It’s been a bit since we’ve talked about my beloved Orlando. So, how about a Flashback Friday post to one of my favorite places to eat at Walt Disney World: Via Napoli!
orlando
Gods and Monsters
Last fall, during my most recent trip to Orlando, Florida, I had a brilliant idea. I decided that, on our last day in town, before we started our trip home, we’d locate this shop I’d heard about called Gods & Monsters.
Now, at the time we went, Gods & Monsters was located in the Artegon, which was one of the coolest mall type buildings I’ve ever been to. However, it unfortunately closed in January of 2017, which meant Gods & Monsters – among other stores and shops – had to relocate. Now, Gods & Monsters has a lease with Orlando Crossings Mall, and has since reopened, I believe.
Anyway…
I knew I’d heard glorious things about the size of this place and the HUGE amount of nerdy delight it contained. But I was still massively overwhelmed the moment I stepped inside.
There is such a HUGE spectrum of amazing things inside this shop. While they do have quite a few current books, they don’t really have much in terms of comic back issues. HOWEVER, that’s totally fine, given the massive amount of other things they did have.
There were older and newer collectibles and toys, ranging from sci fi to fantasy, comic related to horror, etc. Honestly, I wish I would have spent less at Universal and Disney, so I could have made a massive haul in Gods & Monsters – because there were some treasures I desperately wanted.
But aside from just having loads of cool things, they also had a gaming area set up in the back, if I remember correctly, as well as some insanely cool decor going on. My particular favorite? Anything and EVERYTHING Batman related. The Arkham games themed check out counter area was PHENOMENAL. 
If you’re in the area, go check out Gods & Monsters at their new location. I’ll be heading back for sure the next time I make my way to Orlando!
Have you ever visited Gods & Monsters? Have you seen the new location yet? Comment below and let me know!
~Angel
HHN 26: American Horror Story
American Horror Story is an FX series that has grown a massive following of horror and non-horror fans, alike. With changing themes each season, it’s definitely an interesting concept that keeps people guessing what will happen from season to season, and, more recently, trying to connect the dots between each season.
The American Horror Story house for Halloween Horror Nights 26 is comprised of three seasons: Season One – The Murder House, Season Four – Freakshow, and Season Five – Hotel. Unfortunately, while I did get to tour this house, I couldn’t take any behind the scenes pictures because the photo policy with the IP houses just changed. However, I do have a little bit of insight to share.
SPOILERS AHEAD!
Halloween Horror Nights 26 Prep!
The most wonderful time of the year is upon us, boys and ghouls! Autumn is in the air, and Halloween is creeping up on us. You know what that means — Halloween Horror Nights!
Some of the houses I’m particularly excited about – The Exorcist, AHS, Texas Chainsaw Massacre, and Halloween – have had my happy little horror loving brain so excited that I can barely focus. I’m finalizing plans and tickets. I’m freaking out with excitement because I know I’ll be there Sunday, finally basking in the awesome which is Universal, and Halloween Horror Nights.
I decided to pack my Blood Brothers shirt from Terror Threads to wear for the event itself. Fitting, since last year they had the Freddy vs Jason house, and this year they’ve brought Michael Myers and Leatherface back. Plus, this shirt is ridiculously cool and comfortable, as are all of the shirts from Terror Threads. If you love horror, you’ll definitely love their products.
We start the drive to Orlando Friday night, so there probably won’t be any new posts here until I’m back. Can’t wait to come back with loads of pictures for you guys!
~Angel
HHN 26: Updates
I’ve had a lot of things kinda drag me behind lately, so forgive my absence! I’ve missed updating you guys on the rest of the announcements for Halloween Horror Nights Orlando, and with it starting this week, and my own trip beginning next week, I probably need to catch up!
Here’s the rest of the house line up from the official Halloween Horror Nights site:
KRAMPUS
HHN 26: Hell Comes to Haddonfield
Halloween Horror Nights 24 gave me a chance to enter into one of my favorite horror film franchises, Halloween. Iconic scenes, the Myers house, being chased by Michael Myers, etc. It was a dream come true, and still one of my favorite houses.
Now, we get to return to Haddonfield.
Just announced for Halloween Horror Nights 26! Halloween: Hell Comes to Haddonfield. We’re going to pick up where the first house left off, and then, according to the release, be pursued by Myers through Haddonfield, into Haddonfield Memorial Hospital. How’s that for a house sequel?!
I cannot WAIT to see what they do with the house this year. Which of the houses are you most excited about?
-Angel
Universal Dining: Three Broomsticks
Harry Potter fanatics, such as myself, rejoiced at the initial announcement of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter being added to Islands of Adventure at Universal Studios, Orlando.
WE GET TO SEE THE CASTLE?! WE GET TO EXPLORE HOGSMEADE?!
And for those who have been, you know – it’s like walking onto the set, and everything is magical.
That being said, one of the things I was ridiculously excited for, was the opportunity to dine at the Three Broomsticks.
The Three Broomsticks restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and is a quick service option for those of us that are go-go-go at the parks. They offer a handful of different options, including fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, Cornish pasty, turkey legs and fresh vegetables, plus items on the kid’s menu for picky little eaters.
What do I always get?
This huuuuuuge plate of deliciousness! Seriously, you get you money’s worth with this restaurant.
So is it worth a visit? Definitely, especially for fellow fans of the books and movies.
And you can’t forget the best part of the visit: BUTTERBEER!
~Angel
Halloween Horror Nights 26: Icon Revealed!
Yesterday, we were given this teaser video:
HHN26: Walking Dead Announcement!
This is probably the only one I had pegged for sure to be announced this year. I was even talking to my mom about it this morning. And BEHOLD – here it is! Officially announced. Now, I wasn’t that excited really, until I was reading the actual announcement…:
Savings Challenge
I can be a very motivated money saver when I need to be. If I want something badly enough, I’ll pinch pennies and hoard money and come up with ways to get some extra cash. With an upcoming Orlando trip in September/October for Halloween Horror Nights and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, I need to start putting money back. Here’s the game plan:
Wandering NerdGirl 