When the parks close for the night, the fun is far from over at Universal Orlando. When the sun goes down, the neon lights of Citywalk give off a gleaming glow of colors that beckons you to come and explore. From first-class restaurants to one-stop shopping, mini golf and night clubs for the adult crowd, Universal Orlando's Citywalk has something to meet everyone's entertainment needs. It is the perfect way to spend an evening strolling along the canal and drinking in the fun atmosphere long after the parks have closed for the night.

Restaurants



There are more than 20 restaurants ready to tame your cravings at Citywalk Orlando. From sit down options like the all new Antojitos and the authentic Italian cuisine of Vivo, to quick bites at the Whopper Bar and everything in between. No matter, what you're in the mood for, you'll find it here. Follow the signs, or your nose, and explore the different flavors that await.


On my recent visit to Universal Orlando as part of the Facing Fears Together trip planned by Two Traveling Moms, I had the chance to enjoy a meal at Antojitos, where they serve authentic Mexican cuisine. Antojitos opened in early February this year, and is one of several new restaurants to have recently been added to the Citywalk area.

Walking through the tie dye archway of Antojitos, you are instantly transported to the street scene in Mexico. Colorful street art marks the walls, and the atmosphere practically sings with fun as a Mariachi band lends its unique flavor to hit songs like "Poker Face" in the background.


The menu is full of Mexican delicacies like Guacamole prepared tableside, and my own personal favorite, Tempura BBQ Shrimp Tacos. If you make a stop at Antojitos, you must not leave without tasting one of their signature drinks, I recommend either the Repo Man or the Highway to Heaven as an after meal option.



Vivo and Red Oven Pizza Bakery are two other Citywalk Orlando restaurants that are new to the scene this year, and that I had the chance to try out. I'll tell you, nothing hits the spot like a slice of Red Oven Pizza at midnight after coming out of Halloween Horror Nights. Of course, there are also long-time favorites like Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville and NBA City too.


Entertainment


Universal Orlando's Citywalk has a wide range of activities that can be enjoyed throughout the day. Next to the AMC Universal Cineplex 20 with IMAX featuring all the newest releases, you'll find Hollywood Drive-In Golf. This retro "monster movie" themed attractions has two golf courses that take you by flying saucers, through a cemetery and even into a haunted house basement lab!


Don't miss the ever popular Blue Man Group when you visit Citywalk. We went to this show about a year ago and my boys still rave about it all the time. So much so in fact, that we will be going back next month. If you have never been to a Blue Man Group show, it will have you rolling in the aisles with laughter.

Shopping



There are plenty of shopping opportunities in Citywalk Orlando. Perhaps the most popular is the Universal Studios Store. Here, you can find all your favorite themed park merchandise. You'll also find popular shopping options like Fossil, Element and Fresh Produce around the Citywalk area too.

Bars and Clubs


Although I didn't get the chance to visit any of Universal Orlando's Citywalk bars or clubs, a few people in our group went out the last night to try them and had a blast. Become a singing legend at Citywalk's Rising Start karaoke bar with a live band, or take in a lively show from the dueling pianos at Pat O'Brien's followed by a chance to shake your thing at Groove.

Atmosphere



No matter why you find yourself at Universal Orlando's Citywalk, whether it be for a taste bud satisfying meal or a competitive game of mini golf, the incredible atmosphere found her is always free. Take the opportunity to stroll along the canal, watch the boats float by as the colors from the neon lights flicker and dance across the surface. Don't miss the opportunity to grab some shots of the iconic Universal Orlando arches and globe while the liveliness of Citywalk Orlando shines in the background.


For more information on what you will find at Citywalk Orlando, you can visit UniversalOrlando.com.

Park tickets, accommodations and some meals were covered as part of the Facing Fears Together trip, all opinions are my own.