Universal takes on the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

By Maria Mora

Harry Potter film stars tour The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Credit: Kevin Kolczynski, Universal Orlando Resort.

If you like Harry Potter as much as your kids do, you’re in for the ultimate Florida vacation. On June 18, Harry Potter fans will be introduced to a new attraction area at Universal Orlando Resort’s Islands of Adventure: Harry Potter’s Wizarding World.

Featuring replicas of well-loved destinations like Hogsmeade and Hogwarts, Harry Potter’s Wizarding World will immerse fans in a an exciting — and incredibly detailed — fantasy where you can eat, shop and experience all things Harry Potter.

Before you line up atthe gates of the Wizarding World, you’ll want to plan your trip and Orlando hotel stay ( I live about an hour and a half from Universal Orlando, but even we usually stay in the area overnight).

Here are my top three favorite Orlando hotels:

1. Universal’s Loews Royal Pacific Resort. Stay here and you’ll see it pays to stay right on site. You avoid the parking garage and get to skip ahead in line. Plus, this hotel is just plain gorgeous. Spend an extra night to enjoy time by the spacious, kid-friendly pool.

2. Coco Key Hotel and Water Park. Thanks to convenient connecting rooms and suites, Coco Key is great for family vacations. Whether you have small kids or teens, the attached water park will give everyone something to do. Portions of the park are indoors, giving you a nice escape from the sun at midday.

3. Orlando World Center Marriott Resort. Thanks to a great golf course, huge pool and slide on site, those ready to rest after a visit to Universal Orlando can stay and play at the Marriott with plenty to do. Try to book a room on one of the top floors for an absolutely stunning view.

Related resources

• Orlando hotels

Maria Mora is a memoir blogger and wannabe photographer. She travels extensively throughout Florida and the Caribbean with her two young sons.

Tagged: Family time, Florida, Hotels