The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Orlando
By: Stephanie Peavy
September 26, 2023
Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida is an amusement park like no other. I was fortunate enough to travel there at a discounted Travel Agent rate this summer and had a wonderful time. What makes this park stand out from the crowd is the unique imaginative worlds that find themselves spread out throughout the park. My family is huge on Harry Potter, so we were so excited to visit Universal. From Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade, to the Hogwarts Express, you won’t want to miss a thing on this vacation!
As I emerged from the cave path, Diagon Alley came into view. It was so spectacular, it will take my breath away. The first thing you see is a fire-breathing dragon, and it only gets better from there. You can purchase your very own magic-wielding wand at Ollivanders Wand Shop and then hop on over to ride Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts. If you’re feeling hungry, head over to the Leaky Cauldron for Bangers and Mash or Toad in the Hole. When you are ready to travel to Hogsmeade, definitely enjoy a ride on the Hogwarts Express; it is an experience you won’t forget. *Helpful Tip: Be sure to have a park-to-park ticket in order to ride the train as well as riding it in both directions as each offers a different experience.*
Once I arrived at Hogsmeade, which is located in Islands of Adventure, I went straight to the newest ride, Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure. It is a fun ride for everyone. For the little ones in your family, there is Flight of the Hippogriff. It is an enjoyable, tame roller coaster. If you have made it until dark, you won’t want to miss the Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle (a lights and music show). But beware, there could be some Dementors hanging around!
If you are a lover of everything Harry Potter, then this is the vacation for you. I would love to plan a brilliant trip for you! Please contact me at stephaniep@wishesfamilytravel.com to help plan your vacation.
