages, Islands of Adventure is really best once kids are at least 40-42 inches tall. I would lean towards waiting until your youngest is at least 48″ tall if it’s going to be a once-in-a-lifetime trip since that will allow them to ride almost everything in the parks.
I’ve spent many hours at Islands of Adventure hanging out with Ellie (who is only 46″) while the big kids ride everything in the park. We usually get a special snack (like a frozen butterbeer!) to share and wander through the shops – that way, she gets to do something fun while the bigs are riding.

Jennifer June 22, 2021 Travel

Best Beaches in Florida | Sarasota County

Since moving to NC over a decade ago, we’ve been to Florida more times than I can count. Like so many times that our friends have joked that we should be part-year residents. But anyway, after countless trips to Florida, from Pensacola to the tip of Key West, I can say without a doubt that Sarasota County has the BEST beaches in Florida.

SIESTA KEY BEACH

Our first experience with Sarasota beaches was at Siesta Key Beach – often named the #1 beach in the US. This beach is pure magic with its sparkling powdered sugar sand . . .

The sand is nearly 100% quartz-crystal, and it never gets hot. Seriously, we visited in July, and the sand was cool to the touch – it reminded me of the sand at White Sands National Park (which is gypsum sand).

There are hardly any waves which is great if you’re traveling with youngsters. Even though there are minimal waves to jump in and you certainly cannot surf, Siesta Key Beach is perfect if you’re looking to relax. If you are looking for those big waves, Carolina Beach on the NC coast is one of our faves!

Now, the lack of waves doesn’t mean that there’s nothing to do at Siesta Key Beach. It’s quite the contrary, actually. We saw plenty of people parasailing, and there are lots of companies offering dolphin and sunset cruises.

Sometimes it’s nice to just hang out in the sand . . .

Or go out into the big, blue sea with your big bros!

And it’s always a good time for a sandwich from Wawa! While there is food available from the Siesta Key Beach Pavillion – where they have a fairly extensive menu! – we almost always bring sandwiches to the beach. With a larger family, packing our food in for the day is quite a bit cheaper, and it frees up room in our budget to get treats!

The snowcones at Siesta Key Beach come in these fantastic cups designed to catch all the drips! And at less than $5, they’re not a bad deal for the size!

SOUTH BROHARD BEACH

About thirty minutes south of Siesta Key Beach, we found a small parking pull-out off Harbor Drive and a trail to get down to South Brohard Beach. While Brohard Beach (the only beach in Sarasota County that allows dogs!) and Caspersen Beach are known for having an abundance of shark teeth, they can also get crowded. Our hope was that we’d avoid the crowds by going to a smaller beach between the two.

And boy, did that pay off! We had the beach virtually to ourselves, especially once a storm started rolling in.

Working on her “fierce” face. She was concerned that there would be sharks around since this beach had a reputation of being full of shark teeth. Rest assured, we didn’t see a single shark over the course of the several hours we were there.

The kids spent hours coming through the sand and shells, looking for shark teeth. We didn’t have the proper equipment – next time, I’d make sure to bring something to scoop and sift – but that didn’t deter the kids at all.

And we were successful! We only found a couple of shark teeth, but it left the kids wanting to come back again, and that’s always a good sign in my book!

Just as quickly as the storm rolled in, it blew by, and we were back to blue skies… and still had the beach to ourselves! The kids were getting hungry for dinner, so we packed up and called it a day, but this would be a gorgeous place to watch the sunset. In fact, I think next time we’ll pack some sandwiches and do just that!

What’s your favorite beach in Florida?? Have you ever looked for shark teeth before??

Jennifer June 15, 2021 Universal Studios

Universal Studios Orlando Height Requirements

“What is my kid tall enough to ride at Universal Studios?” is one of the most common questions that we get asked. Knowing the Universal Studios Orlando height requirements before your trip will save you from headaches and frustration and, hopefully, from some tears if your little one isn’t quite tall enough to do everything.

USO RIDES WITH NO HEIGHT REQUIREMENT

Hogwarts™ Express: Departing from Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross Station, this train ride is a favorite in our house, but you can only board if you have a park-to-park ticket as it goes back and forth between Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. The journey is different in each direction so make sure to ride both ways. Express Pass is available.

Kang & Kodos’ Twirl ‘n’ Hurl: This is a basic spin-in-a-circle ride (like Dumbo or Aladdin’s Magic Carpets at Magic Kingdom) and fine for the whole family. Express Pass is available.

Shrek 4-D: Join your favorite characters from the Shrek movie franchise on a quest to save Princess Fiona in this 4D show. There’s no height requirement for this one, but small children may be scared of the 3D effects. Express Pass is available.

MUST BE AT LEAST 34 INCHES

E.T. Adventure™: This one is a fan favorite with adults and kids alike! Channel your inner Eliott and hop on a flying bicycle to help E.T. save his home planet. Express Pass is available.

MUST BE AT LEAST 36 INCHES

Woody Woodpecker’s Nuthouse Coaster™: This kiddie coaster travels through Woody’s nut factory and reminds me of Barnstormer at Magic Kingdom. Express Pass is available.

MUST BE AT LEAST 40 INCHES FOR THESE RIDES AT UNIVERSAL STUDIOS ORLANDO

Despicable Me Minion Mayhem™: Join your favorite Despicable Me characters on this 4D motion simulator ride through Gru’s house and laboratory. Express Pass is available. Virtual Line is available based on crowds.

Fast & Furious – Supercharged™: Continuing with the motion simulator trend, join the crew from Fast & Furious and help Dom save the day. This one has loud music, loud (unexpected) noises, and LOTS of action. Express Pass is available. Virtual Line is available based on crowds.

Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon™: As you race Jimmy Fallon, this 3D motion simulator takes you through the streets of New York, underwater, and to the moon. Express Pass is available. Virtual Line is available based on crowds.

The Simpsons Ride™: Join the Simpsons as they visit Krustyland, Krusty the Clown’s theme park. This roller coaster simulator is shown on an 80-foot diameter domed surface and is fun for the whole family. Express Pass is available.

TRANSFORMERS: The Ride-3D: Another 3D/4D simulator; this one turns you into a N*E*S*T* recruit to help Optimus Prime and Bumblebee save the planet from Megatron and the Decepticons. Express Pass is available.

MUST BE AT LEAST 42 INCHES

Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts™: One of our absolute favorite rides in the park, this 4D roller coaster/dark ride hybrid packs plenty of thrills. While it can be intimidating for some youngsters to get in line beneath the fire-breathing dragon, this really is a ride for the whole family. Yes, it’s thrilling, and there are some frightening scenes, but those just add to the fun factor. Express Pass is available. Virtual Line is available based on crowds.

MEN IN BLACK™ Alien Attack™: Wrapping up the motion simulators at Universal Studios, as Agent Trainee, you’ll zip through New York and take a shot at all the aliens you can find. This one is similar to Astro Blasters at Magic Kingdom, but these aliens fight back! Express Pass is available.

MUST BE AT LEAST 48 INCHES TO RIDE AT UNIVERSAL ORLANDO

Revenge of the Mummy™: This coaster is one of the scariest rides in the park, and young children that are just barely tall enough to ride (especially those that are tall for their age) are likely to be frightened – or terrified to the point of tears like my niece. As you’re trying to get away from the evil Mummy Imhotep, you end up in darkness, surrounded by insects, chased by warrior mummies, and underneath fire so hot you can feel it. Express Pass is available. Virtual Line is available based on crowds.

MUST BE AT LEAST 51 INCHES

Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit™: Choose your own music, go 17 stories up vertically at a 90º angle, and then drop at 65 miles per hour as you enjoy this coaster. This thrilling ride features the world’s first non-inverting loop and is packed full of fun. Express Pass is available.

TIPS FOR DEALING WITH UNIVERSAL STUDIOS ORLANDO HEIGHT REQUIREMENTS

- Unlike Disney Parks, most rides in Universal Studios Orlando have a height requirement to ensure guest safety.
- If your little one is close to a cut-off (34, 36, 40, 42, 48, 51 inches), practice how to stand up straight before your trip. They have to actually bump their head on the measuring guide or obviously be taller than it, but we’ve seen many kids duck to fit under the guide and end up looking shorter than they actually are- and then they miss out on the ride.
- Child Swap is an option at every ride with a height restriction so make sure to utilize it if you have little ones. Every ride has a room where one member of your party can wait with the little ones while the rest of the group rides. Then, switch places, and the adult that waited with the kids can have a chance to ride without waiting in line again. This allows both adults to enjoy the attraction, and the big kids may even get the chance to ride twice!
- While we love going to Disney with kids of all ages, Universal is really best once kids are at least 40-42 inches tall. If it’s going to be more of a once-in-a-lifetime trip, I would lean towards waiting until your youngest is at least 48″ since that will allow them to ride almost everything in the parks.
- If your kids aren’t quite tall enough to ride everything on this visit, it means it’s time to start planning the next trip for when they’re a bit taller.
- I’ve spent many park days hanging out with Ellie (who is only 46″) while the big kids ride everything in the park. We usually get a special snack to share and wander through the shops – that way, she doesn’t feel like she’s missing out on as much since she’s too short to ride the biggest rides.