The grand opening was later announced as June 18, so we were REALLY hoping that there would be a "soft opening" before that. Turns out there was, and it actually was awesome to be there before the official opening. Only people who had booked a vacation package like we did were allowed in for the soft opening, so everyone there was a big fan and very excited about everything, like we were. We didn't go so far as to wear our Hogwarts robes to the park like some people, but for anyone who has read the books and seen the movies, everything in the park means something. The park designers got the details right.
Since the rest of Islands of Adventure opened at 9 am, we had to be in Harry Potter Wizarding World by 8:45 am, and they closed it down at 11 am. Therefore, we were getting up every day at 6 am, to leave the hotel by 7:30 am. We spent all five mornings in the HP park from 8-11 am.
The gate into the HP Wizarding World - "Please respect the spell limits"
The Hogsmeade high street. Note the architectural details like crooked chimneys and snow on the roofs.
The Hogwarts Express
Zonko's Joke Shop and Honeydukes Sweet Shop
Inside Zonko's
That's a lot of Pygmy Puffs. Connor bought one.
Inside Honeydukes
Bulk candy and Bertie Botts Every Flavor Beans at Honeydukes. We bought a lot.
Lots 'o colors and candy
All the store window displays were really cool, like this one with a giant, croaking chocolate frog. Our chocolate frog had a Helga Hufflepuff collectible card in it.
The Three Broomsticks, where we enjoyed a traditional English breakfast.
The Owlery
Public Conveniences had my favorite detail. Moaning Myrtle can be heard in the restrooms, although it's not quite authentic that she's in the men's room, too.
The Hog's Head
Dervish and Banges
There were many park employees, all in costume. I asked one if it was hot wearing all that in the heat, and she said, "Well, it IS winter."
There were dancing and martial arts demonstrations by Beauxbatons and Durmstrang students, and performances by the Hogwarts choir, including the giant frogs singing bass.
Butter Beer was sold on tap from this keg on the street. They poured it in two steps, first the liquid, then the foam from another spout.
It comes in a souvenir mug and tastes like a Wurther's candy. As we drank, the foam seemed to grow in the mug.
This is the signature photo op.
Olivander's Wand Shop - Dylan bought Ginny Weasley's wand.
Dylan holding up a stack of cauldrons.
Hagrid's Hut
This also demonstrates the attention to detail. In all other areas of the two parks, this would have read "stroller parking". I had a nice conversation here with a mom from England. There were lots of Brits there, which is understandable.
A cool fountain.
Leaving HP on our last day.
2 comments:
Ah that is so cool! I have yet to go, but your pictures made it all the more exciting!
very good and cool,thank you for your sharing.
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