Cover Feature Minion Land Now Open

at Universal Studios Florida

This past summer, Minion Land on Illumination Avenue officially opened at Universal Orlando Resort. Guests of all ages can now step into the beloved world of the Minions franchise like never before at Universal Studios Florida. Developed in partnership between Universal’s award-winning creative team and the acclaimed filmmakers from Illumination, a whole new level of Minion mischief awaits in this vibrant new land.

Guests are welcomed to the land with a fun, photo-worthy “Minion Land” marquee featuring 22 Minions before embarking on more mayhem that awaits along Illumination Ave., including the groundbreaking new attraction – Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast – where guests can blast their way to supervillain stardom. Guests can also savor tasty dishes at Minion Cafe, snack on banana-flavored popcorn at Pop-a-Nana, cool off with sweet treats at Freeze Ray Pops, shop exclusive Minion-inspired merchandise and goodies at Bake My Day and the Evil Stuff retail store, laugh alongside the Minions while experiencing absolute Mayhem at the beloved Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, and meet lots of fan-favorite characters along the way at Illumination Theater.

Villain-Con Minion Blast blends immersive sets, interactive gamebased technology, and an original storyline for a first-of-its-kind attraction that puts guests’ villainous skills to the test to see if they have what it takes to become a member of the Vicious 6 – a notorious group of supervillains from the hit film, “Minions: The Rise of Gru.” Villain-Con Minion Blast is also the first Universal Orlando attraction to feature a connected gameplay experience via The Official Universal Orlando Resort App. By syncing their blaster to the app with just a tap, contenders can take their game to an entirely new level and track their scores, embark on special missions within the attraction, unlock evil perks and extra powerful blasts to help them gain more points and earn digital collectibles.

At the new Illumination’s Minion Cafe, guests can expect an immersive new eatery that offers something for everyone in a highly entertaining dining experience that features three themed areas designed after beloved Minions Kevin, Stuart, Bob and Otto: the Kitchen, the Breakroom and the Dining Room. Guests can also enjoy their meal at the outdoor patio that overlooks the fun of Minion Land. Guests of all ages can enjoy inventive fare featuring nearly 20 items inspired by memorable characters and staples from the Minions franchise.

Topped with a massive pink cupcake that’s visible from anywhere in Minion Land, Bake My Day is a whimsical retail location and bakery featuring a selection of Minion-themed sweet treats, including cupcakes, macarons, s’mores and more, along with exclusive Minion-inspired merchandise like apparel, plush, drinkware, accessories, keychains and more.

The Pop-a-Nana walkup location features sweet and savory popcorn, including a special banana flavor, inspired by the Minions’ love for bananas. Here, guests may also find an assortment of fun popcorn buckets, including the Disco Minion. Guests can cool off with a visit to Freeze Ray Pops, a walk-up window serving refreshingly colorful frozen treats inspired by Gru, the Minions and Vector.

For more info about Minion Land, visit universalorlando.com

Immerse yourself into the world of Rescue , Rehabilitation and Release

See the Real Florida Aboard the Barbara-Lee

The St. Johns Rivership Company offers more than just cruises. They provide a different way to experience Florida and appreciate its wildlife, its beauty and its warmth. All while indulging in chef-prepared cuisine, live onboard entertainment and endless hospitality in climatecontrolled comfort.

Family-owned and operated, the St. Johns Rivership Co. is the latest in a long line of sternwheelers that have been serving and sailing the area for centuries. From their homeport on Lake Monroe in Historic Downtown

Today, the Rivership Barbara-Lee is the only authentic sternwheeler still sailing the St. Johns River. Featuring ornate wrought iron railings and massive wooden paddle wheels, this historic boat recalls the elegance of the steamers that once plied the waterways across Central and North Florida between Jacksonville and Sanford.

For more info and a special discount, see our ad on page 9.

The Alligator & Wildlife Discovery Center is a remarkable institution that specializes in rescuing surrendered pets, including alligators and other wildlife species. Located in Madeira Beach, Florida, the center provides a safe haven for over 250 of these animals and educates the public about responsible pet ownership. Additionally, the center plays a crucial role in conservation efforts, protecting these species from extinction.

Through collaboration with other organizations, the Alligator & Wildlife Discovery Center ensures the best possible outcomes for these pets in need. It’s a beacon of compassion and deserves recognition for its invaluable contributions to pet rescue, rehabilitation, and conservation. See their ad above for more info.

Do you love cats? Do you love coffee? Then you’ve found the purr-fect place... Florida’s First Cat Café!

The Orlando Cat Café is a cozy co eehouse with comfortable furniture, premium co ee and delicious sandwiches and pastries. Enjoy your food in the co eehouse or, for a small entry fee, bring your purchase into the Cat Play/ Adoption Area where you’ll be greeted by cats and kittens – all available for adoption.

Town Center at Cagan Crossings

532 Cagan Park Avenue, Clermont, FL 34714

352-989-4820 | OrlandoCatCafe.com

Open 7 Days “Purr” Week

A Collaborative Project by:

15%

Brightline High-Speed Train Connects Orlando to South Florida

Florida residents and visitors can now finally connect between Orlando and South Florida (Miami, Aventura, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, and West Palm Beach) on the new Brightline high-speed rail. Experience the ultimate level of comfort and convenience on your next trip along Florida’s east coast by hopping on Brightline’s new high-speed train.

Passengers will enjoy breathtaking views of Florida’s landscape while indulging in luxurious amenities like spacious seats, gourmet meals, and premium entertainment options. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, this modern and efficient mode of travel is perfect for those looking to maximize their time and minimize their stress.

Brightline was recognized by Fast Company as one of the Most Innovative Companies in Travel and included in Condé Nast Traveler’s 2023 Hot List for the best new ways to travel. Offering a guest-first experience designed to reinvent train travel and take cars off the road, Brightline plans to bring its award-winning service to additional cities along the Gulf Coast in the near future.

With multiple ride packages available to entertain riders of all interests, there is a perfect addition to your Florida vacation for everyone aboard Brightline. So don’t wait, get your ticket and explore the Sunshine State in ways never before imagined.

For info on ticket and travel packages, schedules and more, visit gobrightline .com