Local 6 Theme World: Summer Openings & Open All Night

Your home for theme park and tourism news

May 22, 2014

Summer Openings & Open All Night


Still no word on when Diagon Alley will open at Universal Orlando but new details keep appearing every day, and people have spotted the Hogwarts Express moving on the tracks.
 Still on track: The Magic Kingdom's Seven Dwarfs Mine Train. It officially opens May 28th, and for the past two days guests have been allowed on for brief soft-opening test runs. Here's a sign it's almost ready: Disney has released a new t.v. ad. It's kinda fun and kinda strange.  It starts with a cool family putting on shades.

Recommended Videos





They walk to Fantasyland where they encounter, of course, rapping dwarfs.


It shows off the train, main drop and cottage.


And while you  probably won't get the chance, the lucky family has Dopey on board before they march off through the castle.



The whole ad is below.   If anything, it makes the ride look more thrilling than it is in real life.  I'm not knocking the ride, but I'm just saying that this is a ride for almost any age, and any thrill threshold.

26124474



While I can't promise the ride will be open until May 28th, I would be surprised if it is not open for at least part of the day on Friday. Why?
Disney is kicking off the summer season with a 24-hour party at the Magic Kingdom from 6am Friday - 6am Saturday with extra parade showings (12 & 3:30pm for Festival of Fantasy; 11pm & 1am for Main St. Electrical Parade)  Expect lots of villains. Disney is promising some rare ones.

Another attraction is now open down the road from here in Haines City. LEGOLAND Florida's new Duplo Valley is an expanded play place for the littlest brick fans.



With a special emphases on life on the plastic farm, including an air-conditioned play area inside a barn. There's also a water play area.



LEGOLAND also has a new option for those of you who can't get enough of the park. The  Preschool Pass includes parking and admission for one child under 5 and one aduly Monday - Friday.  It will run you $90 plus tax. What sets this pass apart: It is linked to the child, not the adult. So Grandpa can take little Suzy one day, Mom or Dad the next. It's available at the park and on LEGOLAND Florida's web site.

That's all for today!

Keep your emails, questions, tips and comments coming! I always appreciate the feedback. You can always find all of my blog entries at www.clickorlando.com/themeparks


About the Author:

Ken Pilcher is a lifelong Floridian with more than 30 years in journalism experience. He joined News 6 in 2003 and has covered Central Florida attractions and theme parks since 1988. He currently produces News 6 at 7 p.m.

Recommended Videos