If you love the magical world of Harry Potter and every spell, elf, and dementor that make it up, then the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Universal Studios Orlando is your dream vacation destination. The Wizarding World is an immersive experience that allows you to feel as if you've been transported into the work of witches and wizards. If you visit this magical world, here are five things you can't miss.
1. Taste the magical food
I enjoyed lunch at the Leaky Cauldron. The atmosphere was, for lack of a better word, magical! All servers are in costume and in character, which adds to the feeling that you have been transported into the famous restaurant dreamed up by J.K. Rowling. The food itself was amazing. I tasted both the cottage pie and the fish and chips, which were only two of the many yummy options.
2. Try Butterbeer
Whether you decide to eat inside the park or not, enjoying this cold drink is a must. My family had mixed feelings on the drink. While some thought it was too sweet for the hot weather outside, I loved the foamy and delicious Harry Potter inspired treat.
3. Visit the castle
While the lines for the rides may be long, there are tons to see along the way! Out of all the rides in the Wizarding World, the Hogwarts ride was my favorite and a definite must-see! If you, like me, get a little too motion sick to actually ride the rides, walking tours are available too. These walking tours allow you to walk through the castle, enjoying every detail of the beautiful magic school (talking paintings included) without having to ride the roller coaster at the end.
4. Ride the Hogwarts Express
The two parks are connected by another amazing Harry Potter experience: the Hogwarts Express! The train looks identical to the one ridden by Hogwarts students in the movies. The train station is as authentic as the rest of the Wizarding World and leaves you feeling like you're truly experiencing Harry's world.
5. Pay Attention to details
Meticulous planning and attention to detail were used by builders and designers when creating the Wizarding World. It can be overwhelming to try to take in every magical detail, but it is worth it to try. Whether it is a hidden elf lurking in a window, a tribute to the Weasleys seen on a street, or a mention of one of your favorite "Harry Potter" places, there is something hidden around every corner. These details, while small, add to the experience and leave you wishing Hogwarts had remembered to send you your letter years ago.
