We checked in early to pick up our Express Passes and headed via water taxi to the parks.
The next hour was a bit chaotic as we lined up for early entry and raced across the park to line up for Hagrid’s motorbike ride as our rope drop ride. This ride does not accommodate Express Passes and regularly has a queue over 75 minutes. We got separated from each other in the race and it was pretty overwhelming. Luckily the ride ended up being worth it. We basically walked on and it was the best ride of the day. The backwards part and surprise drop were amazing.
We found each other afterwards and explored Hogsmede Village. We checked out all the shops, had a full English breakfast at the Three Broomsticks, paid a visit to Olivander’s Wand Shop, and did the Hogwart’s Castle and Flight of the Hippogriff rides. Our experience at Olivander’s was incredible as he personally helped Liam and Seamus select wands. It was so, so cool. The Hogwart’s ride gave half our group motion sickness so there was a bit of almost puking afterward. Everyone rallied after a break and we were able to continue.
Next we rode the Hogwart’s Express train to London to visit Diagon Alley. This was amazing with Hermione, Ron and Harry walking outside our train carriage. We explored Diagon Alley after walking right past it the first time. It is hard for Muggles to notice unless you really look.
We visited Gingott’s Bank, changed some money at the goblin operated money exchange, and purchased a package of every flavour beans. Seamus and Elise also adopted baby Nifflers, a magical creature fascinated by shiny coins. We called the Ministry of Magic at the payphone by dialing “magic” but they were unavailable to pick up because they were dealing with some sort of magical emergency. I guess we’ll find out more when we visit there tomorrow.
After leaving Diagon Alley, we headed back for a return trip on the Hogwart’s Express but were accosted by dementors on the way. Luckily Harry was there to fend them off.
Our afternoon was spent exploring select rides in the rest of the park. We visited the Velocicoaster in Jurassic Park, Dr Seuss’ the Cat in the Hat, and Spider-Man. We met Captain America and snapped a photo. Finally, the boys finished up the day by riding the Hulk roller coaster. They said this one tied as the best ride of the day for them! Amazing.
Many of the rides shut down after this due to lightning and thunder so we hopped on the water taxi and headed back to Portofino. We checked into our rooms, had pizza and gelato in the plaza during a big rainstorm and spent the evening in the gorgeous pool. The hot tub was like a spa and the waterslide was worthy of Typhoon Lagoon.
It was a day to be remembered for a long time to come.
