Hollywood Drive-In Golf beckons visitors entering CityWalk.

Dad and I have played a lot of mini golf in our travels. It seems that every town we visit, no matter how small, has at least one course to offer. When we are in Orlando, we spend a good deal of time on the main tourist strips, where you can’t drive five miles without passing at least two courses. These places always run fabulous deals, making a quick game almost impossible to resist. With so many courses to choose from, is it really worth paying a premium to play at Universal Orlando? We set out to determine just that.

About Hollywood Drive-In Golf
Opened in 2012, Hollywood Drive-In Golf is located in Universal’s CityWalk shopping and entertainment district. You do not need to have tickets to Universal Studios Florida or Islands of Adventure in order to visit. As of 2014, one 18-hole course costs $14.99 for adults and $12.99 for kids ages 3 to 9. Playing the second course in the same night costs an additional $11.99 for adults and $9.99 for kids. Florida residents, military members, seniors over age 62 and Universal annual passholders receive a 10 percent discount.

If you want to turn your experience into a full evening, consider the dinner and mini-golf option. Starting at $20.60 plus tax per person, the deal includes dinner at one of several table-service CityWalk eateries along with your choice of mini-golf course. You can add the second course for an additional fee.

Whichever course you choose, expect to be immersed in 1950s film culture!

Hollywood Drive-In Golf utilizes cutting-edge theming and special effects to take players back to the 1950s drive-in movies. Whether you choose the spooky “Haunting of Ghostly Greens” or the sci-fi “Invaders of Planet Putt,” the level of immersion beats even Walt Disney World’s spectacular Fantasia Gardens course. The courses take on a completely different feel after dark, when the LED lighting adds an additional layer of creepy atmosphere.

The courses are moderately difficult, but do not contain any highly tricky or technical shot requirements. Even if you just whack the ball around without carefully aiming, you are not likely to get stuck on a hole. Meeting or beating par, however, requires fairly accurate aim. This makes the game fun for the whole family, as the more competitive players can vie for the best score, while those with less experience get the satisfaction of completing each hole.

The Verdict
Dad and I played one evening while waiting for my cousin to meet us for a midnight movie. Although we did not get the opportunity to play the sci-fi course, both Dad and I thoroughly enjoyed the haunted side. The thrills are silly and fun rather than outright scary, and a small scavenger hunt is built into the experience. We found the layout to be just difficult enough to add a layer of challenge, without the frustration and humiliation that comes with losing a ball into a water hazard or chasing it all over the course. As annual passholders, we got a small discount, but we would probably play again even at full price.

The spook factor is silly and fun rather than outright frightening.

Tips for Parents
The major downside to Hollywood Drive-In Golf is the same problem that plagues everything at CityWalk. If you do not have a Universal annual pass, you must pay the same parking fee as you would if you were visiting the theme parks. As of 2014, parking is $16 before 6 p.m. After 6, it is free for Florida residents or $5 for non-residents. Valet parking is $15 for up to two hours.

Although the restaurants, shops and activities at CityWalk (excluding the nightclubs) are generally family-friendly and open to all ages, Universal has a somewhat unusual security policy. After 10 p.m., everyone entering CityWalk must be age 21 or over. It does not seem to be a problem for kids who are already inside CityWalk to stay there, but they will not be allowed to enter even when accompanied by a parent.

Due to this policy, CityWalk does take on more of an adult party atmosphere after 10 p.m. Even if your kids are not actively kicked out, you might feel more comfortable planning to end the evening by that time. Plan to arrive around 6 p.m. when the parking fee drops, and you should have plenty of time to eat, play and even do a bit of shopping before 10.

Scary characters are everywhere at Halloween Horror Nights.

Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights is intense. Seven or eight haunted houses, creepy comedy shows and streets packed with wandering monsters keep many park visitors on the run for the entire evening. It is not unusual for people to start screaming when they walk through the gates and keep screaming until they go home that night.

The Super Fans
Halloween Horror Nights also attracts legions of passionately dedicated fans. Rather than screaming and running away, they are drawn to the experience like a moth to a flame. Eager to soak in every detail, they purchase season passes and spend virtually every night at the event. They walk through the houses in slow motion, drinking in the sets, lighting, costumes and makeup, and giving shout-outs to their favorite actors. By the second weekend, they can repeat every line of that year’s Bill and Ted show. They get to know each other as well as the cast, and they form a sort of family.

The Art and Design Team
The massive Halloween Horror Nights is designed by a surprisingly small team of highly dedicated, passionate people who truly love their jobs. They also love their fans, and go out of their way to interact with them. In past years, the Art and Design team has held free question and answer sessions, sat and talked with individual guests, and even led small (paid) private tours through the haunted houses.

The Art and Design Team is highly engaged with the fans.

In 2005, the team decided to reward its most loyal fans with a special interactive game. Clues to the mystery were revealed on the Halloween Horror Nights website throughout the season, leading to a major encounter with a live actor on the event’s final night. The game was a success, and it planted the seeds for what was to come.

Legendary Truth: The Collective
Building on their experience with the 2005 game, the Art and Design team launched Legendary Truth: The Collective in 2008. Legendary Truth is a live-action alternate reality game that takes place within the fictional world of Halloween Horror Nights. According to the back story, the Collective is a group of people tasked with investigating the strange happenings within the game world. In 2008, all the happenings were linked to the mysterious Dr. Mary Agana, aka Bloody Mary, a psychologist who became obsessed with fear and subsequently disappeared.

In 2012, the game reappeared as Horror Unearthed. Players were divided into Legions, each representing a different facet of horror, and instructed to research their roots. RFID cards allowed players to check in at different locations throughout the event. At home, players around the world could join in even if they were unable to make it to Orlando. The online experience included a variety of games that allowed players to earn points. Many people played both online and at the parks, racking up large point totals and creating a friendly rivalry between the Legions.

The 2013 finale had us meet with fan favorite characters from the previous year to complete a series of tasks.

For 2013, Art and Design brought it all together with a brand-new Legendary Truth: The Collective experience. This time, players remained in their previous Legions, but were tasked with a paranormal investigation that was bigger than the individual Legions. Online players, known as remote operatives, received information and solved puzzles that were inaccessible to those who checked in at the parks. They relayed what they learned to the in-park players, sending them to various check-in locations where they, in turn, received information that was unavailable to the remote operatives. Both groups had to work together, both in their Legions and as a larger whole, to solve the overarching mystery that developed throughout the season.

The Art and Design team has assured the fans that Legendary Truth: The Collective will continue for the 2014 event. It is not yet known exactly what tricks the designers have up their sleeves, but if history is any indication, this year will bring the most immersive experience yet.

Tips for Parents

The fortune cookie task wrapped up the 2013 event while generating enough speculation to keep everyone busy until the 2014 game.

Legendary Truth: The Collective is an alternate-reality game that takes place within the Halloween Horror Nights experience. The in-park tasks typically require a great deal of commitment, as you must solve puzzles, check in with remote operatives online, visit locations in a specific order or join a group meet-up at a designated place and time. Therefore, it is not recommended for those who will visit only once or twice. Just seeing all the haunted houses, shows and outdoor scare zones is tough to manage in a single night.

If you plan to visit more often, however, Legendary Truth is a truly gripping experience. The puzzles are difficult enough to be fun, but not so challenging as to be frustrating. Each year’s mystery is engrossing, and the tasks are appropriate for all ages. You can serve as both an in-park operative and a remote operative on different nights, allowing you to play along even if you will only visit the event a few times.

As of 2013, RFID stickers, placed on the back of the admission ticket, were free for season pass holders and just a few dollars for those with one-night admission. Laminated plastic cards were also sold at a slightly higher fee. Both options allow park-goers to check in at designated locations via a brief scan, earning points for themselves and for their Legion. Remote operatives check in by logging onto the official Legendary Truth: The Collective website.

Of course, playing the game in-park requires the ability to filter out the noise, excitement and scares going on around you. If your kids are nervous or easily startled, they might not be able to focus on solving the mystery. Fortunately, the game is included with park admission, so if you find your kids are unable to concentrate, you can drop out at any time.

The Singing Tower is definitely the highlight of Bok Tower Gardens.

If you have ever been to Central Florida, you probably know all about the theme parks, the t-shirt shops, and the seemingly endless array of mini-golf courses and go-kart tracks eager to part you from your money. Yet before Walt Disney World came to town in 1971, Central Florida was a sleepy area known for citrus and cattle rather than thrills and excitement. With its year-round sunshine and mild temperatures, the region always lured its share of tourists, but its attractions celebrated the natural beauty of their surroundings. Most of the Old Florida attractions are long gone, but a few gems remain. Located in Lake Wales, roughly an hour from both Tampa and Orlando, Bok Tower Gardens is arguably the jewel in the Old Florida crown.

History of Bok Tower Gardens
At the age of 6, Edward W. Bok immigrated to the United States from the Netherlands. He went on to become a Pulitzer Prize-winning author and successful publisher, but he never forgot the lessons taught to him by his grandmother. Among these was the idea that he should leave the world a little better off from his having lived in it.

Although they lived in Pennsylvania, Bok and his wife owned a winter retreat in Lake Wales. He loved the outdoors, and greatly enjoyed climbing the nearby Iron Mountain. Rising to a peak of nearly 300 feet above sea level, it was one of the highest points in the Florida peninsula. In 1921, he decided to share his beloved spot with the world by creating a bird sanctuary and nature preserve at the top of Iron Mountain.

Bok purchased the land and enlisted the help of talented architect Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr. Together, the men created a plan to turn the sandy hilltop into a true natural wonder. The crowning achievement was the creation of the Singing Tower, a 205-foot art deco monolith that houses a 60-bell carillon. Upon completion in 1929, Bok presented what was then known as the Mountain Lake Sanctuary and Singing Tower to the American people.

The elegant Pinewood Estate is worth the small surcharge.

What to See
The winding historic gardens feature hundreds of varieties of plant life, including a separate garden filled with Florida’s endangered and rare plants. A reflecting pool, a Japanese peace lantern, a Florida bog overlook and, of course, Bok’s beloved sunset viewing spot at the top of the hill are among the other highlights. Walking trails are available for those who want to venture beyond the main pathways.

The historic 60-bell carillon plays concerts every day at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. with shorter selections on the hour and half-hour throughout the day. Note that the concert is live on Thursday through Sunday from mid-October through mid-May, and prerecorded at other times. You can hear the concert throughout the grounds.

Pinewood Estate is the 12,900 square foot winter estate of Bethlehem Steel vice president Charles Austin Buck. A big fan of both Latin architecture and Bok Tower, Buck had the 20-room mansion built in the style of a Latin villa with three sweeping porches that afford excellent views of the tower. In 1970, the Bok family acquired Pinewood Estate and had it restored to its original glory for visitors to enjoy.

Don’t miss the small museum inside the Visitor Center!

Planning Your Visit
Today, Bok Tower Gardens is open to the public 365 days per year, from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. Pinewood Estate, the Visitor Center, the restaurant and the gift shop are sometimes open more limited hours and are occasionally closed.

As of 2014, general admission is $12 for adults and $3 for children ages 5-12. A combo ticket that includes Pinewood Estate is $18 for adults and $8 for children. Annual membership begins at $45. Bok Tower also has reciprocal membership benefits with numerous institutions. Check your membership paperwork to see if you qualify for a discount.

The tower is normally closed to the public. However, four times per year, special guided tours are given for those who are members at the Sustainer level ($100) or above. You will receive two tickets for your choice of one tour date per year.

Special events are held throughout the year, including classes, concerts and member-only opportunities. Many of these are included with admission, while others require a nominal additional charge. Check the official website for details on what is happening during your trip.

The highlight of the tower tour was being so close to the massive bells.

Inside the Tower
Dad and I were fortunate to visit on one of the tower tour dates. We joined a small group for a guided experience we will never forget.

The bottom level of the tower is a stunning lobby with a fireplace, a patterned tile floor and an antique seating area. We were allowed to explore the 211-step wrought iron staircase before piling into the original Otis elevator to continue our tour.

Each floor of the tower houses different facilities including the maintenance workshop, the archives, an extensive library and a recording studio. We were encouraged to take our time and explore each area in detail. We even had the opportunity to meet one of the recording engineers, and to talk with him at length about his experiences at Bok Tower.

Of course, the highlight of the tour was the 60-bell carillon. It would be impossible to describe just how small I felt standing amongst the enormous bells. We got to hear the afternoon concert from inside the tower, a unique experience that I was honored to have.

The winding pathways lead you on a journey of exploration.

Tips for Parents
Bok Tower Gardens is a wonderful choice for families of all ages and interests. From walking tours to shopping, and concerts to geocaching, Bok Tower Gardens truly offers something for everyone. The immense grounds are a favorite picnic spot for many local families, and the friendly squirrels provide plenty of photo opportunities.

Keep an eye on your kids to ensure they don’t damage the plants, but give them some free rein to run around and play. While most of the Central Florida area is now covered in asphalt and buildings, Bok Tower Gardens is one of the few spots where kids can enjoy an old-fashioned Florida experience.

The store was filled with the latest in early 19th century new-fangled gadgets.

I grew up in Central Florida, just a few hours from St. Augustine. As an avid history buff, I was always intrigued by the oldest permanently occupied city in the United States. Yet as we visited over the years, I was saddened by the increasingly decrepit condition of some of the historic district’s museums and shows. It had been a few years since my previous visit when my dad and my best friend, Angela, decided to take me to St. Augustine for my birthday weekend last year.

I was thrilled to discover that money had been pouring into new attractions and upgrades to old favorites. The historic district looks better than ever, and the new things make use of historic properties that were once privately owned, maintaining the city’s commitment to authenticity. One of the best upgrades is the Oldest Store Museum.

About the Oldest Store Museum

Now owned by Historic Tours of America/Old Town Trolleys, a trolley tour company that also owns Potter’s Wax Museum and the Old Jail in St. Augustine, the museum is housed in the old general store, across the courtyard from the Old Jail complex.

Turn of the 20th century groceries lined the shelves in the first room.

The museum contains more than 100,000 items from the inventory of the E.F. Hamblen dry goods store. The store opened in 1875 and supplied both the day-to-day needs of the citizens and the large orders placed by developers including Henry Flagler. Today, the museum recreates the average shopping experience around the turn of the 20th century.

Our Experience

Angela is not much of a history buff, but she agreed to see the museum because she knew I would love it. As it turned out, she had as much fun as I did! After touring the Old Jail, we arrived at the museum roughly 15 minutes before the next tour. A friendly older gentleman in period clothing greeted us in character as we settled on the wooden porch. Little did we know that he would become our tour guide, playing the role of the proprietor.

The butcher shop was part of the dry goods store.

Our guide led a small group through the vast store, pointing out turn-of-the-century items from the practical to the bizarre. At various points, we also interacted with other actors who played more specialized roles, including a snake oil salesman! From bicycles and tractors to corsets and patent medicines, the store was packed with all the necessities, conveniences and luxuries of the era. The labor-saving devices, including the “modern” washing machines and coffee grinder, were particularly fun. The actors demonstrated many of the items, and even gave a period-appropriate sales pitch.

Tips for Parents

The Oldest Store Museum is a must-see on any family vacation to St. Augustine. The 30-minute tour melds historic education with improvisational theater, creating a truly fun and immersive experience that was appropriate for all ages. The cast is wonderful at maintaining the period setting while explaining products that 21st century visitors were unlikely to know much about.

The “high tech” washing machines were fun to see.

The complex also includes the Old Jail and the St. Augustine History Museum, and is a stop on the Old Town Trolley Tours line. All three attractions are interactive and family-friendly, telling the story of St. Augustine in a very accessible way. The fully-narrated hop-on hop-off Old Town Trolley is an easy way to see the historic district without fighting for a parking spot. For the best savings, purchase your tickets on the Old Town Trolley website or look for discount coupons at your hotel. Children under age 6 receive free admission to the Trolley and all three museums, while those ages 6 to 12 pay a reduced fee.

Sodas and snacks, including hot dogs, are available in the gift shop of the St. Augustine History Museum. Benches are scattered throughout the courtyard, making this a pleasant place to take a break. Food and beverages are not permitted inside the Oldest Store Museum, but if you’re lucky, you might be offered a piece of penny candy.

Avalon, Catalina Island

Avalon Dunes on Catalina Island
photo by A. Strakey

Catalina Island is easily reached by a comfortable ferry ride less than one hour from Los Angeles. The Santa Catalina Island Interpretive Center is a wealth of information about the island’s history, animal and plant life, and ocean and marine life. Hiking trails abound, while off-road four-wheel-drive guided tours boast breathtaking views of hidden coves, mountain peaks, and the great Pacific Ocean. While it’s only 22 miles off the Los Angeles coast, it’s a world of natural beauty that should not be missed.

Channel Islands National Park

Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary
photo by National Ocean Service

The Channel Islands are perfect for camping, hiking, fishing, kayaking and snorkeling. Its primary residents are the birds and many species of animals that live here, making the islands wildly alluring, yet close enough to civilization from which regularly scheduled ferries depart. Its unspoiled coves are home to colorful sea stars, orange garibaldi and spiny sea urchins.

Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park
photo by Esther Lee

Joshua Tree National Park in the Mojave Desert is known for its spiny yucca trees whose branches reach like arms up to the desert sky. It’s a wonderful place to hike and enjoy the landscape’s rugged character with cholla cacti, boulder mounds, flowering desert plants, and mountains in the distance. Both northern and southern entrances to the park are near oases with campgrounds.

Pinnacles National Monument

Pinnacles National Monument
photo by Richard Johnstone

The rocky terrain of Pinnacles National Monument is at once captivating and ominous. From its canyons to its rugged spires, it is a wilderness of wonder with 30 miles of hiking trails that boast gorgeous views with a variety of rich wildlife supported by the fertile soil belonging to the ancient relics of an extinct volcano.

Red Rock Canyon State Park

Red Rock Canyon State Park
photo by John Fowler

Just a few hours away from Los Angeles, Red Rock Canyon State Park is a geological treasure trove. Time and erosion have sculpted its dunes, cliffs, clay and sandstone formations into corrugated shades ranging from deep reds to bleached whites. Cargo wagons once stopped in this area for water in the nineteenth century. It has also been used to film Hollywood movies like Jurassic Park. Its arid isolation inspires a kind of reverence.

Leonardo da Vinci’s flying machines are particularly inspiring.

I have had a love affair with vintage mechanical devices since I was a small child. From slide rules to old computers, I enjoy any opportunity to see vintage equipment in action. When I heard that a collection of machines based on Leonardo da Vinci’s original designs would be in our area, I knew I had to go. Dad and I visited with friends, and another friend went a few weeks later with his family. Our group spanned a wide range of ages and interests, and everyone agreed it was money well spent.

About the Da Vinci Machines
Leonardo da Vinci was arguably one of the most influential artists of all time. The archetypal Renaissance Man, he left an enduring body of artwork from the Mona Lisa to the Last Supper. He was also a scientist and inventor, designing war machines, flying machines and all sorts of labor-saving devices. Unfortunately, he built only a few prototypes, which were destroyed by the ravages of time.

Thankfully, da Vinci’s ideas endure, carefully enshrined in his massive collection of codices. These handwritten notebooks are packed with drawings and descriptions that capture his theories and provide detailed information on how to build his machines. However, decoding them is a challenge in its own right, as the majority are not only written in the ancient Italian language of his time, but are also written in mirror image cursive handwriting. Some people believe that he chose that writing style to make his secrets harder to steal, while others believe it was simply a more expedient way for the left-handed da Vinci to record his thoughts.

Don’t forget to have your picture taken with the Mona Lisa!

In 2006, traveling exhibit creator Grande Exhibitions partnered with Italian artisans to create small-scale replicas of a few da Vinci machines. They launched a test demonstration in Australia, the first of its kind outside of Europe. The exhibit’s smash success proved there was an audience, and Grande Exhibitions founder Bruce Peterson moved to Italy to develop a full-scale traveling exhibition.

Today, the collection contains more than 60 small-scale and life-size reproductions. Each piece was carefully crafted from the original codices. In addition, the exhibition contains lifelike digital reproductions of many of da Vinci’s most famous artworks and replicas of some of the codices. A 45-minute documentary film delves deeply into da Vinci’s life.

Our Experience
With two friends, we made the two-hour drive to Bradenton, Florida, where the exhibition was housed at the Bradenton Auditorium. We arrived around 12:30 p.m., leaving us just enough time to chat with the friendly staff and take a quick look around before the 1:00 docent tour, included in the price of admission.

The hour-long tour proved invaluable in helping the exhibition come alive. Our docent was a college-aged guy with an encyclopedic knowledge of, and genuine love and appreciation for, da Vinci. He explained and demonstrated many of the machines, putting them in a historical framework while pointing out their similarities to things we use today.

After the tour, we made a slow loop around the exhibition, taking in the machines that our guide did not cover. We then watched the documentary, which we all agreed is a must-see for people of all ages. After a stop in the surprisingly well-stocked gift shop, we headed out for a drive along the Florida Gulf Coast.

Tips for Parents

The docents are highly trained and their love for da Vinci is evident.

The Da Vinci Machines exhibition is incredibly well-done. The level of research and attention to detail are breathtaking, and the entire display is dedicated to helping visitors understand the man behind these incredible creations. In addition, the tag line is “Discover the da Vinci in You.” The idea is that we all have areas of hidden talent, even genius, if we are brave enough to scratch the surface. The exhibition is wonderfully inspiring, and all around us we overheard families discussing everything from mechanical engineering to secret codes.

Most of the machines have Please Do Not Touch signs, but a few sturdy items have signs welcoming visitors to use them. Keep an eye on your kids, but encourage them to gently play with the machines that are allowed. Be prepared for questions, and if there is anything you do not know, never hesitate to ask a nearby staff member. The employees are well-trained, and their love for all things da Vinci shines through.

The exhibition is one of four that travel the world. Keep up with their progress at DiscoverDaVinci.com, and make plans to visit when one comes your way.

The Military History Museum was very well done.

The Orlando area is packed with well-known brands, from the world famous theme parks to such global attractions as Ripley’s Believe It or Not. While these are all well-worth your time, the region is also home to dozens of hidden gems—quieter and less expensive places that provide a rainy day alternative or a midweek break. On Dad’s birthday this year, we and a friend decided to check out some smaller venues. The Museum of Military History was an unexpected find.

About the Museum of Military History
The Kissimmee stretch of Highway 192 was largely developed in the 1970s by attractions and junk shops eager to cash in on the tourism boom created when Walt Disney World opened its doors in 1971. By the mid-1980s, the road was affectionately known as Orlando’s Route 66 due to its plethora of low-budget roadside attractions and offbeat restaurants. During the 1990s and early 2000s, however, Disney and Universal Orlando built feverishly, creating multi-day entertainment complexes designed to keep visitors on site for their entire vacations. Many of the Highway 192 attractions died off.

Animal lovers will enjoy seeing the important role that dogs have played in the military.

The winds of change being what they are, locals have turned to revitalization efforts in recent years. Higher-end chain restaurants, dinner shows and even new attractions have gone in, creating a new entertainment strip for both local residents and tourists searching for an alternative to the theme parks. The Museum of Military History fits perfectly into the new Highway 192 dynamic.

The museum began life in 2003 as a tent housing a small collection of donated items at the Vietnam Veterans Traveling Memorial Wall in St. Cloud, a few miles from where it is today. The collection moved into a storefront in the Osceola Square Mall a month later. It gained nonprofit status in 2004 and moved around the mall a few times as the group searched for a permanent home. In 2012, the Museum of Military History finally opened its doors in its current location.

The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. As of 2014, admission is $7 for adults, $6 for seniors over age 60, $5 for students and veterans, and $4 for 100% disabled veterans. Kids under age 5 are free. The museum periodically hosts special events including reenactments and speaking engagements by military heroes.

The long line of Jeeps from different eras makes a great photo op!

Our Experience
Along with a friend, we arrived at the museum shortly before 4:30 p.m. We were warmly greeted by the Army veteran behind the desk, who had a spirited conversation with my Navy veteran father. We browsed the eclectic gift shop, packed with authentic uniforms and other items from a variety of eras, before heading inside.

The 10,000 square foot space houses donated items from throughout American military history, from a wide range of Jeeps to Buffalo Soldier uniforms and paraphernalia. The collection is divided into a loose timeline that heavily pays tribute to both those who gave their lives for freedom and the veterans who were fortunate enough to come home.

We spent nearly an hour and half in the museum, taking our time, reading all the signs and discussing different pieces of the collection. If you are pressed for time, you could see the highlights in under an hour. The staff is highly knowledgeable and happy to answer any questions you or your kids might have.

The Buffalo Soldiers collection was particularly intriguing.

Tips for Parents
Although it is not interactive by modern standards—no high tech simulators or video games—the museum is fascinating to those of all ages. If anyone in your family served in the military, this is a great opportunity to share stories with your kids. The quiet atmosphere and the weighty history of the items, all personally donated by veterans or family members, spark the imaginations of kids and adults alike. You are welcome to sit in the Jeeps and even pose for photographs.

Check the schedule of events on the museum website before your visit. If your kids are restless, they might have trouble settling down into the respectful quiet appropriate for the museum. Yet a reenactment or guest speaker could be just what they need to make a more personal connection with the collection.

The Orlando Odditorium appears to be falling into one of Florida’s famous sinkholes.

Ripley’s Believe It or Not! is a worldwide attraction brand specializing in the strange and unusual. As I pride myself on being strange and unusual, I have been a big fan of Ripley’s since childhood. Today, I make it a mission to visit Ripley’s wherever we go. The Orlando Odditorium, opened in the early 1990s, is a worthy member of the Ripley’s family.

About Ripley’s Believe It or Not!
Robert Ripley was an explorer, artist and collector who lived from 1890 until 1949. At 13, he was  a semi-professional baseball pitcher. At 14, he sold his first cartoon to Life magazine, and by 15 he was a working newspaperman. In his 20s, Ripley began writing and illustrating a new sports column for the New York Globe called “Champs and Chumps.” With an expanded focus on strange happenings around the world, the name soon changed to “Believe It or Not!”

“Believe It or Not!” was syndicated in 1929, and its immense popularity soon led to a long-running radio show. The show sponsored Ripley’s adventures around the globe and, in exchange, he recorded episodes from snake pits, caverns and other exotic locales. He collected unusual artifacts everywhere he went, eventually amassing enough pieces to open his first Odditorium at the 1933 World’s Fair in Chicago. During World War II, Ripley took a hiatus from foreign travel, instructing his listeners to “See America First.”

Radio led to short films and eventually to television, and Ripley resumed his exotic adventures. He also continued to operate short-lived Odditoriums at various fairs and events. In 1949, during the filming of his 13th television episode, which happened to feature death rituals, Robert Ripley had a massive heart attack and died at the age of 58.

Ripley’s estate was sold at public auction, and circus producer John Arthur acquired the exhibits and artifacts. He opened the first permanent Odditorium in St. Augustine, Florida, just a year later. It is still open today. The company has undergone many changes, including expansions that added haunted attractions, wax museums and other entertainment venues to the roster. Despite all the changes, however, one thing remains clear: the focus is still on the strange and unusual.

Our Experience

The headhunter sword is really cool, if you don’t think too deeply about its history!

As seasoned Ripley’s Believe It or Not! fans, Dad and I knew generally what to expect. However, the Orlando property, like all Odditoriums, still surprised us with its secrets. The 10,000 square foot museum is designed to appear as if it is falling into one of Florida’s infamous sinkholes. The 16 galleries are packed with strange and interesting memorabilia from all eras and all corners of the globe.

The Odditorium was only moderately crowded on a weekday afternoon, but its location on International Drive virtually guarantees large crowds during evenings and weekends. We waited in a short line to pick up our tickets and enter. The tour is self-guided, and the staff recommend allowing roughly an hour and a half. We spent closer to three hours, in part because we took quite a few pictures. Photography and video recording are encouraged.

Tips for Parents
Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditoriums are fun for all ages. There is nothing inherently scary, although some of the artifacts, such as the shrunken heads and headhunter swords, have a rather gruesome history. Consider steering your kids quickly past those displays, which encompass a fairly small portion of the collection, if they are easily frightened.

The recycled parts Wall-E was fun.

The Odditorium borrows some classic funhouse design tricks. Different rooms have slanted floors, optical illusions, loud sounds and unusual lighting intended to throw off the senses a bit. Again, this is meant to be fun rather than frightening, but children or adults with sensory issues could become a bit overwhelmed.

Overall, Ripley’s is a great choice for families of all ages and interests. From famous literary works carved on a grain of rice to masks from around the world, Ripley’s houses artifacts that will get your family talking. Newer items, created long after Robert Ripley’s demise, are also a part of the collection. Look for the Wall-E made from recycled car parts and the Abraham Lincoln portrait in duct tape!

The Orlando Odditorium is located in the heart of the International Drive tourist strip. It would be easy to pair the Odditorium with another nearby attraction to create a full day of family fun. Shops and restaurants are also plentiful within the immediate neighborhood.

The Tampa location is a full city block and heavily decorated with mosaic tiles.

All families have their traditions, from special holiday treats to favorite celebratory locales. I grew up in Lakeland, Florida, roughly halfway between Orlando and Tampa. When I was a kid, truly special occasions were celebrated at the Columbia in Tampa. Now Dad and I travel most of the time, but we’re based out of Clermont, Florida, half an hour from Walt Disney World. The Columbia branch in Celebration, the town that Disney built, has become our new favorite tradition.

History of the Columbia
The history of the Columbia reflects the history of Ybor City, the Tampa neighborhood where it all began. The first “company town” in Florida, Ybor City was built to support the cigar industry. Vicente Martinez Ybor was a successful cigar manufacturer in Cuba who escaped to Key West, Florida, in 1868 to avoid the Cuban Revolution. By the 1880s, high costs and logistical issues had him looking for a new location. Tampa, then a small town near a valuable port and railroad line, proved ideal. In 1885, he closed a land deal and immediately began laying out the gridded streets of his company town, which was named Ybor City.

By 1905, Ybor City had become the cigar capital of the world. Business was thriving, the town was prosperous, and the residents had money to burn. That year, Cuban immigrant Casimiro Hernandez, Sr. opened a 60-seat café to serve the local cigar workers. His Cuban sandwiches and coffee were a hit. In 1919, he bought the restaurant next door, effectively doubling the Columbia’s size.

Added in 1937, the Patio Room is still breathtaking today.

When Casmiro Sr. passed away in 1930, his son, Casmiro Jr., took control of the business. He envisioned an elegant supper club-style establishment complete with music and dancing—something the region had never seen before. Although the Depression was in full swing, Casmiro Jr. took a chance. He created the first air-conditioned dining room in Tampa and added an elevated dance floor. The new Don Quixote room proved successful, and the restaurant’s business continued to grow. The Patio room, complete with hand-made, hand-painted mosaic tiles and a retractable skylight, was added in 1937.

After World War II, the cigar industry took a sharp downturn, and by the 1950s the once-thriving Ybor City had become run down. Now under the leadership of daughter Adela and her husband, concert violinist Cesar Gonzmart, the restaurant managed to survive on its reputation. But Cesar realized the importance of revitalizing Ybor City. In 1956, he built the Siboney room, a showcase for top Latin performing artists. He also expanded, adding a restaurant in nearby Sarasota, Florida, in 1959.

The Columbia Today

Who doesn’t want a salad prepared tableside by a server in a tuxedo?

Today, Cesar’s sons Casey and Richard are at the helm. The evening entertainment continues in the form of flamenco dancers, who perform at the Tampa location every night but Sunday. The original Columbia has grown to a mind-boggling 52,000 square feet—an entire city block divided into 15 dining rooms and a 5,000 square foot kitchen. Across the state, seven smaller but no less opulent locations provide a similar experience at the same high level of quality.

Prices are moderate, particularly at lunch. If you are on a budget, the sandwiches, salads and soups are hearty and filling, and represent an excellent value. Another delicious budget choice is the extensive tapas menu.

Tips for Parents
As I mentioned above, the Columbia has been an important part of my life since I was a child. I have frequented both the Tampa and Celebration locations, and have also dined at the St. Augustine restaurant. Despite the opulent surroundings, the restaurants feel comfortable and homey rather than pretentious. Casual clothing is acceptable, although most diners choose business casual or “cruise casual,” such as khaki pants or simple dresses. Elegant clothing is not out of place, although it is typically in the minority.

The experience is a lot of fun for kids. Tableside preparation of such items as the 1905 salad, the flamenco show at the Tampa restaurant, and simply watching the other diners keep children engaged. Because the Columbia is both elegant and family-friendly, this is a great place to work with your kids on their restaurant manners in a forgiving environment. The children’s menu includes both traditional fare such as the Cuban sandwich and typical kids’ foods such as macaroni and cheese.

The Sorting Hat was a big draw for kids and adults alike.

Opened on June 18, 2010, Islands of Adventure’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter sent shock waves through the theme park community. A faithful recreation of the wizarding village of Hogsmeade, the Wizarding World also contains what is arguably the most immersive and technologically advanced theme park attraction in the world. Housed inside a lovingly replicated Hogwarts, “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey” places visitors in the middle of some of the series’ most iconic locations and situations.

The immense success of the Wizarding World soon led to an announcement for an expansion. Diagon Alley, located inside Universal Studios Florida, opens in June 2014. The Hogwarts Express train will transport visitors between the two areas.

A Celebration of Harry Potter

Of course, the Wizarding World is not just another theme park land. It is also a place for the series’ most loyal fans to gather and indulge their own dreams of becoming a wizard for a day. Against this passionate, energetic backdrop, it only makes sense for Universal to host conventions and events that bring fans together with the people who created the magic.

The Expo featured authentic movie props such as a Death Eater mask.

A Celebration of Harry Potter, held January 24-26, 2014, was one of the biggest Harry Potter conventions to date. Dad and I attended with my cousin Eric and his 12-year-old daughter Erica. Although we were only able to attend on Saturday, we managed to catch almost all of the special shows and events.

The kickoff party was held Friday night in the Universal Music Plaza. A large, fully-equipped stage with a massive general admission viewing area, the plaza is normally used for concerts. Several of the film stars appeared on stage for a question and answer session. Fans were also treated to clips from the movies, a presentation by the illustrator who created the all-new book covers, and even some details about the upcoming Diagon Alley expansion.

Our Experience: Panels and Classes

We arrived around 9:30 a.m. on Saturday. Eric and Erica were slightly ahead of us, and their first mission was to find event T-shirts for all of us. Surprisingly, Eric said that the shirts did not appear to be selling that well. We think it might be because they were not announced—people simply did not know they were available.

The panel discussions and classes were all held in the Toon Lagoon Amphitheater, a little-used venue with a large seating capacity on the opposite side of Islands of Adventure from the Wizarding World. The Expo center was in Soundstage 33, accessible only from the Universal Studios park. This proved to be an excellent way for Universal to disperse the crowd a bit.

The panel discussions and classes were held at the Toon Lagoon Amphitheater.

First on the schedule was a question and answer session with several of the film’s stars. The trio—Harry, Ron and Hermione (played by Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint and Emma Watson) were not there. However, the major supporting child actors were, including those who played Luna Lovegood, Fred and George Weasley, Seamus Finnegan and Neville Longbottom. There was a rumor that Mark Williams, who played Arthur Weasley, would appear, but he was nowhere to be found. Nonetheless, the session was fascinating, as the actors regaled us with behind-the-scenes stories.

Next up was a presentation by the creative director of Pottermore, a highly interactive fan site. I had a passing familiarity with the site, but was unaware of just how much the site has to offer. After viewing the presentation and becoming addicted to Pottermore, I highly recommend it for any Harry Potter fan.

We took a lunch break at Blondie’s, also in Toon Lagoon, before returning for the 3:30 wand class. While waiting for the class to start, we saw most of the 2:00 Q&A with the actors. It featured the same group of actors as the morning session. Although the questions from the audience were obviously different, we felt like we hadn’t really missed anything by taking a lunch.

The wand class, taught by the fight choreographer, was full of surprises. It turns out that the fight choreographer was actually a dance choreographer. He invented a dance vocabulary for the basic fight moves, as well as a style for each character. The combination of moves and styles allowed him to choreograph even the complicated Ministry of Magic battle in “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix” in a straightforward way that stayed true to the characters and prevented discrepancies between multiple takes.

At the end of the class, he invited several of the best students to show off their skills on stage. They assumed they would fight the choreographer, but instead were asked to engage with a special guest: Arthur Weasley, played by Mark Williams! So the rumor was accurate, but no one expected his appearance to be that dramatic!

Our Experience: Expo

After the wand class, we headed to the Studios park to visit the Expo. The line was very long, as they let in only a few dozen people at a time. This ensured that everyone was able to see the exhibits and displays in detail, without being trampled by a crowd.

It was hard to resist buying replicas of the graphic props used in the films.

The Expo was simply breathtaking. One area contained valuable props from the films, including a Death Eater mask, Hermione’s Time Turner, and even a gold Galleon. Another section was home to MinaLina, the team who created the graphic props, such as the Marauder’s Map and the Daily Prophet, for the movies. They had reproductions of virtually every graphic prop for sale, and were kind enough to autograph their catalog for us. Eric and Erica stood in line to be sorted by the Sorting Hat, while Dad and I watched and took pictures. The U.S. Postal Service was there to hand-cancel its new limited edition Harry Potter stamps, while the artist who designed the stamps was available to autograph them.

We spent a little over an hour in the Expo, and easily could have stayed longer. But we knew it was close to closing time, and everyone was getting hungry. So I bought a commemorative pin for my best friend and, after one last look, we were on our way.

Tips for Parents

Although this specific event will not be repeated, Universal hosts similar Harry Potter conventions on a semi-regular basis. This fact kept the crowds from being as large as we had feared. The layout, with venues scattered across both parks and well away from the Wizarding World, also helped to prevent mass crowding. It was definitely busy, but not bad enough to put people in a bad mood. Throughout the day, we chatted and laughed with Harry Potter fans from around the world.

At the panel talks and classes, Universal staff did an excellent job of ensuring that every seat in the amphitheater was filled. Although those who had paid for a vacation package got priority seating, we were able to get into every session. Persistence really paid off, as staff at the end of the line did not always know exactly what was going inside. Several times we were told that the theater was full, only to be admitted a few minutes later. The theater was cleared after every event, giving everyone a fair shot at getting into the next one.

If you want event-specific merchandise, buy it when you arrive. Although there seemed to be plenty of merchandise for this special event, it is impossible to tell what the demand will be on the day of your visit. For example, on the Wizarding World’s opening day, even very expensive merchandise sold out almost immediately.

Make a game plan. If you are in town for several days, try to see the Wizarding World before or after the event weekend. Pay attention to the daily schedule and plan to arrive an hour or two before each activity to ensure that you get seats.