Who would have thought that an animated TV series about a jaundiced, dysfunctional family would become the longest-running scripted show in history?
Homer, Bart, and the extended Simpsons family have grown from a comic into an entire industry, with movies, branding opportunities, and an area of Universal Studios in Orlando devoted to them. First came the Simpsons Ride, a fantasy 3-D simulated roller coaster that kicked the old Back to the Future attraction to the curb. In June, the majority of Springfield opened -- complete with carnival games, a Kwik-E-Mart (selling Duff energy drink), Krusty Burger, and Moe's Tavern.
Now, the second part of Springfield has just opened, with additional food and drink experiences. Lard Lad Donuts, Bumblebee Man's Taco Truck, and Duff Brewery and Beer Garden are all open and certified nutso!
Because we're fans of The Simpsons (and beer), we drove to Orlando in the middle of summer to brave the weather and grab a Krusty burger and a cold Duff (or two). Here's what we saw and ate.