I was just a muggle with a dream. The dream to go to Hogwarts. Thanks to Universal Studios in Hollywood, my dreams came true. I will tell you that the rest of Universal Studios is not my cup of tea (I am a Disney girl at heart). But the aspiring wizard in me had to go to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Now I know that some people could never cheat on their beloved amusement park, but whether you're a Harry Potter fan or not, there's reasons why you need to go to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter now.
1. It truly is magical.
Even my mom, who has only seen segments of the movies, appreciated the realistic appearance of the shops and legendary castle. I felt like I was walking through Hogsmeade, and I felt like Hogwarts was only a few steps away. Everything about it was mind-blowingly realistic, accurate, and magical.
2. The food is amazing.
In my opinion, the ticket into Universal is worth just a visit to the Three Broomsticks. They offer a variety of meals that readers could picture Harry, Ron, and Hermione eating on any given day. The atmosphere of the restaurant is exactly what I expected it to be like, and don't get me started on the butterbeer. [I drank 4 cups of it in one day] The authentic food and drinks was exactly what Harry Potter fans needed and wanted. Even non-Harry Potter fans can appreciate butterbeer-- it was just that good.
3. The rides made you feel like you're a wizard too.
I will be honest, I suffer from sever motion sickness and I could not tolerate those rides for a second time. But Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey made me feel like I was fighting dementors, playing quidditch, and saving Hogwarts from the evils that try to destroy it. In line for the ride, you get to tour the Hogwarts castle which is equipped with everything from the Fat Lady to the sorting hat. I felt like I was ready to cast some spells and live out my childhood fantasies.
4. The shopping is unbelievable.
When I walked into Honeydukes and saw the chocolate frogs and Bertie Bott's Jelly Beans, I knew going to this park was worth it. The fact that the treats I read about and watched Ron and Harry eat were right in front of my face made me feel like I was in middle school again. It was a really nostalgic experience that I really appreciated. In addition to Honeydukes, there is a Zonko's Joke Shop, Olivander's, and Owl Post. Each shop has their own charm, and different magical activities to take part in.
The Universal Studios Hollywood Wizarding World of Harry Potter is everything fans could want. It is authentic, nostalgic, lifelike; it can make any adult feel like they're a kid again. Whether you're a fan or not, you can truly appreciate the Wizarding World of Harry Potter; and I promise you won't regret it.
