A Trip to Hogwarts

Within the Universal Studios theme park in Orlando, Florida lies the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. This section is entirely themed like a set of J.K Rowling's Harry Potter series, from the food to the employees. The rides and attractions within this area are all Harry Potter-based and by the time you leave, you feel like a true wizard. Here are some pictures of my journey through the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

The Hogwarts Express

After arriving at the station and going to Platform 9 3/4, the Hogwarts Express takes you on an adventure to the land of Hogsmeade. This is a bustling town with shops and wizard fare. The Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry is located on the outskirts of Hogsmeade. This is where young wizards learn the latest magic and spells.

Hogwarts Castle

The Hogwarts Castle was MASSIVE. Inside the castle was a ride called "The Forbidden Journey" which takes you through various scenes from the Harry Potter films in a never-before-seen style of attraction. The immense detail throughout the area was impressive.

The Greenhouse

The queue line wrapped it's way around the castle. It brought us through a greenhouse room on the backside where we were able to see 'Mandrake' plant/creatures inside their pots. Thankfully none of them were taken out the soil while we were around.

Godric Gryffindor

The entrance to the castle was lined with statues. Here is a statue of Godric Gryffindor, one of the best, most talented wizards to ever live.

Talking Heads

As we got inside the castle we were brought into a room with very tall ceilings. The walls were lined with portraits that were having funny conversations with each other.

Hogsmeade

The town of Hogsmeade had interesting architecture. Towering chimneys and tiny windows lined the streets. Inside the shops you can buy your own wands, postage owls or other various wizardly things.

The roofs of the buildings were covered in snow, although it was well over 90 degrees and sunny in the middle of a Florida summer. It was strange looking up at the snowy rooftops while sweating uncontrollably....

Butter Beer

The lines at the butter beer trucks were very long. All of the visiting muggles wanted to try the tasty wizard drink. Butter Beer tasted like liquid butterscotch. They served it cold on tap and frozen like a slushie. I definitely recommend it to anyone visiting the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.