Universal Studios The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

With a flick of the wrist and a wave of a wand, you can find yourself at Universal Studios Hollywood's newest attraction, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Unlike the traditional cotton candy, and caramel apples you see at amusement parks, Wizards serve you an authentic butterbeer along with their signature chocolate frogs.

Being a childhood fan of the Harry Potter films, I had a ticket purchased on the Hogwarts Express (aka my cousin's Toyota) as soon as it opened. If you're inquiring about the new Diagon Alley in comparison to Universal Studios Florida let me tell you, the SoCal park is nothing but flawless... right down to the last broomstick.

As you walk into the "Wizarding World," you're greeted by a train conductor posted at Platform 9 3/4. Not to mention the buildings themselves, crooked and thin with frosted roofs. And, of course, playing in the background is the iconic magical theme song every 90s kid anticipated at the start of all eight movies.

As my jaw dropped, I saw numerous wand shops, cloak stores, and butterbeer carts. Whether you're a Ravenclaw, Hufflepuff, Gryffindor or Slytherin the following shops are a must see.

Ollivander's Emporium

Here you'll find an array of wands to choose from, including the model wands belonging to Harry Potter, Voldemort, Professor Dumbledore, and more. Staying true to the cinema, architects included a narrow staircase filled with an array of mismatched wand boxes.

Zonkos

Cross the cobblestone road and head into a shop called Zonkos. This red cottage is filled to the brim with all sorts of candy... some that are a little too questionable. Like Harry and Ron, you and your best mate can buy the whole lot of chocolate frogs, licorice wands, Bertie Botts Every Flavor Beans, and more.

Butterbeer

Stop at the nearest Butterbeer cart and get yourself a collectible mug. When choosing your type of "brew," you'll have the choice of either a slushy or soda––though the soda is a crowd favorite. In addition to the beer, buy some thirst-quenching pumpkin juice for the broom-ride home.

The Rides

Even though there are only two rides at this local Universal Studios attraction, they are well worth it. While walking through Hogwarts, you'll reach the Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey area lit with floating candles and talking paintings. This ride features a round of Quiddich, a ride through the Forbidden Forest, and more.

The second ride available at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is the Flight of the Hippogriff. This one was my personal favorite due to the fast speed, view of the castle, and snowy rooftops. No matter which of the rides you enjoy, fun callbacks to the famed novel series abound!