The Wonderful Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Missy RyanJanuary 12, 2017In September I spent the day immersed in the wonderful Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando. I have decided to share a little bit about my day for those who are planning a trip or considering planning a trip. I was absolutely blown away by the amazing recreation and detail that had gone into every inch of this part of the park.Get Park-to-Park TicketsThere are 2 lands, Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley. You will need a park-to-park ticket to see both lands and to ride the Hogwarts Express. The Hogwarts Express is a must do!!! You begin your journey by entering Platform 9 ¾. The amazing staging puts you in the mindset that you are Potter himself as you walk through the platform and prepare to board. If I did not know better I would believe that the train used at this location came directly from the movie. As you begin your travel you are directed to your seat. Throughout the ride the window scenes are outstanding. It is as if you are viewing your journey in real life. It almost has to be experienced to understand its amazement.Arrive EarlyPlan to be at the park at least 30 minutes before it opens. If you choose to stay for a few days, your best option is to stay at an onsite property that offers early access. Getting in the park early will help to ensure that you are getting in the lines first and doing the experiences before it gets too crowed. At times the Hogwarts Express can have a long wait time so it is best to be there bright and early to begin your adventure.Before you enter Diagon Alley spend some time with the Knight Bus driver.He is a lot of fun and sure to add some laughter to your day, along with his little friend. They are located just outside of Diagon Alley and are easily spotted as they are the big red double decker bus. They are happy to take pictures, have a conversation and will address you by name. They are a pair that are not to be missed, located in the same area look for the red phone booth. I'M NOT SURE WHAT THAT SENTENCE MEANS. Place a call to the Ministry of Magic. This may take special talent as it is a rotary phone!

PhotographyThe details in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter are hands down the best part of the park. Like I stated earlier, it is as if you are walking on set. Every detail meets all expectations. I was in awe for about the first hour just snapping away at everything. It was like I had left earth for a while and I was getting ready to find out my placement. There is no doubt in my mind that, Harry Potter fan or not, this area will blow you away.Olivander’s ShopPlanning on buying a wand? There are a few ways to do this, however, I recommend the complete experience - especially if you have young Potter fans who really want to experience every opportunity to its fullest. There are areas in which lines are shorter and the main goal is to just purchase a wand.At Ollivander’s, expect a line. Only 12 guests or so may enter at a time. The room (as you can already imagine) is staged like an actual shop. The “wand maker” will select at least two people from the group and begin to ask questions and evaluate them as he selects a wand for them that suits their wizarding ability. The wand maker will then have his select two perform some magic by asking them to wave their wand and repeat after him. Overall it is a fun little experience that is worth the wait if there is a line. When you are finished with the wand maker, the ones who are chosen have the option of buying the wand or selecting their own once they move over to the shop area.The first part really adds to the magic so I do highly recommend adding it to your plans.Side Note* Each wand has a description posted. Take a picture, so you can remember!Cast Some SpellsThe wands are around $50 and come in a very nice box along with a special map. You can use your wands to cast special spells throughout Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley. I was most excited about this part of the adventure because I have two sons who are very big wizard fans. The trip I took was solo. I was able to really embrace the experience in order to describe it to others. My next trip will be a surprise for my family, so I am so eager to watch my children as they participate in all of the interactive and hands-on opportunities that these two lands have to offer.Butterbeer!!If you wondered how this tasted or dreamed of having one after reading about it or watching it on the movie, let me tell you that it will not disappoint! Butterbeer is a non-alcoholic drink that is similar to a rich cream soda. But wait, it gets better. There is even a Frozen Butterbeer offered!!! In my opinion this is even better!! There are two choices of container for this delicious treat. One is a the common plastic cup. The other is a hard plastic beer mug. Whether you choose the typical plastic cup or souvenir cup, it will all taste the same. Absolutely yummy! I also noticed that there is a Butterbeer ice cream offered. I was so full from the other treats that I did not get around to the ice cream. However, I will be adding this to my bucket list for when I return.Ride the Hogwarts Express both waysThe Hogwarts express is absolutely amazing! The train comes chugging into the station blowing real steam, and the ride between the two is nothing less than enchanting. Make sure to ride both directions since the ride is different each way. Platform 9 ¾ has a special surprise, so make sure to look out for the fun effect while in line!The RidesHarry Potter and Forbidden Journey is an exciting ride filled with action and amazing special effects. I personally was not able to ride at the time of my trip but had gotten rave reviews. I was however, able to walk through Hogwarts. I loved the detail of each room. The classroom is where you can see the sorting hat!Overall I would say to take time to soak it all in. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is absolutely delightful. Take time to absorb and appreciate all the details. The work that went into this area is above and beyond any expectation.If you would like to know more about Universal in Orlando or any other destination, you can email me at missyr@wishesfamilytravel.comYou can also follow me on FacebookI would love to help plan you trip and make some dreams a reality!