Blog - Page 14 of 90 - ThemeParkHipster

Carowinds Amusement Theme Park NikkyJ at the Entrance of Scarowinds

2026 First-Timer’s Guide to Carowinds: Fury 325, Dining Plans, Fast Lane and More!

First Time at Carowinds? Here’s Exactly How to Plan the Perfect Day

Carowinds is that kind of park that sneaks up on you. You show up thinking, “Cool, coasters.”

And then you’re standing there like, “Wait… this place is actually beautiful.”

It sits right on the North Carolina/South Carolina line, and it feels like a little love letter to the Carolinas with things such as thrills, charm, nostalgia, and those tiny themed details that make you slow down and soak it in.

I recently visited for the first time after purchasing an Annual Pass and I’m super excited to share everything with you.

This is my guide to help you plan a no-stress game plan for a first visit: what to expect, what’s worth your time (and money), how to beat the crowds, and how to have a calm, confident day and yes, even if you’re going solo.

Guide to the Bread Box sandwich shop at Universal Orlando CityWalk with NikkyJ eating a Hot Turkey sandwich.

I Tried Bread Box at Universal CityWalk… and It’s Officially My New Favorite Quick Bite

Bread Box Handcrafted Sandwiches Review: Best Quick-Service Meal at CityWalk?

Sometimes you don’t want a full sit-down meal at Universal CityWalk… you want something quick, satisfying, and secretly amazing.

You know, the kind of food that fuels your next ride, your next shop stop, or your “I’m just here for the vibes” evening stroll.

You know I looove the vibes!

That’s exactly why Bread Box Handcrafted Sandwiches has become one of those quietly iconic CityWalk spots.

It’s a fast-casual sandwich shop that delivers big deli energy with hot melts, fresh ingredients, and comforting flavors that feel like a warm hug in between theme park chaos.

Universal even calls out their deli sandwiches and hot melts as a go-to lunch or dinner option.

And honestly?

It’s one of my favorite types of places: no fuss, no stress, just good food.

Epcot Flower and Garden Festival 2023 Japan Pavilion with Dragon Topiary. One of the best Epcot Festivals at Disney World!

2026 Epcot Festivals: Ultimate Guide to The Best Events at Disney World

You may be wondering, what is there to do at Epcot in 2026? I have ONE answer for you and it’s the annual Epcot festivals!

Epcot at Walt Disney World has undergone a complete transformation, yet in the midst of change there are four things that remain the same- the yearly festivals that are put on by Disney.

If you’ve ever visited Epcot during one of the four festival seasons, you’ll know that this is when Epcot truly comes alive with great food, fantastic drinks, unique entertainment, and a fun atmosphere.

If you’re still wondering what each of the festivals is all about and trying to choose which one to attend, then you’re going to want to keep reading!

Universal Orlando Resort Vivo Italian Kitchen Restaurant in CityWalk Entrance

I Ate at Vivo Italian Kitchen at Universal CityWalk – Here’s What’s Actually Worth Ordering

Vivo Italian Kitchen Review: The BEST Italian Restaurant at Universal CityWalk?

If you’ve ever walked through Universal CityWalk and thought, “I need a real meal… like a sit-down, breathe, reset my whole nervous system kind of meal,” let me point you straight to Vivo Italian Kitchen.

It’s one of those places that feels like a tiny glow-up in the middle of theme-park chaos which for me is polished without being stuffy, cozy without being sleepy, and consistently satisfying when you want something beyond quick-service survival food.

Something like real food…

People love Vivo because it hits that sweet spot: fresh-made pasta, wood-stove pizzas, solid cocktails, and a vibe that works for everyone such as date night, family dinner, or (my personal favorite) a peaceful solo dinner where nobody asks you to share your appetizer.

And yes, it’s located right in Universal CityWalk Orlando, so it’s easy to slide in before the parks, after the parks, or on a “parks are a lot today” kind of night.

NikkyJ in front of Cinderella Castle at the Magic Kingdom on a solo disney trip

2026 Disney Magic Kingdom Solo Trip: Ultimate Guide To Making The Most Of Your Vacation ALONE!

Disney for Solo Travelers: Magic Kingdom Edition!

Have you ever thought about doing the Disney’s Magic Kingdom solo?

This park is a solo theme park traveler’s must-do!

Magic Kingdom is the number one theme park in world and a place filled with so much magical adventure.

It’s a wonderful starter for you if you’re interested in the classic Disney appeal. It gives a good variety of thrilling attractions on the milder side that will keep you entertained during your whole trip by yourself.

The addition of the Tron roller coaster, continues to make the Magic Kingdom a world-class theme park.

2024 Epcot Festival of the Arts Disney World Rainbow Cake

5 BEST Epcot Festival of the Arts Foodie Treats You Need to Try in 2026!

Are you ready to try some of the BEST Epcot Festival of the Arts food?

If there is one thing solo travelers will love, it’s Epcot’s festivals.

They are happening almost all the time during the year and it’s one of the best places to visit the Disney parks solo and experience new things, especially food!

Epcot festivals kick off with the Festival of the Arts, where art forms of all varieties are celebrated. Artists come to showcase their pieces and do signings.

There are also fun artistic styles and photo-ops in place all over the parks. Plus, yummy themed food is out for all Guests to try!

There is so much to do, see and experience at Epcot Festival of the Arts. I’ve had a chance to try out some of the festival’s food booths and all they had to offer.

I enjoyed quite a few eats and beverages around the festival and I’m excited to share them with you!

So today, I will be breaking the festival food and beverages down as follows:

What To Expect At Epcot International Festival Of The Arts
Top Dishes You Must Try
Runner Up Dishes
Top Tips For Your Trip

Universal Orlando Resort Islands of Adventure with NikkyJ in front of the Hulk roller coaster

11 Best Quiet Spots at Universal Orlando for Solo Travelers to Recharge (My Go-To “Breather Breaks”)

The Introvert’s Guide to Universal Orlando: 11 Low-Key Spots to Relax Without Leaving the Fun

Solo days at Universal are my favorite kind of therapy… until the crowds, noise, and “GO GO GO” energy start feeling like your brain is buffering.

That’s why I always build in little recharge pockets such as places where you can breathe, reset your nervous system, and come back to the fun feeling like yourself again.

Below are my 11 best quiet(ish) spots across CityWalk, Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, Volcano Bay, Epic Universe, and one hotel “bonus reset” spot.

Universal Orlando Resort Bob Marley Restaurant in CityWalk

Bob Marley Restaurant at Universal CityWalk: What to Eat + What to Expect (My Honest Review)

If Universal CityWalk had a “vibe check” restaurant, Bob Marley – A Tribute to Freedom would pass with flying colors and a reggae bassline in the background.

It’s one of those spots people rave about because it doesn’t feel like a quick theme-park pit stop; instead, it feels like you accidentally wandered into a chill little Caribbean night out… and decided to stay for one more song (and one more bite).

Between the live reggae, the Bob Marley memorabilia, and a menu packed with Caribbean-influenced comfort food, this place is a whole mood… and it’s exactly why it’s been a CityWalk favorite for years.

I love coming here for the food but I stay for the rhythmic entertainment and the feeling of being lost on an island with great people.

Check out my full guide and review to get everything you need to know before you go!

Epcot Theme Park Disney World Festival of the Arts with Chalk Artist 2025

Epcot Festival of the Arts Seminars YOU MUST Do in 2026!

Have you ever wanted to know how to draw like the Disney pros? During the incredible Epcot Festival of the Arts seminars, you’ll get the opportunity to learn unique drawing tips from artists across the globe.

From January 16^th through February 23^rd of 2026, you’ll be able to participate in workshops that will teach you not only basic character sketches, but also add your artistic touch and so much more at Epcot!

Hollywood California Near Los Angeles Ovation Shopping and Loews Hotel

Loews Hollywood Hotel Review: What to Know BEFORE You Book (from a theme-park girlie who loves a “walkable, iconic, no-stress” home base)

If you’ve ever wanted to wake up in Hollywood and feel like you can literally roll out of bed and land in the middle of the action… Loews Hollywood Hotel is that kind of stay.

This is one of those hotels people love because it’s doing the most without being extra about it: a solid, full-service hotel with a rooftop pool, legit amenities, and a location that makes sightseeing ridiculously easy.

It’s important especially if you’re the type who doesn’t want to wrestle with LA traffic every single time you leave your room.

In this guide, I’ll break down everything you need to know about Loews Hollywood Hotel BEFORE you book your stay.

So, let’s dive in!