Egee couldn't wait for this part of our trip. We had both decided to read the Harry Potter book series this year and Universal Studios Wizarding World of Harry Potter was our big reward! I was just as excited to experience it, to be quite honest.
We arrived at the park in time for its opening. It was a bit of a different experience than arriving at Disney parks. We parked and took a picture of our garage floor. Then made the trek from the parking garage to the security area. Security check was fast and easy. Disney needs to take note of how Universal does this.
Next, we made the long walk to Universal City Walk. Then to Universal Studios entrance. This is where Universal should take note of Disney's plastic tickets and magic bands. The paper tickets were to be signed and many showed up without their tickets signed. There was a bit of confusion in the lines and it caused a delay.
Once inside the park, we navigated along the streets and took in the sights. We made a wrong turn and ended up in the kid's area. That was okay. Barney was out with BJ and Baby Bop. We made Egee get her picture made with them. She was a Barney fanatic as a toddler and we just couldn't pass up the opportunity!
We got back on track and ran into the Scooby Doo Gang. Again, we all had to take a photo! The characters were so friendly and it was great fun. We even ran into Betty Boop! Another photo-op!
After making our way through the Simpson's area, we were almost to Harry Potter! We crossed the bridge and we were in London!
We had to knock on the door at Grimauld Place. Everything was magical!
We made our way to Diagon Alley and instantly fell in love! All the things we had read and seen in the movies became real. Hubs didn't understand what all the fuss was about, but he enjoyed it. Little Man had seen some of the movies, so he was taken back, as well. Some people were in wizard robes and everyone fit in! The cast members were absolutely wonderful and kept the magic alive. They easily had Disney beat on the magic and wow factor!
We made our way to Olivander's to select wands for Egee and LM. The wands aren't cheap, but that was okay. I had been saving money for this experience and it was worth it! They were both thrilled with their wand selections.
Once outside, they began looking for places to cast spells. This was so much fun and we spent over an hour finding places to perform magic.
We tried butter beer. It was okay, just really sweet. But, we got to try it and that is what counted.
We explored Knockturn Alley and browsed in Borgin and Burkes.
We went into Gringotts together. Hubs and Egee were going to ride the ride, but LM and myself didn't want to ride. We both get a bit motion sick. You just let the ride attendant know you want to walk through and they allow you to do so without having to ride. It made it really nice. So, if you aren't a big ride fan, definitely walk through the ride building!
Later, we hopped on the Hogwart's Express and rode to Hogsmeade. Again, this ride was absolutely wonderful. The details of King's Cross Station and Platform 9 3/4 made everything seem so real! The details of the train and the rooms to sit was fantastic. We really had a great time.
We ate at the Three Broomsticks. The fish and chips were good and we felt like we were part of the books or movie.
We explored Hogsmeade and then made our way to Hogswart. Again, this was a ride, but you don't have to ride. This was a must see! It was amazing! Egee and Hubs loved the ride.
LM and I waited outside and got to see the Frog Choir perform. We were quite entertained.
We had a long day at Universal and didn't want it to come to an end. We loved the Wizarding World! Luckily, we are going to return the next day and do it all again!
