THE UNOFFICIAL FIREWORKS DINING PLAN

Written by David "Indy" Graham

Have you ever done one of the firework dining plans or wanted too? There is a wide range of options based on what you are looking for from ones offering drinks, food or just desserts but all included that special viewing area. They are truly unique ways to experience an end to the day at the park. However, what if I told you there was a way to experience one without even entering a park and you're able to see all of Central Florida's nighttime pyrotechnics from just one location as well as an amazing view of Orlando at it's actually at Universal Resort.

​So let's talk about Bar 17 Bistro. If you are not familiar with it, this is actually the bar located on the roof of Universal’s Aventura Hotel. Universal bills it as a "drink with a view" but it's really so much more with it's offerings of urban international flavors and more, along with a full bar. Open daily from about 4pm to Midnight Sunday through Wednesday, and 4pm to 2am on Thursday through Saturday with a DJ on Friday and Saturday from 8pm to midnight. It really is an amazing place. The best part is, according to the drink menu, that they have Happy Hour 10 pm – Close: Draft Beer & House Wine - $6 which for a theme park is about a $3 discount on beer alone. But what about that food I mentioned earlier? They offer a wide range of options on the menu from appetizers to proteins (steaks/seafood) however their signature option there is the Bao Bun. These are steamed Chinese bread rolls filled with 4 different options to enjoy.  

As for the view from up there? Like it was stated earlier this is on the 17th floor roof at Universal's Aventura Hotel so on a clear day or night you can see for miles. If you look to the south you will be able to see SeaWorld's nightly show and of course to the north side is both Islands of Adventure with Hogwarts Castle and right next door is Universal Studios that has the Cinematic Celebration on select nights. Yet if you look to the west you will not only see the fireworks form the Magic Kingdom but also Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios. And not to be left out looking east you will see Downtown Orlando. 

Well there you have it an unofficial fireworks dining package without stepping foot into any theme park. I know for some they want to be up close and personal for these shows but for others looking for a night out and a way to completely skip those crowds leaving the park at the end of the night then this might be the perfect option for you. And if you're looking to make a weekend get away, the rates at Universal's Aventura are moderately priced. I would suggest looking for one of the skyline rooms and maybe asking for a room looking to the West (you can watch the Disney fireworks from your room) or north and view Universal at night.  Our staff at Universal Disney Nutz can help you find the perfect room.  Just send us an email at castlevacationsbyudn@gmail.com and our certified travel advisors with Castle Vacations can assist you!

Let us know what you think and again thank you for being a part of Universal Disney Nutz.

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