Just when things got a little healthier at the nation's theme parks, Burger King announced that it plans to create its first Whopper Bar next spring at Universal Studios Orlando. The new concept located within CityWalk will be about half the size of a usual restaurant and will try its best to be trendy.

These restaurants will feature all the usual fast-food favorites as well as a more customizable approach to the traditional burger that they're calling the Whopper Topper area.

If things go well in Orlando, officials are planning to open several more burger bars in other high traffic locations--like your local airport.

Related Stories:
· BK to Debut Whopper Bar Next Year [NRN]
· Theme Parks coverage [Jaunted]

[Photo: jurek d.]]]> kjb 2008-10-10T09:45:42-05:00 http://www.jaunted.com/story/2008/10/3/71030/9762

In addition to the decorations at all the parks and ubiquitous pumpkins, October brings Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party to Disney World. This after-hours event takes place at the Magic Kingdom on selected nights this month.

Advance tickets are $43, and it's a good chance to get into the park without paying the usual $70 or so for a one-day admission.]]> kjb 2008-10-03T14:00:38-05:00 http://www.jaunted.com/story/2008/9/30/74429/2617

Since its inception, Universal Studios Orlando has been celebrating Halloween, and this year is no different, as Halloween Horror Nights: Reflections of Fear comes to the park.

While the frights at Knott's Berry Farm are certainly spooky, Universal Studios' holiday special is for people who want to be uncomfortably terrified during their trip: Bloody Mary and other recreated urban legends are the focus of this year's scare fest.]]> kjb 2008-09-30T13:00:36-05:00 http://www.jaunted.com/story/2008/9/24/222243/768

Earlier this year we were a little too wrapped up in The Simpsons Ride to dedicate any love to the newest attraction at Universal Studios Florida. We mentioned the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit briefly but now we've got more info on it.

Set to debut next year, the coaster will be the biggest in the Orlando area, standing more than 17 stories high, with cars that whip around turns and loops at more than 65 mph. This is definitely one to try before lunch.

If the coaster itself doesn't entertain you, there'll be advanced audio and visual effects both and off the ride, so there's certainly a good chance that something will catch your fancy. You can even pick your own music before you take off on your adventure. Artist renditions just don't cut it, so check out some shots of the construction work here.

Related Stories:
· Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit [Official Site]
· Theme Parks coverage [Jaunted]

[Photo: Universal Studios]]]> kjb 2008-09-25T12:00:34-05:00 http://www.jaunted.com/story/2008/9/24/21251/0084

Forget "Top Chef." If you're looking for some serious cooking contest drama, get yourself to Disney World this weekend for the semi-finals of the Bocuse d'Or.

The so-called Olympics of cooking, the Bocuse d'Or finals are held every year in Lyon, France, and for global gastrophiles, this contest carries serious weight. (Check out the over-the-top website intro--these people clearly think this is much bigger than the Olympics.)

Unfortunately, America's track record is far from golden. In the 20 years the competition has been held, Team USA has never placed in medal position--in fact, they've never come close, with their best finish a lowly sixth in 2003.]]> BS 2008-09-25T09:48:34-05:00 http://www.jaunted.com/story/2008/8/25/72157/7464

When it comes to special events at Walt Disney World, the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival is the one to attend. Celebrating its 13th anniversary, the festival runs September 26-November 9, and it's the perfect opportunity to take in the Disney version of world culture while drinking!]]> kjb 2008-08-25T10:45:16-05:00 http://www.jaunted.com/story/2008/7/11/161419/163

SeaWorld Orlando has unveiled renderings of its newest roller coaster, Manta, set to open next summer. The ride will include live rays, flying upside-down and speeds of up to 60 mph.

It starts with a ray-filled aquarium that also showcases other marine life. Once through the line, you'll be strapped into a 12-person car, face-down. Along the 3,300 feet of track, you'll come so close to the water that your manta ray-shaped carriage will "skim the waves."

World famous coaster firm Bolliger & Mabillard designed Manta, which will tower 140 feet above SeaWorld. If you can't stand the wait, you can try another of their brand new rides in South Carolina: B&M put together Led Zeppelin: The Ride at the Hard Rock Park in Myrtle Beach.

Related Stories:
· Coming Attractions: SeaWorld's Ray-Themed Coaster [Travel Weekly UK]
· Roller Coasters coverage [Jaunted]]]> pbb 2008-07-11T16:30:15-05:00 Search Jaunted string http://www.jaunted.com/search/