I'm very concerned about the current condition of International Drive Orlando!

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  • čas přidán 28. 06. 2024
  • In today's video I make my way to International Drive Orlando where you can find attractions, restaurants, hotels and shopping. However, I'm concerned about the current state of i-drive due to recent crime and establishments having to close the doors due to going out of business. In this video I take you around to show you the condition this area is in currency. I start on the south side where the Orange County Convention Center is and finish on the north side where Dezerland Park is. Along the way I stop at Pointe Orlando to see what kind of upgrades they are making, Icon Park, Dezerland and even more wacky stores in between. Thank you so much for watching, if you enjoyed this video please give it a big thumbs up!
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Komentáře • 267

  • @Yo_Bentley
    @Yo_Bentley Před 4 měsíci +73

    Once Epic Universe opens The Pointe will come back to life.

    • @dancherry2343
      @dancherry2343 Před 4 měsíci +8

      Dude you are so so right

    • @GotmerKed
      @GotmerKed Před 4 měsíci +11

      Agreed, it's just too nice of an area.

    • @ECDT1089-EtheLamborghini
      @ECDT1089-EtheLamborghini Před 3 měsíci +5

      Yup. I-Drive in general as well.

    • @fredwerza3478
      @fredwerza3478 Před 2 měsíci +1

      All the hotels on I-Drive are close to Epic Universe --- so thousands of people every weekend will want to stay there

  • @paulaaspinall8632
    @paulaaspinall8632 Před 4 měsíci +32

    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 💙

    • @lordteabelly
      @lordteabelly Před 2 měsíci +1

      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

  • @GariClarkngb
    @GariClarkngb Před 4 měsíci +18

    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

    • @fredwerza3478
      @fredwerza3478 Před 2 měsíci +2

      I-Drive is still busy on weekends in the summer --- but during the week it can be very desolate of people

  • @respben
    @respben Před 4 měsíci +43

    I think the higher prices for food and eating out is a big part of the problem.

    • @drwalka10
      @drwalka10 Před 2 měsíci

      wrong ... its just the food .... not eating out also

  • @kathleenchristie9872
    @kathleenchristie9872 Před 3 měsíci +4

    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. ❤

    • @fredwerza3478
      @fredwerza3478 Před 2 měsíci +1

      Yeah I honestly think Epic Universe will spark a renaissance in I-Drive --- it is kinda depressing to see what it is now

  • @MsNinjes
    @MsNinjes Před 4 měsíci +13

    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.

    • @scottrobinson3353
      @scottrobinson3353 Před 3 měsíci +3

      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.

  • @Toni-747
    @Toni-747 Před 4 měsíci +25

    As always, Dev, you bring us all the info we need to keep us up to date! TY❤

  • @manimbro
    @manimbro Před 4 měsíci +13

    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.

    • @fredwerza3478
      @fredwerza3478 Před 2 měsíci +1

      I wish they brought back the Star Wars Cantina

  • @TDJUNKIEOZ
    @TDJUNKIEOZ Před 4 měsíci +13

    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.

    • @fredwerza3478
      @fredwerza3478 Před 2 měsíci +1

      The 90s was the best time for the country --- not just I-Drive

  • @kimmylovesdisney9793
    @kimmylovesdisney9793 Před 4 měsíci +8

    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!

  • @MacPOPOPO
    @MacPOPOPO Před 4 měsíci +8

    Enjoy your objectivity!! Enjoy listening after ONE year as a subscriber, I look forward to the day I bump into you at the park.

  • @devinpaladino8834
    @devinpaladino8834 Před 4 měsíci +14

    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!

  • @ziggy4465
    @ziggy4465 Před 4 měsíci +19

    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.

    • @TDJUNKIEOZ
      @TDJUNKIEOZ Před 4 měsíci +4

      Oh man you and I are fond of the same era!! We LOVED the Race Rock!

    • @kathrynkelman5334
      @kathrynkelman5334 Před 4 měsíci +5

      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.

    • @ziggy4465
      @ziggy4465 Před 4 měsíci +1

      @@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.

    • @kathrynkelman5334
      @kathrynkelman5334 Před 4 měsíci +2

      @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.

    • @ziggy4465
      @ziggy4465 Před 4 měsíci +1

      @@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.

  • @AnnieBelles247
    @AnnieBelles247 Před 4 měsíci +3

    Great video dev, thanks for the update, I remember the toy shop fao Schwarz when it was there many years ago 🥰

  • @shopper5969
    @shopper5969 Před 4 měsíci +2

    Happy Monday! I have lots of good memories visiting I-drive. Thanks for sharing! 🎢

  • @ryannodal9309
    @ryannodal9309 Před 4 měsíci +8

    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

  • @genneancroker9925
    @genneancroker9925 Před 4 měsíci +11

    Great video Dev thanks for the update

  • @alancampbell9568
    @alancampbell9568 Před 4 měsíci +4

    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.

  • @ducktails1695
    @ducktails1695 Před 4 měsíci +3

    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.

  • @chadhawkins3300
    @chadhawkins3300 Před 4 měsíci +5

    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!

  • @jabrowski_
    @jabrowski_ Před 4 měsíci

    Ty for the update tour, Dev. Great filming 🐊

  • @jackiesaturday3362
    @jackiesaturday3362 Před 4 měsíci +4

    THE QUALITY!!!! New lens? Looks amazing

  • @StevieScotty19
    @StevieScotty19 Před 4 měsíci +2

    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👍👍

  • @BostonMark67
    @BostonMark67 Před 4 měsíci +1

    I’m moving to that area not to long. This gives me more to see before I move down. Thanx Dev ✌🏻

  • @JennaPaneto
    @JennaPaneto Před 4 měsíci +3

    Thanks for the vid. keeping us informed in Citrus Springs FL

  • @terracelady
    @terracelady Před 3 měsíci +2

    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

  • @BennyHall1990
    @BennyHall1990 Před 4 měsíci +6

    Thank you for the video dev I can’t believe how bad international drive is getting man

  • @traceyprofio3666
    @traceyprofio3666 Před 4 měsíci

    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.

  • @dru1969
    @dru1969 Před 3 měsíci +1

    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

  • @heater631
    @heater631 Před 4 měsíci +3

    Soo many great memories on I-Drive! ❤

  • @PeppermintPatty1405
    @PeppermintPatty1405 Před 4 měsíci +2

    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.

  • @l.c.8798
    @l.c.8798 Před 4 měsíci

    Oh wow! Thanks for the update 👍

  • @AikenAdventures
    @AikenAdventures Před 4 měsíci +4

    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!

    • @NicEeEe843
      @NicEeEe843 Před 4 měsíci

      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 ?

    • @AikenAdventures
      @AikenAdventures Před 4 měsíci +1

      @@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! 😐

  • @dougieallison6537
    @dougieallison6537 Před 4 měsíci

    Dev how are my friend good to see another video bro great as usual and seeing the state of idrive pal scary

  • @pauldavies8888
    @pauldavies8888 Před 3 měsíci

    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

  • @edmundobertholdi1092
    @edmundobertholdi1092 Před 4 měsíci +1

    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.

  • @diamonddiva1429
    @diamonddiva1429 Před 3 měsíci

    Hey Dev! I was in Orlando last year and I really enjoyed Icon Park so much for myself and the kids to get into. We missed the wheel though can’t wait to return to experience it.

  • @edwardleecaliforniausa
    @edwardleecaliforniausa Před 4 měsíci +1

    Good morning Dev happy Tuesday morning and I loved your vlogs and you are amazing Supporter and I'm proud of you

  • @carmenmorales4278
    @carmenmorales4278 Před 4 měsíci

    Thanks Dev, I needed this video right now as we just booked a hotel on international drive for next week and was wondering what was close by.

  • @RJMCTV
    @RJMCTV Před 3 měsíci

    wow - been watching you for a while - but this video pops. So clear, and bright. New camera?

  • @ramongutierrez5585
    @ramongutierrez5585 Před 4 měsíci +1

    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 )

  • @isabellavaldes1959
    @isabellavaldes1959 Před 4 měsíci

    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 !!!

  • @marekczarnecki5388
    @marekczarnecki5388 Před 4 měsíci +3

    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' ?

  • @HuntyTravels
    @HuntyTravels Před 4 měsíci +1

    Thank you PCDev. ❤❤❤

  • @kimberlyennis1264
    @kimberlyennis1264 Před 3 měsíci +3

    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?

  • @mhairsto24
    @mhairsto24 Před 4 měsíci +4

    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.

    • @blaster-zy7xx
      @blaster-zy7xx Před 3 měsíci

      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? ,

    • @mhairsto24
      @mhairsto24 Před 3 měsíci

      @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.

  • @evolvedant
    @evolvedant Před 4 měsíci +2

    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😢

  • @atb88
    @atb88 Před 4 měsíci +1

    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.

  • @patrickellington53
    @patrickellington53 Před 4 měsíci

    Great video as always..I love international drive.I’ve never had any problems staying on there..been staying on the drive for about 30 years when I come to Orlando..was there in November on a solo trip loved it..but your right it has gone down hill it used to be very busy but not so much now..pointe Orlando was great when it first opened had one of Dan marinos restaurants on there a footlocker too..now all the bars are closed on the top level..shame I like the place..I stayed at the Rosen inn pointe Orlando was very clean great staff and good price..with miller ale house across the road I was in there every night for food and drinks quite cheap..👍

  • @allireynolds1430
    @allireynolds1430 Před 4 měsíci

    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.

  • @nosetdirection
    @nosetdirection Před 4 měsíci +1

    In the early 80's I-Drive was the place to be! Spent many summer days at Wet and Wild.

  • @gonesplorin5507
    @gonesplorin5507 Před 4 měsíci

    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 😊

  • @blowfish2156
    @blowfish2156 Před 4 měsíci +1

    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.

  • @seanthompson1950
    @seanthompson1950 Před 4 měsíci

    Thanks to you I stayed at Endless Summer Surfside. It was amazing!!!

  • @fingers3239
    @fingers3239 Před 3 měsíci

    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.

  • @christinaaviles5663
    @christinaaviles5663 Před 4 měsíci +3

    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.

  • @JordanWilliams89
    @JordanWilliams89 Před měsícem

    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.

  • @DisneyMarkUK
    @DisneyMarkUK Před 3 měsíci

    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.

  • @floridafunandmore
    @floridafunandmore Před 4 měsíci +1

    I have so many great memories of I-Drive in the 80's -early 2000's its sucks that it has become this.

  • @marieazrak1951
    @marieazrak1951 Před 4 měsíci +1

    Please show respect to the people who are working their butts off during the pandemic and especially people with disabilities

  • @danmwilson911
    @danmwilson911 Před 4 měsíci +1

    Taverna Opa has amazing food and is a blast!

  • @lordteabelly
    @lordteabelly Před 2 měsíci

    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.

  • @joysharpe1500
    @joysharpe1500 Před 4 měsíci +1

    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.

  • @christinav3619
    @christinav3619 Před 4 měsíci

    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.

  • @awfulmaddenplays.8264
    @awfulmaddenplays.8264 Před 4 měsíci +2

    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

  • @krystalwalter
    @krystalwalter Před 3 měsíci

    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 😂

  • @ECDT1089-EtheLamborghini
    @ECDT1089-EtheLamborghini Před 3 měsíci

    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!

  • @marisettecollazo7668
    @marisettecollazo7668 Před 4 měsíci +1

    Love your Videos!! But ur right International needs a lot of love and a shot of New love I like to go to the Souvenirs shops in that area Do u have a recent Video with the shops in it I would like to see that Thank u for all u do ❤

  • @TheBashful0ne
    @TheBashful0ne Před 4 měsíci +2

    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

  • @EdwardSanchezProductions
    @EdwardSanchezProductions Před 4 měsíci +5

    Dev you are the best

  • @roiijamez33
    @roiijamez33 Před 4 měsíci

    Was there last month & stayed just off I drive on Universal near Pointe. Always enjoy visiting Orlando. Had a chance to visit Disney Springs fo rthe first time & it was nice!

  • @ramundo07
    @ramundo07 Před 4 měsíci

    Back in 2021 for our honeymoon my wife and I stayed on I-Drive and hit up a lot of the attractions expect Icon Park. I was impressed with Orlando I wouldn’t mind moving there one day

  • @tehrahedwards4504
    @tehrahedwards4504 Před 4 měsíci

    Hay Prince Charming dev like todays video big fan hugs❤❤

  • @michellelloyd9414
    @michellelloyd9414 Před 4 měsíci +1

    Totally agree with you on not trusting the rides at icon park, so sad 😞

  • @beeroney8513
    @beeroney8513 Před 3 měsíci

    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.

  • @isabellavaldes1959
    @isabellavaldes1959 Před 4 měsíci

    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!!

  • @darrenwilkinson4348
    @darrenwilkinson4348 Před 4 měsíci +1

    Was there in June 2022… last time 2006…. What a difference..so run down… like no investment.. pretty sad

  • @andrewty37
    @andrewty37 Před 4 měsíci

    Cool I was back there in Late October.

  • @joeh16
    @joeh16 Před 4 měsíci

    My daughter and i visited icon park last month for the first time while on vacation and we enjoyed the area. It looks like we could have seen a lot more though!!

  • @billseanor4341
    @billseanor4341 Před 4 měsíci +2

    Should pick up once Universal opens.

  • @srb2834
    @srb2834 Před 4 měsíci +1

    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.

  • @fourlittlebirds6166
    @fourlittlebirds6166 Před 4 měsíci

    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.

  • @jmen0166
    @jmen0166 Před 3 měsíci

    your pronunciation of the words that end with the letter "m" is epic!!!

  • @omegaman1409
    @omegaman1409 Před 3 měsíci +1

    It was the pandemic. A lot of businesses closed. There is still hope for a big comeback with epic universe.

  • @garydevonport4868
    @garydevonport4868 Před 3 měsíci

    Gary from the UK here, we normally stay at rosen Inn point, great location been to that hotel 4 times

  • @melvinjacobs2328
    @melvinjacobs2328 Před 4 měsíci +1

    The Point has been having problems for a long time, even before Covid.

  • @fav4it
    @fav4it Před 3 měsíci

    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.

  • @FrankG5874
    @FrankG5874 Před 4 měsíci

    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.

  • @WelcometotheJones
    @WelcometotheJones Před 4 měsíci

    I too was wondering what’s going on there? My guess is there will be massive changes to come for that area with the money being poured into the surrounding areas.

  • @tonyacourtney3816
    @tonyacourtney3816 Před 4 měsíci +1

    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.

  • @PaulRankinYT
    @PaulRankinYT Před 4 měsíci +1

    I miss Adobe Gila’s such a good place to hang around of a night

  • @pieeaterstravels
    @pieeaterstravels Před 4 měsíci

    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.

  • @EmpireStateExpress01
    @EmpireStateExpress01 Před 3 měsíci +1

    Rosen Shingle Creek Hotel is very nice.

  • @jeaninemunoz1817
    @jeaninemunoz1817 Před 3 měsíci

    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.

  • @repboy1
    @repboy1 Před 4 měsíci

    I used to go to that movie theatre in early 2000 s , maybe with epic it will bring people to pointe as 3 new hotels nearby

  • @TheJazsi1
    @TheJazsi1 Před 4 měsíci

    Oh Lordt...thnx Dev I'll be there in July for the Scentsy convention and all the summer shenanigans in hot $@? July.

  • @tree38872003
    @tree38872003 Před 4 měsíci

    Great video i think Epic Universe will help I drive. Its been a min since you done one but can you do a staying off property video? If possible a stay at Drury inn near Disney springs

  • @horrormoviescreamqueen13
    @horrormoviescreamqueen13 Před 4 měsíci

    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....

  • @jessicas1422
    @jessicas1422 Před 4 měsíci

    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.

  • @robertgray1756
    @robertgray1756 Před 4 měsíci

    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.

    • @robertgray1756
      @robertgray1756 Před 4 měsíci

      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.