Sometimes you need a quick getaway. My husband and I like to go to concerts. We often plan trips to see bands we enjoy. It is the best of both worlds: great music and a trip. We spent this last weekend in Orlando to see the band O.A.R. If you are familiar with my other posts on music, they are a favorite of ours. We have seen them Chicago and Tahoe. When we found out they were playing at the House of Blues at Disney Springs HouseofBlues, we scooped up some tickets and headed out. We live in Tampa, about an hour and a half from Disney but we decided to make a weekend of it.
One of my favorite benefits of being a HGVC member is the Open Season rates. Rooms that aren’t rented 30 days before check out are offered to members for significantly reduced prices. There is a minimum 2 day stay (a day less than the minimum stay with points.) I was able to get a one bedroom condo at Parc Soleil ParcSoleil for $257 for two nights, less than most motel rooms in the area. It was perfect for our weekend in Orlando. We had a full kitchen, living room, large bedroom and bath along with a balcony. The resort is conveniently located 2 miles from Disney Springs. Given the full kitchen in the condo, I brought meals from home and we were able to relax and enjoy the resort the day before the concert.
The O.A.R. concert which prompted our weekend in Orlando was at House of Blues located in Disney Springs. We bought general admission tickets but were able to find space with a great view. House of Blues does offer “Pass the Line” admission if you dine in their restaurant before the concert or visit their store and spend a minimum of $25. There are also a few actual seats but they sell out quickly and are substantially more expensive than the general admission tickets. General admission usually runs $40 – $50 depending on the act. Seats are twice that but still a good deal for a concert in a smaller venue. O.A.R. and their opening act Matt Nathanson did not disappoint. The music was great as always and the venue had surprisingly good acoustics.
After the concert we weren’t quite ready to head back so we stopped at Raglan Road RaglanRoad
for a late night snack of fish and chips. We sat outside and caught the last set of the guitarist. I have searched high and low for his name but sadly cannot find it. Guess that means I will have to go back and see if he is there. Just another reason for a weekend in Orlando.
For some of our other music adventures check out: