Around Thanksgiving I went to Universal Orlando, and it was such a pleasant experience. It, surprisingly, was not as packed as expected and I learned it is especially stunning (and less crowded) at night. I went 5 times in a row and it did not get old. It especially did not get old when we were able to ride Hagrid’s ride multiple times (one day even twice in a row).

They were all decorated for the holidays and it was so cheerful and lovely. It got me so excited for Christmas.

Most of our time was spent in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter (can you blame us?). It was great to experience it when it wasn’t so annoyingly packed. I got to go in all the stores and truly take it all in without having to rush around.

Since I was finally at the park without a mass of people, I got an interactive wand to partake in some magic around the parks. It was so cute and I am glad I got it. It was hard for me to decide on which one I wanted. I already had Hermione’s (non-interactive), so I wanted a different one. Ultimately, I chose Fleur Delacour’s (now I really want to dress as her). Do not worry if your wand does not work for whatever reason (they will fix it, free of charge).

I tried the Firewhisky + Butterbeer combo I have seen people rave about on TikTok. It was good but not my thing. I actually prefer the frozen butterbeer without alcohol.

I also tried one of the Harry Potter beers (because why not?!). I loved the Wizard’s Brew. If you like stouts it is definitely the choice for you. It is dark & sweet with notes of chocolate and coffee.

I had to go back to Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour since I loved their ice-cream last time around. I got the Earl Grey & Lavender with Chocolate & Raspberry in a cone. It hit the spot right before dinner, haha.

If you are looking for a place to drink good beer that is not in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, try Finnegan’s Bar & Grill. I tried the Dragon’s Milk White for the first time here and it is incredible.

Alright, so….FOOD! I had some great eats that I wanted to share.

I ate at THE TOOTHSOME CHOCOLATE EMPORIUM & SAVORY FEAST KITCHEN again, because I absolutely loved it (I was craving their chocolate cherry mule and meatloaf). I got the same things as last time with one add-on – dessert! I had the Triple Chocolate Bread Pudding and it was amazing (if you have room, try it). Check out my blog post on the restaurant (linked above) for more of what I eat here.

The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar is known as one of their better restaurants and I will say, it did not disappoint. I had the most unique tuna sandwich I have ever had due to the grilled spring roll wrapper “buns” filled with kani and sushi rice.

After closing down the park, I gave NBC Sports Grill & Brew a shot. They are known for their burgers, but I wanted to try something else. I had the Bang-Bang Chicken and it was pretty good (& huge).

I am ashamed to say this was my first time having Voodoo Doughnut, but it is the truth. I had been seeing people with the pink boxes and did not really think much about it; now, I understand why I saw so many of them. Their doughnuts are soft and addicting. They even had vegan options for me!

I also wanted to show off my favorite outfit from the trip! I got the dress from Hot Topic; headband is from Spirit Halloween; and the fanny pack is one of my DIY projects that I will share soon.

I am already excited to go back again!

Xo,

Caylin