My kids have never forgiven me for getting to attend Leaky-Con 2014’s private “Open at the Close” party at Universal Orlando: a night in the two Harry Potter Parks and all the free butter beer you could drink. So, after some more complex vacation plans fell through, we are heading out tomorrow for a 5 day Universal Adventure.
Honestly, I am afraid 5 days in one theme park may be a bit much, even for a Potter Pundit such as myself. Yes, it is an impressive place, built to make you believe you are truly entering the wizarding world. But will the experience be spoiled for me, since I got my first taste in a limited-size crowd of fellow Potter fans? I will admit considerable wariness about daytime heat, huge crowds and lengthy lines.
The big news at Universal this year is Hagrid’s Motorcycle Adventure, billed as the world’s first story coster. While the ride has great reviews, with stories of 5 plus hour waits and regular, unplanned down times. I am not sure I will make the effort. Hopefully, 5 days in the park will result in some insider tips to navigate the system. I also hope to experience some of the rides, particularly Escape from Gringotts, that a pinched nerve in my neck stopped me from doing in 2014.
I already know a few tidbits from my earlier experience: frozen butterbeer is better than regular, Florean’s ice cream is not to be missed, and the Three Brothers and Celestina Warbeck shows are definitely worth seeing. I absolutely want to see the Ollivander wand demo, but am still debating whether it is worth $50 to get the interactive version for myself. I also don’t know if the Ravenclaw merchandise will meet my standards; I tend to be a purist when it comes to blue and bronze. 
Thanks to the years of Potter Punditing, I have different witchcraft and wizarding-themed t-shirts to wear every day of the week, including those from Misti-Con, the Generic Magic Festival and, of course, my local favorite, the Queen City Mischief and Magic Festival. (How is it I’ve never managed to come back from Chestnut Hill with a shirt?) There are plenty of other attractions at Universal, so I will not be spending every moment in the Wizarding World. But hopefully I’ll be blogging some experiences along the way and be able to share some tips on the ups and downs of the Harry theme park, as well as the rest of the experience.
Wow. That’s a lot of time in one park! Are you staying in one of their hotels? My son and I took breaks and built in time to spend at the pool.
Have a great time. Stay hydrated.
Is there a good current source for lovely HP t-shirts that anyone can recommend? I haven’t attended any conferences to acquire any!