2011 - October 7th - Universal Studios Orlando with Harry Potter's Wizarding World

Friday the 7th we were off to Harry Potter's Wizarding World at Universal Studios Orlando. The only thing better would have been having the Facey 6-Pack Grandchildren with us! Strolling through the park between the 5 minute rain downpours known in Florida, we went through Dr. Seuss Land and rode through the Cat-In-The-Hat ride and observed all of the marvelous buildings dedicated to the good Dr! It is a real fun place to visit. We passed some great displays of other Universal themes such as the Lost Continent before arriving at Hogwarts.

Entrance to The Lost Continent
Fabulous Waterfall in the Lost Continent
Entering the World of Harry Potter's Wizarding World and Hogwarts

Hogwarts Toy, Tricks, and Jokes Shoppe
Solid Chocolate Toads in the Candy Shoppe: the same as the kids ate in the book and movie

Our lunchtime restaurant
Village Shops






The main attraction was the Hogwarts School seen here. This is a virtual ride where you follow Harry Potter on his broomstick ride through adventures. It was well worth the 45 minute wait!
There are many attractions to keep you entertained while in line. These are just a few shots of some of them. Be sure to open the album to see all the pictures!





Olivanders Wand Shoppe was a demonstration activity that took almost an hour to get into the 30 person capacity room. The special effects done with the Wizard and the wands were amazing. Every kid in the place was in total awe evident by their wide opened eyes. All of the boxes that were on the shelves around us actually had wands in them much to our amazement (yes, I opened a few). We wonder how many thousands were in those boxes!

Naturally, the experience would not be complete without the train, The Hogwarts Express, being here!
Leaving Harry's wonderous land, we visited Jurassic Park on our way to the exit. The displays were outstanding!

We had a fun-filled day and recommend it to all. There are more pictures in the album that you should be sure to open. Don't forget that all albums can be opened by clicking on Our Photo Albums.