One of my favorite themed areas in Orlando are the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagonal Alley. Not only do these areas have fantastic rides, food, and shops, but the whole area feels like you are in the movies. And you don’t have to be a diehard fan in order to enjoy these sections of the theme parks. But it does help.

My favorite area is Diagonal Alley. It makes you feel like Harry did on his first trip to Diagonal Alley, in awe. There is plenty to explore and yummy treats to be had as well. Upon my last visit I finally made it into Florean Fortescue’s Ice-cream Parlour. They have a lot of fun flavors that include Butterbeer, and sticky toffee pudding, but my favorite a was the chocolate chili. It is definitely worth the stop.

The fire breathing dragon atop Gringotts Wizarding Bank is always a crowd pleaser and is pretty cool but my favorite area in Diagon Alley is Knocturne Alley. The theming is amazing and even though a Gryffindor like myself is not into the Dark Arts a trip into Borgia and Burkes is a must. Inside along with many great souvenirs you’ll also see the vanishing cabinet used to smuggle Death Eaters into the castle and you may just hear someone caught in a trunk, Mad Eye maybe!

The Hogsmeade area in Islands of Adventure has my favorite ride Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure. It is amazing which is why there is always a wait, but it’s worth it. Although I question the “snow” covering the quaint village buildings in the sweltering heat of Florida, the rest of the motif is on point as well. The Hogwarts castle is perfect.

Universal also did a great job including a park hopping ride between these two areas. A ride on the Hogwarts Express needs to be experienced at least one by fans. And to get the full effect you have to experience it in both directions. Of course this means you need to have a park hopper ticket to enjoy the train ride.

If you are a Potter fan then a visit to the Universal’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley are a must! But even if you aren’t the biggest fan you will still enjoy this immersive and interactive area. I forgot to mention if you purchase an interactive wand you can perform spells at various locations around both areas. Making it a truly enchanting experience.