Orlando is a city that is known for its theme parks, but there is so much more to this city than just Mickey Mouse and Harry Potter. If you’re looking for a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience, here are 7 secret places to visit in Orlando in July 2024:
1. The Harry Potter™ Escape Room at Universal CityWalk
2. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ – Diagon Alley™ at Universal Studios Florida
3. The Leaky Cauldron™ at Universal Studios Florida
4. The Hogsmeade™ Village at Universal’s Islands of Adventure
5. The Three Broomsticks™ at Universal’s Islands of Adventure
6. The Flight of the Hippogriff™ at Universal’s Islands of Adventure
7. The Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™ at Universal’s Islands of Adventure
Secret Place 1: The Harry Potter™ Escape Room at Universal CityWalk
The Harry Potter™ Escape Room is a must-visit for any fan of the books and movies. This escape room is located at Universal CityWalk, and it offers a unique and immersive experience that will transport you into the world of Harry Potter. You and your team will have 60 minutes to solve a series of puzzles and riddles in order to escape the room. This is a great activity for families and friends, and it’s a great way to experience the magic of Harry Potter in a new way.
Secret Place 2: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ – Diagon Alley™ at Universal Studios Florida
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ – Diagon Alley™ is a must-visit for any fan of the Harry Potter books and movies. This immersive land is located at Universal Studios Florida, and it offers a truly magical experience. You can explore the shops and restaurants of Diagon Alley, visit Gringotts Wizarding Bank, and even ride the Hogwarts Express to Hogsmeade™. This is a great place to spend a day exploring the world of Harry Potter, and it’s sure to be a memorable experience.
Secret Place 3: The Leaky Cauldron™ at Universal Studios Florida
The Leaky Cauldron™ is a must-visit for any fan of the Harry Potter books and movies. This iconic pub is located in Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida, and it offers a truly authentic experience. You can enjoy a pint of butterbeer, eat a traditional British meal, and even meet some of your favorite Harry Potter characters. This is a great place to relax and take a break from the hustle and bustle of the theme parks, and it’s sure to be a memorable experience.
Secret Place 4: The Hogsmeade™ Village at Universal’s Islands of Adventure
The Hogsmeade™ Village is a must-visit for any fan of the Harry Potter books and movies. This charming village is located at Universal’s Islands of Adventure, and it offers a truly magical experience. You can explore the shops and restaurants of Hogsmeade, visit Hogwarts Castle, and even ride the Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™ roller coaster. This is a great place to spend a day exploring the world of Harry Potter, and it’s sure to be a memorable experience.
Secret Place 5: The Three Broomsticks™ at Universal’s Islands of Adventure
The Three Broomsticks™ is a must-visit for any fan of the Harry Potter books and movies. This iconic pub is located in Hogsmeade at Universal’s Islands of Adventure, and it offers a truly authentic experience. You can enjoy a traditional British meal, sip on a pint of butterbeer, and even meet some of your favorite Harry Potter characters. This is a great place to relax and take a break from the hustle and bustle of the theme parks, and it’s sure to be a memorable experience.
Secret Place 6: The Flight of the Hippogriff™ at Universal’s Islands of Adventure
The Flight of the Hippogriff™ is a must-visit for any fan of the Harry Potter books and movies. This family-friendly roller coaster is located in Hogsmeade at Universal’s Islands of Adventure, and it offers a truly magical experience. You’ll soar through the air on the back of a Hippogriff, and you’ll get to see some amazing views of the surrounding area. This is a great ride for all ages, and it’s sure to be a memorable experience.
Secret Place 7: The Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™ at Universal’s Islands of Adventure
The Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™ is a must-visit for any fan of the Harry Potter books and movies. This immersive roller coaster is located in Hogsmeade at Universal’s Islands of Adventure, and it offers a truly magical experience. You’ll fly through the air on the back of a Hippogriff, and you’ll get to see some amazing views of the surrounding area. This is a great ride for all ages, and it’s sure to be a memorable experience.
Culture
Orlando is a melting pot of cultures, with people from all over the world calling the city home. This diversity is reflected in the city’s food, music, and art. Orlando is also home to a number of cultural institutions, such as the Orlando Museum of Art, the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, and the Orange County Regional History Center.
Best Months to Visit
The best time to visit Orlando is during the shoulder seasons, which are April-May and September-October. During these months, the weather is still pleasant, but the crowds are smaller. However, if you’re looking to experience the city at its most magical, visit during the holiday season. Orlando transforms into a winter wonderland, with festive decorations and events throughout the city.
Nearby Transportation
Orlando is easily accessible by air, land, and sea. Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the city’s main airport, with flights from all over the world. Orlando is also a major rail hub, with Amtrak service to cities throughout the Southeast. The city is also home to a number of bus lines, and there are several cruise lines that offer cruises to Orlando.
Local Food
Orlando is home to a diverse culinary scene, with restaurants serving everything from traditional American fare to international cuisine. Some of the city’s most popular dishes include Cuban sandwiches, seafood, and barbecue. Orlando is also home to a number of craft breweries and distilleries, so you’re sure to find something to quench your thirst.
Best Hotels
Orlando is home to a wide range of hotels, from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts. Some of the city’s most popular hotels include the Waldorf Astoria Orlando, the Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes, and the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort. Orlando is also home to a number of vacation rentals, which can be a great option for families or groups.
Conclusion
Orlando is a city that has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re looking for a magical experience at one of the theme parks, a cultural exploration of the city’s museums and art galleries, or a relaxing vacation on the beach, Orlando is the perfect destination. With its diverse culture, mild climate, and easy access to transportation, Orlando is a city that you’ll want to visit again and again.