We figured we would make our pilgrimage to the Orlando theme parks before the heat of summer set in. One of our favorites is Universal Studios and usually it is very crowded with 30+ minute waits to the rides and shows.  However, this time we found our longest wait a whooping 5 minutes!!! I felt sorry for those purchasing Express passes, as it certainly wasn’t needed during our visit!

And with the new Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Islands of Adventure… well, this fan (yes, I admit it!) wanted to make sure she got a chance to visit Hogsmeade! Again, walking through the park wasn’t so crowded… until… you arrive at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. People of all ages from all over the world standing in awe at the crocked rooftops of Hogsmeade and waiting in line to eat at the 3 Broomsticks. It was wonderful! ;)

 
I do recommend that anyone going to any major theme park this summer keep a few things in mind. One is wear comfortable walking shoes. You have to walk and stand and after a few hours, paper-thin sandals will no longer make your feet look “cool”! Another thing is that you need to keep hydrated. Several of the parks have deals where you can buy a souvenir cup and get discounted refills at various food vendors. And if you are staying at a campground (or hotel) that offers shuttle service, keep in mind that if you get tuckered out before the shuttle comes…. you have a long wait on a hard bench in the summer sun… So consider paying the parking fees and be able to leave when you are ready to. RVers and oversized trucks are usually only $5 more than a standard vehicle.