Growing up I fell in love with the Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling. One of the best things about living in a Camden community near Orlando is that you get to experience the magic of Harry Potter 365 days a year! The Universal Orlando Resort includes Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios.

One of the great things about being a Florida resident is that you get discounted tickets! If you are a UCF Knight you can receive student discounts at the SGA ticket center.

Photo courtesy of Ashley Mayor

All Aboard!

You can take the Hogwarts Express to and from Universal Studios and Island of Adventures. Since they are two separate parks you'll need to buy a park-hopper ticket.

Photo courtesy of Pro-Tip: Take the train each way. Your experience will be different depending on which way you are traveling.

ButterBeer

There is nothing that makes you feel more at home in the wizarding world than a cup of ButterBeer. You must try it! It's deliciously sweet and comes hot (seasonal), cold, or frozen.

Shops

Stop by Ollivander’s Wand Shop where you can experience choosing your wand just like Harry did. You can find a variety of character's wands including Death Eaters! Or splurge for an interactive one that allows you to cast spells throughout the park.

Cause some mischief when you visit Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes joke shop. Their store is full of magical jokes, tricks, and toys. Be sure to look up and witness the never-ending fireworks displayed on the ceiling!

Rides

Escape from Gringotts is beneath the massive fire-breathing dragon at the far end of Diagon Alley. Try to break out of the bank and escape the wrath of Lord Voldemort during this thrill ride.

The Forbidden Journey is a thrill ride inside the Hogwarts Castle in Hogsmeade. The ride takes you above Hogwarts as you soar around the castle with Harry and his friends.

Photo courtesy of Pro-Tip: Longer wait times are okay! As you move through the line you'll see the iconic bank and castle up close.

Photo courtesy of Ashley Mayor

There are so many fun things to do within the parks including special holiday events. Use the interactive map to make sure you don’t miss out on any of the fun!

Remember Muggles are always welcome at Hogwarts and any Camden community!