May 4 is a huge day for the I-Drive 360 complex and three of its big attractions. That's the official grand opening date of the Orlando Eye, Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum, and the Sea Life Orlando Aquarium.
So will they be ready? And what's opening earlier on International Drive?
We spoke with both Unicorp National Developments President Chuck Whittall and John Stine, the sales and marketing director for the I-Drive 360 complex.
Orlando Eye: Whittall said that all "major constuction" is over and done with. The 400-foot-tall wheel is in its "final testing stage" as engineers and crew are the only ones getting inside the vehicles. Whittall expects to take his first spin next week. Stine said lighting and electrical work needs to be completed.
Sea Life Orlando Aquarium: Stine confirmed the first round of fish and marine animals have been introduced to the aquarium. The little guys need time to acclimate to their new home before the big boys -- sharks! -- get in there.
Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum: Jimmy Fallon, Jim Parsons and Ricky Martin are already comfy with their new digs, but Stine said a few additional figures may be on their way. Regardless, the attraction is "near completion."
Skeletons: Animals Unveiled: The grand opening is April 25. As you can see from the image above, the bones of more than 400 birds and animals are now arriving!
Tin Roof - A Live Music Joint: It's been open for months.
McFadden's Restaurant & Saloon (located at Vue @ 360) : This new-place-to-party is throwing a three-day bash with special festivities April 9 to April 11. VIPs/media have an event from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on April 9, with doors opening to the public at 10 p.m. McFadden's is bringing in special guest Vanilla Ice April 11, so that night is really considered the "grand opening."
Cowgirls Rockbar and Sugar Factory: Both are slated for a "sometime in May" grand opening. Lots of construction remains. Cowgirls is "home to Orlando's only mechanical bull."
Also opening elsewhere on International Drive:
Mango's Tropical Cafe (located near I-Drive and Sand Lake Road): Soft opening expected in July. This club is going to be three to four times bigger than the one on Ocean Drive in South Beach. Live entertainment includes Michael Jackson tributes, a "Magic Mike"-style number, mariachi bands, Flamenco dancers, salsa, bachata... yep, you'll be groovin' no matter what you're into.
Toby Keith's I Love This Bar & Grill (located at Artegon Marketplace): Already open. Big country music act Thompson Square performs May. 2.
We are stoked to announce that we're producing a 30-minute Special airing on News 13 and Bay News 9 May 8 to May 10. Called "Eye on I-Drive: The Evolution of International Drive," we'll give you the insider access on everything from nightlife and thrill rides to traffic and attractions.