If you or someone in your family is a hockey fan, you know that NHL All-Star Weekend takes place January 27-28, 2018 at Amalie Arena in Tampa Bay. While Florida isn't usually the first destination that comes to mind when you think of hockey, it's actually an alluring destination for a break right in the middle of winter. If you want to see this star-filled event in person, why not combine it with an Orlando vacation?
Experience the Thrill of All-Star Weekend
It's exponentially more exciting to see a sporting event live than on television. And no one is more enthusiastic in their devotion than hockey fans! This year's game is sure to provide many thrills with All-Star captains, Stamkos, McDavid, Subban, and Ovechkin leading their teams. Here are some of the special events that are scheduled for the weekend:
- All-Star Friday Night - Arrive early for the Friday night concert. With a lineup of musical acts, including pop rockers, Fitz and the Tantrums, as well as the local artist, Flo Rida.
- All-Star Pregame Events - On Friday, as well as the weekend, you have a chance to meet your favorite NHL players (and mascots), get autographs, and even practice your own hockey skills.
- All-Star Game - The showcase game takes place on Sunday, January 28 at 3:30 PM.
- Gasparilla Parade - This isn't affiliated with the NHL, but it's another traditional event that's taking place in Tampa Bay on January 27. This free pirate-themed parade is a fun event for the whole family.
With so much going on, you can choose to attend as many events as you want. If you're mainly interested in the game itself, you might attend the Gasparilla Parade on Saturday and the game on Sunday.
Reasons to Visit Orlando
If you're already heading to Florida for the All-Star Game, why not make it an even more incredible vacation by checking out some of the world-famous attractions in Orlando?
- Theme Parks - Orlando is known as the theme park capital of the world and for good reason. There are more theme parks than most people can fit in on a single visit, including Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, Epcot, Disney's Animal Kingdom, and SeaWorld Orlando. Both children and adults can spend countless hours enjoying the rides, iconic characters, and special events.
- Entertainment - There are lots of shows and concerts in Orlando, both at the theme parks and throughout the city. You can see the unique La Nouba-Cirque du Soleil performance at Walt Disney World. For some laughs, spend an evening at SAK Comedy Lab. There are also many dinner theater options, including Treasure Tavern Dinner Theatre and Sleuths Mystery Dinner Shows.
- Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve - Aside from its amazing theme parks, Orlando offers lots of natural beauty. This preserve has 440-acres of trails where you can take short or long hikes and relax by the lake.
- Theme Restaurants - After enjoying the rides and shows, have a great meal at one of Orlando's many themed eateries such as House of Blues, Planet Hollywood, Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville, Hard Rock Cafe, and lots of others.
- Museums and Unusual Attractions - Orlando has an almost embarrassing wealth of attractions. Some receive less attention than they deserve as people focus on the major theme parks. However, you can also take the family to specialty museums such as The Titanic Artifact Exhibition, Madame Tussaud's, or the Orlando Museum of Art. There are a couple of excellent science museums as well, such as Wycliffe Discovery Center and Orlando Science Center.
If you want to combine a trip to Orlando with the NHL All-Star Weekend, you have a couple of options. You might stay at one of the theme park hotels in Orlando and head to Tampa Bay for the game. On the other hand, if you're more of a die-hard hockey fan you could stay in Tampa Bay and take a road trip to Orlando, if you get the chance. Contact us today if you’re looking for a luxury vacation home to make the most out of your next Orlando vacation.