We live in the UK and stayed on International Drive for the first time last September. I felt it had everything you need close by and when you are spending most of your days at the parks or visiting other Florida attractions/areas it was ideal. We would definitely stay in the area again. Love watching your videos 💙
It's sad to see pointe orlando quieter then it was last time I went. I'm from the uk and was Last there on 2008, I loved BBKINGS at pointe orlando so it's sad to see that not there anymore, shame it closed and didn't just move to another location like hooters did
I feel sad seeing International Drive in the current state it is. When I would visit Orlando in the early 90s from the UK, I-Drive used to be amazing. So much energy and stuff to do. When I last visited Orlando in 2022, I couldn’t believe how much it had changed. It felt like it had lost its soul. Hopefully they can bring it back (somewhat) to its former glory
Well he even said he was there on a Sunday you think they would have free parking at least on the weekends. I've stayed at the world center Marriott but know I stay over on palm parkway when I come down.
I love the drive, it has gone a little by the wayside over the past 4 years, but that never stops us coming for a trip. The expansion of Universal will bring a huge amount of business, tourism and revenue into the area and I am sure there will be a rejuvenation with businesses, stores, restaurants etc. I won't give up on it, so many memories. ❤
Pointe Orlando peaked in the late 90's early 2000's. Almost completely leased to retail and restaurants. It was a Muvico Theater before Regal bought it and there was an FAO Schwartz with a Star Wars Cantina where you can order drinks. When I lived in Winter Park that was always the spot to go to when handing out on I-Drive.
I moved here in 2021 but before we always vacation in Orlando Disney Universal for YEARS! My daughter and I love I drive. But I have seen so many changes and so much closing! Thanks for your fabulous content!
Remember it’s inflation. The cost of living has went up (especially FL.) and the pay does not match the cost of living. A home for $120,00 is now $280,000 plus high interest rates and property taxes. Vacations are getting harder to take. I’m a Floridian and I live 2 hours away from Orlando. If the people that are serving you doesn’t make enough income to live here, who’s going to serve you when those workers look for somewhere else to live? The way the economy is, people can’t afford to go out to eat or spend extra money. Is this the results of inflation after Covid?
I agree with you Dev. I remember FAO Schwartz at Pointe Orlando and back when Icon Park was the Mercado. It seems like there was fewer attractions crowding the strip so there was enough people traffic to supply all the small shops and restaurants. Magical Midway used to be a cool place to go, but then it just turned into a so-so,has-been place. Although I really appreciate that they haven’t changed much. That feeds the need for nostalgia. Can’t say that I’m a fan of these mega complexes along I-Drive but they do seem to be doing well. I miss the 90’s.
This area used to have so much stuff in the 90s and early 2000s. That mall that used to be where Dezerland Park is used to be really nice, at least Bass Pro Shops is still there.😁 The Orlando Pointe Mall was another one that was fantastic, but has seen better days. We used to go to Race Rock all the time, but as soon as Dale Earnhardt passed away…so did the restaurant. So many attractions that used to be in the area are no longer there. The funny thing is, over on Vineland Avenue, between 535 and the outlets…nothing has changed in about 20 years, except Texas Longhorn is now a Bahama Breeze. I am hoping that Epic Adventure does revitalize that area. The community needs a break.
Went to Race Rock everytime we holidayed (from UK) in florida in 1997,99 & 2000 & really miss it everytime we go back. The 1st time we went in 1997 was brilliant especially as my husband & kids (16 & 14 at time) love anything to do with cars. Spent ages looking around & had 1 of the best meals we have ever had in florida in the 6 times we have been, absolutely beautiful food & milkshakes to die for. Husband insists its still the best blacken chicken pasta he's ever had. Everytime we visit someone always sez they wish Race Rock was still there. Also miss The Ponderosa just up from Know Before You Go for my breakfast & The Mecardo with The Cricketers Arms for the best fish & chips. I-Drive was brilliant between 1997 & 2000.
@@kathrynkelman5334 there’s still a few steakhouses in the area, not the same as Ponderosa though. Fish and Chips, usually get those in Epcot. There’s a Big Fin Seafood restaurant on Sand Lake Rd., west of I-Drive, they have good fish and chips too.
@ziggy4465 thanks. Stayed on Sand lake road for a week the 1st time we went in 97, then went to daytona for 3 nights, then stayed on I-Drive for 4 nights but all the other times we've been, 1999,2000, 2003, 2018 & March last year (for 3 weeks)we've always stayed on I-Drive somewhere opposite the Pointe & I-con park & everytime we stay we notice how it has changed regarding shops & restaurants disappearing. Will be back later this year but gonna stay in LBV for a change, see how it goes as so use to I-Drive. Had a lovely meal in the steakhouse just down from the Sonesta Suites last year. Also breakfast in Perkins is really nice too but sadly the fish & chips in the Rose & Crown is nice but not a patch on the Cricketers Arms.
@@kathrynkelman5334 the outside stand, right next to the pub, has better fish and chips than indoors. It might be the outdoor air, I don’t know. The chips are definitely crispier outside.
On the Southside you went right passed Wonderworks and Dave and Busters across the street from it, I live near Sea world so I go to IDRIVE every day to have dinner at Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlando directly across the street from Wonderworks. Dinner buffet every night with a different theme, Asian on Wed, Italian on Thursday, Thanksgiving on sunday etc. Starts at 5pm to 9pm and great price, try it out, you won't be disappointed
It’s also not a tourist time of year right now in Orlando so it’s kinda normal. I’d like to see another video in a month or so when spring break time happens.
Let’s hope Epic Universe revitalizes I-drive. It’s cool to see them investing in the Point Orlando to bring new life there. Go to highway 192 from seeing Adam the Woo’s vlogs it looks bad. Also don’t buy into what the media says
Our first ever visit to America from the UK was Orlando in 1993 on honeymoon and stayed at the Rosen hotel opposite The Pointe. It was a Quality Inn back then. Everything was an eye opener for us and we have returned many times since. The Pointe was the happening place to visit. No vacant stores. I remember FAO Swartz had a store there with big teddy bear advertising it outside. Dan Marino had a restaurant there as well. We last visited in April 2023 and was sad to see how run down it looked. Nice to see that some investment is being made into it. Though, I agree that the cost of parking also puts of people visiting. Icon Park has definitely taken over the popularity (back in 1993 that was the location of The Mercado and The Titanic Experience was there). Free parking is a big help for that location. International Drive itself did look a little tired and in need of a little TLC.
Tourists and locals will flock to the newest built area..We just stayed at Universal Dockside hotel off of international drive.. great hotel.. we also did the helicopter tour over all theme parks that you showed in video.. highly recommend.. and we ate at the first watch restaurant on international drive.. great restaurant.. the area where the giant soccer (statue) is a Brazilian area.. great to see the improvement going on
There’s no way I’d spend any time at Pointe Orlando if I’d spent the insane amount of money it would cost to go on holiday to Orlando from the UK. The only draw there has ever been or will ever be for a Brit to visit International Drive is for hotel accommodation and restaurants. We wouldn’t dream of spending an evening at any of the crazy golf, escape room, fun fair ride silliness after paying for the real deal at Universal and Disney.
After staying in that area last month, for a month, the deterioration of this strip is astounding. You must always be aware of your surroundings and definitely stay close to the Celebration and Disney bubble.
As a Brit who comes to Orlando a couple of times a year and have been for 30 years we don’t bother with I Drive any more. We stay at Disney, visit Universal and Busch Gardens. Visit Clearwater, malls, outlets etc but I Drive isn’t anywhere we stop. We did do the big wheel, waxworks and sealife but only once. People visit Orlando for Disney and Universal not movie theatres and a big wheel.
Very special place for us. We visited the place in our honeymoon back in 1991. It was the place to be. So lively! I hope it will go back to the golden days with the opening of Epic Universe.
Me being a Tampa, Florida native, I think International drive is awesome! I don’t see any problems because we don’t have anything like that in Tampa. There is so much more to do and see there. But I’m glad to see the point Orlando is getting an update cause there is so many empty buildings that have potential! Great video bro!
I stayed in international inn hotel, the old part of international drive in 1990 as a tourist. We had a lovely holiday. Wet n wild was a draw for tourists, tourist were Queuing to get in thats gone.they replaced mercado’s , ponderosa restaurant is no more. Not everything draw tourists, so building new things to replace the old is not always for the best.
I remember when Wet n Wild was up there at the north end where the Universal Value hotels now are .. and is the soccer player statue a refugee from 'Sports Dominator' ?
I remember International Drive 20 years ago, it was buzzing. Seems quite run down now, I did like Pointe, there was a cool shop there that sold all kind of cool stuff. We walked from the North end down to Icon and were offered drugs on several occasions from some sketchy individuals, sad to see it turn that way.
I think the biggest issue is that people are flocking to Disney Springs and CityWalk when they go to the theme parks, and there is no reason to go anywhere else.
I had no idea there was transportation to Busch Gardens! That’s so cool. They should definitely advertise that more for sure. I’m thinking about moving to I Drive and that would be so fun to hop on a bus to HOS in the fall.
I think the people that own a lot of the infrastructure and land on IDrive have been perfectly fine with leaving their buildings of closed restaurants and stuff vacant for the time being (instead of operating at a loss or trying to hit the break even number) once Epic Universe was announced. Wait until closer to the EU opening date and then do the construction like they’re doing now.
I just gave a testimony in the Baltimore City Council (February 13th, 2024), where I implored elected officials to use International Drive in Orlando as a template for the waterfront at the Baltimore INNER HARBOR, there's a proposal to build expensive apartments. International Drive is great, especially at night. There are so many things to do on International Drive in Orlando, we need something like this in Baltimore, and I am determined to do it.
I’m from the Baltimore area and remember when inner harbor was the center of everything. I was back there last year and it is almost all run down and abandoned. Any idea what will happen to it? ,
@blaster-zy7xx Either my plan (entertainment center like International Drive in Orlando) or apartments, shops, and green spaces. I want to transform the INNER HARBOR into a world class destination with dozens of entertainment options, this oligarch (David Bramble of MCB REAL ESTATE) wants expensive apartments. I'm working on getting my plan onto the November 2024 ballot. Google it now... Baltimore INNER HARBOR public meetings 2024.
We've been vacationing near or on iDrive for the past 20 years and it definitely has gone downhill. Some of the hotels are more for residents, there's homelessness, but that's pretty much everywhere and there's also a a lot more. What appears to be drug use as well. Hopefully when epic universe opens they'll clean up the areas that need to get cleaned up.
We visit annually from UK and avoid IDrive. Pointe Orlando has always been a ghost town, which is amazing taking in its central location. Developers decided to invest in Icon Park and allow Pointe to be empty. They must have a reason. I recall a Dan Marino eatery and BB Kings venue.
I was here in September,Stayed at the coco key hotel which was nice,Walked up and down international drive most days and nights,I thought it was quite nice,My problem was the people,Nearly every place we went in to eat or look around you always got the feeling no one that works in these places likes tourists,Me and my wife said the attitude of the people we met was absolutely stinking,I thought it might be a state thing as I’ve never been to Florida before,The people I met in New Jersey and New York the year before were absolutely brilliant,But honestly,I’ll be glad if I never have to go back to Florida,Great video by the way👍👍
Stayed at Rosen Centre Hotel Christmas 2022. Enjoyed the hotel and you couldn't beat the rate. But the area around it was really going down. Hopefully Epic Universe will save this area.
You aren't wrong. The street has decayed a lot in the past 10 yrs or so. I need a few shops like Bath and Body Works to open around there. Just make the Pointe an updated mall.
Stayed at Coco Key nearly 10 years ago on our first ever visit to Orlando. Been back twice, the last time being June last year, and the difference was stark. Worse thing they did was close the Chinese restaurant down on the South-bound side near the OCC. Love Orlando, but dubious of returning due to the sheer greed of the park owners, especially the House of Mouse. Still intend to visit sometime before I'm called to the Theme Park in the sky! Great non-biased, knowledgeable opinion of the area. Cheers Dev.
I drive is now full of homeless people and closed units, very sad. I been going to I drive since 82, really downhill compared to what it once was. When I used to go you could park anywhere free of charge, now seems pay or valet. Prices are ridiculous compared to mainland USA, proper tourist rip offs in the restaurants and I’m saying this as someone that has travelled for 5 months across the USA. Was there last week
I’m in town still but leaving tomorrow and I gotta say from Mc Donald’s all the way down to about Walgreens across from the doc side it looks pretty run down and with epic universe coming I think it definitely needs a upgrade
Too bad they can’t entice some local independent restaurants to locate in that area. As a tourist I try to patronize restaurants that are new and different, not chain restaurants.
Miss some hopdoddy over there!! Mmmm Parmesan truffle fries and bacon jam! But ole red in gatlinburg Tennessee was amazing! So cool they have one here!
International Drive comes to life at night. During the day it’s not busy, ever. Point Orlando is never crowded and yes it’s been a bust even prior to the pandemic. Nobody wants to pay for parking when you can go to Disney springs for free.
I'm a local & i haven't been to international drive in awhile. I visited an anime store across from Dezerland but after the incident, i kinda lost interest in the attractions
You forgot arcade monsters, its a super awesome arcade where all the games are free all day, just an entrance fee. Its a little after chuckie cheese and the golf. This makes me sad😢
As Universal Orlando becomes increasingly self-contained, we can expect nearby but outside tourist services (hotels, restaurants, shopping) to face greater and greater challenges. As for salvation via Epic Universe, don't forget that this park will open with three new onsite hotels, and Universal will probably build more. Plus restaurants. And there's a free bus to Citywalk and the other Uni hotels. The goal is a new giant bubble to confront the Disney bubble -- and I-Drive may be left outside both. Kitschy piggyback attractions like wax museums and Believe It Or Not -- the same junk you can find at Niagara Falls, or any site with a major tourist draw -- probably won't be enough to compete.
Coming from the UK the first time we visited. We loved international Drive. I remember I have strong fond memories of FAO Schwartz, taking my children in there going to the cinema afterwards, but the north of International Drive looks like Blackpool which is a trashy dirty place in England, where you can get a cheap holidayI wouldn’t be seen dad staying in the hotel in the north of international Drive the place is dead now
Hey I love me so I drive myself. I made sure my kids and grandkids & others experience i drive. Rosen centre, Rosen plaza and Rosen shingles creek THE BEST ( raise up I drive ) keep on bringing it young man 👍 Also thank you for your service on referring us on flamingo crossing ( awesome )
Oh my goodness we were just there, and I was thinking the same thing! We were at the Chili’s and the Go-Cart place next door was closed up and the CiCi’s is shut down. Great video idea. Thanks for sharing your perspective!
That go cart place has been closed for some years. The arcade place inside of it is still open tho. Oh and the slingshot there I think still operates ?
@@NicEeEe843 Wow! 😲 It's been a little while since we explored iDrive. My last memory of it was still seeing people drive go karts. 😢 And I would not ride that slingshot! 😐
I think maybe it’s because Universal Studios and Disney have so much to do on their properties that a lot of vacationers like myself basically Uber to Disney or universal and don’t rent a car because city walk and Disney springs are super nice and safe and have everything
International Drive is just basically a hotel/restaurant district now. All the major attractions are on the outskirts of the area. Hopefully they can build upon the impending success of Epic Universe and it can be like it once was!
Hi dev,we really enjoy all the vlogs and especially the one on international drive as we are from the Wales in the Uk and we always stay in the Rosen Inn at pointe,weve stayed at other hotels but find that this hotel is generally clean tidy and reasonably priced food,we totally agree that the pointe needs a lot of attention gone are the days of FAO swartch and Hollister,we were bit disappointed when we went in October how its gone down hill ,but look forward to seeing back to it's former glory, keep up the great work and Best wishes to you and your family
I miss orlando we used to visit every year from the uk but due to inflation and airlines charging ridiculous prices we can only visit once every 2 years due to the amount of money we have to save, im guessing we're not the only ones
Great video! Im from the UK and have only ever stayed on idrive both times i visited, stayed at rosen inn international and i loved it, last time was 2008 so its changed massively since then, ponderosa gone, the big sports shop with the footballer outside gone, hogans beach shop used to be a 7eleven last time i was there too. Shame to see BBKINGS gone though from pointe, i loved that place, its a shamr it didnt just move like hooters did instead of closing altogether Seeing it now you can see how its lost its way somewhat, particularly at 1 end, it seems that all the renovation and money has been spent at the pointe orlando end of idrive to tidy that, whereas the other end towards where wet n wild used to be thats the part that now needs attention, hopefully it will get the love it needs, get some experiences in, new shops, restaurants, fast food places up that end of idrive and with epic universe coming, itll pick up again...hopefully. I didnt realise how close to idrive Epic universe was going to be so fingers crossed that park will start to bring more ppl down idrive and it will start to get abit busier. Again its been a long while since ive been, but when i eventually come back to orlando i have no issues with staying there again, its perfect for a holiday...everything you need within distance..food, supermarkets, transport to parks and malls, entertainment.
Stayed at Coco Key in November, I-Drive had taken a bit of a down turn from my previous visit 16 years previous, felt that Icon Park was keeping I-Drive going but there’s still things to draw visitors in but it’s not what it used to be.
On the south end entrance of International Drive (at the intersection of World Center Drive), it can be a nightmare of traffic jams. When I-4 traffic slows to a crawl, cars tend to use the World Center Drive and make a left to enter International Drive to drive northbound (otherwise if you go straight, you head to the toll entrance). Last minute decisions by some drivers to get in the LEFT turn lane (whether by chance or on purpose) is a COMMON issue (cutting in line). This intersection ought to be re-designed.
I went for the first time in 22 years in December. I-drive was good, but not at all how i remembered it. A little neglected in places. It needs more attractions. We felt there wasn't much there off interest to us. But we did find some great restaurants.
Main part of International Drive is a actioned packed eating drinking heaven. Yes, losing the Mercado ctr, FAO Shwartz, Tikki Volcano golf, Ponderosa, Tony Romas and now the Midway Fair are losses....but much has replaced those places. Including Dezzerland, Icon Park and there are still loads of choice for shopping, eating, drinking and playing games such as mini golf or walking around attractions like Museums or upside down houses. If you do have lots of spare cash....head into City Walk or down to Disney Springs. If you like shopping centres...there is one at North I'Drive and one South I'Drive (Vineland)...easy to reach via the I' Trolley. There is no need to complain....pay your money take your choice.
P.s. losing Wet n Wild was another big blow but Volcano Bay is a great replacement. Plus you have a Waterpark at Legoland. Disney are the Scroogers now by only opening one of their Waterparks at a time...I.e Typhoon Lagoon for 6 months of the year and Blizzard Beach for 6 months of the year. Cinema enthusiasts are spoilt with 3 big complexes on near I' Drive..I.e.. Pointe Orlando, City Walk and inside the Dezzerland fun centre complex.
My family and I just checked out of the hotel on the upper left hand side(Avanti) of your video Monday morning. We just flew home yesterday morning. It's nice to actually know where you are in this video! :) We thought the location was excellent for the couple of days that we visited (except for some sections with the insane amount of traffic to go for a couple of miles) lol Universal but agree some areas could have used some work. We rented a car so we took a ride down to Port Canaveral on Sat and watched 5 cruise ships leave which was exciting. Visited Blizzard beach and Disney springs to get our Disney fix. Half of our family got sick but overall the weather was excellent and was a nice break from the chilly Massachusetts winter.
I was at the Pointe shopping during a week day around 2011? Possibly a little later. But either way it was just as dead then (in the middle of the day)-during the day in the middle of the week as you showed. Did a little bit of shopping, ate a burger at Johnny Rockets, and that was it. No one around other than employees. Big convention happening w/ husband in classes and I was left to my own devices. The next evening we went for a mix and mingle cocktail party that his colleagues were hosting at a bar on the upper deck. That was the most amount of people I saw. Wasn’t until I rode the bus down the street to the other mall (indoor) that I saw a lot more people. We were from Los Angeles, and I had never seen a mall so dead. It was shocking to me.
First time I saw I drive was 1997. Since then I've been back every 5 years so I could really see the changes. There was a lot of growth really fast, too much to be sustained in my opinion. Also most malls in the country are on a decline. But I think your right. Epic will bring in a lot of people and I think the be a resurgence 😊
As a lifetime local, we just don’t go because of the trouble to find free parking. And better parking is crazy expensive. Eating out, even the simplest food is ridiculously expensive. So that combination it’s just not worth it. Pack a lunch and go to so many places like leu gardens, Bok towers, etc!
I-Drive is dying due to there way overpriced everything. I'm so happy we moved out of that tourist trap, the only place worth your money is Universal Studios.
We were just down there early February . Is it my imagination or is I Drive trying to corner the market on Smoke Shops ? Seems you can't drive more than 5 minutes without seeing one.
I think the cruise industry is giving the Orlando/Florida attractions some serious competition. More people are going on cruises instead of visiting Orlando. And these cruise lines have a ship and/or package for EVERY demographic from budget consious families to the very rich. And most locals avoid the tourist part of town.
Hi from the UK ! I've stayed on international drive a few times I don't use a car when I go to Florida so I like the I ride trolley. I'm loving this video because the last time I went we stayed at the Rosen opposite the pointe so I have a lot of good memories. For us not having a car international drives really good because it had various restaurants there was one particular restaurant that I really enjoyed but I don't know if it's still going it was called the ponderosa I remember going into this restaurant with my wife and son and I ordered a chicken salad and when we sat down we had access to every kind of food as it was a buffet and I didn't understand why we had paid for chicken salad after I had filled myself up eating as much meats as I could on the buffet the waiter came with our chicken salad but I couldn't eat it because I was too full up I didn't realise eating all the buffet was only the entree ! 😂😂
I would love to visit icon park but I need to use an evc for transportation, I can’t do a lot of walking. Looks like I would need to get an hotel on site
Gator Golf is iconic! My family went on our 1st out of the Disney bubble trip with a Groupon. We got to feed the lil stinkers too. It was a lot of fun for an hr or so.
I haven't been on International Drive since 1998 as I used to go to the outlet mall on the northern end of I-Drive, and stayed on I-Drive in the early years of my trips to Walt Disney World as I stayed at with my folks when I was a baby at the Davis Bros motel that was in the middle of I-Drive. It has changed.
We were just there last week and everytime we go somewhere at the Pointe we're always able to get our parking validated. The movie theater has a place right in the lobby area to the left with a big arrow that says parking validation. I'm excited to see all the new stuff that the Pointe has coming. We have 2 PBRs where we live in Hampton Roads, expect a mechanical bull 😂
Alsooooo haha the giant soccer boy statue is wearing a Brazilian soccer jersey so as a kid, I always felt like he was a special landmark for my ppl in Orlando and to mark the Brazilian shops, bakeries, and restaurants in that area!!! it would be so cool if you went and tried different Brazilian spots in the Orlando international Drive area!!
Great video as always !! Remember though most spots there will validate your parking ticket example going to the movies or eating at one of the restaurants you just have to be sure to ask!!! I love going there for opa and Hampton social , blue martini is okay if you go with a group on nights with Spanish music !!!
Once Epic Universe opens The Pointe will come back to life.
Dude you are so so right
Agreed, it's just too nice of an area.
Yup. I-Drive in general as well.
All the hotels on I-Drive are close to Epic Universe --- so thousands of people every weekend will want to stay there
We live in the UK and stayed on International Drive for the first time last September. I felt it had everything you need close by and when you are spending most of your days at the parks or visiting other Florida attractions/areas it was ideal. We would definitely stay in the area again. Love watching your videos 💙
It's sad to see pointe orlando quieter then it was last time I went. I'm from the uk and was Last there on 2008, I loved BBKINGS at pointe orlando so it's sad to see that not there anymore, shame it closed and didn't just move to another location like hooters did
I feel sad seeing International Drive in the current state it is. When I would visit Orlando in the early 90s from the UK, I-Drive used to be amazing. So much energy and stuff to do. When I last visited Orlando in 2022, I couldn’t believe how much it had changed. It felt like it had lost its soul. Hopefully they can bring it back (somewhat) to its former glory
I-Drive is still busy on weekends in the summer --- but during the week it can be very desolate of people
I think the higher prices for food and eating out is a big part of the problem.
wrong ... its just the food .... not eating out also
I wholeheartedly agree it's the parking. When you just want to have a casual outing you try to keep costs down and parking has become too expensive.
Well he even said he was there on a Sunday you think they would have free parking at least on the weekends. I've stayed at the world center Marriott but know I stay over on palm parkway when I come down.
I love the drive, it has gone a little by the wayside over the past 4 years, but that never stops us coming for a trip. The expansion of Universal will bring a huge amount of business, tourism and revenue into the area and I am sure there will be a rejuvenation with businesses, stores, restaurants etc. I won't give up on it, so many memories. ❤
Yeah I honestly think Epic Universe will spark a renaissance in I-Drive --- it is kinda depressing to see what it is now
Pointe Orlando peaked in the late 90's early 2000's. Almost completely leased to retail and restaurants. It was a Muvico Theater before Regal bought it and there was an FAO Schwartz with a Star Wars Cantina where you can order drinks. When I lived in Winter Park that was always the spot to go to when handing out on I-Drive.
I wish they brought back the Star Wars Cantina
I moved here in 2021 but before we always vacation in Orlando Disney Universal for YEARS! My daughter and I love I drive. But I have seen so many changes and so much closing! Thanks for your fabulous content!
Remember it’s inflation. The cost of living has went up (especially FL.) and the pay does not match the cost of living. A home for $120,00 is now $280,000 plus high interest rates and property taxes. Vacations are getting harder to take. I’m a Floridian and I live 2 hours away from Orlando. If the people that are serving you doesn’t make enough income to live here, who’s going to serve you when those workers look for somewhere else to live? The way the economy is, people can’t afford to go out to eat or spend extra money. Is this the results of inflation after Covid?
Well Said!!
I agree with you Dev. I remember FAO Schwartz at Pointe Orlando and back when Icon Park was the Mercado. It seems like there was fewer attractions crowding the strip so there was enough people traffic to supply all the small shops and restaurants. Magical Midway used to be a cool place to go, but then it just turned into a so-so,has-been place. Although I really appreciate that they haven’t changed much. That feeds the need for nostalgia. Can’t say that I’m a fan of these mega complexes along I-Drive but they do seem to be doing well. I miss the 90’s.
The 90s was the best time for the country --- not just I-Drive
As always, Dev, you bring us all the info we need to keep us up to date! TY❤
This area used to have so much stuff in the 90s and early 2000s. That mall that used to be where Dezerland Park is used to be really nice, at least Bass Pro Shops is still there.😁 The Orlando Pointe Mall was another one that was fantastic, but has seen better days. We used to go to Race Rock all the time, but as soon as Dale Earnhardt passed away…so did the restaurant. So many attractions that used to be in the area are no longer there. The funny thing is, over on Vineland Avenue, between 535 and the outlets…nothing has changed in about 20 years, except Texas Longhorn is now a Bahama Breeze. I am hoping that Epic Adventure does revitalize that area. The community needs a break.
Oh man you and I are fond of the same era!! We LOVED the Race Rock!
Went to Race Rock everytime we holidayed (from UK) in florida in 1997,99 & 2000 & really miss it everytime we go back. The 1st time we went in 1997 was brilliant especially as my husband & kids (16 & 14 at time) love anything to do with cars. Spent ages looking around & had 1 of the best meals we have ever had in florida in the 6 times we have been, absolutely beautiful food & milkshakes to die for. Husband insists its still the best blacken chicken pasta he's ever had. Everytime we visit someone always sez they wish Race Rock was still there. Also miss The Ponderosa just up from Know Before You Go for my breakfast & The Mecardo with The Cricketers Arms for the best fish & chips. I-Drive was brilliant between 1997 & 2000.
@@kathrynkelman5334 there’s still a few steakhouses in the area, not the same as Ponderosa though. Fish and Chips, usually get those in Epcot. There’s a Big Fin Seafood restaurant on Sand Lake Rd., west of I-Drive, they have good fish and chips too.
@ziggy4465 thanks. Stayed on Sand lake road for a week the 1st time we went in 97, then went to daytona for 3 nights, then stayed on I-Drive for 4 nights but all the other times we've been, 1999,2000, 2003, 2018 & March last year (for 3 weeks)we've always stayed on I-Drive somewhere opposite the Pointe & I-con park & everytime we stay we notice how it has changed regarding shops & restaurants disappearing. Will be back later this year but gonna stay in LBV for a change, see how it goes as so use to I-Drive. Had a lovely meal in the steakhouse just down from the Sonesta Suites last year. Also breakfast in Perkins is really nice too but sadly the fish & chips in the Rose & Crown is nice but not a patch on the Cricketers Arms.
@@kathrynkelman5334 the outside stand, right next to the pub, has better fish and chips than indoors. It might be the outdoor air, I don’t know. The chips are definitely crispier outside.
On the Southside you went right passed Wonderworks and Dave and Busters across the street from it, I live near Sea world so I go to IDRIVE every day to have dinner at Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlando directly across the street from Wonderworks. Dinner buffet every night with a different theme, Asian on Wed, Italian on Thursday, Thanksgiving on sunday etc. Starts at 5pm to 9pm and great price, try it out, you won't be disappointed
It’s also not a tourist time of year right now in Orlando so it’s kinda normal.
I’d like to see another video in a month or so when spring break time happens.
Let’s hope Epic Universe revitalizes I-drive. It’s cool to see them investing in the Point Orlando to bring new life there. Go to highway 192 from seeing Adam the Woo’s vlogs it looks bad. Also don’t buy into what the media says
Enjoy your objectivity!! Enjoy listening after ONE year as a subscriber, I look forward to the day I bump into you at the park.
Our first ever visit to America from the UK was Orlando in 1993 on honeymoon and stayed at the Rosen hotel opposite The Pointe. It was a Quality Inn back then. Everything was an eye opener for us and we have returned many times since.
The Pointe was the happening place to visit. No vacant stores. I remember FAO Swartz had a store there with big teddy bear advertising it outside. Dan Marino had a restaurant there as well. We last visited in April 2023 and was sad to see how run down it looked. Nice to see that some investment is being made into it. Though, I agree that the cost of parking also puts of people visiting. Icon Park has definitely taken over the popularity (back in 1993 that was the location of The Mercado and The Titanic Experience was there). Free parking is a big help for that location. International Drive itself did look a little tired and in need of a little TLC.
Tourists and locals will flock to the newest built area..We just stayed at Universal Dockside hotel off of international drive.. great hotel.. we also did the helicopter tour over all theme parks that you showed in video.. highly recommend.. and we ate at the first watch restaurant on international drive.. great restaurant.. the area where the giant soccer (statue) is a Brazilian area.. great to see the improvement going on
There’s no way I’d spend any time at Pointe Orlando if I’d spent the insane amount of money it would cost to go on holiday to Orlando from the UK. The only draw there has ever been or will ever be for a Brit to visit International Drive is for hotel accommodation and restaurants. We wouldn’t dream of spending an evening at any of the crazy golf, escape room, fun fair ride silliness after paying for the real deal at Universal and Disney.
After staying in that area last month, for a month, the deterioration of this strip is astounding. You must always be aware of your surroundings and definitely stay close to the Celebration and Disney bubble.
As a Brit who comes to Orlando a couple of times a year and have been for 30 years we don’t bother with I Drive any more. We stay at Disney, visit Universal and Busch Gardens. Visit Clearwater, malls, outlets etc but I Drive isn’t anywhere we stop. We did do the big wheel, waxworks and sealife but only once. People visit Orlando for Disney and Universal not movie theatres and a big wheel.
Very special place for us. We visited the place in our honeymoon back in 1991. It was the place to be. So lively!
I hope it will go back to the golden days with the opening of Epic Universe.
Me being a Tampa, Florida native, I think International drive is awesome! I don’t see any problems because we don’t have anything like that in Tampa. There is so much more to do and see there. But I’m glad to see the point Orlando is getting an update cause there is so many empty buildings that have potential! Great video bro!
Is Bush gardens still open? I remember going there and enjoyed it.
I stayed in international inn hotel, the old part of international drive in 1990 as a tourist. We had a lovely holiday. Wet n wild was a draw for tourists, tourist were Queuing to get in thats gone.they replaced mercado’s , ponderosa restaurant is no more. Not everything draw tourists, so building new things to replace the old is not always for the best.
I remember when Wet n Wild was up there at the north end where the Universal Value hotels now are .. and is the soccer player statue a refugee from 'Sports Dominator' ?
I remember International Drive 20 years ago, it was buzzing. Seems quite run down now, I did like Pointe, there was a cool shop there that sold all kind of cool stuff. We walked from the North end down to Icon and were offered drugs on several occasions from some sketchy individuals, sad to see it turn that way.
I think the biggest issue is that people are flocking to Disney Springs and CityWalk when they go to the theme parks, and there is no reason to go anywhere else.
Especially Disney. They want to keep their guests on property as much as possible
Agreed!
I had no idea there was transportation to Busch Gardens! That’s so cool. They should definitely advertise that more for sure. I’m thinking about moving to I Drive and that would be so fun to hop on a bus to HOS in the fall.
Great video Dev thanks for the update
In the early 80's I-Drive was the place to be! Spent many summer days at Wet and Wild.
Thank you for the video dev I can’t believe how bad international drive is getting man
I think the people that own a lot of the infrastructure and land on IDrive have been perfectly fine with leaving their buildings of closed restaurants and stuff vacant for the time being (instead of operating at a loss or trying to hit the break even number) once Epic Universe was announced.
Wait until closer to the EU opening date and then do the construction like they’re doing now.
I just gave a testimony in the Baltimore City Council (February 13th, 2024), where I implored elected officials to use International Drive in Orlando as a template for the waterfront at the Baltimore INNER HARBOR, there's a proposal to build expensive apartments. International Drive is great, especially at night. There are so many things to do on International Drive in Orlando, we need something like this in Baltimore, and I am determined to do it.
I’m from the Baltimore area and remember when inner harbor was the center of everything. I was back there last year and it is almost all run down and abandoned. Any idea what will happen to it? ,
@blaster-zy7xx
Either my plan (entertainment center like International Drive in Orlando) or apartments, shops, and green spaces. I want to transform the INNER HARBOR into a world class destination with dozens of entertainment options, this oligarch (David Bramble of MCB REAL ESTATE) wants expensive apartments. I'm working on getting my plan onto the November 2024 ballot. Google it now... Baltimore INNER HARBOR public meetings 2024.
I have so many great memories of I-Drive in the 80's -early 2000's its sucks that it has become this.
THE QUALITY!!!! New lens? Looks amazing
We've been vacationing near or on iDrive for the past 20 years and it definitely has gone downhill. Some of the hotels are more for residents, there's homelessness, but that's pretty much everywhere and there's also a a lot more. What appears to be drug use as well. Hopefully when epic universe opens they'll clean up the areas that need to get cleaned up.
We visit annually from UK and avoid IDrive. Pointe Orlando has always been a ghost town, which is amazing taking in its central location. Developers decided to invest in Icon Park and allow Pointe to be empty. They must have a reason. I recall a Dan Marino eatery and BB Kings venue.
I was here in September,Stayed at the coco key hotel which was nice,Walked up and down international drive most days and nights,I thought it was quite nice,My problem was the people,Nearly every place we went in to eat or look around you always got the feeling no one that works in these places likes tourists,Me and my wife said the attitude of the people we met was absolutely stinking,I thought it might be a state thing as I’ve never been to Florida before,The people I met in New Jersey and New York the year before were absolutely brilliant,But honestly,I’ll be glad if I never have to go back to Florida,Great video by the way👍👍
Stayed at Rosen Centre Hotel Christmas 2022. Enjoyed the hotel and you couldn't beat the rate. But the area around it was really going down. Hopefully Epic Universe will save this area.
You aren't wrong. The street has decayed a lot in the past 10 yrs or so. I need a few shops like Bath and Body Works to open around there. Just make the Pointe an updated mall.
My first time exploring I Drive was in 2008 . We took the trolley to all the stops . There were lots of tourists and so many fun things to do.
Was there in June 2022… last time 2006…. What a difference..so run down… like no investment.. pretty sad
Great video dev, thanks for the update, I remember the toy shop fao Schwarz when it was there many years ago 🥰
Stayed at Coco Key nearly 10 years ago on our first ever visit to Orlando. Been back twice, the last time being June last year, and the difference was stark. Worse thing they did was close the Chinese restaurant down on the South-bound side near the OCC. Love Orlando, but dubious of returning due to the sheer greed of the park owners, especially the House of Mouse. Still intend to visit sometime before I'm called to the Theme Park in the sky! Great non-biased, knowledgeable opinion of the area. Cheers Dev.
I drive is now full of homeless people and closed units, very sad. I been going to I drive since 82, really downhill compared to what it once was. When I used to go you could park anywhere free of charge, now seems pay or valet. Prices are ridiculous compared to mainland USA, proper tourist rip offs in the restaurants and I’m saying this as someone that has travelled for 5 months across the USA. Was there last week
I’m in town still but leaving tomorrow and I gotta say from Mc Donald’s all the way down to about Walgreens across from the doc side it looks pretty run down and with epic universe coming I think it definitely needs a upgrade
Too bad they can’t entice some local independent restaurants to locate in that area. As a tourist I try to patronize restaurants that are new and different, not chain restaurants.
Soo many great memories on I-Drive! ❤
Miss some hopdoddy over there!! Mmmm Parmesan truffle fries and bacon jam! But ole red in gatlinburg Tennessee was amazing! So cool they have one here!
International Drive comes to life at night. During the day it’s not busy, ever. Point Orlando is never crowded and yes it’s been a bust even prior to the pandemic. Nobody wants to pay for parking when you can go to Disney springs for free.
I’m moving to that area not to long. This gives me more to see before I move down. Thanx Dev ✌🏻
I'm a local & i haven't been to international drive in awhile. I visited an anime store across from Dezerland but after the incident, i kinda lost interest in the attractions
You forgot arcade monsters, its a super awesome arcade where all the games are free all day, just an entrance fee. Its a little after chuckie cheese and the golf. This makes me sad😢
As Universal Orlando becomes increasingly self-contained, we can expect nearby but outside tourist services (hotels, restaurants, shopping) to face greater and greater challenges. As for salvation via Epic Universe, don't forget that this park will open with three new onsite hotels, and Universal will probably build more. Plus restaurants. And there's a free bus to Citywalk and the other Uni hotels. The goal is a new giant bubble to confront the Disney bubble -- and I-Drive may be left outside both. Kitschy piggyback attractions like wax museums and Believe It Or Not -- the same junk you can find at Niagara Falls, or any site with a major tourist draw -- probably won't be enough to compete.
I think it’s wonderful that businesses are coming back. With universal getting the new park more people will be looking for more things to do
Coming from the UK the first time we visited. We loved international Drive. I remember I have strong fond memories of FAO Schwartz, taking my children in there going to the cinema afterwards, but the north of International Drive looks like Blackpool which is a trashy dirty place in England, where you can get a cheap holidayI wouldn’t be seen dad staying in the hotel in the north of international Drive the place is dead now
Hey I love me so I drive myself. I made sure my kids and grandkids & others experience i drive. Rosen centre, Rosen plaza and Rosen shingles creek THE BEST ( raise up I drive ) keep on bringing it young man 👍 Also thank you for your service on referring us on flamingo crossing ( awesome )
In the 90's I Drive was pretty cool, not anymore. Acctualy, Orlando is not the same city, worst in fact, kinda scary sometimes. Pitty
Oh my goodness we were just there, and I was thinking the same thing! We were at the Chili’s and the Go-Cart place next door was closed up and the CiCi’s is shut down.
Great video idea. Thanks for sharing your perspective!
That go cart place has been closed for some years. The arcade place inside of it is still open tho.
Oh and the slingshot there I think still operates ?
@@NicEeEe843 Wow! 😲 It's been a little while since we explored iDrive. My last memory of it was still seeing people drive go karts. 😢
And I would not ride that slingshot! 😐
Thanks for the vid. keeping us informed in Citrus Springs FL
Please show respect to the people who are working their butts off during the pandemic and especially people with disabilities
I think maybe it’s because Universal Studios and Disney have so much to do on their properties that a lot of vacationers like myself basically Uber to Disney or universal and don’t rent a car because city walk and Disney springs are super nice and safe and have everything
International Drive is just basically a hotel/restaurant district now. All the major attractions are on the outskirts of the area. Hopefully they can build upon the impending success of Epic Universe and it can be like it once was!
Happy Monday! I have lots of good memories visiting I-drive. Thanks for sharing! 🎢
Hi dev,we really enjoy all the vlogs and especially the one on international drive as we are from the Wales in the Uk and we always stay in the Rosen Inn at pointe,weve stayed at other hotels but find that this hotel is generally clean tidy and reasonably priced food,we totally agree that the pointe needs a lot of attention gone are the days of FAO swartch and Hollister,we were bit disappointed when we went in October how its gone down hill ,but look forward to seeing back to it's former glory, keep up the great work and Best wishes to you and your family
Totally agree with you on not trusting the rides at icon park, so sad 😞
I miss orlando we used to visit every year from the uk but due to inflation and airlines charging ridiculous prices we can only visit once every 2 years due to the amount of money we have to save, im guessing we're not the only ones
Great video! Im from the UK and have only ever stayed on idrive both times i visited, stayed at rosen inn international and i loved it, last time was 2008 so its changed massively since then, ponderosa gone, the big sports shop with the footballer outside gone, hogans beach shop used to be a 7eleven last time i was there too. Shame to see BBKINGS gone though from pointe, i loved that place, its a shamr it didnt just move like hooters did instead of closing altogether
Seeing it now you can see how its lost its way somewhat, particularly at 1 end, it seems that all the renovation and money has been spent at the pointe orlando end of idrive to tidy that, whereas the other end towards where wet n wild used to be thats the part that now needs attention, hopefully it will get the love it needs, get some experiences in, new shops, restaurants, fast food places up that end of idrive and with epic universe coming, itll pick up again...hopefully.
I didnt realise how close to idrive Epic universe was going to be so fingers crossed that park will start to bring more ppl down idrive and it will start to get abit busier.
Again its been a long while since ive been, but when i eventually come back to orlando i have no issues with staying there again, its perfect for a holiday...everything you need within distance..food, supermarkets, transport to parks and malls, entertainment.
Stayed at Coco Key in November, I-Drive had taken a bit of a down turn from my previous visit 16 years previous, felt that Icon Park was keeping I-Drive going but there’s still things to draw visitors in but it’s not what it used to be.
It was the pandemic. A lot of businesses closed. There is still hope for a big comeback with epic universe.
On the south end entrance of International Drive (at the intersection of World Center Drive), it can be a nightmare of traffic jams. When I-4 traffic slows to a crawl, cars tend to use the World Center Drive and make a left to enter International Drive to drive northbound (otherwise if you go straight, you head to the toll entrance). Last minute decisions by some drivers to get in the LEFT turn lane (whether by chance or on purpose) is a COMMON issue (cutting in line). This intersection ought to be re-designed.
I went for the first time in 22 years in December. I-drive was good, but not at all how i remembered it. A little neglected in places. It needs more attractions. We felt there wasn't much there off interest to us. But we did find some great restaurants.
Should pick up once Universal opens.
The Point has been having problems for a long time, even before Covid.
Seems like things should ramp up in April, no?
Main part of International Drive is a actioned packed eating drinking heaven. Yes, losing the Mercado ctr, FAO Shwartz, Tikki Volcano golf, Ponderosa, Tony Romas and now the Midway Fair are losses....but much has replaced those places. Including Dezzerland, Icon Park and there are still loads of choice for shopping, eating, drinking and playing games such as mini golf or walking around attractions like Museums or upside down houses. If you do have lots of spare cash....head into City Walk or down to Disney Springs. If you like shopping centres...there is one at North I'Drive and one South I'Drive (Vineland)...easy to reach via the I' Trolley. There is no need to complain....pay your money take your choice.
P.s. losing Wet n Wild was another big blow but Volcano Bay is a great replacement. Plus you have a Waterpark at Legoland. Disney are the Scroogers now by only opening one of their Waterparks at a time...I.e Typhoon Lagoon for 6 months of the year and Blizzard Beach for 6 months of the year. Cinema enthusiasts are spoilt with 3 big complexes on near I' Drive..I.e.. Pointe Orlando, City Walk and inside the Dezzerland fun centre complex.
My family and I just checked out of the hotel on the upper left hand side(Avanti) of your video Monday morning. We just flew home yesterday morning. It's nice to actually know where you are in this video! :) We thought the location was excellent for the couple of days that we visited (except for some sections with the insane amount of traffic to go for a couple of miles) lol Universal but agree some areas could have used some work. We rented a car so we took a ride down to Port Canaveral on Sat and watched 5 cruise ships leave which was exciting. Visited Blizzard beach and Disney springs to get our Disney fix. Half of our family got sick but overall the weather was excellent and was a nice break from the chilly Massachusetts winter.
I was at the Pointe shopping during a week day around 2011? Possibly a little later. But either way it was just as dead then (in the middle of the day)-during the day in the middle of the week as you showed. Did a little bit of shopping, ate a burger at Johnny Rockets, and that was it. No one around other than employees. Big convention happening w/ husband in classes and I was left to my own devices. The next evening we went for a mix and mingle cocktail party that his colleagues were hosting at a bar on the upper deck. That was the most amount of people I saw. Wasn’t until I rode the bus down the street to the other mall (indoor) that I saw a lot more people. We were from Los Angeles, and I had never seen a mall so dead. It was shocking to me.
First time I saw I drive was 1997. Since then I've been back every 5 years so I could really see the changes. There was a lot of growth really fast, too much to be sustained in my opinion. Also most malls in the country are on a decline. But I think your right. Epic will bring in a lot of people and I think the be a resurgence 😊
Taverna Opa has amazing food and is a blast!
As a lifetime local, we just don’t go because of the trouble to find free parking. And better parking is crazy expensive. Eating out, even the simplest food is ridiculously expensive. So that combination it’s just not worth it. Pack a lunch and go to so many places like leu gardens, Bok towers, etc!
I used to work at the bath and body works that was at pointe orlando it was a very slow location but it closed in 2015 to build main event....
I think the entertainment there has out priced themselves from the average family.
I-Drive is dying due to there way overpriced everything. I'm so happy we moved out of that tourist trap, the only place worth your money is Universal Studios.
Good morning Dev happy Tuesday morning and I loved your vlogs and you are amazing Supporter and I'm proud of you
We were just down there early February . Is it my imagination or is I Drive trying to corner the market on Smoke Shops ? Seems you can't drive more than 5 minutes without seeing one.
I think the cruise industry is giving the Orlando/Florida attractions some serious competition. More people are going on cruises instead of visiting Orlando. And these cruise lines have a ship and/or package for EVERY demographic from budget consious families to the very rich. And most locals avoid the tourist part of town.
Thank you PCDev. ❤❤❤
Hi from the UK ! I've stayed on international drive a few times I don't use a car when I go to Florida so I like the I ride trolley. I'm loving this video because the last time I went we stayed at the Rosen opposite the pointe so I have a lot of good memories. For us not having a car international drives really good because it had various restaurants there was one particular restaurant that I really enjoyed but I don't know if it's still going it was called the ponderosa I remember going into this restaurant with my wife and son and I ordered a chicken salad and when we sat down we had access to every kind of food as it was a buffet and I didn't understand why we had paid for chicken salad after I had filled myself up eating as much meats as I could on the buffet the waiter came with our chicken salad but I couldn't eat it because I was too full up I didn't realise eating all the buffet was only the entree ! 😂😂
I would love to visit icon park but I need to use an evc for transportation, I can’t do a lot of walking. Looks like I would need to get an hotel on site
Gator Golf is iconic! My family went on our 1st out of the Disney bubble trip with a Groupon. We got to feed the lil stinkers too. It was a lot of fun for an hr or so.
I haven't been on International Drive since 1998 as I used to go to the outlet mall on the northern end of I-Drive, and stayed on I-Drive in the early years of my trips to Walt Disney World as I stayed at with my folks when I was a baby at the Davis Bros motel that was in the middle of I-Drive. It has changed.
We were just there last week and everytime we go somewhere at the Pointe we're always able to get our parking validated. The movie theater has a place right in the lobby area to the left with a big arrow that says parking validation. I'm excited to see all the new stuff that the Pointe has coming. We have 2 PBRs where we live in Hampton Roads, expect a mechanical bull 😂
Alsooooo haha the giant soccer boy statue is wearing a Brazilian soccer jersey so as a kid, I always felt like he was a special landmark for my ppl in Orlando and to mark the Brazilian shops, bakeries, and restaurants in that area!!! it would be so cool if you went and tried different Brazilian spots in the Orlando international Drive area!!
Yeah. The Drop Tower. :( I see this southbound on Turkey Lake at the light at Sand Lake. Seems weird that it's gone, but they had to.
Dev you are the best
Great video as always !! Remember though most spots there will validate your parking ticket example going to the movies or eating at one of the restaurants you just have to be sure to ask!!! I love going there for opa and Hampton social , blue martini is okay if you go with a group on nights with Spanish music !!!
Also few know about the super hood right across the bridge from the outlet mall. Thats the source of your crime. Easy to remedy
Yep also everything is so expensive Disney etc. leaves less money to be spread around
Rosen Shingle Creek Hotel is very nice.