The 6th Day of Christmas in July!

Be Like Harry Potter!

I've been told that to really explore the Wizardind World of Harry Potter is to explore it as Harry did in the First Book.  So let's give it a try, shall we?

Hagrid's Motor Bike! Be Like Harry!

Let's Start with London
Start your adventure at Universal Studios by exploring the London area, which includes the iconic King's Cross Station terminal. You can take photos with a replica of the Hogwarts Express and even enter through platform 9 3/4! It's worth spending some time in this area, soaking up the atmosphere and checking out the shops and restaurants.

Visit Diagon Alley
Next, head over to Diagon Alley, which is accessible via the brick wall passageway in the London area. This is where you'll find the entrance to Gringotts Bank, which houses the thrilling Escape from Gringotts ride. Diagon Alley is also home to a variety of shops and restaurants, including the famous Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes joke shop and the Leaky Cauldron pub.

Ollivander's Wand Shop
Step inside Ollivander's Wand Shop in Diagon Alley, a mystical haven where every wand has a wizard destined to wield it. Be captivated by the spectacle as the wand chooses its wizard amidst a magical demonstration and savor the enchanting ambience brimming with towering walls of wand boxes.

Ride Hogwarts express
​To get from Diagon Alley to the Hogsmeade area, where you'll find Hogwarts Castle and the Forbidden Journey ride, you'll need to ride the Hogwarts Express. Not only is this a fun experience in and of itself, but it also serves as a transportation method between the two Wizarding World areas.

Explore the Forbidden Journey
Once you arrive in Hogsmeade, don't miss the chance to ride the epic Forbidden Journey. This ride takes you on a thrilling journey through the halls of Hogwarts Castle, encountering all kinds of magical creatures and characters from the series. The queue itself is also an experience, taking you through the castle's classrooms and other iconic locations.

Hagrid's Motor Bike
Finally, make your way to the newest addition of the Wizarding World, Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure. This ride located in the Hogsmeade area, takes you on a rollercoaster through the Forbidden Forest and to Hagrid's hut while experiencing magical creatures of the Wizarding World.

While, this visits only those things that Harry did during the First Book, (although technically he doesn't remember riding Hagrid's Motor Bike) Let's not forget some of the other things in the Wizarding World there is to do and see.  Such as :  

Knockturn Alley
Ah, stepping into Knockturn Alley, it's almost like traveling back in time and into a different, darker part of the wizarding world! As you make your way out of the vibrant and bustling Diagon Alley, you will find yourself in a stark contrast that is Knockturn Alley. It's brilliantly eerie, draped in perpetual darkness and mist unlike its counterpart.
You will first notice the cobblestone walkway that's uneven and slightly worn-out; it is lined with shops that are a stark deviation from the ones in Diagon Alley. The buildings in Knockturn Alley are shadier and quite intriguing with their timbered facades and crooked structures. It adds to the Gothic charm of the place.
Straight in front of your path lies Borgin and Burkes, a famous shop selling objects of dark magic. Its window display alone can send chills down your spine with items like the eerie Hand of Glory or the Vanishing Cabinet that, as per the tales, can transport you to another location. Inside, you'll find an assortment of creepy trinkets, shrunken heads, and even Death Eater masks!
Meandering through you can hear whispers of incantations from somewhere above; it's the spooky ambient sound effects that make the alley even more authentic. The walls around the alley are also decked with interactive wand spots.
Knockturn Alley is not just a walk; it's an immersion into the darker side of the wizarding world. Remember to keep your wand at the ready, who knows what might pop up from the shadows!

Hogsmeade Village
As you enter Hogsmeade, you will feel like you've stepped into the world of Harry Potter. The quaint, snow-covered village is filled with charming shops and attractions that will transport you to the Wizarding World.
First, let's visit Honeydukes, a candy shop that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. The shop is filled with colorful jars of candy, from Chocolate Frogs to Bertie Bott's Every Flavour Beans. Don't forget to try their famous Fudge Fancies.
Next, let's stop by Zonko's Joke Shop, where you can find all sorts of prank items, from Extendable Ears to Sneakoscopes. This is the perfect store for anyone who loves a good practical joke.
No trip to Hogsmeade is complete without visiting Ollivanders Wand Shop. Here, you can select a wand that suits you or experience the magic of a wand selection ceremony. Keep an eye out for the interactive elements of the shop!
If you're looking for a bite to eat, head over to The Three Broomsticks. This cozy restaurant serves up traditional British fare, including fish and chips, shepherd's pie, and butterbeer. The rustic decor and warm fireplace will make you feel right at home.
Lastly, don't forget to ride Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, a thrilling ride that takes you on a journey through Hogwarts Castle. The ride features state-of-the-art technology and special effects that will make you feel like you're flying on a broomstick alongside Harry himself.
I hope you enjoyed our stroll through Hogsmeade. With so much to see and do, you'll want to come back again and again!

Ready to start your magical journey and craft your own story in the world of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando? Don't miss your chance to board the Hogwarts Express and immerse yourself in wonder! Schedule your Universal vacation with me now at  my calendly link and let's create your own unique wizarding adventure!