Heading to Universal Orlando for the first time was a bit overwhelming, so I did some research before heading to the park.  Normally I consider myself a traveler but for this trip I was in full tourist mode. I did not want to have the fear of missing out on anything.  One of the best things we decided to do was book a Universal Hotel. Not only are you closer to the parks but the hotels provide a free shuttle bus back and forth to the parks.  Staying at the Cabana Bay Beach resort allowed us to enter the park an hour earlier than general admission. It also provided a relaxing pool area to take a break from the heat of the day.  I was not surprised by the number of families but by the couples in their mid 30s staying at the hotel. The best part of traveling in January during the low season was the cost efficient prices.  Round Trip flights from Milwaukee to Orlando were just 63 dollars. Park tickets and hotel were bought in advance during Black Friday at just $125 a night for a double queen room.  Although food and drink are more expensive at Universal I felt the quality was to a great standard.  We went with the two day, two park pass deal so we could ride the Hogwarts express from one park to another.  With just a three night stay, there was plenty to do at the two main parks and Citywalk. These were my 10 favorite things to do!

1. Diagon Alley The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

This was the reason we came to Universal Orlando in the first place.  There are two different parts to Harry Potter World. I liked the feel of Diagon Alley more because it really captured what I Imagined from the books  It also had the darker Knockturn Alley. Drinking butterbeer, fire whiskey and eating fish and chips at the Leaky Cauldron was an added bonus. Hogsmeade is the other half of Harry Potter World.

2. Raptor Encounter

So it was a little disappointing most of Jurassic World was under construction..  However my childhood dream of getting to see a velociraptor up close was complete!  I loved the trainers and whole atmosphere of the experience.

    3. Interactive Wand experience at Hogsmeade Village

Although pricey, buying an interactive wand was worth it and the perfect souvenir.  I picked out a death eater snake wand. It included a map of all the places you can use it.

   4. Toothsome Chocolate Emporium

As soon as we entered CityWalk I knew we had to check out this place.  On our second night we had dinner which was my favorite of the trip. I had a southern fried chicken BLT which was amazing.  To drink, I had a dark chocolate old fashioned which was delicious. We all had dessert, you can't go wrong with anything. A reminder that calories don’t count on vacation.

  5. Animals Actors on Location!

This was a really cute family friendly show with animals.  I laughed so hard and enjoyed the variety of animals. If you are an animal lover you have to check this out.

6.  Skull Island: Reign of Kong

I am not good with rides but this is one everyone can do.  The ride was really well done and entertaining. KONG IS KING!

7.  Mythos Restaurant

The cave like design, waterfalls, and view of the inland sea was mythical.  Before entering I had some extreme hanger that was satisfied by some delicious Pad Thai!

8.  E.T. Adventure Ride

This was another family ride and I loved the 1980s vibe.  It made me want to go back and watch the movie.

9.  Cabana Bay Beach Hotel

The mid century style and colors were super fun.  We really enjoyed the lazy river and outdoor fireplaces where many drinks were enjoyed at night.

10.   Voodoo Donut

I’ve always want to go to one of these.  This was my first time, and I loved the variety of donuts offered. Best part is the donuts were awesome!