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Orlando: Universal Studios for Harry Potter fans

There's a lot to see and do at Universal Studios two signature Orlando parks (Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure).  However there's no doubt that the association with the world of Harry Potter is one of the key selling points that attracts both wizards and muggles from all over the globe, many dressed in their finest wizarding robes for the occasion.  The level of detail that has gone into creating Diagon Alley (Universal), Hogsmeade and Hogwarts (Islands) and the Hogwarts Express that allows you to travel between parks, is astounding.




For aspiring wizards, first stop is Ollivanders where you can purchase a wand that allows for the casting of various spells in both parks.
Samuel casting the Constantlyhungrius charm while summoning his Hawk patronus
Successfully

Next comes the exploration of Diagon Alley featuring the Escape from Gringotts ride which is one of the parks most popular rides.  We were lucky to get in early before waiting times got into the hours rather than minutes.
Gringotts central heating seemed a bit unnecessary in Orlando

Following Diagon Alley it was time to head to Kings Cross station where it was all aboard the Hogwarts Express (complete with an illusionary wall and platform 9 and 3/4) for the trip to Hogsmeade.



At Hogsmeade you could purchase all manner of (expensive) wizardly produce and products or (as with Diagon alley) just explore the many details that have gone into the reproduction of the wizarding world.

Finally you can enter Hogwarts (if you dare) to go on Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey which was an even more amazing ride than Escape from Gringotts (not giving anything away though!).

All in all, Universal is a must visit destination for all Harry Potter fans.



Comments

  1. UnknownMay 17, 2019 at 5:59 PM

    Will show M. Looks similar to Universal in LA. Very exciting.

    ReplyDelete
  2. EESMay 25, 2019 at 1:40 AM

    It was really very well done. Not sure we will get to Universal in LA but it's tempting...

    ReplyDelete

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