Planning a family trip to Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida, is always exciting, but when your kids are Harry Potter fans, it turns into a full-blown magical adventure. Recently, we had the chance to visit for the first time with our two daughters, and it was everything we dreamed it would be—and more. Here’s a glimpse into our adventure and some tips to make the most of your visit.

Walking into Universal Studios Orlando is a spectacle in itself, but the real magic begins as you enter The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. We spent an entire day at Universal Studios Florida!

Our first stop was Diagon Alley in Universal Studios Florida. As we walked through the brick wall and into the hidden street, the girls’ faces lit up. It truly feels like stepping into the movies!

We couldn’t resist a visit to Ollivanders, where the girls had a chance to select (or rather, be chosen by) their wands. The interactive wands were a huge hit, allowing them to cast spells at various locations around the park. The interactive elements are incredibly fun—watching water spray from a fountain or a feather float with a flick of their wands brought pure joy.

Next, we rode Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts. It’s an immersive mix of a thrill ride and a 3D experience. This ride quickly became a family favorite!

Afterward, we stopped for Butterbeer. Both the frozen and regular versions were a hit, but fair warning: it’s sweet!

Before leaving Dragon Alley, we watched the dragon blow fire throughout the street. It was a really neat thing to watch!

We continued our adventure throughout the park, riding a few other rides, and enjoying the magical details created throughout the park!

Tips for Families Visiting Universal Studios Orlando

1. Plan Ahead: Arrive early to beat the crowds, especially for popular attractions like Ollivanders and Gringotts.

2. Stay Hydrated: Florida’s heat can be intense. Bring water bottles and take breaks as needed.

3. Use Express Passes: If your budget allows, Express Passes can save you time in line.

4. Take Advantage of Interactive Wands: Look for the medallions on the ground to find spell-casting locations. Our girls enjoyed this experience!

5. Pack Light: Use the free lockers for rides, but keep essentials like sunscreen and snacks handy.

Visiting Universal Studios Orlando with our Harry Potter-loving daughters was a dream come true. From casting spells in Diagon Alley to exploring the rest of the park, every moment felt like we had stepped into J.K. Rowling’s magical world. If your family loves Harry Potter, this trip is absolutely worth it, plus there’s some other classic movies highlighted throughout the park!

Whether it’s your first time or a return visit, there’s always something enchanting waiting for you at Universal Studios Orlando. So get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

When most people think of Disney World, they imagine thrilling rides, beloved characters, and magical parades. At least we did, until we stumbled upon the Boardwalk! Tucked away near Epcot lies a hidden gem: Disney’s BoardWalk. This charming, turn-of-the-century-inspired promenade offers a delightful blend of dining, entertainment, and recreation activities. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing escape from the theme parks or a vibrant evening adventure, the BoardWalk has something for everyone.

Disney’s BoardWalk channels the nostalgia of classic coastal towns like Atlantic City and Coney Island. The buildings, string lights, and waterfront views transport you to an era of seaside charm. It’s the perfect spot to stroll, take in the sights, and soak up the atmosphere while winding down for the day.

The BoardWalk is home to some of Disney’s most beloved dining experiences. We ate dinner at Trattoria al Forno, a cozy Italian restaurant that offered hearty pastas and wood-fired pizzas. It was delicious and we enjoyed the evening while dining together.

As the sun set, the BoardWalk came alive with entertainment. Street performers—magicians, jugglers, and musicians—created a festive atmosphere perfect for families.

Tips for Visiting:

1. Visit in the Evening: The BoardWalk truly shines after dark with twinkling lights, cool breezes, and lively entertainment.

2. Make Dinner Reservations: Popular restaurants like Flying Fish and Trattoria al Forno can fill up quickly, so plan ahead.

3. Park Access: If you’re visiting Epcot or Hollywood Studios, the BoardWalk is just a short walk or boat ride away—perfect for a mid-day break or post-park dinner.

4. No Admission Required: You don’t need a park ticket to explore the BoardWalk, making it a great option for a rest day!

So next time you’re at Disney World, take a stroll down the BoardWalk—you just might discover your new favorite spot, we sure did!

We have been Fredericksburg, Texas several times now. The town is a gem nestled in the heart of Hill Country, offering the perfect mix of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and family-friendly activities. As an RV family, we love destinations that offer fun for all of us and Fredericksburg did not disappoint!

The drive to Fredericksburg is part of the adventure. Winding roads, rolling hills, and picturesque views welcome you into Texas wine country.

We parked our home-on-wheels at The Vineyards of Fredericksburg RV Park, located a few miles outside of town. The park offered full hookups, spacious sites, a pool/hot tub, exercise room , and a playground for the kids. It’s peaceful and quiet, yet close to town, making it an ideal location for us to park for a few days.

We kicked off our visit with a stroll down Main Street, packed with shops, bakeries, and restaurants. We had fun walking around and did some shopping, before grabbing lunch at the Fredericksburg Brewing Company.

While Fredericksburg is famous for its wineries, many are family-friendly. We visited Grape Creek Vineyards and enjoyed our tasting so much that we became wine members! The atmosphere and staff made the experience for us delightful.

Back at the RV, evenings were for cooking simple meals, playing board games, and stargazing. Fredericksburg’s clear skies are perfect for teaching kids about constellations. We were even able to see the Starlink Train traveling through the sky!

Fredericksburg, Texas, has something for everyone, from history and culture to outdoor fun and delicious food. Traveling in an RV made it even more enjoyable, giving us the flexibility to explore at our own pace. If you’re looking for a family-friendly destination in the Lone Star State, put Fredericksburg on your list—you won’t regret it! We are already planning a return trip to Fredericksburg!