Since "A Celebration of Harry Potter" has come to a close, it is a perfect time to visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios - Orlando. Everyone's spirits are a little bit brighter and the love for Harry Potter hangs over the amusement park. Sometimes the idea of being on vacation can get in the way of actually appreciating the creativity and the magic of the wizarding world. Many people just try to get on the rides and quickly get out. But you should really take your time to enjoy the surroundings, including live entertainment, watching wands pick their wizards and even seeing some spells being cast. Here are a few things you can't miss on your visit to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
1. Knockturn Alley
Knockturn Alley is a personal favorite of mine. It's dark, creepy, and contains a perfect little shop for anyone in the market for some darker Harry Potter merchandise. The space may be small, but the attention to detail in the area is astounding. Every window has little surprises and sometimes you may even run into a tattered witch lurking about.
2. Moaning Myrtle's Bathroom
It might seem weird to make sure you visit a bathroom, but this one is worth it. While the layout isn't much different from every other bathroom in the park, you'll be able to hear the distant wails and taunts from Moaning Myrtle inside the bathroom stalls.
3. Hogwarts Castle
It seems so obvious that you would have to visit Hogwarts while on your vacation, but sometimes the wait time for the ride inside the castle can be a little bit too much for people. However, the queue for the ride is worth it and will make your hour-and-a-half wait fly by. From seeing the beauty of the castle up close to the wonderfully decorated interior, you will be sure to enjoy your time at Hogwarts.
4. Hogwarts Express
Travelling from one side of the park to the other? I can tell you there is only one proper way to do so. The Hogwarts Express not only looks incredibly real, but will make you feel as though you are really part of the wizarding world. What will happen on your ride? Maybe you'll see Ron, Harry and Hermione bickering outside the door. Or maybe Hagrid will be wishing you well on your journey home. You might even wish Professor Lupin had been sleeping in the seat across from you.
5. Gringotts Bank
Again, connected to a ride but totally worth whatever the wait may be. Not going to lie, the outside queue is pretty dull, but once you're inside, Gringotts is incredible. You've got gorgeous marble columns, goblins hard at work and glittering chandeliers. You won't want to leave without saying you've seen Gringotts.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a beautiful work of art that any Harry Potter fan will be able to fully appreciate. Along with seeing these amazing places listed above, you can also get great meals, candy, butterbeer, live entertainment and merchandise throughout the park. If you're thinking about visiting, don't hesitating; the Wizarding World will not disappoint.
