Hogsmeade Village and distant roller coasters the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

The Best Roller Coasters at Florida Theme Parks!

Hardcore roller coaster enthusiasts might disagree with some of the coasters that have made my list, but it’s really up to personal taste and where you get your thrills. That being said, I’ve ridden a lot, with a lot of friends and these are the ones we come back to time and time again.

Dragon Challenge at Universal’s Islands of Adventure

Formerly the Dueling Dragons, this roller coaster is located in Orlando in the Universal Studios complex.  Islands of Adventure is more of the water-park and adventure side to Universal and is now the home of the Wizarding World of Harry Pottery, which is exactly where you’ll find this ride!

The premise is simple, dual roller coasters are on separate steel tracks and start at precisely the same moment to hurl the riders rapidly through the air on suspended tracks. The coasters often speed toward each other for some thrilling moments when you know they aren’t going to crash but it feels as if they will! This coaster is ideal from both the front and the back of the seats– a rarity for coaster enthusiasts.

Montu at Busch Gardens

Busch Gardens theme park, located in Tampa, is really the best overall theme park for roller coaster enthusiasts in particular because the park has been designed with a bit different focus than Disney and even the Universal parks — although very child friendly, the park also caters to an older audience with fast rides and rocking roller coasters. With that in mind, Montu lives up to your every hope and dream for a coaster — a suspended track mean your feet dangle and whip through the air. The track is older than some of the other top coasters on this list, but it’s a goodie for sure and you’ll want to ride this one several times before you leave the park for the day!

Gwazi at Busch Gardens

This ranks up there because I know it’s well loved by my friends and family; for me, wooden roller coasters don’t necessarily tickle my fancy too much, but even so I make a point to ride Gwazi each time I visit Busch Gardens. The coaster is your classic wooden double coaster and the dual set of cars race each other throughout the track. Expect all of the typical pros and cons of a wooden coaster, but take it up a notch for the fun humps and swoops throughout.

The Incredible Hulk at Universal Islands of Adventure

This coaster is still fairly new (much newer than the popular coasters at Busch Gardens) and the Incredible Hulk made international headlines when it was released because of the innovative track and propulsion system that is, quite literally, the only roller coaster like it in the world. Not to spoil the fun, but as you’re slowly accelerating up the hill you get a sudden boost and go from zero to 60 mph in mere seconds, then the coaster swoops into tunnels and toward the pond it sits in –thrilling and completely unique.

 Sheikra Roller Coaster at Busch Gardens

This is where I proudly wave my wimp flag and admit that as thrilling as this roller coaster is, it also scares the heck out of me each time! This is the tallest coaster in this region of the US and a 90 degree, straight down drop is terrifying and thrilling at the same time. Hard-core enthusiasts will love the drama of this coaster and the thrill of the ride.

This rounds out some of my favorite roller coasters in Florida, but they are far from the only coasters you can enjoy on a visit to our theme parks — there are dozens more that get raves and enjoyment. If you’re an enthusiast you’ll also be interested in Kumba, The Mummy, Space Mountain (and indoor coaster), and Journey to Atlantis at Sea World if you’re a fan of thrilling water coasters!

Six Toed Cat sign just near the Hemingway House

The Hemingway cats are a curious part of authors story because he had a particular affinity for unique cats, calico, black, striped, or tabby…it didn’t matter as long as the cat had six toes! This is  a normal abnormality in cats, one that occurs in nature as a genetic anomaly that only crops up every once in a while because it is so rare. But for Hemingway, he cultivated a huge collection of these cats that were free to roam the grounds of his estate and procreate.

And though Hemingway has not lived on the island for decades (and did in fact pass away), visitors to his house, which has now been turned into a museum of his life and his works, are still able to see descendants from Hemingway’s original six-toed cats that filled his property. Now, all cats are welcome, to be sure, but the fact is, once Hemingway collected enough of the cats with this specific genetic anomaly it is now quite common for the cats at the Hemingway House museum.

The Hemingway House and surrounding property

When you’re visiting the Hemingway House, I highly recommend a guided tour of the grounds because the guides are able to provide some fun insight and knowledge about the author’s life that you can’t understand just from wandering the property! And as an extra bonus, the guides will always point out the passing cats and it’s nearly assured that you’ll spot at least one with an extra toes— the six toed cats have the majority right now!

Snorkeling is one of the Top Things to Do in Key West!

Top Things to Do in Key West

The island is small, just 7.4 square miles and yet the locals have packed in a whole lot of things to do into just one small spot way down there at the end of the chain of islands known as the Florida Keys. From sightseeing the local structures to snorkeling, museum hopping, sunbathing, and sunsets, we have ten of the “can’t miss” items when you travel down south on your Florida travels.

Snorkel, Boat, Dive — Find a Way to Get in the Water!

Island culture dictates the sightseeing in Key West, and that means you simply have to find a way to get yourself out on the water or else I daresay your visit to the Keys doesn’t really count! There are countless tour operators near the Harbor Walk and the information counters will be happy to give you a the lowdown on various options. I highly recommend the snorkeling for families visiting Key West because it’s an activity that nicely suites all ages and the reefs are right of the coast.

Experience Sunset at Mallory Square

I’ve taken in the Mallory Square boardwalk many times over the course of 25 years and the heart of the experience is pleasantly unchanged. As the pinks, purples and oranges riot across the sky with the setting sun the local artists and performers bring their act to the boardwalk and entertain the masses. Expect sword swallowers, fire jugglers, tightrope walkers and all sorts of performances. This is wonderful fun for the entire family and a great place to pick up souvenirs.

Take a Trolley Tour

The heat during the day can really soar high and it’s important to keep yourself hydrated and out of the mid-day sun when it’s at its hottest. But if you’re only in Key West for a couple of days you might lament at the prospect of hiding in your hotel room. That’s where the trolley and bus tours come in handy, all of the companies offer shaded tours around the island with guided, live commentary of the highlights and fun facts.

Visit the Hemingway House

Ernest Hemingway is one of the more famous and popular Key West residents and you’ll find an enthusiasm for his work, life, and legacy throughout Key West. Visiting Hemingway’s house can be a highlight for literary buffs in search of the man behind the wonderful prose; knowledgeable guides offer hourly tours and guided commentary through each room in the house if you so choose, or you can explore at your own pace!

Rent a Bike to See all of Key West

For the ambitious who are really looking for some fun things to do in Key West, wear a hat and bike around the island, taking in the houses, the sunshine, and the slow pace of life. The Conch culture (as the locals prefer it to be called) is pretty hard to describe and it’s something you can let seep into your bones as you slowly pedal through the shady tree-lined streets.

Eat Key Lime Pie!

This is a can’t miss. Please, take it from me, no matter how many pieces of key lime pie you have had in the past, none will come close to the scrumptious recipies secretly guarded and still used all over the island. You can try it frozen and on a stick in the heat of the day, in a take-out container for your boat rides, or sit down in the cool shade of a restaurant and delight your tastebuds with a tasty treat!

Explore and Photography the Wooden Structures

The local architecture and color palette throughout Key West is a photographer’s dream! I found myself happily lost walking the small residential streets and finding the colorful and historic clapboard houses taking right back in time. Many of the wooden houses throughout the island have been carefully and meticulously restored to retain the intricate and ornate wood carvings and details on the Key West houses.

Hit the Bars on Duval Street

I’d be seriously remiss if I failed to mention the party and drinking culture on the island. Like island life anywhere, you’ll find some great bars with a cool ocean breeze and creative local artists crooning on the stage. Many of the more popular bars are attached to past celebrities who lived on the island and they all seem to have a distinctly different vibe so you’ll have a good night out on the town!

Visit the Southernmost Point in the US

I was surprised to see the international tourists just as enthused as the Americans to take their picture next to the large structure marking the southernmost point in the continental US. The icy blue waters lie just beyond the painted structure and since there is normally a queue all day long the person in line behind you will customarily take your photo for you!

Visit the Museums

There are countless museums scattered throughout the town and you can fill your head with facts about Flagler’s railroad and how that changed the island –head to the Customs House for that. Or brush up on your shipwreck knowledge and lore at the Key West Shipwreck Museum (with panoramic views of the island as a bonus).

There are several Renaissance Festivals taking place throughout the year and all over Florida. In addition to this Festival outside of Orlando, in Tavares, an amazing Festvial takes place in the spring in Tampa, and the fall in Sarasota–both are also worth a visit if you’ve never before experienced a Renaissance Festival!

What exactly is a Renaissance Festival?

You are essentially time traveling back to Elizabethan England and you play along with the interactive actors for the day as the craft a story and an experience.

Renaissance Festivals take place all over the world in many forms, including Medieval fares, and Period Festivals, along with a wide range of other similar ideas.

I find that people fall on one of two opinions on Ren Faires:

• Those who have never been, think it’s supremely odd, ranks it up there with Civil War reenatments and never want to visit one.
• Those who have been, know its supremely odd and habitually attend for a day of playing with interactive actors, creative games, crafts, and unhealthy food.

The Characters at the Festival

Actors for the festivals build characters around whatever the theme is for the year and you will find they go all out in their attempt to re-create the time period. You can expect any and all of the following at a Renaissance Festival:

• A perfected a 16^th Century English accent
• Sewed together a raggedy peasant costumes to highlight the class system of Renaissance England
•  Gorgeous costumes from the Royal Court
• Even more stunning costumes on the King and Queen
• Swords and period accessories like leather belts and cups.
• Bows and arrows, because, why not?!

What Type of Shows are Offered?

Visitors are invited to walk the festival grounds shunning as much modernity as they feel comfortable with. You can play games designed from wood and ropes. Jousting is offered. And you can’t miss the human combat chess fought by staged battles between all of the characters at the festival that day, including the princesses and peasants.

The people are friendly and if you’re outgoing enough you can spend the day captivated in the story the interactive actors have created for you. There’s almost always a plot to assassinate the queen.

One of my favorite shows was in Orlando this year; the Washing Well Wenches are raunchy and they tie with the Mud Show as best show to catch.

Both shows tour the US Faires extensively so if you’re visiting the US, and a Faire is nearby, how lucky for you that you get to attend!

Also have to shout out to Empty Hats – their music pulls at my heart and I was so glad to hear their tinkling melody at the Orlando Ren Faire…because Faire is just not Faire without them. My Ren Faire memories are thoroughly laced with the sounds of these talented musicians.

If you get the chance, I have to say – just go. I know it sounds weird. Even people who know me think it’s strange. But seriously. Go. It’s a bizarre slice of culture you won’t find anywhere else and a travel experience in its own right.

Enjoy my full review of the new Harry Potter World and the tips and tricks to ensure you also enjoy your park visit. Oh yeah, and there is a full butterbeer critique, so enjoy!

Hogsmeade Village from above at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Universal Studios Orlando

Review: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal

As an Orlando native at one point in my live Universal Studios Orlando was one of my favorite haunts throughout college. So when the new Harry Potter World was opened I was one of the first in line for HP geekery and Butterbeer goodness!

Walking into the Wizarding World

As a native Floridian I was instantly charmed by the snowcapped village, a stark contrast to the bright blue skies and heat backing up at you from the pavement. The buildings in Hogsmeade Village are sweetly nestled throughout the faux-cobblestone street.  Walking through this fictional village, fans of the book series will love the nuances and details they get just walking through the Harry Potter world. There town, buildings, names, colors and music are an detailed trip through the intricacies of J.K. Rowlings’ wizarding universe.

Hogsmeade Village in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Universal Studios Orlando

The observant and careful readers will love the hidden writing on the walls of Hogsmeade and those little details etched into the town that prove that Universal tried very hard to faithfully recreate this world.

Honey Dukes sweets shop at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Universal Studios Orlando

What Shops Are Present in Hogsmeade Village?

All of the key elements from the series are present in Hogsmeade Village:

• Ollivander’s Wand Shop
• Dervish and Banges
• Zonko’s Joke Shop
• Snack cakes
• Pumpkin juice
• Wands for sale
• Wizard cast members walking around

Paraphernalia for each of the houses is for sale and you’ll love the an hour or two spend inside this fictional Universe.

The Delicious Butterbeer

Butterbeer is a non-alcoholic drink (for muggles…just like the in the book series…bring some house elves though and it’s a different story

The drink is only served in the Harry Potter World, so make sure you try it while you’re there!

The drink itself is delicious and the frozen Butterbeer tastes a notch above the traditional butterbeer. I recommend trying them both (but not at the same time unless you’re traveling in a couple or family!

All aboard the Hogwarts Express at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Universal Studios Orlando

New Ride: Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey

The newest ride at Universal, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, is a wowzer and has now become, perhaps, the best ride out of all of the Orlando theme parks. The journey through the queue alone is part of the experience. I’m an avid theme-parker (I grew up an hour from Orlando, how could I not be?) and as I waited in line and winded my way through Hogwarts Castle the level of detail, interaction and care put into the experience made me frequently smile and laugh out load at the fun and quirky inside jokes that made it into the ride.

Hogwarts Castle and the new ride at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Universal Studios Orlando

Also, the interior castle decorations have the best holographic technology I’ve ever seen.

The ride itself is innovative, incredibly technologically advanced, and well, yes: magical.  You will have to queue in line for this ride since it’s still a new attraction, but it’s worth it for the end result (and you can get on the ride in record time if you stay on Universal property for the extra hour of park time!

As a warning though, The Forbidden Journey is not for the weak-stomached and each person in my group felt a ill walking out (but no one had to make that sad and sudden dash to a nearby trash can, thankfully).

Hogsmeade lit up at night at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Universal Studios Orlando

Between the creamy butter beer, the Universal Studios cast members dressed up in robes, and the tinkling Harry Potter music throughout the village I completely geeked out, as will any Harry Potter fans, and even those fans in denial.

Your Quick Travel Tips: Harry Potter World at Universal Studios, Orlando

Check out our Theme Park Travel Tips for the basics like what you can bring inside the park, average weather temperatures, and other little tidbits from insiders who have done the theme parks for years!

When: Weather is decent all year round for the theme parks but school holidays are, naturally the busiest, craziest time of the year. Go in shoulder season if possible.
Where: Islands of Adventure inside Universal Studios at Orlando, Florida.
Extra Tips:

• Bring sunscreen and reapply often, the Florida sun is strong!
• Book a night at the Hard Rock Hotel on Universal Studios property (and the other on-property hotels) and you get early admission into Islands of Adventure. That extra hour before the park opens is perfect for ensuring short wait times on the Harry Potter lines!
• Try both butterbeers, but the frozen butter beer is superior to regular butterbeer. If you’re forced to choose just one, go with frozen.
• Merchandise from inside the Harry Potter souvenir shops is also inside other shops in the park, if the lines are long (and they will be) know that you can buy the paraphernalia elsewhere!