Orlando adds three new attractions to its bounty

Visitors to Orlando, Fla., already home to Walt Disney World, Epcot, the Legoland Florida Resort and Universal Studios Orlando, has three new attractions, including a giant Ferris wheel.

The Orlando Eye, Madame Tussauds and Sea Life have opened in recent weeks, all beside one another along International Drive, a street that’s lined with attractions, hotels and restaurants.

At 400 feet tall, the Orlando Eye is billed as the tallest observation wheel along the East Coast. It’s 43 feet shorter than the London Eye and 150 feet shorter than the High Roller in Las Vegas.

During the 20-minute ride, passengers in 30 capsules can view the area’s many attractions. On a clear day, it’s also possible to see the Kennedy Space Center more than 50 miles away.

Madame Tussauds features wax figures of a variety of contemporary celebrities, among them TV host Jimmy Fallon, singers Selena Gomez and Taylor Swift and actor Jim Parsons. Rapper Pitbull unveiled a likeness of himself on May 29.

Sea Life, a chain of aquariums with a Carlsbad location but also known in Europe, is home to more than 5,000 animals representing life in three oceans.

Visitors can also learn about the underwater creatures that live in the Everglades and Florida’s freshwater lakes.

Admission at each of the three attractions is the same: $25 for adults (13 and older) and $20 for kids (3-12). Advance purchase discounts and package deals are offered at their websites.

All three properties are owned by Merlin Entertainments.

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