Hot days, long lines, and whining are just a few things that come to my mind when I think of theme parks. Don’t get me wrong…I love them though. Before I had kids, my husband and I would visit a theme park if together if we were in the area, my friends and I would head to conferences and build in a day for theme parks and now I love to visit a theme park through my children’s eyes.

Universal Studios Orlando was on our radar for several reasons. The trip had to be quick because of time off of work and away from families. We wanted to keep the trip budget friendly so we were going to drive and we wanted to visit The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. For over ten years, we have been reading the books and making dates to see the movies together. We were not ashamed to admit that we were headed to Orlando on a search for Harry Potter.

After spending a very grown up day shopping at the mall, IKEA and indulging in a fancy dinner out, it was time to unleash our inner child and explore Universal Studios Orlando. If you like theme parks, I recommend everyone visit with your spouse or adult friends and leave the kids at home at least once!

Why is heading to an amusement park without your kids something that you might consider? You move through the park much more quickly. You can skip the kiddie rides and ride the Incredible Hulk ten times if you want. Chicken nuggets are not on the lunch menu. While we were there, we ate lunch at a little walk up that served things like lamb gyros. No chicken nuggets allowed! You can sneak an ice cream cone without having to share with anyone. You can stay as long as you want and you don’t have to worry about naptimes, diapers, or extra clothes.

And The Wizarding World of Harry Potter? Amazing! It did not disappoint any of us. We spent a good two hours exploring and riding rides. Each little detail made the experience seem as real as it could be even with the thousands of people milling around!

Have you ever been to a theme park without the kids? What did you think?

Disclosure: I was given complimentary passes to Universal Studios.  My opinions are always my own with no outside influence.