A Glimpse into The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

May 20

Someday's are just plain magical. I guess that is how I would describe our half day at Universal Studios Hollywood. As soon as we walked in the gate as annual pass-holders there was a feeling in the air like this was going to be a great adventure. Okay, not as soon. I guess the security line wasn't as awesome and the hike from the parking lot was eh. All part of the fun though.

We walked in the gate and headed straight through the gates of Hogsmead into the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. There was a fair number of people in full costume visiting here. I couldn't help but be in awe of their dedication to character with the black robes and the sunshine that must have created some heating up.

There was even Hogwart's Express waiting to take passengers on to their school year or for our photo enjoyment.

One of the hits of the tiny town was Olivanders want shop. There was a 25 minute line to enter this shop that we didn't make it in but we were told that you could enter the doors here and see magic happen right before your eyes. After seeing the magic you would be chosen by the wand destined for you and you could take it home to be yours forever. It really sounds so fun but since we got to the park late and only had a bit of time we decided to save this part for later.

Of course while in Harry Potters world you need to have a Butterbeer. They offer two kinds here. One regular and one frozen. When there is an option for frozen or not then frozen is always the answer. It was sweet and creamy at the same time. I could describe the flavor but that might ruin it for you later. Let us know if you want to know the secrets and we will let the cat out of the bag. This frozen concoction was the cause of the worst brain freeze I have ever had. It pierced my forehead and ran down my spine then forward to my lungs. It was awful and debilitating for a few minutes. Of course this lead to my group of yahoos drinking up to see who could get the next freezing pain.

While we were there we had lunch at the Three Broomsticks. It had the feel of stepping into a diner in Harry Potters world and the menu of what felt like maybe a quaint Irish pub. Our table ordered the fish and chips, the shepherds pie, half a roasted chicken and bangers and mash. All of them were amazingly good. Helpful tip: dont eat before you ride the Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey. We did eat first and were too nervous to go on the ride. I have been told that even those without a tendency to get motion sickness will feel the effects of this ride. No worries though, we have a plan. Our annual passes will let us in over and over again. We will use these to the fullest. Part two of our trip to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter will be coming soon complete with a trip to Hogwarts School of Wizardry, Honeydukes candy store, Zonk's Joke shop and Hagrids Hut. Here are a few more random snaps of the land to hold you over until then.