We present to you part one of a two part episode into the history of our City Beautiful. Today we journey through the past of Orlando, where citrus groves once reigned before the rise of the Mouse House. Alongside this, we spill the gluten-free beans on Dustin's latest dietary pivot, dishing out life updates and culinary ventures that promise to stir up your listening routine.
Turn the page with us as the Orlando Unplug Book Club makes its debut, with "What Mother Won't Tell Me" leading our literary lineup. The tales we share span beyond pages; they encompass the rollercoaster of career moves, the health hurdles of Ashley's faithful feline, Bruce, and the glut of gut-friendly recipes we're eager to test. all while threading the narrative of Orlando's transformative journey from a military settlement to a theme park empire.
Prepare to buckle up for a ride down memory lane, whizzing past the landmarks of Orlando's entertainment kingdom. Discover the wizardry behind Universal's allure and the waves of change that have swept over SeaWorld. We reminisce about beloved attractions now lost to time, and speculate on the future thrills awaiting at Universal's Epic Universe. As we pull back the curtain on these iconic destinations, we invite you to join the conversation, to relive the enchantment, and to taste the excitement of Orlando's ever-evolving story.
We present to you part one of a two part episode into the history of our City Beautiful. Today we journey through the past of Orlando, where citrus groves once reigned before the rise of the Mouse House. Alongside this, we spill the gluten-free beans on Dustin's latest dietary pivot, dishing out life updates and culinary ventures that promise to stir up your listening routine.
Turn the page with us as the Orlando Unplug Book Club makes its debut, with "What Mother Won't Tell Me" leading our literary lineup. The tales we share span beyond pages; they encompass the rollercoaster of career moves, the health hurdles of Ashley's faithful feline, Bruce, and the glut of gut-friendly recipes we're eager to test. all while threading the narrative of Orlando's transformative journey from a military settlement to a theme park empire.
Prepare to buckle up for a ride down memory lane, whizzing past the landmarks of Orlando's entertainment kingdom. Discover the wizardry behind Universal's allure and the waves of change that have swept over SeaWorld. We reminisce about beloved attractions now lost to time, and speculate on the future thrills awaiting at Universal's Epic Universe. As we pull back the curtain on these iconic destinations, we invite you to join the conversation, to relive the enchantment, and to taste the excitement of Orlando's ever-evolving story.
Recently got it so cold. All those people listening to us up in the north. They're gonna be like you bitches.
Dustin:It's, So Cold, it's been 65 degrees, yeah, but back home in East Tennessee they just got like a foot of snow in the last 24 hours.
Ashley:I don't know.
Dustin:Absolutely no clue. So, ashley, what are you drinking today, ashley?
Ashley:water, water I need.
Dustin:Talk with your mouth up against your microphone. Can you try not screaming so you don't blow people's eardrums?
Ashley:out. I'm so sorry to all the people, but I'm drinking water, I am, I'm hydrating. You know why? Because I'm now a Stanley Cup Club member and it's the Stanley yeah the, the, the title, the viral, yeah, the popular one. Yeah, the viral tiktok II. Thanks, mom. Mom got it for me for Christmas.
Dustin:Thanks.
Ashley:Ian, what are you drinking? You're, the cocktail looks so cute. What is it? Tell?
Dustin:me. So we recently and we'll go in more into this recently found a book at the good old Barnes Noble of her and it's called Excuse me drinking, excuse me your gross. It's called chilling cocktails by author Jason Ward, and so I'm gonna start drinking my way through the chilling Cocktails, as our producer, zach, is available to make them for me.
Ashley:Thanks I record as long as they don't have to watch the movie that correlates with it, then I'm so in oh, I don't know about that, I'm I have to have you do that but, today I am drinking From dusk tequila dawn dusk tequila dawn. What movies?
Dustin:that from that is, from From dusk till dawn. The 1996 movie starring Quentin Taratino and George Clooney and some other folks Didn't.
Ashley:Quentin Taratino direct movies, any started movies too.
Dustin:I don't know. I haven't actually ever seen this movie. I'm gonna have to do it and read up. I haven't been able to read up on this drink, but they come with comprehensive backgrounds to them. But it is technically just a tequila sunrise, which is funny because it's talking about dusk till dawn, so it's hilarious, chilling it is.
Dustin:So we are gonna do something a little bit different today and we're looking at playing with some fun episodes where we're just doing some normal talking, chatting about our lives and doing some educational stuff. So today we are gonna be trying out an Educational episode for you guys on the history of Orlando and all that stuff, but we do still want to give you guys some of our normal life updates before we start doing that.
Ashley:Yeah, that's great. Hey, what's going on in your life?
Dustin:Oh, what's going on in my life. So I am officially on a gluten-free diet for the next month during the club I am on day. What is this for? For this is day four. They've been only four days it has. The first two days were a little rough. I spent a lot of money on food because I didn't know what I was looking for so I just bought stuff. Yes, but we have Done some fun things. We went to Barnes Noble. This is where we found the, the cocktail book.
Dustin:Yes to look specifically for a gluten-free cookbook, which we found by that was one that's by the company right here in the hair and publishing company, yeah, yeah, so we're gonna start cooking our way through that gave us a hundred and seventy five recipes with that. Was that the gluten-free cookbook or the good look?
Ashley:know the gluten-free cookbook is one like. It was a hundred and seventy five recipes. The gut health gave us 200. I think it's like 200 and something.
Dustin:Yeah, and that book is written by Lindsey Maitland Hunt.
Ashley:Oh, yes, and she goes by that mental name, part of her.
Dustin:So I'm super excited for us to start going that and we'll definitely keep you guys updated and tell you guys about some of the fun Stuff that we're doing. I was introduced to the wonderful world of Tater Joes, trader hoes, or, as you all may know it as a trigger trade our Joe's. We met some really fantastic staff while we were in there had some great views while we were in there.
Dustin:Yes, we did, and we got some advice on our gluten-free journey, and let me tell you, if there's anyone out here that is gluten-free or looking at being gluten-free, trader Joe's really is a great place. It is a very small store, there's not a lot to it, correct, but there were so many options there that were gluten-free. They have when it comes to their breads and bakeries. They have a whole section designated to it with, like, pastries and breads, and then throughout the entire store. If you come across anything gluten-free, it is clearly.
Dustin:Marked oh, yeah, on the shelf in front of the item.
Ashley:So you don't have to try to read the labels, which is really neat, yeah, it's, and I mean, I think even Trader Joe's is good for those even that are not gluten-free. I think it's an inexpensive grocery store that you can grab everything that you need. I mean, mean, the roommates, we we go there about twice a week, so, yeah, no big fan.
Dustin:And then we found something else and we decided to do something fun and crazy. I'm excited and know, but why don't you talk about that?
Ashley:I'm so excited because I am an avid book reader. I received a Kindle For my birthday and I am I'm a huge fan. So now I kind of get to like bring you into my book world and I'm really excited. So we've decided that we are going to do an Orlando unplug book club. So our first book is what what mother won't tell me, by a var Leon Mentor. If I am mispronouncing that, I am so sorry. And if you want to join us, I will be sure to put that on our Instagram and our Facebook page so you can join along and read along with us. What mother won't tell me is a book. It's a Nordic thriller with a folktale twist about a young girl who's raised in a strict isolation. She's protected by cruel people and from the outside world, and she soon realizes that the most dangerous strangers are those that aren't outside. They're inside the bedroom across the hall. Bum, bum, bum.
Dustin:It sounds exciting. I'm very excited. We want a fair one, everyone. They're definitely spoilers ahead for this book, so if you're reading it, please be advised. We'll definitely let you guys know Before in the podcast, before we start talking about it and all of those things and if it comes down to it, our goal is to just read one chapter per week and discuss that one chapter at the beginning of every episode. But if we find out that we're going on a tangent too much with the book, we may actually Do an entire episode based on the book.
Dustin:Do. Just well, I was thinking maybe, I don't know, we'll figure it out, but absolutely. But yeah, I'm super excited for that. That's a lot of fun. So if you guys want to join us again. That book is called, won't mother? What mother won't tell me yes, bye. If our Leon Mentor we know that you can get it at Barnes Noble. Yes, you can, so and I believe he's also.
Ashley:The book is also on Amazon. It just came out. It's only been out for about a week now, so seriously, yeah, seriously, why we got lucky. Yeah, we did, we got real lucky, because I guess there's a book of Barnes and Noble Is that it's actually already sold out. So that's all find her, join her, join us.
Dustin:Yes, yeah. What do you got going on?
Ashley:I got a lot of things going on right now like it's crazy. So my work life has been absolutely insane, but I got some really exciting things Movements and going to potentially different hotels. I also have a Couple. Just to be honest with you, it's just a lot of work things. I've got a lot of work stuff going on. I also, for those of you that follow my personal page, I've got a couple updates on that sweet baby Bruce. She was pretty sick all last week, she. She wanted to be like her mom. You know she wanted to have some kidney issues. So she's got a nice little UTI. So we're managing that. We're dealing with that and after a nice 200 and something vet bill Thank you pet insurance. I think we are taking a step in the right direction. As she stares at me Within 10 because she's wanted me that I've had to give her medicine every single day this week.
Dustin:She seems to be doing a lot better, though, from from last week yeah up moving around. You're gonna hate me for this and please, if your sister's listening, don't hate me for this but last night Love Bruce. See, last night she's been a little shit.
Ashley:No, she's never shit. It was a person I talked about this. She said you're you're full of shit.
Dustin:I'll leave her face. She in my tea last night, fully nose and mouth Completely submerged, air bubbles coming out. And then she knocked over a glass at like one o'clock in the morning and spilt water all over the coffee table, all over our games under the coffee table. It was a good time.
Ashley:It was great we're you. I'm really glad listen. She's got to get to know her uncle Dustin. There you go.
Dustin:And I tried to like wake you up and you were just over there talking in your sleep.
Ashley:I do not talk in my sleep, you talked in your sleep.
Dustin:I don't make me bring Zach in here and confirm.
Ashley:Okay, zach will like semi-confirm, but I'm pretty sure there's other people in my life that may deny that statement hey, actually, hey, what do you know what next week is? It's. I'm not counting down or anything, but it. I got a notification that we leave in nine days.
Dustin:I I'm really excited.
Ashley:Nine days from the 16th. So when you're hearing this on Monday, it will only be 40s.
Dustin:Oh yeah, that's right, yeah yeah, because we are recording this episode a week early. Oh, one last thing I'm gonna talk about about the book club before we go any further, is we will not be talking about it next week. No, we will not, with us going to Knoxville, so it'll be two weeks, two episodes out from now, correct will be the first time that you guys are hearing.
Ashley:I'm talking about the book club. I'm hoping that next week's episode is about Knoxville.
Dustin:It is gonna be about not still and chocolate. And the Ronald McDonald house, which benefits from the chocolate fest event and a bunch of other things so, With that being said, um.
Ashley:I just want to before we start though. I really would like to thank everybody for listening to last week's chaotic episode and for not judging me too harshly when I tried to tell you that you all could go to the legacy store, even though it is very much closed.
Dustin:So it's okay, we'll only judge you in silence.
Ashley:Yes, and if anybody has my cup Anybody knows where it is saw the guest that took my cup. You can return her to me, kill him.
Dustin:Please, hey, ashley, hey, what Do you know what? Officially went live the other day.
Ashley:What officially went live the other day.
Dustin:Orlando Unplugged podcastcom.
Ashley:Yes, we have our own website.
Dustin:And I am super excited, guys. So if you guys want to check it out, you could head on over to wwwOrlandoUnpluggedPodcastcom and there you can see all of the streaming sites and streaming platforms that the podcast is hosted on. We are everywhere, from Google Podcast, apple, to things like Deezer, alexa Tune In PodWatch all sorts of places, yeah, and it has a link to all of our social media channels including our YouTube, yeah, and everything is all linked.
Ashley:It's nice and pretty in that one spot. So, and yeah, I'm so excited and it makes it so much easier now. So, yeah, no, it's great. Check it out and give us a follow, give us a like on everything. So, yeah, it's gonna be great.
Dustin:I'm really excited. I'm really excited. So let's do it, ashley. What are we talking about today?
Ashley:Oh my gosh. Do you know what? I just realized, though? What we are skipping. So grab a cocktail or a mocktail while we unplug Orlando. Oh my god.
Dustin:All right, guys, welcome back. We've got a lot of fun things to go over. So one thing that we wanted to tell you guys is we've decided to make this a little more fun. One week we are going to do an episode that's just about us, the fun adventures that we're having in Orlando, and the following week we are going to kind of give you guys a bit of a history lesson on the places, the businesses, the things, anything that has to do with Orlando and Florida. So we're going to kind of go back and forth every other week.
Ashley:Don't worry, there won't be any tests on this one, though. No pop quizzes no pop quizzes.
Dustin:No more terms.
Ashley:Yeah, but maybe our listeners don't. I never liked those. Fine, Maybe HE.
Dustin:So for this week's episode we had we have a lot planned, so we decided that we are actually going to go ahead and break down our history of City Beautiful into two episodes. So this week we're going to have part one. We're going to go over kind of the founding of Orlando, some of the major theme parks in the area. Next week we're going to come back and talk about our trip to New York. New York.
Ashley:Knoxville. I mean we can definitely plan a trip to New York. I'm so game for that, let's do that. Let's go to Knoxville first.
Dustin:Yes, we're going to go to Knoxville. I'm thinking New York, because Knoxville is currently covered in snow, like New York is.
Ashley:Yes, it is, I'm not looking forward to it. I have to like re now. Bust out all of my winter gear from Michigan that I had happily put in a box. It'll be okay. It's just a few days, but it's kind of cute, so I'm really excited to bring it out again.
Dustin:Yes, but then, after next week's episode of our trip to Knoxville and Chocolate Fest, we're going to come back to part two of the City, beautiful, and we will round up and finish up that and then we'll go from there and bring another history lesson the next time.
Ashley:Absolutely. So I'm looking forward to it. I'm really excited because we learned so much during this time, Like when we were doing all the research for all of everything about Orlando. We learned so much so I can't wait to like share it with you guys. It's going to be so good. So for this episode, as we break it down, we're going to do part one and then part two. So this is part one. We're going to talk about City Beautiful, especially to all of our listeners who are not from here.
Dustin:Do you know how Orlando got the name City Beautiful?
Ashley:No, can you tell you yeah?
Dustin:Okay, I'll tell you so. Apparently, according to Steve Spear, with the Florida Plus Life, it turns out that the history of this name labels back more than 200 years. Sometimes between the 1890s and the 1920s, an urban design trend that was called the City Beautiful movement was sweeping through the United States. So cities like Chicago, cleveland, kansas, they were all embracing this idea of making parks and other landscape features the focus of city centers, and the thought behind this is that it would improve the morale of city residents. So if we look to another author by the name of Evan Bacon Bacon and the book Orlando A Centennial History, orange County sent a group of agricultural exhibitioners to the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago, and it was there that the City Beautiful bug was caught by this group.
Dustin:And shortly after their return, according to city records, we started to see city planners begin to incorporate more oak trees, palm trees, azaleas, flowery shrubs and water oak trees, which is, as we know, very prominent in today's society. Here in the Orlando Orlando architecture, it's pretty much everywhere. Do you know where you live? Yes, I struggle, but eventually. So the city decided to sponsor a contest or replace Orlando's original nickname, which was the phenomenal city, which I really don't like. So I am glad they changed that Absolutely and they wanted to go with something more contemporary. So out of all of the suggestions, the City Beautiful was chosen and adopted.
Ashley:I really love that, and I love that we get to kick it off this episode with some history about it. We get to touch base on a couple things, so I think we should give them an overview on what the entire series is going to be about and then that way we can specify what exactly each episode is going to be about. Sound good to you?
Dustin:Yeah, I think so. One thing I do want to say before we get started. We'll discuss that there are going to be some form of verbiage in here that both myself and Ashley sometimes struggle to pronounce. So, if we do pronounce anything incorrectly, we are sorry, we apologize.
Ashley:We tried really hard, but yes, hey buddy, how do you say seminal? Seminal, not semolian.
Dustin:No, or simile, no Seminal.
Ashley:Yeah, and you're going to mess that up when you say it aren't you? Yep, all right, here we go. Awesome, I'll hold notes.
Dustin:You're good. So, to start off, we are going to talk about the city's early days as a settlement around Fort Gatlin and the pivotal moments during the seminal wars that led to the renaming in honor of fallen soldier Orlando Reeves.
Ashley:So proud you said that word. We also cannot forget to talk about the impact of transportation with the arrival, with the arrival of the South Florida Railroad in the late 19th century, because it definitely played a crucial role in shaping the city's growth.
Dustin:And just outside of Orlando there's the aerospace industry, centered around Cape Canaveral. While it's not directly in Orlando, it was a catalyst for economic growth in the mid-20th century and I definitely feel as though that has impacted the tourism patterns in Orlando. So we're going to discuss that and we're definitely planning a trip out there to check it out, potentially looking at doing a two-day trip, even.
Ashley:Maybe we can plan it during a rocket ship launch.
Dustin:You know there was one yesterday and I missed it again Was there really there was the fifth one, since I've lived here and I've missed it.
Ashley:Love that for you.
Dustin:I know, but we're don't worry, we're going to bring you out for all of that fun. Oh, yeah, oh. And we cannot forget the completely game-changing effect when Walt Disney opened their doors in 1971, which, personally, I think, between that and the aerospace industry, completely changed the trajectory of Orlando for the modern times.
Ashley:I couldn't agree more with you. However, disney was just the beginning, though. We'll also be discussing the parts that came after, including Universal Orlando Resort, seaworld and the now defunct Wet and Wild.
Dustin:We will, and that will actually wrap up what we're going to be discussing today. But we want to go ahead and give you guys a sneak peek at part two. So when we start discussing our part two, we're going to look at the economic impacts of Orlando, from tourism to the Orange County Convention Center, or as me and Ashley like to call it, the OC3. Oc3. And then we'll go ahead and move on to Brightline, which is a new high-speed rail company that is growing very quickly in Orlando, and then we'll even discuss citrus production. So Orlando definitely has a lot going on.
Ashley:It really does. We're also going to shine a bright and shiny spotlight on the educational institutions that have contributed to the city's growth, such as the University of Central Florida, go Knights and Valencia Community College, which is actually right down the street from us.
Dustin:The King of Growth will end that episode with Orlando's booming population making it one of the most populous areas in metropolitan Florida.
Ashley:That's probably why traffic is so bad.
Dustin:It is so Ashley.
Ashley:So here we go. So make sure your glass is full, we'll have you spot while we unplug Orlando, nessled and Central Florida. Orlando stands today as a vibrant city overflowing with life, culture and entertainment. However, to truly, truly appreciate the tapestry of Orlando's present, we must kind of unravel its past.
Dustin:So the story begins in Orlando in the mid-19th century, when settlers began to establish a community around Fort Gatlin, a US army post built to provide protection during the turbulent times during the Seminole Wars. Originally inhabited by the Tamuka and the later Seminole peoples, the region began to witness the infusion of new culture as pioneers sought to build life on this fertile land. Founded after Aaron Jernigan, an earthly settler, the town was initially called Jernigan. However, the winds of change were blowing and the city's destiny was about to be shaped by a completely different narrative.
Ashley:As tensions escalated during the Seminole Wars, the town underwent a transformation that would etch its name into history books Orlando Reeves, an army sentry, became a symbol of sacrifice during these tumultuous times. His life, however, was tragically cut short, but it left a lasting mark on the community.
Dustin:In 1857, the town was officially renamed Orlando in honor of the fallen soldier. This act not only paid homage to a local hero, but it also laid the foundation for a city that would rise above its military origins and grow to become a beacon of culture, commerce and community.
Ashley:Now. Before the American Civil War, orlando served as a center for cotton and cattle. This contributed to the economic fabric of the region. The landscape was dotted with vast expanses of farmland that reflected on an agricultural economy that sustained the growing community.
Dustin:And the aftermath of the Civil War brought about significant changes to Orlando's economic landscape. Citrus emerged as a leading industry, transforming the city into a hub of orange groves and citrus production. The sweet aroma of orange blossoms began to define the region, laying the groundwork for the city's agricultural prominence. This can be found even now as you drive through the central parts of the city.
Ashley:In 1880, the South Florida Railroad reached Orlando. It connected the city to broader networks of trade and transportation. This was a pivotal moment that marked a turning point in Orlando's development. This facilitated a movement of goods and people and catalyzing the economic growth.
Dustin:The extension of the railroad to Tampa in 1883 further solidified Orlando's position as a key player in Florida's emerging economic landscape. The rhythmic chugging of trains became a soundtrack to Orlando's progress, echoing the promise of the future brimming with possibilities.
Ashley:Jumping forward in time. In the mid-20th century, the quiet shores of central Florida witnessed a transformation that would echo throughout the history books Cape Canaveral, once a serene coastal region, emerges the epic center of aerospace industry. This catalyzing cat words and I, we just get along not so well. This catalyzing catalyzing catalyzing, catalyzing, catalyzing catalyzing, catalyzing, catalyzing. We struggle, sometimes it's okay, I'm staring at the Bruce so I'm going this cat. An unprecedented era of economic growth for the region.
Dustin:Nestle along this pristine Atlantic coast. Cape Canaveral was initially chosen as a missile testing site by the US military in the 1940s. Its strategic location offered a vast expanse of open ocean, providing a safe trajectory for test flights. As tensions rose during the Cold War, the site transitioned from military use to becoming a crucial player in the growing space race.
Ashley:That pivotal moment came with the establishment of the Kennedy Space Center in 1962. This state-of-the-art facility became the cornerstone of America's space exploration efforts, as it propelled the nation into the forefront of technological advancements. Those iconic launchpads of Cape Canaveral echoed with the thunderous roars of rockets as each launched, a testament to human ingenuity and ambition.
Dustin:The establishment of the Kennedy Space Center not only marked a giant leap for space exploration, but it also became the launchpad for economic prosperity for all of Central Florida. The influx of scientists, engineers and support staff transformed the region into a thriving community. World professionals flocked to Cape Canaveral, creating a demand for housing, schools and other various services.
Ashley:The aerospace industry demanded for specialized skills that led to the creation of numerous job opportunities. Engineers, technicians and a plethora of support staff found employment in and around Cape Canaveral. The region's educational institutions adapted to meet the evolving needs of the industry, as well as they offered programs that nurtured the next generation of aerospace professionals.
Dustin:The economic surgeon, central Florida spurred expansive infrastructure development. Highways, schools, hospitals and recreational facilities sprouted up to accommodate the growing population. Cape Canaveral, once a remote outpost, became a bustling community with a dynamic economy that reached far beyond the conspines of the Space Center.
Ashley:As the aerospace industry flourished, its positive impact rippled through various sectors. Local businesses catered to the needs of the workplace experienced a boom, from restaurants to retailers to real estate agencies. The economic diversity diversification shielded the region from the over dependency on a single industry, as this ensured a resilience in the face of economic fluctuations.
Dustin:And in recent years, Cape Canaveral has once again captured global attention with the rise of space tourism and commercial space ventures. Private companies attracted to the region's rich aerospace history and favorable launch conditions have set up operations, further contributing to the economic vitality of Central Florida. Tourists from around the world flock to witness rocket launches, injecting tourism dollars into the local economy.
Ashley:While the aerospace industry brought on parallel growth, it also posed challenges. Economic fluctuations tied to changes in space policy, budget constrictions and shifts in geopolitical dynamics occasionally impacted the region. However, the resilience of the community and its ability to adapt to changing circumstances ensure that Cape Canaveral remained a symbol of progress and innovation.
Dustin:Now, the aerospace industry's growth has also prompted increased attention of environmental sustainability. Efforts were made to minimize the ecological footprint of launches, and technology advancements aimed to reduce space debris and pollution were incorporated. Cape Canaveral, once a site solely associated with exploration, became a model for responsible and sustainable aerospace practices.
Ashley:It really has, as the aerospace industry's profound impact on Central Florida goes beyond economic matrix. It forged a sense of community pride and engagement. Residents became stakeholders in the space missions. In attending launches they even participated in educational programs and they definitely, definitely celebrated the region's role in pushing the boundaries of human achievement. Way to go, guys.
Dustin:Now jumping back a little in time. In the early 1960s, walt Disney, the visionary behind the iconic Disneyland in California, set his sights on a grand undertaking in the swampy heart of Florida. Little did the world know that this venture would blossom into the enchanting wonderland that we all know as the Walt Disney World Resort.
Ashley:Now Walt Disney World's story begins with Walt Disney himself, who envisioned a larger, more immersive theme park experience on the East Coast, acquiring vast tracks of land in Central Florida. Disney's ambitious plan included not just a theme park but an entire resort complex. Now, unfortunately, walt did not live to see the rest of his dream come to fruition as he passed away in 1966. However, you can bet his legacy definitely lives on through the dedicated teams that carry his vision forward.
Dustin:You want to tell us a bit about the parks.
Ashley:I really, really do. In 1977, walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom opened its gates to the public as it forever changed the landscape of Orlando. Epcot, known once as Epcot Center, opened in 1982. Now Disney's Hollywood Studios, known as Disney MGM Studios, opened in 1988 to 1989, followed, which left Disney's Animal Kingdom as the last resort to open in 1998. Each of these parks brought a new, unique charm to the sprawling resort. The iconic and that iconic Cinderella castle has become a symbol of enchantment, inviting guests in a world where imagination knows no bounds. Hey, dustin.
Dustin:Yeah.
Ashley:Do you know what my favorite Disney park is? What Epcot?
Dustin:Did you know what? It was originally planned by Walt Disney? It wasn't supposed to even be a theme park.
Ashley:No, it wasn't.
Dustin:Yeah, so Epcot actually stands for the experimental prototype community of tomorrow, which is something that Walt wanted to do. And if the vision would have actually come to fruition, you would have been like in the center and there would have been large, towering buildings that featured offices, schools, stores, pretty much like a modern day downtown. That would all be in one giant building and then, going out from the city center in a straight line, would feature forms of public transportation like the Tomorrowland's people mover, and that would take guests from the city center out to their homes in the suburbs.
Ashley:No way Can you imagine what Orlando would look like now, with that in place.
Dustin:I know it would be very interesting. Actually, 100%, oh my goodness.
Ashley:Tell me, oh, my goodness, tell me.
Dustin:A thing. I just got an email from a thing about a thing and we'll discuss off the air, but hopefully I'll have them, maybe some exciting news for you guys in the future. Anyway, we'll get back on topic now. So the arrival of Walt Disney World had a profound impact on Orlando's economy. The influx of tourists brought jobs and opportunities, promoting a surge in tourism and construction, hospitality and other service industries. Local businesses thrived as the tourism industry began to flourish even more and the city evolved from a quiet town focused around citrus production to a bustling metropolis. Walt Disney World became not just a theme park but an economic engine that fueled the nation's growth.
Ashley:It definitely did, and over the decades Walt Disney World has continued to innovate and expand. With the introduction of Epcot, that brought a futuristic and educational dimension to the resort. Walt Disney's Hollywood Studios celebrates the magic of the silver screen, With Disney's Animal Kingdom being the fourth theme park. It welcomed guests, blending entertainment with the conservation efforts.
Dustin:The 1990s saw the advent of themed resorts and water parks. The contemporary and river country were the first to be added to the repertoire and create layers to immerse Disney guests in the experience. Later on, the creation of the Disney Vacation Club provided guests with the opportunity to own their own piece of the magic, fostering a sense of community among Disney enthusiasts.
Ashley:Walt Disney World's embraced its technological advancements and also continually enhanced the guest experience With the introduction of the FastPast system, magic bands and the interactive attractions that showcased Disney's commitment to blending entertainment with cutting-edge technology. The parks have definitely become a beacon for the state-of-the-art storytelling, with attractions like Avatar, flight of Passage at Disney's Animal Kingdom setting new standards for immersive experiences.
Dustin:Now, beyond Orlando, the Walt Disney Company has expanded its magical footprint globally. Disney theme parks now enchant visitors in California, Paris, Tokyo, Hong Kong and Shanghai. The cultural influence of Disney has permeated societies worldwide, with its beloved characters, movies and franchises becoming touchstones for generations.
Ashley:Now, walt Disney World has faced many challenges over the years, from the economic downturns to natural disasters. However, the resilience of this company and its commitment to guest satisfaction has led it to continuous adaptations. With the acquisition of Pixar Animation Studios, marvel Entertainment and Lucasfilm, this has infused new creativity into the Disney universe, ensuring the parks remain at the forefront of the storytelling and entertainment.
Dustin:Now the COVID-19 pandemic presented an unprecedented challenge to the global tourism industry, and this does indeed include Walt Disney World. Temporary closures, reduced capacity and health and safety measures tested the resilience of these parks. However, the company's adaptability was paragoned to the introduction of enhanced safety protocols and the expansion of virtual experiences and a renewed focus on guests and cast member well-being.
Ashley:Absolutely. Walt Disney World's impact extends beyond economic matrix. The resort actively engages with local communities through charitable initiatives, educational programs and environmental stewardship my personal favorite the Disney's Conservation Fund, for instance, supports local and global nonprofit organizations to positively impact wildlife, ecosystems and the communities closely linked to their survival.
Dustin:Now we have only barely brushed the surface on Disney, but we're going to go into even more detail on Disney at a later time. But don't worry, we will definitely be sure we invite you guys along for that fun when we do. But we want to take a little bit of time to discuss a few other parks that have shaped the landscape of Orlando, but more specifically the I-4 corridor 100%.
Ashley:In the late 1980s, universal Studios set out on a cinematic journey that would forever alter the landscape of entertainment in Orlando, florida. Universal Studios Florida, the brainchild of the MCA, incorporated and Universal Pictures opened its doors in 1990, as it offered guests a behind-the-scenes look at the magic of Hollywood.
Dustin:Now, the next park that we will discuss is personally our favorite place here in Orlando the Universal Orlando Resort. Originally Universal Studios Florida. Their story begins with a desire to bring the glitz and glam of Hollywood to the east coast. The park's opening on June 7th of 1990 marked a significant moment in the theme park industry. Located in Orlando, a city already known for its tourism and attractions, universal Studios aimed to provide visitors with a unique immersive experience that blurned the lines between film and reality.
Ashley:Upon opening, universal Studios Florida featured a mix of original attractions and reimagined versions of popular Universal Studios Hollywood rights. The park's iconic entrance arch, modeled after the classic Universal Studios gates, welcomed guests into the world of movies. Attractions like Earthquake, the Big One, confrontation and Jaws captured the imagination of visitors as they were showcasing the studio's expertise yes Words today and creating thrilling and cinematic experiences.
Dustin:The success of Universal Studios Florida prompted a wave of expansion throughout the 90s. In 1991, the park introduced the Dynamic Entertainment District Universal City Walk, offering a vibrant mix of dining, shopping and nightlife. The Hard Rock Cafe, jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville and how do you pronounce it?
Ashley:Emeralds.
Dustin:Emeralds I always want to call it Ermelees Emerald's restaurant Orlando were among the first establishments to Grace City Walk.
Ashley:Do you know what replaced Emeralds? What Big Fire. I love Big Fire so good. While in 1993, the park unveiled its first major expansion with the addition of my personal favorite park, the Universal's Islands of Adventure. It was a groundbreaking theme park that would later become a part of the Universal Orlando Resort. The Islands of Adventure looked to the literature to bring iconic attractions like the amazing adventure of Spider-Man and Jurassic Park River Adventure, as they further solidified Universal's commitment to pushing the boundaries of theme park storytelling.
Dustin:Now, as the park entered into a new millennium, a shift occurred in the way that Universal Studios Florida presented itself. The concept of a working film studio gradually gave way to the focus on more immersive experiences and attractions inspired by popular franchises. We saw the classic attraction confrontation close to make way for the present-day mummy starring Brendan Fraser. Universal partnered with Lowe's Hotels Company to build extraordinary resorts across its campus. This dynamic of collaboration seamlessly blends the magic of Universal's theme parks with the luxury and comfort offered by Lowe's Hotels Company, creating an unparalleled vacation experience for their visitors.
Ashley:One of the most transformative moments in Universal Studios Florida's history occurred in 2010, with the opening of the Wizarding World at Fairy Potter and Islands of Adventure my personal favorite part of violence. This magical expansion, in collaboration with Warner Brothers, brought to life the enchanting world created by JK Rowling In the winter town of Hogsmeade. It has allowed guests to step into the pages of those beloved books and movies. Universal realized which they should have very quickly that it was so popular while the decision was made to close Jaws at Universal Studios and replace it with Diagon Alley Building. The Hogwarts Express is an innovative way for guests to travel between each of the parks.
Dustin:And you know, the thing I love most about the Hogwarts Express is it's a different ride in both directions.
Ashley:It really is so it's a different experience each way.
Dustin:And now we're seeing the construction of a third Harry Potter themed land in Universal's epic universe, which is set to open sometime in 2025. However, Universal has not confirmed if that area will be themed to the direct IP of Harry Potter or the Fantastic Beasts and when to Find them, which is another JK Rowling book and film based inside the same Wizarding Universe.
Ashley:Can you imagine? The evolution of Universal Studios Florida continued with the opening of Universal's Volcano Bay in 2017. This water theme park introduced a new level of innovation and water attractions, featuring the towering Krakatau volcano as its centerpiece. You can literally see that on I4. With a focus of technology, immersive theming and unique water experiences and the best tacos I've ever had, volcano Bay has become a key component at Universal Orlando Resort.
Dustin:And the ongoing commitment to expanding and enhancing the guest experience has led to the introduction of additional attractions such as Fast and the Furious Supercharged because we're all family here the Race Through New York starring Jimmy Fallon, and the Born Stunt Spectacular, which is personally my favorite attraction at Universal Studios. These attractions incorporated cutting edge technologies, live action, stunts and immersive storytelling, aligning with Universal Studios Florida's mission to captivate audiences with unforgettable experiences. Have I ever told you that Universal actually tweeted me back one time?
Ashley:No way.
Dustin:So they had a tweet about if the world is filled with Born Stunt Spectacular fans, they're there. If the world only has one fan, they're there. If there are no Born Stunt Spectacular fans, then they no longer exist on this planet. And I tweeted them back and said it's my mission to watch the show from every angle of the theater because it is a different show, because you get to see things that you don't always see from the center if you're really close to the stage, and vice versa. I'm a tech guru so I like to see those things.
Dustin:And they tweeted me back and they said that they believe in me.
Ashley:They believe in you.
Dustin:And they also told me and you that not all heroes wear capes, because we went through camp Jurassic recently and made sure that there was no endominus Rex activity there and that we made it out safely. So thank you, universal, we are your heroes even though we don't wear capes.
Ashley:We barely made it out, but you know what Universal is doing really really well at right now.
Dustin:What they're looking to the future Because in 2019,.
Ashley:Universal announced that's plans to open their fourth park, epic Universe, which I think is going to be I did it last episode it's going to be epic. I hate me too, guys, from what we have seen in Red Gas. We'll enter the park and find a centralized location based on a steampunk celestial theme. As they surround the center of the park will be portals that will take us to heavily themed lands.
Dustin:Now I do want to reiterate what Ashley just said here, from what we have seen in Red. So we cannot confirm nor deny it. Any of this is true. This is based solely off of what we've seen. I'm the one who came up with the word steampunk and I've heard some of our friends. We refer to the center of the park as a celestial theme because it seems to be very spacey. Keep in mind, we are not here to to confirm nor deny. This is just our best guesses.
Ashley:And once all those things do come out by Universal and they get confirmed, we will be sure to share them with you as soon as we know them.
Dustin:So, going back into that, so many IPs or is what we refer to in the film industry as intellectual properties have been rumored to be at the park, including and what seems to be potentially our best guesses are how to Train your Dragon, harry Potter or Fantastic Beasts and when to Find them, universal's classic monsters, which I hope is kind of like Halloween, horror Nights and Super Nintendo World. Now, in February of 2023, mark Woodbury officially announced who's the CEO of Universal. He officially announced that Super Nintendo World was indeed coming to Epic Universe and he called it the worst kept secret in history.
Ashley:However, the project was deleted, definitely in July of 2020. Thank you to that pandemic. But, excitingly, on March 3rd of 2021, comcast the now owners of Universal, announced the immediate restart of construction. In March of 2023, mr Woodbury also announced that they would be renaming Universal Land O'Rease Award to Universal Destination and Experiences. With Universal's Epic Universe dropping that apostrophe, s M just becoming Universal Epic Universe and with this, new park.
Dustin:We are also seeing the addition of Stella Nova and Terra Luna, two new value resorts, and looking at the concept art from Universal's Epic Universe Epic Universe it appears that Universal is creating what's potentially going to be their grandest resort yet and it's.
Dustin:If you look, it's the very large building in the center of the concept art and, like I said, we are thinking that this may potentially become the new flagship resort for the Universal Company.
Dustin:On May 5th of 2022, universal actually offered 13 acres of land where Epic Universe was being built for a Brightline route commuter station, which is that high speed rail that we're going to be talking to you guys about in part two, and maybe we'll talk a little bit more about this, but they pretty much stepped in to claim the direct line to Orlando International Airport, west Palm Beach, boca Raton, fort Lauderdale, Aventura and Miami after Disney pulled out of their proposal with Brightline.
Dustin:And what I think is probably the most exciting news to have come from Universal Studios in a hot minute is recently, universal Studios said that it was looking into the possibility of building a theme park in the United Kingdom after purchasing 480 acre parcel of land near Bedford, england. Now the land was purchased by the Universal's parent company, comcast Corporation, in August of 2023 for $271 million. Now we've not gotten any more information out of that except for recently. The residents who reside in the town of Bedford received official letters from the Comcast NBC Universal company stating that they did indeed buy the property, but they're not saying there's for sure a park going in there and that if they do plan to build a park, that the residents of the town of Bedford will be the first to know and that Universal will be working with the community if that decision is made.
Dustin:The queen would get a part to the king. Long live the king Boo queen no.
Ashley:I need the queen to have a part though that woman needs, like a statue in this new park.
Dustin:Yeah, true, maybe she'll have one.
Ashley:Oh gosh, I hope so. Oh, maybe they'll have like entertainment like a show about her the crown.
Dustin:You know they did create a Netflix show called Princess Diana. It didn't go over well with people in the UK.
Ashley:Yeah, that doesn't surprise me.
Dustin:Okay, but it was back to Universal.
Ashley:Beyond its role as an entertainment destination, universal Studios Florida actively engages with the community through charitable initiatives and educational program. The company, like any major entertainment complex, faced many challenges over the years. Economic downturns, changing consumer preferences and external factors such as that annoying COVID-19 pandemic presented many hurdles. However, the park's resilience, adaptability and commitment to guest satisfaction allowed it to weather these challenges, emerging stronger and more innovative each and every time. Way to go, guys.
Dustin:And yet again, just like with Disney, we have only barely brushed the top of Universal. Now, I know we've talked about Universal in a previous episode and we do plan on going back to the park very soon. Oh yeah, so don't worry, we'll invite you along Now. Just down the road from Universal, seaworld Orlando has emerged as a maritime haven that seamlessly intertwines education, conservation and entertainment. Since its inception, seaworld Orlando has evolved from a marine themed park to a comprehensive destination that not only captivates visitors with thrilling attraction, but also plays a pivotal role in marine life conservation and education.
Ashley:Now SeaWorld Orlando's story begins in 1973, when the park opened its gates to the public. It was conceived by a team of visionaries including George Malay, milton Shed, david Des Moines and Ken Norris, and SeaWorld's aim to provide guests with an immersive marine experience that went beyond traditional aquariums. The park's opening marked the expansion of SeaWorld's brand, which already had two successful parks in San Diego and San Antonio.
Dustin:Now wildly early years saw SeaWorld Orlando establish itself as a premier marine themed park. That's a hard thing to say marine themed park, Featuring marine life exhibits, live shows and attractions. The park's commitment to marine education and conservation was evident from the start, with exhibits showcasing the diverse array of marine species and habitats.
Ashley:And SeaWorld Orlando has set itself apart by incorporating education into its core mission. The park sectioned educational initiatives aimed to foster an understanding of marine life ecosystems and the importance of conservation. Educational programs, live presentations and interactive exhibits allow guests to connect with marine life on a much, much deeper level, as this sparked an appreciation for the oceans and their inhabitants.
Dustin:Now. Over the years, seaworld Orlando has been actively involved in marine conservation efforts. The park has participated in rescue and rehabilitation programs for injured and stranded marine animals, working in collaboration with organizations dedicated to marine welfare. Through initiatives like SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Conservation Fund, the park contributes to global conservation projects, emphasizing the need to protect marine environments and wildlife.
Ashley:As SeaWorld Orlando grew, so did its repit, repits for. Thank you very much Of iconic attractions and entertainment offerings, with the introduction of popular shows like Shamu, believe and One Ocean. These featured the park's resident killer whales as they became a symbol of the SeaWorld experience. Their all inspiring performances have showcased their intelligence and grace of these marine ambassadors, while conveying important messages about conservation.
Dustin:Thrill seekers were drawn to the adrenaline-pumping rides like Kraken, Manta and Journey to Atlantis. Blending the excitement of three park thrills with the allure of marine-themed storytelling, the park's ability to balance entertainment with education became a hallmark, creating a unique destination that catered to a diverse audience.
Ashley:Now, at the start of the new millennia, seaworld Orlando expanded its portfolio with the introduction of Discovery Cove. This boutique park offered an intimate, all-exclusive experience which allowed guests to interact with dolphins, snorkeling through coral reefs and even unwind in a tropical oasis. Discovery Cove's emphasis on close encounters with marine life provided a more immersive and personalized experience for its guests.
Dustin:Aquatica SeaWorld's water park made its debut in 2008, adding another dimension to SeaWorld Orlando experience. Combining water attractions, animal encounters and thrilling slides, aquatica became a refreshing addition to the Central Florida's water park scene. The park's innovative attractions, including the Dolphin Plunge and Ray Rush, continued the tradition of blending excitement with marine-inspired themes.
Ashley:Now we do kind of want to take a moment here real quick before we start our next little bit about SeaWorld, and we do want to just give a small bit of a warning here. We are going to touch on a small topic that might be a little scary a little. I don't want to say offensive, but it just might be a little. It might be too much for some of our listeners. So if you're not a fan of listening to pretty traumatic events or pretty traumatic things that have happened, I would skip ahead a little bit and meet us up when we talk about our wet and wild experience.
Dustin:SeaWorld Orlando has experienced tragic incidents involving the loss of the beloved animal ambassadors, which has deeply affected both the park's staff and visitors. One such heartbreaking incident occurred in 2010 when a veteran trainer, don Branchow, tragically lost her life during a performance involving Telecom, one of the most famous killer wells. This incident garnered widespread attention in Prompton SeaWorld to change its safety protocols and procedures. The park's implemented comprehensive changes, including the suspension of all close contact performances with killer wells and the implementation of enhanced safety measures to prioritize the well-being of both animals and their ambassadors. The loss of Don was a somber moment in SeaWorld's history, leading to a commitment to the continuous improvement and heightened focus on ensuring the safety and welfare of all marine ambassadors and wildlife.
Ashley:This prompted them to face challenges with public perception, particularly related to the treatment of their killer wells and captivity. Documentaries and public scrutiny prompted SeaWorld to reassess its practices and make significant changes. In 2016, the park announced the end of its Orca breeding program and the phasing out of theatrical killer whale shows, making a paradigm shift in the park's approach to animal welfare. The park's commitment to conservation and education remained steadfast, with an increased focus on showcasing the natural behaviors of marine animals in a more naturalistic environment. The evolution of SeaWorld Orlando's mirrored changing societal attitudes towards animal welfare and environmental responsibilities.
Dustin:We're not going to talk about that.
Ashley:SeaWorld Orlando has continued its dedication to innovation with the opening of Icebreaker, a rural or coastry featuring multiple launches and a unique reverse launch element. The park's ability to introduce cutting-edge attractions while maintaining a focus on marine conservation reinforced its status as a leader in the theme park industry.
Dustin:You do that. Beyond the role of it being a major entertainment destination, seaworld Orlando actively engages in local community through outreach programs, educational partnerships and conversation initiatives. The park collaborates with schools, environmental organizations and community groups to promote marine education and conservation welfare.
Ashley:They got Pipeline, pipeline was the next one, and then guess what? They just announced that's coming this year.
Dustin:Oh, the Penguin, ride.
Ashley:Penguin Trek.
Dustin:Penguin Trek, I'm excited about that, did you hear?
Ashley:what they just announced, though, with this.
Dustin:No.
Ashley:That you're going to end the ride in the Penguin exhibit.
Dustin:So you're going to freeze after you get scared. The ride that was there previous, which I think was also called Penguin Trek, was a trackless ride that you would get in and you would ride through the building.
Ashley:It was kind of like for those that have ridden Ratatouille similar concept.
Dustin:Yes, a little bit older, but similar concept. Yes, but yeah, it was essentially the same thing. So I think this is going to be the same thing. They're just replacing an older, outdated form of a ride attraction with something new and thrilling, with the roller coaster.
Ashley:Yeah, speaking of future, seaworld has remained committed to its core principles of education, conservation and entertainment. The park has continued to evolve in pricing, technological advancements, it's expanded its conservation efforts and it's introducing new and innovative attractions, like Penguin Trek, that will capture and continue to bring our guests a deeper connection to the oceans.
Dustin:And, just as our previous two theme parks, this again is only the tip of the iceberg.
Ashley:I can't wait because we have so many things planned with SeaWorld this year, because SeaWorld has, I think, probably the best food setups ever, because I'm a big, big fan of all of their food. What's it called?
Dustin:The festivals Festivals. Thank you, I could not come up with that word.
Ashley:I really like those and I'm really looking forward to introducing you to all of those.
Dustin:Yeah. So, like I said before, we'll definitely let you know when we're there. Keep an eye on our social medias for when we are there and all that fun.
Ashley:And you'll be invited.
Dustin:Yeah, so I think that it's time for us to talk about.
Ashley:Wet and Wild, the defunct water park, absolutely. ["wet and Wild Orlando"].
Dustin:Next we're gonna discuss Wet and Wild Orlando, once the epitome of aquatic inner excitement in Central Florida, closed its gates in 2016, leaving behind a legacy of water-soaked memories and thrilling experiences. Now, this iconic water park, situated on International Drive, had a storied history that spanned nearly four decades, from its opening in 1977 to its closure in 2016,. Wet and Wild captured the hearts of visitors with innovative water attractions, exhilarating rides and a vibrant atmosphere.
Ashley:Now Wet and Wild made a splash onto the theme park scene in 1977 under the visionary leadership of George Malay yeah, that same guy who founded SeaWorld as it pioneered the water park industry. This park was groundbreaking for its time as it introduced the concept of water-themed amusement park with a variety of innovative attractions.
Dustin:Now, one of the park's standout features was the revolutionary Lazy River, an attraction that allowed visitors to leisurely float along a winding course, soaking in the Florida sun. This seemingly simple attraction became a staple in water parks worldwide, illustrating Wet and Wild's ability to influence the industry.
Ashley:Now Wet and Wild Orlando has continued to evolve and expand throughout the years, introducing a plethora of groundbreaking attractions that set the standard for water park experiences. The Black Hole, a pioneered and closed water slide with thrilling twists and turns, and the Surge, a multi-person raft ride, were just a few examples of the park's commitment to innovation and excitement.
Dustin:Now perhaps one of the most iconic attractions at Wet and Wild was Bombay. Now. This unique slide featured a trap door that dropped riders into a nearly near vertical descent, creating an adrenaline rush that became synonymous with the water park's daring spirit. The Bombay exemplified Wet and Wild's reputation as a trendsetter in the water park industry, inspiring similar attractions around parks worldwide.
Ashley:Wet and Wild also embraced the nightlife entertainment with the introduction of the dive-in movie scene, where guests could float in the wave pool while enjoying classic films projected onto a large screen. This innovative approach to combining water-based fun with cinematic experiences added to that extra layer of excitement to the park's offering. Can you imagine Jaws while sitting in a lazy river?
Dustin:I'm not gonna lie. You said dive-in and I thought of Mel's die-in sign at New Personal.
Ashley:Are you hungry over there?
Dustin:No, I just yeah, I don't know.
Ashley:But yeah, jaws, and that would be hilarious. That would not be hilarious, I'd be scared.
Dustin:I would get one of those little fins that can swim through the water, little remote-controlled fins.
Ashley:And remind me never to go to a water-themed park at night with you.
Dustin:So, as the years passed, Wet and Wild faced increased competition from newer water parks in the area, with the planned opening of Universal's Volcano Bay and other themed water attractions that shifted the dynamic of water park entertainment in Central Florida. Despite its competition, Wet and Wild continued to draw in crowds with these classic attractions, beloved slides and the sense of nostalgia that endeared locals and tourists alike.
Ashley:And in 2016, under the management of Universal destinations and experiences. That's probably why they played Jaws. Oh my God, I'm getting it now. Wet and Wild Orlando announced its closure, marking the end of an era for water park enthusiasts. The decision was part of Universal Orlando's broader reservoir plans for expansion, leading to the closure of the iconic park to make way for Universal's endless summer dockside and surfside resort. Universal also opened Volcano Bay water theme park in the following year, just across the road. I love that park, I love it and I love that resort. It's so good.
Dustin:I actually have some interesting stuff about that momentarily. So the closure of Wet and Wild Orlando was met with a wave of nostalgia and a sense of loss among those that had created lasting memories within the watery embrace. The park's legacy, however, lives on in the hearts of those who experienced its exhilarating rides, the Lazy River and the family friendly atmosphere Now when you go to Universal's endless summer surfside resort. So dockside is across the street in what used to be the parking lot of Wet and Wild, and surfside is where the actual park used to be. So they have one pole and they have one bar at that pole.
Dustin:Apologize that don't remember the name of that bar, but if you go to that bar and you order one of their specialty cocktails, every single one of their specialty cocktails is named after the old rides and attractions. So I'm pretty sure they've got a Bombay beverage. The sand bar yes, that's what it is, the sand bar. But you can go there and you can order a specialty beverage from that bar and they are gonna be named after the defunct attractions of Wet and Wild.
Ashley:That is so cool. I love how they're paying homage to that. We're gonna have to see if they've got any mocktails that are named after any of the rides. That'd be cool. While the impact of Wet and Wild's closure was not just local, but it resonated across the water park industry, the park had left a lasting mark on the evolution of water-paced entertainment, influencing the design and features of subsequent water parks worldwide. Its innovative spirit, commitment to thrills and the creation of timeless attractions had paved the way for the future water park experiences.
Dustin:Now, wet and Wild's legacy is also evident in the nostalgia that continues to surround it. Former visitors reminisce about the lazy days in the sun, the daring descents down thrilling slides and the unique charm that defined the park. The emotional connection that people formed with Wet and Wild speaks to its enduring impact on the local community and the broader world of the water park enthusiast Now, we obviously won't get to go experience this park.
Ashley:Sad.
Dustin:But let us know if you guys are interested.
Ashley:Hey, you know what we get to fix that. Test out words. I'm just so excited to talk about what Volcano Bay? Yeah, we will go to Volcano Bay and we can talk about Disney's water park too, because they have Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon, which are also very good ones, and we can even check out Sea Roads Aquatica. And maybe, maybe we can go to Discovery Cove.
Dustin:Maybe, but if you guys are interested and you would like to hear more about Wet and Wild, let us know, reach out and tell us and we can go further in depth and do some more research and maybe speak to some people locally that got to experience Wet and Wild. Absolutely.
Ashley:But you know, orlando isn't just known for its theme parks. The area stands as a vibrant economic hub for the diverse sections that contributed to its growth. So on the part two episode, we are going to discuss the impacts of the Orange County Convention Center, or, as we have deemed its name, the OC3. The Bright Line, which is the first privately funded inner city rail line in the US in over 100 years.
Dustin:And, if I'm not mistaken, they are the first high speed rail as a private company. Stop, that's so cool. Yep, they're actually getting ready to expand in Las Vegas, I hear.
Ashley:Wow, look at Vegas copying us. That's a first.
Dustin:Yeah, we'll also discuss citrus production, colleges and universities and the population changes in Orlando over the last 200 years.
Ashley:Wow, oh, and we're also going to talk about the recreation gems like Lockhaven and Gatorland, and I'm so, so excited for that.
Dustin:I am super excited. Lockhaven Park looks absolutely amazing.
Ashley:And I'd love to feed you to the Gators in Gatorland. No, I'm sorry.
Dustin:No.
Ashley:I'd love to experience Gatorland with you. I'm sorry, okay.
Dustin:Okay, okay, all right, that's fun, okay. Well, guys, we hope you enjoyed today's episode and we really hope that you guys enjoy our historical take looks backs, take, looks backs takes backsies.
Ashley:We hope that you guys enjoy our historical episodes.
Dustin:This is something that we wanna do with you guys. We wanna be able to share our community with you, outside of just the fun things that we're doing. So if there's anything in or around the Orlando area that you guys wanna know about or you think that we should discuss on the podcast, feel free to reach out and let us know.
Ashley:Absolutely so until next time, because we're going to talk about Knoxville and I'm so excited.
Dustin:You ready for the cold?
Ashley:I'm ready for the chocolate Chocolate. I'm ready for the chocolate. That's what I'm really for. So, yeah, thanks.
Dustin:Until next time, peace out Cub Scouts.
Ashley:Bye guys, love ya Bravabadi.