On this day, we chose to go back to Islands of Adventure to start our day. My guess is we started at Hagrid's, but I can't confirm that because the first pictures from this day are actually at Ripsaw Falls. First up, was Daddy and LittleCJC.
Here's the ride in action.
The girls thought they were funny playing in the people dryer, but no we didn't pay to turn it on.
I guess LittleCGC made watching the boats come down look too fun, because LittleCJC all of a sudden had a little meltdown refusing to move on. Once we figured out the problem, I ended up riding once more, this time by myself so that LittleCJC could watch.
I felt a little silly, but at least I enjoy this drop. Plus, they looked pretty cute sitting here all ready to wave as I passed by.
When we were finally able to move on, we moved over to Kong.
LittleCGC was adorable being a little drink hog.
Unfortunately, we didn't get these cups soon enough, because they were definitely worth it. You pay for the cup, and then every day you want to use them, you pay an activation fee and you can refill them all day long. In fact, Universal has the Coke Freestyle machines set up all over the place, or you can go to any kiosk or counter service to refill. At the kiosk, you can also fill them with slushies, which the girls loved. During this trip, because of Covid, it was even more convenient, because they didn't actually fill your personal cup, but instead gave you a disposable cup every time. While I understand they probably didn't want your drink to be shared, it was great with little girls who wouldn't be able to drink an entire one on there own anyway.
After Kong, we took another flight on the Pteranodon Flyers.
We stayed in the Jurassic area, and experienced the Raptor Encounter while here.
This time, we visited with Blue.
Here's an example of the refill stations. At this time, they usually only had one open to promote social distancing.
Eventually, we made it to Hogsmeade and LittleCGC and I watched the frog choir while LittleCJC and Dad rode Flight of the Hippogriff. I know I haven't mentioned it, but Patrick and I did ride Journey to the Forbidden Forest at some point during this trip. Even LittleCJC was still too short, so we only rode it once or twice all week, but don't think we just forgot all about it.
After our time in Hogsmeade, we decided to take the Hogwart's Express over to Universal Studios.
We had a great visit at the Knight Bus once we arrived in London.
Our destination was the Leaky Cauldron. I know we ate many meals this trip in the Wizarding World, but after our not so amazing experience at Dinosaur Digs and fewer options available due to Covid, we stuck with what we could count on as a good experience. The girls loved these options, and these restaurants had the new mobile dining experience figured out.
LittleCJC had a phone during this meal, so we had many photos and videos of the restaurant. She even included her lunch, mac n' cheese with fries.
If you're ever here, don't miss out on Knockturn Alley, located right next to the Leaky Cauldron.
My guess is before leaving Diagon Alley, LittleCJC made us ride Escape from Gringotts. When we did leave, LittleCJC talked Dad into riding the Simpsons ride with her.
While they rode Simpsons, LittleCGC and I rode Twirl and Hurl.
I also was able to talk LittleCJC into riding Men in Black with me.
Knowing now that LittleCGC was tall enough for E.T. we headed that way. While in that area we found some fun characters to visit. First up, was Branch and Poppy.
Next up, was Spongebob.
I guess LittleCJC was in the picture mode by this point, because she made us stop for this one too.
As we moved on, we found another parade float out for our viewing. Even though they weren't having their parade, it was fun to be able to see some of these floats.
Universal was actually killing it with the character experience during this pandemic time. We also met the Scooby Doo gang.
Of course, LittleCJC also had to get a picture with the Mystery Machine.
I'm sure we took turns riding Transformers, because I have several pictures with the Transformers.
The girls loved interacting with these transformers, especially Bumblebee.
After meeting both Bumblebee and Megatron, LittleCJC had a new mission to also meet Optimus Prime. Therefore, we walked by here several times the rest of the day and even the next. Ironically, practically across the street, we found Shrek and Donkey.
Donkey was hilarious, talking to all the guest. We also rode Despicable Me again today.
After partying with the minions, Dad and LittleCJC took a ride on Jimmy Fallon, while LittleCGC enjoyed some more slushee drink.
This was also the day that Patrick and I finally took the time to ride Rip Ride Rocket. This one gets a bad rap with a lot coaster enthusiast and I understand. There are a lot of brake trims here, but if you're sitting in that front seat, I still love this one. I'm a sucker for the coasters that lift you out of your seat.
After another visit with Bumblebee, we headed back to Diagon Alley.
I wasn't lying when I said LittleCJC loved Escape from Gringotts. While us girls rode yet again, Patrick and LittleCGC got some ice cream.
LittleCJC was so happy until she discovered that she had to share with sissy too once she got off the ride. We also tried some magic, but discovered that LittleCJC's wand was already broken.
Even I had to try to make sure it wasn't just a user error.
Patrick and I were pretty upset. Now, we did later learn that wands can be repaired, so keep that in mind if your wand ever stops working. All you need to do is go back to the wand shop and ask if they do wand repairs and they'll be happy to help.
At this time, we decided to head back to the hotel, for another swim in the pool. However, on the way out, we got talked into another ride on Despicable Me. The girls were too cute loving on their Daddy after getting their way.
Even though, we were swimming later today, the pool was still pretty empty. The girls were too cute ready for their swim.
It was another awesome day at Universal.
