Monday, 3 June 2013

Off to See the Wizard at Hogwarts

Wizarding World

Harry Potter fans can stroll the streets of Hogsmeade, eat lunch at The Three Broomsticks and dodge dragons during a visit to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, a theme park which is part of Universal Studios in Florida. This is a fun trip for Harry Potter fans of all ages.
Visitors can pose by the Hogwarts Express. A friendly conductor will answer questions about the train. Right now, visitors can't ride the train. However, a planned expansion for the park scheduled to open next year will include a train ride.

Shop Like a Wizard

Visitors can buy their own souvenir wand at Olivander's Wand Shop. Remember, the wand chooses the wizard. In this case, you can pick whatever wand you want.
If you've ever had the urge to eavesdrop, you can buy an extendable ear at Zonko's. The store is stuffed with all kinds of joke items stocked by the Weasley twins, Fred and George.
Another unique shop is Filch's Emporium of Confiscated Goods. The cranky caretaker of Hogwarts sells all kinds of clothing confiscated from Hogwarts students including t-shirts, jackets and scarves ranging from Slytherin green to Gryffindor red.
Don't miss Honeydukes. Here you can find sweet treats including fudge, chocolate frogs and Bertie Bott's Every Flavor Bean.
Be sure to stop at the post office. You can send a postcard to the folks back home stamped with the Hogwarts post mark. Just be careful of the biting book inside!

Soar Like a Wizard

Join Harry and his friends on the Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride inside the castle. Hold on tight while you soar up and down as dragons, spiders and a whomping willow chase you. Just be careful when getting on and off the ride because the floor moves.
Flight of the Hippogriff is a roller coaster which sends you twisting, turning and tumbling down the track. This ride is a little bumpy but not too scary.
Only the bravest visitors ride the Dragon Challenge, a large roller coaster which hurtles up, down and upside down. Watch the riders' feet dangle as they flip upside down. This ride is definitely not for the faint of heart!

Eat and Drink Like a Wizard

Join wizards, witches and just plain tourists for lunch at The Three Broomsticks. Enjoy Cornish pasties, shepherd's pie or fish and chips. If you're really hungry, you may want to try the great feast. Wash everything down with pumpkin juice or butter beer. Pumpkin juice tasted a little sour but butter beer tastes good - similar to a cream soda.
The food is tasty and reasonably priced. Service is surprisingly fast for such a crowded restaurant. The staff keeps the lines moving quickly by only offering a handful of entrees.

Worth the Trip

Visiting this park is a lot of fun. This is definitely worth the trip. Just be careful if you buy Bernie Botts Every Flavor Beans or you might bite into one with the flavor of ear wax!

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