Pandora: The World of Avatar at Animal Kingdom

Disney’s Animal Kingdom in Orlando is home to one of the most immersive themed lands ever created: Pandora – The World of Avatar. Inspired by James Cameron’s groundbreaking Avatar films, this extraordinary land transports visitors to the lush, alien moon of Pandora, blending cutting-edge technology with breathtaking artistry.

From the moment guests enter the Valley of Mo’ara, the experience feels otherworldly. Towering floating mountains hover overhead, waterfalls cascade into crystal-clear rivers, and bioluminescent plants light up the pathways as night falls. Every detail, from the ambient sounds to the carefully designed vegetation, creates a fully immersive environment, making visitors feel as though they have stepped off Earth and onto a living, breathing alien world.

Pandora is anchored by two signature attractions. Avatar Flight of Passage is a thrilling 3D flight simulator where guests ride on the back of a banshee, soaring over the moon’s landscapes with synchronized motion, mist, and scents for a truly sensory experience. In contrast, Na’vi River Journey offers a serene boat ride through a bioluminescent rainforest, culminating in an encounter with the Shaman of Songs, a remarkable Audio-Animatronics figure.

Dining and retail add to the land’s authenticity. The Satu’li Canteen serves themed cuisine inspired by the Na’vi culture, while Pongu Pongu offers unique snacks and drinks. Windtraders provides an assortment of themed merchandise, allowing visitors to take a piece of Pandora home.

Perhaps most magical is Pandora at night. The glowing plants, illuminated pathways, and alien soundscapes create an enchanting atmosphere, highlighting the land’s environmental themes of conservation and respect for nature.

Pandora – The World of Avatar is more than a theme park land, it’s an immersive journey into imagination, art, and storytelling. It captivates both fans of the films and newcomers alike, offering a sensory experience that transports guests to a world beyond anything on Earth.

Exploring the Medicine Hat Stampede Midway

It's been years since I've filmed any content at the Medicine Hat Stampede, so this year I thought I'd make a quick edit. Here's a few visual highlights from a night on the midway. 

Jaws at Universal Studios Hollywood

One of the most iconic and thrilling segments of the Universal Studios Hollywood Tram Tour is the Jaws experience, a nostalgic nod to Steven Spielberg’s 1975 blockbuster. As the tram winds its way through the Universal backlot, guests are transported to the sleepy seaside town of Amity Island, where danger lurks just beneath the surface. The setting, built around a small marina with quaint buildings and fishing boats, sets the stage for a chilling encounter.

As the tram pauses near the water, guests are drawn into the scene with an unsuspecting calm—until the infamous dorsal fin appears. With sudden splashes and the classic suspenseful music playing, a mechanical great white shark lunges from the water in a dramatic attack, creating a startling and unforgettable moment. Flames burst from nearby fuel tanks, water sprays into the tram, and the sense of danger feels surprisingly real despite the attraction’s age.

This portion of the tour is a fan-favorite not only for its jump scares but also because it captures the spirit of classic Universal movie magic. The shark itself is a nod to the original animatronic beast nicknamed “Bruce,” used in Spielberg’s film. Though simple by today’s standards, the Jaws scene continues to thrill generations of guests with its practical effects and clever staging.

Whether you're a longtime fan of Jaws or simply love a good scare, this portion of the tram tour is a quintessential part of the Universal experience, blending film history with theme park excitement.

Hogsmeade: Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Hogsmeade at Universal Orlando Resort in Florida is a magical themed area located in Universal’s Islands of Adventure. As part of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Hogsmeade brings to life the snow-covered rooftops, crooked chimneys, and charming shops seen in the films, offering visitors an immersive journey into J.K. Rowling’s world.

At the heart of Hogsmeade is the majestic Hogwarts Castle, home to the thrilling ride Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey. This groundbreaking attraction takes guests on a flying adventure through familiar locations like the Forbidden Forest, the Quidditch pitch, and the castle itself, blending motion simulation and real sets with stunning visuals.

Hogsmeade also features Flight of the Hippogriff, a family-friendly coaster that simulates a training flight over Hagrid’s hut, and the exciting roller coaster Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, which takes guests on a high-speed journey through the Forbidden Forest alongside magical creatures.

Shops in Hogsmeade sell authentic wizarding merchandise, including wands at Ollivanders, sweets at Honeydukes, and wizard robes at Dervish and Banges. The interactive wand spots let guests cast spells throughout the village, making windows animate and objects move.

Dining options include the rustic Three Broomsticks tavern, where guests can enjoy traditional British dishes and try the famous Butterbeer, served cold, frozen, or hot.

With its snow-covered charm, thrilling attractions, and rich attention to detail, Hogsmeade delivers an unforgettable experience for Harry Potter fans and theme park visitors alike.