February 2024
Where We Stayed: The Contemporary
- One of my mom’s requests on this trip was to spend a day at Universal Studios/Islands of Adventure so she could see the two Harry Potter theme parks again. I agree with her — they really are the most magical parks around (no pun intended). It’s a fully immersive experience. The only downside, for us, was that the wait times for all the rides were 100+ minutes. UGH. The only “ride” we managed to go on was the Hogwarts Express to get from Diagon Alley to Hogsmeade.
- Mardi Gras season was also happening at Universal, so it was cute to see the parks all decked out in purple, gold, and green.
Loungefly of the day!
We had to stop at Target to buy another suitcase. Eeeeep.
The bead tree outside the parking ramp at Universal.
We stopped at the Today Show Cafe for a beverage and because it reminded us of Denny. This was his all-time favorite coffee mug.
I liked the reflection of the palm trees.
The attention to detail is somethin’ else.
This thing is surprisingly loud and HOT.
Normally I don’t love cloudy days at the parks but it works for the mood of this place.
A brief break outside of Diagon Alley.
Then it was time to hop on the Hogwarts Express and head over to Hogsmeade.
Always game for a twist-soft serve with rainbow sprinkles break.
I love Orange Bird. I also forgot to bring a Universal-themed Loungefly. Whoops.
I do enjoy this comic book-themed area of the park.
Another for my collection!
Another bead tree on the way out!
Back at the Contemporary and time to pack up and head home.
Our last night on property.
Pro tip: watch the fireworks from the stairwells of the Contemporary!
Our last morning.
Goodbye, Mickey balloon.
MCO wasn’t too bad.
And the sunset at DTW was gorgeous.
We had chips and salsa at Chili’s for dinner… our 6 hour layover in Detroit was a bit much.
New babies for my collection.
And the final bracelet, with all the charms I acquired. I love it so.