One of the many go to places when you are in Florida is the Universal Resort Orlando. This Universal Studio stands out amongst other others because of it`s Harry Potter Theme Concept. The experience basically gives you a feel of the Harry Potter world and let`s you experience living in one. This starts by taking a ride in the Hogwarts Express, in order to ride the Hogwarts Express, we had to purchase the Park-to-Park ticket that gives you access to both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure theme parks.
You will board the Hogwarts Express through, Hogsmeade Station and when the train pulls up, you’re in awe of this magical locomotive. It seems so real as there is even steam coming out of the smokestack. The staff then directed us into our compartments and we were seated with other guests (up to 6 people in one compartment).
Once the train started moving, we saw images on the digital window of various Harry Potter characters and mythical creatures like centaurs. The whole ride was so entertaining and we loved all the little details they put into this train ride. The ride ends at King’s Cross Station where we walked through an even larger train station and you see boards above with schedules and times. The ambience give`s you a feel of being in the streets of London.
Right off the station is Diagon Alley, if you are a fan of the Harry Potter franchise I would assure you, as soon as you left the King`s Cross Station area you would be flabbergasted of the details and the things you would see at Diagon Alley. From quirky little shops to dragons sitting on top of buildings to wand shops , mystical pet shops , cauldrons; you name almost all of the necessities a new Hogwarts student needs.
It is strongly recommended that you try and join the festivities like practicing your spells with your wand. Although you need to buy the wand (A very good souvenir though) but upon purchasing the wand it comes with a set of instructions and a map where you can perform the spells and interact with the place. Note: The activity is like a puzzle you need to solve , but don’t worry you will have a lot of “friends” to help you solve them along the way.
Don`t get me wrong Universal Resorts Florida doesn’t feature Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey Ride only this place also features Transformers, Despicable Me, Rip Ride Rockit, and The Simpsons Ride. At Islands of Adventure, there’s Spider-Man, Skull Island and Jurassic Park , and more …
If dropping by Universal Studios Florida isn’t a good reason enough to be in Florida, well I guess dropping by makes it mandatory for all thrill seekers and Harry Potter fanatics out there.