Rewind: Universal Studios Hollywood

Earlier this spring, I saw some online banner ad about "The Wizarding World of Harry Potter" opening in Universal Studios Hollywood in April. "What a coincidence," I thought, since we would be in Southern Cal sometime this summer.

Josiah and Abby have read through the entire Harry Potter series (and played through most of the Lego video games). Emma only read the first few books. Patty and I have read them too, and I may or may not have read the whole series more than 3 times through. Anyway, Patty and I had been pondering whether or not to take the plunge and bring the kids there (it would only be for the kids, of course. I was sure I wouldn't enjoy it at all). The kids have never been to Disneyland or any theme park before.

In the end, we decided to go, and we went on Wednesday, July 20th.

I hear the Harry Potter park at Universal Studios in Florida is larger, but we haven't been there either

Hogwarts Express

Hogwarts

Unfortunately, this snow was fake, since it would have been much nicer if it was cooler.

The main ride was a bit of a disaster for me. It was inside the Hogwarts castle, which was very well done. The ride was one of those where you sit in these seat compartments, and then they swing you all around while showing you a 3D video of you flying around Hogwarts in a 1st person perspective. All the reviews already noted that it was quite nausea (vomit) inducing, and for the few moments where I kept my eyes open, I totally understood why. It was the first thing we did at the park, so I didn't want to risk ruining my entire day by getting sick on it. Even with my eyes closed, the violent movements were mildly stomach-turning. I'm not as young as a Hogwarts student.

The Sorting Hat

Here's Josiah and Abby with their wands

Abby trying out the wand pocket in her robe

Hufflepuff and Ravenclaw (no, we didn't buy robes)

I must say the village of Hogsmeade was impressive, and the kids thoroughly enjoyed themselves until the heat finally drained much of our enthusiasm. We tried a frozen butterbeer, which was pretty awesome (apart from the brain freeze). We had a yummy lunch at the Three Broomsticks, and then went to explore other parts of the park.

The salad part of our "Great Feast" lunch

This meal actually reminded me of the descriptions of feasts at Hogwarts

I don't think we're in Hogsmeade anymore...

I missed this photo op...

But I caught this one.

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I am actually quite tan, but I still look pale compared to the kids.

Overall, it was a nice day, aside from the heat (that California sunshine is really intense!) If we ever take a road trip down to Florida, I might be interested in seeing their Harry Potter park there too, although it will likely be just as hot. Too bad weather-modifying charms are so difficult to perform.