I’m offering up a little something different on my blog this week, a photo essay. I recently went to Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida, home of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Instead of spending my time behind a desk, this week I have been putting in full, memory making days with my family. Thus, I haven’t had time to write a proper word (outside of a Facebook post or seven). So rather than a typical Writing Wednesday post, I am giving you this. Also, I figured a few of your word nerds might enjoy the sights and accompanying captions!

A word of warning. If you’d prefer to be surprised when entering this magical world yourself, stop reading right now. Spoilers are contained! I believe, however, that nothing on the internet can truly capture the magic one feels when physically entering a world that previously existed only inside your mind, so even if you do plan to travel to Florida to see this dynamic destination, I’d encourage you to continue forward and join me on my magical journey.

As you walk through the streets of Hollywood Studios, look for a small gap between two brick walls, walk through the opening and past the removed bricks into DIAGON ALLEY!! Your eyes will widen at all there is to see, but it won’t take you long to find the dragon on top of Gringott’s.

I had so much fun visiting the shops in Diagon Alley and even bought a sweatshirt from Borgin and Burkes in Knockturn Alley!

We took the Hogwarts Express from King’s Cross Station to Hogsmeade and then to the castle! The spires seemed to poke the sky and instantly shattered all of my expectations. Inside and out, the castle alone was worth the trip! While I preferred Escape from Gringott’s the roller coaster back in Diagon Alley, my boys liked The Forbidden Journey Virtual Reality ride within the castle better. Before leaving, we also enjoyed a frozen butterbeer… or two!

Sometimes in my wildest daydreams I envision my characters in a TV show or movie. I picture little action figures or t-shirts bearing faces that resemble my characters, or board games made to help readers relive their adventures one roll of the dice at a time. But I doubt any author could imagine their stories traveling as far as Ms. Rowling’s. Bravo, to a fine storyteller and also to a theme park for creating a mind-blowingly-accurate representation of world so many have come to love.

What about you? Have you been to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter? What was your favorite part?

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