Tours & Attractions

Special Attractions

Walt Disney World® Theme Parks

Make all the difference in your trip by filling your down time with magical moments. Whether it's spending a truly unforgettable evening with an old friend or sharing a dazzling nighttime sky with a new contact, magical experiences reign supreme in the Walt Disney World® Theme Parks. For details and prices, visit disneyconventionear.com/SWE.

Automation Fair® 2010 – Professional Trade Show and Student Tour

Professionals
Wednesday, Nov. 3, 8:00 am – 5:30 pm
Thursday, Nov. 4, 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
Students
Thursday, Nov. 4, 1:30 – 4:00 pm
Price: FREE, Professionals: unlimited attendance, Students: limit 90 participants

Automation Fair® 2010 is a technical conference and trade show hosted annually by Rockwell Automation, and we are fortunate that this year it is at the same time and city as WE10. The event is a great place to learn about the latest in industrial automation technology and the careers available in the industrial industry. Automation Fair® 2010 shows more than 100 advanced technology displays and demos showcasing the latest innovations and products from Rockwell Automation and over 100 of our PartnerNetwork™ member companies.

For Students: Are you familar with the industrial industry and all the rewarding careers it has to offer? On your guided tour of the show floor, the first stop on the show floor will be the Rockwell Automation Theatre for an overview of our industry, the products and services offered by Rockwell Automation, and the careers possible in product development, quality, manufacturing, marketing, sales and engineering design. You will then be guided by Rockwell Automation female engineers through the trade show floor so you can see the different applications of the products and hear personally from the female engineers about the type of careers they have enjoyed in this industry.

There is no charge to attend this tour which will occur Thursday, November 4, 1:30 - 4:00 pm. Just add this tour to your WE10 registration.

For Professionals: Please co-register for the event here.
The Automation Fair event provides an excellent educational opportunity for professionals at all levels to learn about the newest and best in automation technology. This year's event will feature a host of targeted industrial forums, technical sessions and hands-on labs focusing on advanced automation products, integrated control and information architecture, and value-add services and solutions. More than 100 Rockwell Automation Partner companies will display their latest innovations and products. Talk to the experts, ask questions, and learn about integrated control and information architecture, production and performance software, variable frequency drives, servos, power monitoring, operator interface products, best-in-class components, and how they help make manufacturers more productive and sustainable.

There is no charge to attend the event which takes place Wednesday, Nov. 3 from 8:00 am - 5:30 pm and Thursday, Nov. 4 from 8:00 am - 4:00 pm. You may attend during anytime either day.er

Epcot ® International Food & Wine Expo

Oct. 1 - Nov.14

Embark on an epicurean adventure as the 15th Annual Epcot ® International Food & Wine Expo showcases the flavors of the world. Please click here for more information and to purchase your tickets. 

Sightseeing Tours

La Nouba - Cirque du Soleil (SOLD OUT)

Wednesday, November 3; 5:00 – 9:00 pm
Price: $95.00; Limit: 30

La Nouba originates from the French phrase "faire la nouba," which means "to party" or "to live it up." It is a world where dreams and reality intertwine as the urban and circus worlds meet on stage. Through blending acrobatics, dazzling choreography, whimsical characters and live music, La Nouba stimulates our imagination from beginning to end. Evolving from a group of 20 street performers, at its beginnings in 1984, Cirque du Soleil has brought wonder and delight to almost 90 million spectators in over 200 cities on five continents.  Cirque du Soleil’s mission is to invoke the imagination, provoke the senses and evoke the emotions of people around the world.

Harry P. Leu Gardens and Museum (CANCELLED)

Thursday, November 4; 8:45 am – 12:30 pm
Price: $40.00; Limit: 45

Visit the serene and beautiful Harry P. Leu Gardens, featuring three miles of paved scenic walkways and 50 acres of southern styled gardens.  This breathtaking scenic tour includes a viewing of one of America’s largest Camellia collection, three acres of ideal gardens for weekend projects, the largest formal rose garden in Florida, a tropical stream, a butterfly garden and much more.  Additionally, the tour will visit the Harry P. Leu historical museum, built in the 1880’s. The mission of Harry P. Leu Gardens is to inspire people to appreciate and understand plants, the environment of Central Florida and the historic significance of the gardens.

Gatorland’s Gator Night Shine Tour

Friday November 5; 5:45 – 8:30 pm
Price: $55.00 (includes BBQ dinner); Limit: 45

Florida nightlife is about to get WILD! Your Gator Night Shine adventure takes you deep into the domain of Florida's most famous reptile, the alligator. Armed with only a flashlight and a few hot dogs, you bravely make your way along the winding wooden walkways of Gatorland's Alligator Breeding Marsh. The sounds of the night come alive around you as the rustle of feathers overhead and the splashing of water nearby signal that you are not alone. Turning your flashlight towards the water, you suddenly become aware of the hundreds of hungry, glowing, red eyes slowly making their way closer... it's now your turn to experience the "Real Florida." A fun and educational tour for all ages, Gatorland's Gator Night Shine tour is one swamp stompin’ adventure you will not want to miss!

Orlando Ghost Tour – Downtown Orlando (CANCELLED)

Friday, November 5; 6:45 – 9:45 pm
Price: $40.00; Limit: 45

Join us for a fun journey of paranormal investigation at this Orlando walking tour.  We will venture out to several key buildings, exploring inside whenever possible, while learning some eerie, fun facts of each property. During the second half of the tour, view an actual “haunted” building where you’ll conduct a paranormal investigation using some of our own equipment.  Any experiences had on the tour are legitimate, but it is through the investigative process that we attempt to determine whether or not they are paranormal in nature. Past experiences have ranged from electromagnetic readings on some of our equipment to actual sightings of ghosts so, you never know quite what to expect from one night to the next.  As on all of our tours and events, photography is encouraged.  And if you do manage to capture some sort of anomaly on film, please send us a copy, so that we may examine it and perhaps post it on our website. Note: This is a walking tour, so please wear comfortable shoes.

Coach Safari through Forever Florida

Saturday, November 6; 10:30 am – 3:30 pm
Price: $70.00 (includes BBQ lunch); Limit: 45

Coach Safari will take you on an adventure deep into the 4,700-acre Forever Florida wildlife conservation area preserved just as nature intended.  This pristine site boasts nine distinct Florida ecosystems and an endless array of natural flora and fauna including alligators, black bears, white-tail deer, nearly two hundred species of birds and the endangered Florida panther. Hold onto your seat and get your camera ready for the Florida photo safari of a lifetime! Note: This has a 1 hour and 15 minute drive time.

Truffles and Trifles Cooking Class

Saturday, November 6; 10:45 am – 2:00 pm
Price: $85.00; Limit: 45

Truffles and Trifles started 24 years ago as a dream to share love of cooking and learn how to make being in the kitchen fun. Now, 24 years later, Truffles and Trifles is the largest, most successful cooking school in the Southeast and was recently named one of the top five cooking schools in the country by the Food Network. The founder, Marci Arthur, is an outgoing, dynamic cooking personality making celebrity appearances both locally and nationally. Marci has accumulated a host of accolades for her cooking skills. Her witty sense of humor and charm add spice to every Marci encounter. Marci and her staff of classically trained chefs ensure that every cooking class is a memorable experience!

Charles Hosmer Morse Museum (CANCELLED)

Saturday, November 6; 12:15 – 2:30 pm
Price: $40.00; Limit: 45

The world’s most comprehensive collection of works by Louis Comfort Tiffany (1848–1933) is housed at The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art. The Museum’s Tiffany collection includes jewelry, pottery, paintings, art glass, leaded-glass windows and lamps, and the chapel interior the artist designed for the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. The Museum’s holdings also include a major collection of American art pottery and representative collections of late 19th- and early 20th-century American painting, graphics, and decorative art.

Arabian Nights Dinner Show

Saturday, November 6; 6:30 – 10:30 pm
Price: $70.00 (includes dinner); Limit: 45

Join us for dinner and an exotic show that brings fairy tales to life on horseback. Beautiful horses from around the world are showcased in the world’s largest indoor equestrian arena. The show captures your attention from the moment the Black Stallion enters the palace to the climatic conclusion of the tale. Also included is a behind-the-scenes visit with the horses and riders, as well as a tour through the working stable.

Technical Tours

Disney’s Haunted Mansion Tour (SOLD OUT)

Wednesday, November 3; 5:30 – 7:45 am
Price: $50.00; Limit: 30 (no exceptions)

Go behind the scenes with Disney engineers to explore one of the Magic Kingdom’s most famous attractions. Note: This tour requires walking, so please wear comfortable, closed shoes and full-length pants. You will be required to show a picture ID to gain access backstage. Photographs (including cell phone pictures) are strictly forbidden backstage.

Southern Company Combined Cycle Site Tour

Wednesday, November 3; 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Price: $40.00; Limit: 45

This technical tour features a first-hand viewing of electricity production through combined cycles of natural gas and plant life. Stanton A is a natural gas-fueled, combined-cycle electric–generating unit, located on the site of Orlando Utilities Commission (OUC) near Orlando, FL. The plant is used to generate electricity (approximately 656 megawatts) for the south and is operated by Southern Power, Southern Company’s fast-growing competitive generation company. Stanton A also has the capability to produce fuel oil at an OUC Coal fired plant located on the same property. Note: No sandals, flip flops or open-toed shoes. Flat shoes should be worn as this tour involves walking on uneven ground and rocks.

SeaWorld: Behind the Scenes (SOLD OUT)

Wednesday, November 3; 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Price: $75.00; Limit: 45

Have you ever wondered how SeaWorld successfully maintains the aquatic facilities for its marine life collection? During this educational program, participants will have an opportunity to learn about SeaWorld's automated life support systems and the computer-based monitoring of the biological, physical and chemical aspects of its water quality facilities. Attendees will learn about the park's water quality techniques, climate control, system hydraulics and habitat sanitation. The program will be conducted by members of SeaWorld's professional water quality staff. Each group will visit water quality facilities at Shamu Stadium and Wild Arctic.

Army Research Laboratory (RDECOM) Simulation and Training Technology Center (CANCELLED)

Wednesday, November 3; 12:15 – 3:30 pm
Price: $20.00; Limit 30 – Collegians only

The U.S. Army Research, Development and Engineering Command (RDECOM) is the Army’s premier research and development organization, serving as the Army’s focal point for developing and accelerating innovative technology and engineering solutions to the Army. The visit will include a tour of the Sergeant First Class Paul Ray Smith Simulation & Training Technology Center where visitors will explore innovative research in disciplines including electrical, chemical, computer, industrial and mechanical engineering. Visitors will experience a high-tech tour including different technology demonstrations in game-based learning and virtual worlds, medical demonstrations, virtual humans and tactical digital holograms. The tour will also provide an opportunity to interact with scientists and engineers, all of which are important contributors to the science and technology development mission within the Army. Restrictions: Must be U.S. Citizen. Please bring valid photo identification.

Universal Studios: Behind the Scenes (SOLD OUT)

Wednesday, November 3; 12:30 – 3:30 pm
Price: $50.00; Limit: 40

Universal Orlando® Resort is a spectacular family vacation destination consisting of two theme parks––Universal Studios®, featuring attractions based on popular movies and TV shows, and Universal’s Islands of Adventure®, where innovative rides bring some of the world’s most popular stories to life––the Universal CityWalk® nighttime dining and entertainment complex, and three on-site hotels. Your backstage tour will take you behind the scenes of Islands of Adventure’s two most popular rides located in the Marvel Super Hero Island® section of the park. The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man® is regarded as the world’s premier “dark ride.” This motion-base simulator ride puts you in the middle of a battle between Spider-Man™ and his arch foes, moving on a track through action-packed scenes brought to life through a combination of 3-D film and live special effects including flames and water. A highlight of the ride is a simulated 400-foot freefall. Doctor Doom’s Fearfall® features two twin towers that launch riders 150 feet up into the air, and then drop them back down towards earth faster than the pull of gravity in an effort to “extract fear” from the helpless subjects of the evil Doctor Doom™. Note: Please dress comfortably; no open-toed shoes or heels. No photography will be allowed.

Marvel Super Hero character names and likenesses: TM & © 2010 Marvel © 2010 Universal Studios. Universal elements and all related indicia TM & © 2010 Universal Studios. All rights reserved. 245-466/0310

Disney’s Manufacturing the Magic (SOLD OUT)

Wednesday, November 3; 12:30 – 3:30 pm
Price: $50.00; Limit: 30 (no exceptions)

Enter the world of manufacturing Walt Disney World style! This tour will highlight how certain elements of the show are created and maintained. Note: This tour requires walking, so please wear comfortable, closed-toed shoes and full-length pants. You will be required to show a picture ID to gain access backstage. Taking photographs is strictly forbidden backstage.

PepsiCo and Frito-Lay Company

Thursday, November 4; 7:00 – 11:45 am
Price: $40.00; Limit: 50

Join us for an exciting tour of PepsiCo and Frito-Lay to see how these popular brands are manufactured. Included will be a tour of the production floor and warehouse. Note: Please wear flat, closed-toed shoes (sneakers are preferable), no jewelry (including necklaces, earrings, rings, bracelets, watches). No denim or corduroy apparel, no false nails, or fingernail polish.  Additionally, pockets will have to be emptied of all items (a secure holding place will be provided to store purses and wallets), no gum.

NAVAIR Tours

Thursday, November 4
Tour 1: 8:00 am – 12:15 pm
Tour 2: 12:15 – 3:30 pm
Price: $40.00; Limit: 30 each tour

Join us for a comprehensive tour of key Orlando-area NAVAIR Facilities. The tour will include a detailed visit to each of the following areas:

• Dome Room – See the one-of-a-kind dome shaped screen that is used to project and test visuals used in training systems. Visual and sensor simulation training systems depict real-time simulated out-the-window visual scenes and/or views of the world as seen on imaging sensors such as Night Vision Goggles (NVGs), Forward Looking Infrared (FLIR), Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), and more. Typical technology descriptions associated with this work include correlated synthetic environment models (databases), common sensor/environment models, image generation, projection displays, head/helmet mounted displays, real/collimated displays and virtual reality. Applications vary widely and include aviation, surface, subsurface, ground and other military training.

• Training & Usability in Simulation-Based Tools Laboratory (TRUST Lab)/ Common Distributed Mission Training Station (CDMTS) – The TRUST team is a diverse, multidisciplinary team of psychologists and engineers with the expressed mission to lead and support research, development and acquisition activities through analysis, design, development, evaluation and transition of state-of-the-art products that enhance the training and operational capabilities of our nation's warfighters.

• Advanced Use of Force Training System (AUFTS) – AUFTS targets cognitive decision making within possible use of force situations for law enforcement/force protection. The system incorporates speech recognition, computer generated imagery and simulated weapon tracking.

Note: U.S. Citizens and resident aliens with visa are permitted. Foreign nationals are permitted but will receive a different badge.

EA Sports – Electronic Arts

Thursday, November 4; 8:45 am – 12:00 pm
Price: $50.00; Limit: 45

Join us for an exciting tour of EA Sports, Electronic Arts Tiboron, FL facility, where the passionate developers, publishers and distributors of the world's best video games develop, publish and distribute interactive software worldwide for video game systems, personal computers, wireless devices and the Internet.  In 1982, Electronic Arts was founded on ideas. Software was a new art form, and its creators were software artists. Interactive was better than passive media, and that one day “software worthy of the minds who use it” would be more important than traditional media like films and television. More than 25 years have passed, and many of the dreams have come true. Videogames are woven into the fabric of most young men’s lives, and are increasingly popular with women and seniors. Game designers are renowned worldwide. Leading universities have pioneered successful degrees in game development. In short, videogames, once considered a passing fad, have earned respect. Note: Please make sure you bring a photo ID. Cameras and/or cell phones with cameras are not permitted.

Florida Solar Energy Center

Thursday, November 4; 8:45 am – 1:15 pm
Price: $40.00; Limit: 30

Visit the Florida Solar Energy Center (FSEC), the largest active state-supported renewable energy and energy efficiency research, training, testing and certification institute in the U.S. FSEC’s mission is to research and develop energy technologies that enhance Florida's and the nation's economy and environment, and to educate on the research findings of field monitoring, computer simulations and controlled experiments in highly-instrumented laboratories. This state-of-the-art 20-acre research complex on Florida's Space Coast is adjacent to University of Florida’s Cocoa Campus, as well as a number of buildings that provide office, laboratory and test facilities. Note: 1 hour drive time. This tour involves walking, so  participants should wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather.

Northrop Grumman Laser Systems (CLOSED)

Thursday, November 4; 8:45 am – 2:00 pm
Price: $40.00; Limit: 40

Join us for an informative tour of Northrop Grumman’s Laser Systems to see first-hand the manufacturing of military laser systems including the production of rangefinders, target locators and designators for precise guidance of smart munitions, and airborne laser rangefinders and designators. NG Laser Systems is a component of Northrop Grumman's Baltimore-based Electronic Systems sector, a world leader in the design, development, and manufacture of defense and commercial electronic systems. Note: MUST be a U.S. Citizen, NO exceptions. All participants must have a Government issued Photo ID, drivers license and/or passport. Due to Northrop Grumman’s security screening 30 days prior to the tour; there will be NO ticket swapping. Cameras and/or cell phones with cameras are not permitted. Wear comfortable walking shoes and long pants.

Regal Marine

Thursday, November 4; 10:30 am – 2:30 pm
Price: $55.00 (includes boxed lunch); Limit: 45

Regal Marine, an ISO 9002 certified company and lean manufacturing plant, is one of the largest family owned and operated boat manufacturing companies in the world, with factories in Orlando and Valdosta, Georgia. View the 650,000 sq. ft. of manufacturing space and visit the 700 employees including a full engineering staff who help build some of the best boats in the world. Following the tour you will have the opportunity to view The Regal Collection in the Regal Boats Factory Showroom. Note: Please wear comfortable walking shoes.

SAIC

Thursday, November 4; 9:30 am – 3:30 pm
Price: $40.00 (includes boxed lunch); Limit: 45

This is the perfect tour for those interested in modeling and simulation and/or systems engineering/integration. During your visit to SAIC, you will learn about new technologies, meet the engineers and participate in a team-building activity. SAIC is a Fortune 500® scientific, engineering and technology applications company that uses its deep domain knowledge to solve problems of vital importance to the nation and the world including national security, energy, critical infrastructure and health. Note: You must be a U.S. Citizen; bring your state-issued identification.

Veteran’s Affair Community Living Center (CANCELLED)

Thursday, November 4; 12:30 – 5:00 pm
Price: $40.00 (includes snack and refreshments); Limit: 30

See live construction from Turner’s crew in creating a brand new, 200,000 square foot, state-of-the-art Veteran Affairs Community Living Center.  The Center will consist of housing for 120 beds, a new non-denominational chapel, and Domiciliary with a drug rehab center, all located on the Veteran Affair‘s new Lake Nona Medical Campus. Note: All participants should wear long pants jeans or khakis (no dresses or shorts) no sneakers, closed-toed shoes that fully cover the foot with leather (preferably work boots) due to the nature of the environment. Jobsite will provide safety glasses and hard hats.

Daytona Speedway (CANCELLED)

Saturday, November 6; 9:45 am – 3:30 pm
Price: $50.00 (food and beverage is not included); Limit: 45

Board the colorful trams for a fully guided Speedway Tour. The 30-minute tour allows an up-close look at the 2.5-mile Super Speedway, including the famous high banks, Pit Road, Gatorade Victory Lane and much more. With photo stops along the way, this is a true behind-the-scenes look at the “World Center of Racing.”  After the speedway tour, you will experience the DAYTONA 500 merging of history, technology and velocity in an interactive arena where the racing legends of the past trade paint with the heroes of today. You can try your hand and test your skills in Motorsports’ most exciting activities: stand face-to-face with your favorite drivers, call-it-like-you-see-it in the TV announcer’s booth, look under the sheet metal, jump over the wall, climb behind the wheel and step into Gatorade Victory Lane. Also included with tour is the IMAX Theater. Note: 1 hour, 15 minute drive time.