Page 34 - AAA Every Day – AAA Hudson Valley – March/April 2020

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
It’s no secret that I am a huge fan of theme parks, but different types of these passes as well, depending on
when Universal Orlando Resort decided to add Harry Potter to its repertoire, I knew I was going to have to get there eventually. I’ll admit, it took me longer than I would have liked, but once I did, it was clear to me that all of its updates and additions over the past 10 years or so had been worth the wait.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is any muggle’s dream come true. The elaborately themed land extends from Universal Studios Florida to Islands of Adventure. In fact, the only way to do both Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade in one day is to buy a Park-to-Park ticket, which also allows you to ride the Hogwarts Express.
As a longtime Potterhead, I can tell you this entire land is so well themed that you genuinely feel like you are a character in the books/movies and that spells are being cast all around you. Plus, for those souvenir enthusiasts out there, the merchandise is equally impressive and abundant. Tip: When given the option, try the frozen butterbeer, it is magical ... especially in the Florida heat.
On a recent trip, my friend and I decided that we should spring for the Express Pass. These are tickets purchased separately from regular park admission that allow guests to skip the regular lines for most attractions. In some cases, when the parks are bustling, this can save you hours of waiting. Because we were only going to be there one day and wanted to get through as much as possible, the Express Pass was probably the smartest decision
we made, allowing us essentially to walk right onto the popular rides in both parks. If you decide this is something you want to splurge on, keep in mind that there are
what you’re looking to experience.
A secret gem is the ride Race Through New York
starring Jimmy Fallon. It’s hilarious and thrilling at the same time. The cue is set up like NBC studios and makes you feel like you’re waiting in the lobby to see Fallon live on the Tonight Show!
For me, some of the most enjoyable things at Universal are not the attractions themselves, but the ambiance of each area. One of my favorite details at Universal Parks is the presence of characters from superheroes and wizards to the Minions and the Scooby Gang. We got to meet Spongebob Squarepants in his pineapple under the sea, as well as the Trolls, dancing to the ever-popular Justin Timberlake song from the smash-hit movie.
Of course, all of my visits to Universal close with
dinner at CityWalk, Universal’s answer to late-night entertainment, dining and shopping. What’s great about CityWalk is that there is no admission. This means if you just want to get your fix on a day when you have some extra time, you can pop by and grab a bite to eat at one of their many exciting themed restaurants. Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville is a cool island hangout that transports
you right to the beach. Its drinks (alcoholic and non) are super delicious. Something unique to Universal is the Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen. This is a steampunk vision with the smell of chocolate in the air and fantastic food on your plate. Tip: If you catch it on an off-hour, it’s easier to get in. The plus about eating at CityWalk though, is that if you do end up with a long wait, you can shop ‘til you drop until your table is ready.
Emily Gnacik is the Editor of AAA Every Day Magazine.
34 I MAR/APR 2020
A Muggle’s Dream
Come True