There are so many reasons to take a break and head to Orlando’s International Drive Resort Area this fall! How about a vacation that offers lots of opportunities to save while enjoying special events, attractions and as much fun as your time allows? Take advantage of the cooler weather, great deals, fall festivals and more!

 

There is no better place than I-Drive in the fall.  Home to five of the world's most famous attractions: SeaWorld Orlando, Discovery Cove, Aquatica Sea World’s Park, Wet ‘n Wild, Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure, it is easy to see why the area is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the world. And don’t forget great restaurants, dinner shows, shopping experiences, mega entertainment complexes, smaller family style attractions, spas...the fun never stops!

 

Accommodations are available to fit every budget from exclusive resorts spas to suite hotels that include breakfast to budget-minded properties.  And this time of year is known for best values!

 

Whether you are thinking about a girlfriend's getaway, a romantic escape, some quality time at your favorite attraction without the crowds or a golfing weekend, it is all conveniently located within the world's most famous tourist destination.

 

It is the perfect time to plan a girlfriend’s getaway. Visit a spa. Play some golf. Enjoy your favorite attraction with short lines! The fun is all conveniently located within the world’s most famous tourist destination and now is the time to make your plans.

 

All of the fun is nearby with the I-Ride Trolley Service that will deliver you to almost any location in the resort area. Park the car. Leave the driving to the Trolley conductor and enjoy the ride! Affordable for the entire family, the trolley fare is $1.25 per person, per ride with accompanying children riding free (age 12 and under). Unlimited ride passes are also available.

  

Since it began in 1997, the I-Ride Trolley has been one of the most popular attractions among millions of visitors to the I-Drive area. As travelers look for ways to stretch their budgets and eliminate the stress that has become such a part of the travel experience, the Trolley is more than a way to get from point to point. It allows our guests a chance to park the car and save money on gas. It also gives them a chance to relax and leave the driving to us. They can enjoy the ride and not have to think about missing a turn into their favorite attraction.

 

Costs: Single fare, $1.25 per ride; senior fare 65 and over, .25 cents per ride. Children under 12 ride free when accompanied by a paying adult. Unlimited ride passes are available: (one-day pass, $4.00 per person); (three-day pass, $6.00 per person); (five-day pass, $8.00 per person); (seven-day pass, $10.00 per person) (14-day pass, $17.00 per person).

 

Combining the charm of the past with today’s modern comforts, the I-Ride Trolley operates 15 trolleys with service from 8 a.m. until 10:30 p.m. daily.

 

Be sure to check out I-Drive’s “Hot Deals” for the latest discounts on dining, attractions and more! When contacting accommodations, ask about fall packages and special rates. Most have special deals and cost saving offers for fall. Just ask.

 

 

Chart-topping Christian music stars from across the nation perform at the annual two-day concert event at Universal Studios. The event is designed to highlight the diversity within today's exploding Christian music scene. Rock the Universe, Florida’s largest Christian music festival, takes place at Universal Studios Plaza from 4 p.m. to 1 a.m. Sept. 9-10. For details: www.universalorlando.com/Events/Rock_The_Universe/2011.aspx.

 

This popular fall event takes place in the North/South Concourses at the Orange County Convention Center. This year's show includes a ceremony to commemorate the 10th anniversary of 9/11. Frank Fontana from HGTV's "Design on a Dime" will host the special ceremony. The Orange County Firefighters Association and the Ocoee Firefighters Association will be present in full dress along with the Fire Department Bag Pipes and Color Guard performing at the ceremony. In honor of the event, there will be free admission to anyone wearing red, white and blue. For details: www.orangecountyhomeshow.com or 407-685-9800.

 

In addition to the Halloween activities planned at the areas hotels, shopping venues, restaurants, you will not want to miss these two popular annual events:

 

Universal Studios Florida presents Horror Nights 21 on select nights beginning Sept. 23 and running through Oct. 31. Universal is transformed into a “nightmarish labyrinth of haunted houses, electrifying scare zones” and more. For details: www.halloweenhorrornights.com/orlando

 

SeaWorld Orlando presents Halloween Spooktacular on Oct. 1-2, 8-9, 15-16, 22-23, 28-30. An ocean of Halloween fun, ghoulish goodies, amazing sea creatures, silly and spooky shows. Details: www.seaworldspooktacular.com/swfspook.html.

 

A juried art show with a 30-year tradition, more than 40,000 people attend this free event held in Central Park that features work by outstanding Orlando artists. The event features live entertainment and food provided by local restaurants. Children's art workshops are also offered. Admission: Free. Details: www.winterpark.org or 407-644-8281.

 

Oct. 13-16

Biketoberfest in Daytona Beach is a rousing, fun-filled weekend that attracts more than 125,000 motorcycle enthusiasts from near and far. Activities include rides, concerts, food and much more. Admission: Free. Details: www.biketoberfest.org or 386-255-0415.

 

Oct. 22, 23, 29, 31

Trick-or-treat in the wildest neighborhood in town at the Central Florida Zoo. This event is a fun and not-too-scary event for young and old alike. Children can wear costumes for trick-or-treat stations and face painting. Visitors can take a haunted hayride, visit the pumpkin patch for a fun photo and learn about the myths and realities of some misunderstood animals. Admission: Included in regular park admission. Details: www.centralfloridazoo.org or 407-323-4450.

 

Oct. 22-23

This nationally ranked, juried event continues to attract more than 250,000 visitors and more than 350 of the best crafters in the country. Admission: Free. Details: www.mountdoracraftfair.com or 352-735-119.1

 

Oct. 19-23

The fifth annual Orlando Film Festival features events in and around the heart of Orlando, where patrons are able to enjoy great films in exciting venues while experiencing Orlando's downtown lifestyle. The festival seeks to inspire student, future and current filmmakers in the art of filmmaking and to enhance the movie viewing experience. Admission: Free. Details: www.orlandofilmfest.com.

 

Bok Tower Gardens invites guests to enjoy an evening of picnic, pops and patriotic favorites with the award-winning Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra and the Singing Tower carillon. Experience the drama as the sky transforms from a colorful golden sunset glow into a magical darkened starry night on peninsular Orlando's highest point. Details: www.boktowergardens.org or 863-676-1408.

 

Nov. 5-6

This two-day event held at Lake Eola Park in downtown Orlando features more than 600 juried artisans in all media, including ceramics, glassware, jewelry, photography, wood and clothing to name a few. In addition to a fabulous lineup of art and live entertainment, the fiesta offers an array of tasty fare. Admission: Free. Details: www.cityoforlando.net or 407-246-2121.

 

Oct. 15

With a full moon as a backdrop, guests enjoy a leisurely evening of live jazz music in a beautiful garden setting at Harry P. Leu Gardens in Orlando. Visitors can bring their own dinner picnic basket or purchase beverages and pastries onsite. Lawn seating only. Details: www.leugardens.org or 407-246-2620. 9/2011