Disney - Not just for kids

By: Peter Kenny

Disney’s contribution to nightlife comes in the shape and form of Pleasure Island, located at Down Town Disney. Depending on the type of park ticket you have, you may or may not be included. Pleasure Island has a lot to offer to suit all tastes. It offers 8 different themed nightclubs, with 2 more on the way. There are dance clubs playing a variety of music from different eras. There are comedy clubs, jazz clubs and so much more.

There are numerous restaurants and shops that are open throughout the day when no admission ticket is required. A really good bonus is that generally speaking parking is free at Pleasure Island, (obviously there is a charge for valet parking which is also on offer.)

Another popular nighttimes attraction is Dinner Shows. There is a huge variety to choose from- here are just a few to give you an idea of what is on offer. Arabian nights- watch a spectacular story unfold with more than 60 amazing horses whilst you dine on a Prime Rib banquet. Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede (located adjacent to Premium Outlet Mall). This show really has it all- horses, comedy, singing and dancing, a four course meal, building to a hugely patriotic finale! Medieval Times based in a castle with knights jousting and playing games whilst you have a feast. Other themed dinner attractions include Murder Watch Mystery, Pirates Dinner Adventure and many many more.

Whichever one you choose you will be assured of good food and a great night’s entertainment.

City Walk, part of Universal Studios, is also a front-runner in the nighttime’s entertainment industry. The complex has similarities to Down Town Disney (West Side), however its layout is far more compact just like Disney’s Pleasure Island.

City Walk is located along a small lake and can only be accessed on foot. Anyone arriving by car must park at one of Universal’s two enormous parking garages (which are free of charge AFTER 6pm). From there it will take between 5-10 minutes to walk to City Walk. There are moving sidewalks available.

Once you have arrived at City Walk you will discover a wide variety of clubs to suit an enormous range of musical tastes e.g. Motown, Bob Marley, dance music, rock’n’roll, duelling pianos and Latin rhythms to name a few.

Venues include Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville, City Jazz. Pat O’Brian’s Irish Bar (based very closely on the original in New Orleans including the signature fire and water fountain), NASCAR Café, the Groove, and Bob Marley-A Tribute to Freedom (based very much on Marley’s home in Kingston, Jamaica which was converted into a museum after the reggae star’s death in 1981.)

There is no admission charge for City Walk, however certain clubs may require a cover charge. Guests have the opportunity to buy a Key to the Clubs for $7.95 plus tax and this will provide admission to all venues.

Whichever location you choose to visit, we are sure that some of the nightlife on offer in Orlando will help make your vacation a great one.