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?

 

In the heart of Orlando’s tourism district, International Drive is known for offering accommodations, dining, attractions and shopping for every budget. And as the economy shifts, this has become more important than ever with choices to fit all budgets.

 

Home to 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 the area’s smaller family attractions, nonstop entertainment, great dining and world class shopping.

 

The kids are back in school. Lines are shorter at your favorite attractions. Temperatures are beginning to drop. Lots of special events are planned. Shop at your favorite outlets without the crowds. And don’t forget about the world-renown Halloween celebrations in the I-Drive Area. Fall is also the best value period with many accommodations and attractions offering great rates and discounts.

 

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.

 

A dollar may not go as far as it did in the past but in the International Drive Resort Area it provides convenient access to all of the world-famous attractions, accommodations, entertainment, dining and fun along Orlando’s tourist corridor. So, park the car. Leave the driving to the Trolley conductor and enjoy the ride!

 

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. It allows guests to park their car and ride stress-free to the accommodations and attractions in the world’s most popular vacation destination. And at $1.25 for a single adult ride, it is the best bargain in the 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 seats 54 riders plus two wheelchair positions and an ADA-specified hydraulic lift system. The system 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.

 

Coupons are available for great savings on dining and attractions. Some examples of savings include:

ICEBAR Orlando: $5.00 off admission

Pirates Dinner Adventure: $4.00 off for adults; $2.00 off for children

Pointe Orlando: Save at 50 stores, restaurants and attractions with a FREE discount pack

Prime Outlets: FREE coupon book of savings

Orlando Premium Outlets: FREE VIP coupon book

Ming Court: 10 percent off lunch or dinner check

Ripley’s Believe it or Not!: $2.00 off for adults; $1.00 for child

WonderWorks: $1.50 off for up to six people

Sky Venture: $5.00 off pr person for up to six people

 

Created by the Orlando/Orange County Convention & Visitors Bureau, the "Free-for-Fall" promotion makes it possible to save with more than 70 "Get One Free" offers available through December 15.

 

For the long-weekend getaway traveler, the program provides such deals as "Stay 2 Nights, Get the 3rd Night Free," "Stay 3 Nights, Get the 4th Night Free," and "Buy One, Get One Free" all available on the Orlando CVB's Web site at VisitOrlando.com/FallDeals. Participating I-Drive properties include Crowne Plaza Orlando Universal, Enclave Suites, Hawthorne Suites Universal Orlando and Renaissance Orlando Resort at SeaWorld.

 

 

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.Admission: One-night $49.99 plus tax, two-nights $75.99 plus tax. rocktheuniverse.com 407-363-8000

 

Held at the Orange County Convention Center, the Orlando Home Show is Central Florida's leading and largest consumer showcase of new products and services for home remodeling and interior décor. The show features local, regional and national experts in remodeling, building, decorating and landscaping; instructional how-to seminars; giveaways; contests; and more than 600 exhibits with the industry's latest products. Admission: Adults $9, Children ages 6-12 $5, Children ages 5 and under free. orlandohomeshow.com 407-685-9800

 

Sept. 25–26 Oct. 1 – 4, 8–11, 15–18, 21– 25, 28–31

In its 19th year, the event is considered one of the world's largest, most elaborate Halloween celebrations. Guests will experience live mega-horror movies with this year's theme of "Ripped from the Silver Screen" which includes first-hand takes on not yet released films such as "The Wolfman" and "SAW VI." Universal enlists a "scream team" of designers to research the human psyche and its deepest fears so guests can confront all the physical and psychological horrors of the movies. Admission: $69.99 halloweenhorrornights.com 407-363-8000

 

Oct. 3 – 4, 10 – 11, 17 – 18, 24 – 25, 30 – 31

SeaWorld's Halloween Spooktacular is an underwater "fantasea" that comes alive as youngsters trick-or-treat among friendly sea witches, octopuses, mermaids, pumpkin fish and more. Children may dress up and play with sea fairies, learn from a school of fish or dance with an ice witch. The event begins at 11 a.m. Admission: Adult $74.95, Children ages 3-9 $64.95, Children ages 2 and under free, see Web site for Fun Card and Passport prices. SeaWorld.com 407-363-2259

 

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. winterparkartfestival.com 407-644-8281

 

Oct. 15 – 18

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. biketoberfest.org 386-255-0415

 

Oct. 17 – 18, 24 – 25, 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. Adults $9.95, Children ages 3-12 $9.95, Children ages 2 and under free. centralfloridazoo.org 407-323-4450

 

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. mountdora.com/festivals.php 352-735-1191

 

Nov. 4 – 8

The fourth 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. orlandofilmfest.com

 

Nov. 7

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. Guests may explore the beauty of the Sanctuary and participate in the picnic decorating contest and instrument petting zoo. Admission: $20; Children under 5 free. boktowergardens.org 863-676-1408

 

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. cityoforlando.net 407-649-3152

 

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. Admission: $17, $13 for members of the gardens. leugardens.org 407-246-2620

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