This trip highlighted our second day trip of the year. We simply wanted to get out, explore somewhere away from home, and enjoy a well-deserved break. And of course, Ace absolutely loves riding the tour bus—that's how we roll.
I also wanted Ace to experience a place that I once explored with my late guide dog, PK. It felt like the perfect opportunity to seize for a day trip. So this became our second day trip of the year. Where did we go?
CityWalk in Orlando.
PK and I went there about seven years ago, and it was at nighttime. This time, I wanted Ace to see the area in broad daylight so he could really learn the layout and understand how to navigate it. A lot has changed at CityWalk since my last visit.
One of the biggest changes is security. Back then, CityWalk didn't even have security—imagine that! Now it feels much more structured, similar to the security setup at Brightline.
Ace did an absolutely phenomenal job. His pedestrian clearances were excellent, and he ignored many small children without any issues. We explored the CityWalk area, which is set up like a loop route, and we enjoyed walking along the canal beside it.
Because it was daytime, I was finally able to see the Hard Rock building clearly. The last time I was there at night, I couldn't really decipher the color of the building due to my vision loss. This time I realized it's all white.
We eventually apporached the lighthouse, where we found the perfect opportunity to take some photos. A kind person graciously offered to take pictures for us, and we were very grateful.
We also discovered new places that didn't exist before, which was pretty cool. It's always fun to see what has been added and to imagine coming back again to check things out.
One thing that caused a little confusion was how you enter CityWalk now. Years ago, you could simply walk right in. Now, the bus staging area has been rebuilt across the street from CityWalk. From there, you go up to a higher level and walk across the pedestrian bridge.
That's where we encountered the moving people conveyor. At first I thought it was an escalator. I gave Ace the cue, "ON," and suddenly we realized we were standing on a moving belt!
Oh, my!
Ace handled it like a total professional. When we reached the end, he calmly stepped off with no issues. I probably won't do that again, but it helped us understand the new environment. Ace and I are truly a fearless team.
Later, we took a break while Ace watched people playing a game where they tossed a bean bag about twelve feet apart. Ace didn't jump or try to grab it—he simply watched with curiosity and calm interest.
For lunch, I enjoyed a delicious meal at Red Oven Bakery, a pizza place. Many restaurants weren't open yet when we arrived, which isn't surprising. CityWalk is notoriously famous for nighttime crowds, just like Disney Springs.
The weather was absolutely perfect that day. I considered getting something chocolately, but I knew it would probably melt in my bag, so I passed.
Ace loved all of the sights, loved riding the tour bus, and clearly enjoyed the adventure. He stayed focused the entire time and didn't even think about his supper. We made it home with no issues, and I am sure he will sleep very well tonight.
Here's a video that features a few photos woven throughout the clip.
Next up, perhaps another day trip later this month depending on the weather—and depending on how I feel after finally getting my teeth screwed in! Finally!