Wizarding World of Harry Potter

I don't remember the first time I went to the zoo, park or Disneyland when I was younger. I imagine that experience was emotional, filled with awe much like how I felt when I first walked into The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Universal Studios Florida. I've invested a lot of time, energy and money into Harry Potter. I've read all the books, I own all the movies, I collect the cards, I have the LEGO sets, I collect the statues and I've made my own costume (don't judge... I know, too late). All of that came to a head as soon as I stepped foot into Hogsmeade and first laid eyes upon the Hogwarts Express. I may have let out a squeal and I can tell you without a doubt that I had to fight back the tears. Good thing I was wearing sunglasses. 

 Why was it so overwhelming?

To actually see in person, in real life, to hear, see and touch items you only saw in the movies or read in the books... WOWZER! It was like living in a dream. I'm not the only one that felt that way. Toniekills was just as awed as I was and on more than one occasion both of our jaws dropped. I apologized in advance to Toniekills and Chuck that if I said or did anything embarrassing it is strictly because I was so excited to be in this magical place. 

I felt like a kid again. I felt like I was going to see the Weasley twins (aww or maybe one) in Zonko's. 

Who is listening to us? Love these Extendable Ears!

I was so sure that I was going to see Ron, Harry and Hermione in Three Broomsticks having a butterbeer. Oh my the butterbeer! How to describe it? There are two ways to enjoy your butterbeer: frozen or regular. We decided to try regular butterbeer.  The 'soda' portion of butterbeer tasted like a creme soda and the head of the butterbeer was like butterscotch. Check out Toniekills with her butterbeer. Just to let you know, butterbeer is best enjoyed with the mustache you get from drinking it.

There are details so small that make a big difference. For instance, this may be silly but the signs indicating boys and girls restrooms... wait I mean 'Public Conveniences'.

While I was busy taking pictures and basically having my mind blown, Chuck was nice enough to record some video around Hogsmeade and Hogwarts. You might even see me walking around and trying to keep my composure. 

After walking around to the shops in Hogsmeade we walked over to Hogwarts Castle to get in line for Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey.

As you pass through the gates of Hogwarts, you must leave your luggage (or loose items like backpacks) in the lockers. We waited about 25 minutes and that time went by fast. You first enter through the large greenhouse where Herbology class takes place. I was waiting for Ms. Sprout to make an appearance. Once you enter the castle you will see some surprises such as the Dumbledore's office, the sorting hat and the Defense Against the Dark Arts classroom.  The ride itself is by far the best ride I've ever been on. I don't want to give too much away for those who have not had an opportunity to ride it but you will be whisked away.

Here are some pictures of the Hogwarts Castle. I can only hope that I get to go back soon. I don't think I can wait for the Wizarding World to appear in Universal Hollywood (2016) because The Wizarding World of Harry Potter definitely has put a spell on me.