Cruise ship docked in Caribbean. beach and beach chairs

Why Winter Is The Best Time To Book A Deal On Your Summer Cruise

Tropical Places in the US

Things Go Bump in the Night at These Haunted US Hotels

New Disney Visa Cardmember Discount for Disney World for Early 2024

Book Early and Save More—Up to 25%—on Rooms at Select Disney Resort Hotels in the New Year

Walt Disney Travel Company Ticketless Packages With Dining Plans Now Available for Walt Disney World Resort

6 Butterbeer Treats Every Harry Potter Fan Must Try in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Complete Guide

Top Reasons for Spending Fall at Universal Orlando Resort

How to Choose the Best Cabin on a Cruise Ship

Of all the questions Wishes and Wands Travel agents are asked, “When Should I Book My Cruise” comes up the most. And, while it may sound odd, the best time to book your summer cruise vacation is in January, February, and March, when the best cruise deals are rolled out from cruise lines eager to secure bookings for the rest of the year.

Here’s why you should consider booking your summer cruise vacation in the dead of winter.

The Winter Months Offer Better Cruise Deals

Starting in mid-to-late December and continuing into January, cruise lines begin rolling out deals, perks, and incentives to entice cruisers to set sail. Known in the industry as “Wave Season”, these deals used to be all about discounts on cruise fares.

Today, however, these cruise deals have evolved into something else: enticing packages with value-loaded add-ons. Cruise lines might throw in a complimentary drink package, or a specialty dining experience at one (or more) of the ship’s for-fee restaurant venues. Some cruise lines will offer onboard credits, free Wi-Fi internet access, free shore excursions, and even free or discounted economy and business-class airfare — particularly if you’re booking an ultra-luxury cruise vacation.

While it’s true that cruise lines roll out deals and specials all year long, few lines do so at the same time — except during Wave Season. Between December and March, every cruise line is running some sort of value-added promotion. And that makes the possibilities and choices endless.

Booking Cruises in Advance Ensures Better Cruise Cabin Deckplan Availability

It’s no secret that booking in advance guarantees better cabin availability and location on a ship’s deck plan. Simply put, the earlier you book, the better the chance that your ideal cabin will be available, whether it’s the value-laden inside cabin of your dreams or the aft-corner balcony stateroom that’s slightly bigger than all the rest in that category.

It’s the Best Chance to Book the Summer’s Newest Cruise Ships

Some of the newest cruise ships on order typically come out in time for the popular summer cruise season, and the preceding winter can be your best shot at getting a cabin aboard one of these noteworthy marvels.

New ships always fill up faster than older ships, particularly during the summertime when families can travel more freely with kids out of school and temperatures warm across the northern hemisphere. New ships tend to debut in the Mediterranean or the Caribbean — always popular summer family destinations — and that means increased competition to be onboard the biggest and best new cruise ships.

Trust us when we say you don’t want to wait for a last-minute booking on a new cruise ship unless you’re very flexible about your cabin type and date of departure.

Booking a Cruise in the Winter Offers Something to Look Forward To

Finally, booking a cruise in the cold, dark months of winter provides you with something even more valuable: a vacation to look forward to.

Nothing beats the winter doldrums better than researching and planning a cruise vacation, and those booking in January for a cruise in July will find that provides nearly seven months in which to research airfare, hotels, shore excursions, dining packages, and other fun things to do both onboard and ashore.

While the continental U.S. is too far north to be considered truly
tropical, you can still find American destinations that boast the
balmy weather, sugar sand beaches, and icy rum runners of
tropical lore. Southern reaches of the lower 48 sit within the just-
as-pleasant subtropical and Mediterranean climate zones, and off
the mainland, you can escape to the literal tropics in spots like
Hawaii and Puerto Rico without having to renew your passport.
(The territories of American Samoa and Guam also lie within the
tropics, but passports are required for those more distant isles.)
  Whether they’re geographically tropical or not, these
U.S. islands, beach towns, and resorts make for the
perfect tropical-style vacation. 

Key West, Florida

Florida is the land of sun tan oil and daiquiris. With 1,300 miles of
coastline along the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico, Florida is an
ideal vacation destination. It’s also home to the city of Key West in
the Florida Keys, the southernmost point in the continental U.S.

Kauai, Hawaii

For a true U.S. tropical destination, head to Hawaii.
Home to some of the world’s best islands, Hawaii is all blue
lagoons and fragrant hibiscus. Kauai is resplendent in rainforests,
waterfalls, and beaches best seen on a hike or from your candy-
striped beach towel. 

Amelia Island, Florida

Find shorelines fringed in beach grass
and barnacle-covered piers on this quiet barrier island off the
northeast
coast of Florida. Hunt for sea turtle nests in the morning and then
head to the quaint downtown for a strawberry ice cream cone to
beat the rising heat in the afternoon.

St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands

Welcome to the U.S. Virgin
Islands. The sugar-sand archipelago in the Caribbean is made up
of three islands, and St. Croix, the largest, has a more relaxed
atmosphere for those who want to take an actual vacation on their
vacation. 

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama

Most U.S. beaches
can’t hold a flame to the aquamarine waters and soft sands of the
Gulf Coast. And, with summer (never mind water) temps in the
80s, the southern shore of Alabama is also a bona fide tropical
vacation destination.

Maui, Hawaii

This tropical destination is known for its golden
strips of shore and cliffs every shade of green.

Dauphin Island, Alabama

Be on the lookout for a dolphin’s fin
cutting through the glassy waters of this barrier island three miles
south of Mobile Bay in the Gulf of Mexico. First, you’ll have to
traverse a three-mile-long bridge to get to its white sands and
vibrant, Gulf sunsets.

South Padre Island, Texas

This barrier island off the southern tip
of Texas is a year-round oasis. The island features 34 miles of
white-sand beaches, clear, warm water, mild weather, and lots to
do.

Catalina Island, California

Located off the coast of Southern California, Catalina Island is both
hot and lush, with beaches, mountains, and plenty of places to
stay, from resorts to campsites. 
Oahu, Hawaii- From the sophisticated capital of Honolulu to the
massive swells on the North Shore and Waikiki’s picture-perfect
hikes, Oahu is a little paradise in the Central Pacific. 

Santa Barbara, California

Though it’s often called the “American
Riviera,” Santa Barbara could be taken for a tropical island thanks
to its abundant palm trees, lush gardens, sandy beaches, and
boat-filled harbor. Visitors enjoy the sunny climate, Pacific views,
and outdoor adventures like hiking, biking, fishing, and golf. 

Daufuskie Island, South Carolina

The Spanish moss, salt
marshes, and coastal waterways of the South Carolina Lowcountry
color this idyll sandwiched between Savannah and Hilton Head
Island.

Tybee Island, Georgia

Grassy sand dunes and a historic black-
and-white striped lighthouse bring a quaint coastal feel to Tybee
Island, about 18 miles from Savannah.

Molokai, Hawaii

Tucked behind a barrier reef, about a 25-minute
flight from Maui, the remote Hawaiian island of Molokai is a great
tropical vacation option. It has the world’s highest sea cliffs, as well
as Hawaii’s tallest waterfall, so you’ll never want for outdoor
adventure in its tropical environs.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

With palm trees, white-sand beaches,
and the only tropical rainforest in the national forest system, Puerto
Rico is the Caribbean getaway of your dreams. It’s only 1,000
miles south of Miami, and you won’t need a passport to get into the
U.S. territory.

From cryptids and hauntings to legends and lore, the USA can be a seriously spooky place. So why should its hotels be any different? Whether they find the thought of the paranormal to be downright scary or if they’re more skeptical by nature, guests who spend the night at these six haunted U.S. hotels might find themselves leaving a believer.

Mizpah Hotel, Tonopah, NV

Situated along Neveda’s Extraterrestrial Highway, little green men aren’t the only strange thing visitors might encounter when they choose to spend the night at the haunted Mizpah Hotel. Charming with its plush velvet furnishings, ornate golden chandeliers and moody downstairs lobby and bar, the Mizpah Hotel, aka “The Jewel of the Desert,” is a historic spot dating back to 1907. However, with all those years under its belt, it’s no surprise the Mizpah has found itself with a few guests who have never checked out.

The Mizpah Hotel in Tonopah, Nevada
The Mizpah Hotel in Tonopah, Nevada (Photo courtesy of The Mizpah Hotel)

Enter the Lady in Red, Nevada’s most famous ghost, and the Mizpah Hotel’s most notorious resident. A former working girl, the Lady in Red practiced the world’s oldest profession out of a suite on the hotel’s fifth floor. While her identity was lost to history, the boudoir she worked in was transformed into three rooms — 502, 503 and 504 — with room 502 being the most active regarding paranormal activity. However, guests can also encounter the Lady in Red when they ride the Mizpah’s old-timey elevator, a place where several people have reported hearing a female voice whisper sweet nothings into their ears.

Bonus Haunt: While they’re in the area, travelers can bop over to the world-famous, and super haunted, Clown Motel which is just a minute down the road.

Pfister Hotel, Milwaukee, WI

Home to many haunted bars, bizarre lore, spooky cemeteries and even its own cryptid — hello, Beast of Bray Road —, Wisconsin is no stranger to the strange. But to explore one of the state’s creepiest lodging options, travelers will want to set their sights on Milwaukee, a fantastic city on the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan. Known for its beer, festivals and sports teams like the Milwaukee Brewers and Bucks, it’s those same professional athletes who often come face to face with the unknown when they stay at the luxurious, yet eerie Pfister Hotel.

The ornate ceiling mural in the Pfister Hotel's lobby
The ornate ceiling mural in the Pfister Hotel’s lobby (Photo by Jenna Buege)

Yes, you read that right, the paranormal activity at this Milwaukee locale has caused such a stir that The Pfister made headlines on the Major League Baseball (MLB) organization’s website in 2021 in an article titled “Scary stories from baseball’s haunted hotel.” And it’s not just baseball players who are getting the heebie-jeebies, in 2021, entertainer Megan Thee Stallion had a run-in with some ghouls reporting poltergeist activity in her room not once, but twice. In addition to objects moving, disappearing and reappearing on their own, guests at this lovely establishment commonly experience disembodied voices, strange sounds and even full-body apparitions.

Bonus Haunt: For a spooky night on the town, visitors won’t want to miss a stop at Shaker’s Cigar Bar, a haunted bar with guided ghost tours and delicious absinthe.

The Marshall House, Savannah, GA

We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again, Savannah is crawling with ghosts. And with the region’s dark history of bloody battles, gruesome murders, tragic fires and connection to slavery, it isn’t hard to see why so many spirits have struggled to find rest. From historic homes and old saloons to breweries and more, according to Ghost City Tours, a tour company based out of Savannah, it’s almost impossible to find a historic building that doesn’t have a few phantom friends. And of those buildings, one of the most haunted is The Marshall House, a stunning hotel dating back to 1851.

An exterior shot of The Marshall House in Savannah, GA
An exterior shot of The Marshall House in Savannah, GA (Photo courtesy of The Marshall House)

While The Marshall House of today oozes Southern charm with its cozy color palettes, rustic hardwood floors, colorful furnishings and ornate tilework, that wasn’t always the case. In fact, from the early 1850s through the 19th century, this historic property acted as a hospital, first for Union soldiers during the Civil War and later during two separate bouts of Yellow Fever. The Marshall House is familiar with pain and suffering, and it seems that energy has transformed into something much more mysterious. Travelers who dare to spend the night at this place — which was ranked the best haunted hotel in the U.S. — might encounter apparitions in the hallways, experience strange activities like faucets turning on and doors closing on their own or hear unaccounted-for footsteps.

Bonus Haunt: Just a hop, skip and a jump from the historic Marshall House is Moon River Brewing Company, one of the nation’s spookiest places to grab a drink.

1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa, Eureka Springs, AR

Since 1997, the owners of the 1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa in Eureka Springs, Arkansas have leaned into the building’s haunted nature. With a former life as an experimental cancer hospital, this historic building has a painful story to tell, and the hotel staff is doing their best to tell it. In addition to being featured on countless paranormal reality TV shows like “Ghost Adventures” and “Ghost Hunters,” the Crescent Hotel’s owners have worked to unearth the property’s otherworldly qualities with the help of mediums and guests who recall their strange experiences.

Photo of the sign at the Crescent Hotel
Photo of the sign at the Crescent Hotel (Photo courtesy of the 1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa)

With such an iconic reputation among purveyors of the unexplained, the Crescent Hotel & Spa attracts over 35,000 thrill-seekers each year, many of whom attend the hotel’s nightly guided ghost tours in hopes of having a paranormal experience of their own. On the tour, guests learn about the property’s most famous spirits like Michael the Irish stonemason, Theodora the nurse and an unnamed specter who hangs out in the onsite morgue. As for what ghost hunters often experience, visitors might want to keep their blood sugar up as several tour-goers have suddenly gone pale, and a few have even lost consciousness.

Congress Plaza Hotel, Chicago, IL

Known for its striking architecture, world-class museums, delicious deep-dish pizza and beautiful river walk, Chicago is an iconic destination with equally iconic haunts. As far as haunted hotels go, Michigan Avenue’s Congress Plaza Hotel takes the cake with reports of phantom children, TV channels that change on their own, ghouls that don Victorian clothing, peculiar shadow figures, strange footsteps, disembodied voices and more.

Chicago's Congress Plaza Hotel at night
Chicago’s Congress Plaza Hotel at night (Photo courtesy of the Congress Plaza Hotel)

Perhaps it’s the Congress Plaza Hotel’s connection to Al Capone — the mobster reportedly played cards at the establishment every Friday — or the series of gruesome deaths that took place at the establishment throughout the years, but something seriously spooky is happening behind these walls. To up their chances of seeing something odd, guests can book room 441 in the South Tower, the hotel’s most haunted room where a female apparition has reportedly hovered above, stood next to, pushed and tugged the covers off of unsuspecting guests.

Bonus Haunt: In the nearby Theater District, visitors can set foot on the same site of the 1903 Iroquois Theatre fire, a tragic event that took the lives of around 600 people. The alley, which still exists as an alley today, acted as a temporary morgue on that fateful day.

The Hollywood Roosevelt, Los Angeles, CA

Situated along Hollywood Boulevard, The Hollywood Roosevelt has witnessed countless premieres and the glitz and glamour accompanying them. From movie stars and TV personalities to rockers and politicians, everybody who’s anybody has visited this iconic stretch of road. And, when it comes to lodging at these iconic events, many turn to The Hollywood Roosevelt. However, as they mix and mingle among the property’s perfectly broken-in leather sofas, dramatic iron chandeliers and colorful fountains, visitors might find that this iconic hotel plays host to a few famous friends who never checked out.

The Hollywood Roosevelt hotel in Los Angeles
The Hollywood Roosevelt hotel in Los Angeles (Photo courtesy of The Hollywood Roosevelt)

The most famous of the hotel’s otherworldly guests is La La Land’s very own Marilyn Monroe. Rumored to manifest in room 1200, it is said this suite was Monroe’s favorite when she was among the living, and she still seems to favor it today. Before it was moved to a nearby hallway, guests reported seeing the actress in the room’s full-length mirror. However, that isn’t the only place she appears, Monroe has also been spotted in the Blossom Ballroom, busting her best moves from beyond the grave. Another commonly reported spirit is that of Montgomery Clift, a three-time Academy Award nominee who was a friend of Elizabeth Taylor. Montgomery is said to haunt room 928 where he has reportedly touched, watched and even evoked episodes of sleep paralysis in unfortunate guests.

Bonus Haunt(s): The Roosevelt Hotel isn’t Hollywood Boulevard’s only haunt, the TLC Chinese Theatre and Pantages Theatre are home to high strangeness too.

Travel insights from Jenna Buege, senior editor of The Compass

Save on most stays from January 9 – February 22 and February 25 – March 24, 2022

Get ready to dive into the magic of Walt Disney World Resort like never before! If you’re a Disney® Visa® Cardmember, we’ve got some enchanting news for you.

You can now enjoy a magical stay at select Disney Resort hotels in early 2024 with fantastic discounts:

  • Save up to 35% on stays from January 9, 2024, through February 22, 2024, on most Sunday through Thursday nights.
  • Save up to 20% on stays from January 12, 2024, through February 24, 2024, on most Friday and Saturday nights.
  • Plus, enjoy great savings on most nights from February 25, 2024, through March 24, 2024.

This offer is only bookable if you are a Disney Visa Cardholder. The Disney Visa cardholder must stay in the room and the deposit for your stay must be paid with your Disney Visa credit card though you can use a different card for the balance of the reservation. 

Already enjoying the Disney Dining Card offer? Keep in mind that Disney allows one discount or promotion per reservation. If you’ve booked through us, our dedicated Wishes and Wands Travel Agents are here to help you compare both offers and determine which one provides the best overall value. It can be a bit tricky since the Dining Offer focuses on dining savings, while this promotion offers discounts on room rates. Rest assured, we’re committed to ensuring you get the most out of your Disney experience!”

Prepare for an unforgettable journey filled with savings, smiles, and cherished memories. Let’s make your Disney dreams come true!”

Use the button below to get a Disney vacation quote. 


Important Details

The number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited. Savings are based on the non-discounted price for the same room. Length of stay requirements may apply.

Valid Travel Dates

  • Stays select nights January 9, 2024, through March 24, 2024

Length of Stay Requirements

  • Minimum – 1 night
  • Maximum – 14 nights

Important Details

  • Must use a valid Disney® Visa® Card or Disney Rewards Redemption Card to pay the deposit.
  • Disney® Visa® Cardmember must stay in the room.
  • Additional per-adult charges may apply if more than 2 adults per room at Disney Value, Moderate, and Deluxe Resorts, and Studios at Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts.
  • Cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion.
  • Advance reservations are required.
  • Offer excludes the following room types: 3-bedroom villas, Tower Studios at Disney’s Riviera Resort, Cabins at Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, Bungalows at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows, and The Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort.
  • Valid admission is required to enjoy theme parks and is not included in this offer. Beginning January 9, 2024, theme park reservations will no longer be required for date-based tickets. For other admission types, theme park reservations may be required.

There are a limited number of discounted rooms available with this offer.  The deposit on a Disney World vacation package is only $200 and is completely refundable up to 30-days prior to arrival so you risk nothing by booking now but you risk the discount not being available later if you wait. 


We’ll help you plan an amazing vacation!

Disney is rolling out a lot of new changes right now and that can be confusing, even if you’ve visited Disney regularly for years. This is a good time to consider using our services for your next trip even if you’ve never used a travel agent before.  We specialize in Disney vacations and spend a lot of time learning about these changes so you don’t have to spend hours trying to sift through outdated website after website trying to find up-to-date information.  

Wishes and Wands Travel – We help people avoid vacation disappointments and disasters by providing better trip planning and preparation because everyone deserves a vacation they will never forget. When you book through us, your travel advisor will help you:

  • select the right resort for your budget
  • plan a great “Best Days” itinerary
  • choose great restaurants and even book reservations for you if you prefer
  • understand the theme park apps, virtual lines and boarding groups, and other important details before you go so you know what to do, where to go, and how things work.

P.S. Did you book your Disney trip directly with Disney within the last 30 days? You can still enjoy all the advantages of booking with us, including our expert planning assistance and Disney’s perks! Plus, your price and confirmation numbers remain the same. It’s easy to transfer your reservation to us – simply reach out to one of our agents. We’re here to make your Disney experience the best it can be!”

For guests thinking about booking a trip to The Most Magical Place on Earth in 2024, now is the time of year to find great ways to save when staying in the magic at a Disney Resort hotel. Planning a visit next year is simpler too – theme park reservations won’t be required for date-based tickets starting with park visits on Jan. 9, 2024!*

New Disney Attractions & Experiences

From exploring the new Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana to meeting Figment at the Imagination! Pavilion, there’s more to see and do with new attractions and experiences at EPCOT during the park’s exciting transformation. And over at Magic Kingdom Park, we can’t forget about one of the fastest Disney thrills, TRON Lightcycle / Run presented by Enterprise.

Disney Hotel Savings

Right now, guests can book early and save up to 25% on rooms at select Disney Resort hotels for stays select nights through March 24, 2024. Reach out to your travel agent to get started. Florida residents and Annual Passholders can also take advantage of additional special offers available. And for foodies and families looking to save, guests can get up to $1,000 on a Disney Dining Promo Card when you buy a non-discounted 5-night, 4-day room and ticket package at select Disney Deluxe Resort hotels or Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts.

At a Disney Resort hotel, guests can immerse themselves in the magic while enjoying the same amazing details, storytelling and service from the theme parks. Plus, guests get access to complimentary transportation, the special perk of making dining reservations up to 60 days in advance for the entire length of stay and the great benefit of more park time with the popular 30-minute early theme park entry for visits through 2024. And on top of that, guests staying at Disney Deluxe Resort hotels or Disney Deluxe Villas can enjoy extended evening hours in select theme parks on select nights. Early theme park entry and extended evening hours require valid theme park admission, a theme park reservation* and a Disney MagicBand or Disney MagicMobile pass or card.

*Theme park reservations are required to enter a theme park through Jan. 8, 2024. Beginning Jan. 9, 2024, theme park reservations will no longer be required for date-based tickets. For other admission types, theme park reservations may be required.

Book early—by December 15, 2023—and save more on rooms at select Disney Resort hotels in the new year!

  • Save up to 25% on stays most Sunday to Thursday nights from January 9, 2024 through February 22, 2024—when you book by December 15, 2023
  • Save up to 30% on stays most nights February 25, 2024 through March 24, 2024—when you book by December 15, 2023

Ticketless packages with Dining Plans are now available to book through Walt Disney Travel Company for stays at Walt Disney World beginning January 9, 2024. This change will accommodate Guests who have booked back-to-back reservations at different Disney Resort Hotels, by allowing them to book a room and Dining Plan without having to add tickets to the package.

These special packages will need to be booked over the phone, directly with Disney, so please reach out to your Wishes and Wands Travel agent for assistance with booking.

When I’m binge reading the Harry Potter series or hibernating over the weekend with a full-on Harry Potter movie marathon, there’s nothing I want more than Butterbeer. Luckily, Universal Orlando’s culinary team has brought this flavor to life for fans to enjoy in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

When people think of Butterbeer at Universal Orlando Resort, usually the first thing that comes to mind is our popular cold frothy beverage. However, there are a few other Butterbeer concoctions in the wizarding world that are also absolutely great.

First, let’s start with the classic cold, frozen and hot beverages.

Cold Butterbeer

Butter Beer at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

For those of you who haven’t tried cold Butterbeer yet, your taste buds are missing out. This refreshing beverage has a nice fizzy feeling combined with a sweet taste reminiscent of butterscotch and shortbread.

One of my favorite things about cold Butterbeer is the awesome foam mustache you get while drinking this. Next time you’re visiting The Wizarding World of Harry Potter with your friends and family, see who in the group has the best Butterbeer mustache!

Available in:

Frozen Butterbeer

Frozen Butterbeer at Universal Orlando

This is the smooth, cold beverage you’ve always wanted – especially during those hot summer months. This drink has a flavor that tastes like shortbread and butterscotch served with a whipped topping.

This fan-favorite is the only Butterbeer beverage served with a straw because of its icy cool texture, which is perfect for savoring every last sip. Although it felt like an impossible decision to make, I’m on team frozen Butterbeer.

Available in:

  • Diagon Alley: Leaky Cauldron, The Hopping Pot
  • Hogsmeade: Three Broomsticks, Hog’s Head pub and Butterbeer street carts

Don’t forget your souvenir mug. You can get cold and frozen Butterbeer served in a special themed Butterbeer mug exclusive to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Hot Butterbeer

Hot Butterbeer at Universal Orlando

Hot Butterbeer is a dream come true. When the weather gets chilly, a cup of this warms you right up. This drink has the same flavor reminiscent of shortbread and butterscotch you know and love.

Available in:

  • Diagon Alley: Leaky Cauldron
  • Hogsmeade: Three Broomsticks

Now, on to a few other delicious Butterbeer-inspired specialties!

Butterbeer Potted Cream

Butterbeer Potted Cream at Universal Orlando

This sweet treat is a traditional British fare with a Harry Potter inspired twist.

I’ve never had potted cream before, but as soon as I tasted my first spoonful I immediately fell in love with the smooth, creamy texture. It’s the perfect dessert.

Available in:

  • Diagon Alley: Leaky Cauldron
  • Hogsmeade: Three Broomsticks

Butterbeer Fudge

Butterbeer-Fudge

I’m a huge fan of fudge, so this was one of the Butterbeer treats I was most excited to try. I have to say, it lived up to the hype.

This treat has two layers that taste like shortbread and butterscotch, which combined make Butterbeer fudgy goodness. It’s the perfect amount of sweetness that I enjoyed until the very last bite.

Available in:

Butterbeer Soft Serve Ice Cream

Butterbeer Ice Cream at Universal Orlando

As if ice cream isn`t already wonderful enough, add Butterbeer flavor to the mix and you’ve got yourself an addicting new favorite. This soft-serve tastes like vanilla and butterscotch swirled to perfection. My only complaint is I can’t purchase it by the gallon!

I recently learned this treat is served in multiple locations around The Wizarding World of Harry Potter so whether you’re in Diagon Alley or Hogsmeade you can indulge in this delicious ice cream throughout the day.

Available in:

What’s your favorite type of Butterbeer? Let us know in the comments below.

Dairy-free Butterbeer is now available at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Many people have been waiting their entire lives to experience The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. After reading the books and watching the films, actually stepping foot into the stories is a phenomenal experience.

There are two unique lands to explore at Universal Orlando Resort – Hogsmeade, located in Universal Islands of Adventure, and Diagon Alley in Universal Studios Florida. Each land has unique attractions, experiences, food, merchandise and more, all of which is inspired by the Harry Potter films and books. Whether you’re a big fan, or this is your first taste of the Wizarding World, there’s so much to do and see! You’re going to want to plan on a few days to experience it all along with reading this guide where we’ve listed out each and every activity you can enjoy during your trip to the theme parks.

Choose from the links below to head straight to that section:

ATTRACTIONS  |  EXPERIENCES  |  FOOD & DRINK  |  SHOPPING  |  SHOWS  |  HIDDEN GEMS

ATTRACTIONS

Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure

Location: Hogsmeade

Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure

Fly deep into the Forbidden Forest, beyond the grounds of Hogwarts castle as you join Hagrid on a thrilling roller coaster ride to discover magical creatures you’ve never faced before.

Pro Tip: Make sure you know if you want to ride the sidecar or motorbike first. 

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey

Location: Hogsmeade

Soar above the castle grounds as you join Harry Potter and his friends on an unforgettably thrilling adventure, while encountering an array of magical creatures.

Pro Tip: Take your time in the queue for this one so you can appreciate all the details of the Hogwarts corridors, including Dumbledore’s office, the Defense Against the Dark Arts classroom, the Gryffindor common room, and more.

Flight of the Hippogriff

Location: Hogsmeade

Flight of the Hippogriff

Bow to Buckbeak as you board this family-friendly roller coaster that spirals and dives around the pumpkin patch, and then swoops past Hagrid’s hut.

Pro Tip: This ride is great for little witches and wizards who might be a bit spooked by Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey or Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts.

Hogwarts Express: Hogsmeade Station

Location: Hogsmeade

Board the famous train and head toward King’s Cross Station in London. (You’ll need a park-to-park ticket for this one.)

Pro Tip: The experience is completely different on the way back from King’s Cross Station to Hogsmeade (see below), so you’ll want to ride it twice. Learn more about riding the Hogwarts Express. 

Hogwarts Express: King’s Cross Station

Location: London Outside of Diagon Alley

Hogwarts Express in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Enter King’s Cross Station and walk straight through a solid brick wall onto Platform 9 ¾ to board the Hogwarts Express. Remember, you’ll need a park-to-park ticket to board the train in either direction.

Pro Tip: If you want to journey in Harry Potter’s footsteps, do some shopping in Diagon Alley and then hop on the Hogwarts Express toward Hogsmeade to start your next term! 

Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts

Location: Diagon Alley

Take a journey aboard this mind-blowing, multi-dimensional ride through the cavernous passageways of Gringotts bank. You may even find yourself coming face-to-face with Harry Potter’s biggest foes!

Pro Tip: For those looking for a more intense ride, ask the attendant if they can accommodate you toward the back of the ride vehicle. However, all seats offer a thrilling adventure!

EXPERIENCES

See a Wand Choose a Wizard at Ollivanders

Location: Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley

Ollivanders in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Step inside this iconic shop and watch an Ollivanders wandkeeper go through the process of pairing a witch or wizard with just the right wand.

Pro Tip: Play your cards right and you might be the lucky witch or wizard chosen. (Note: The person chosen has the option whether or not to purchase their wand.)

Cast Spells With Your Interactive Wand

Location: Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley

Interactive Wands in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Look for medallions on the ground throughout Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley for opportunities to practice your magic. Simply follow the spell directions at your feet and look out for amazing surprises.

Pro Tip: You’ll need an interactive wand for this one, and inside the box is a map telling you where all the spells are located. Check out our guide on all of the interactive wands you can get and how to use them.

Meet the Hogwarts Express Conductor

Location: Hogsmeade

Hogwarts Train Conductor in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Oftentimes you can find this jolly gentleman next to Hogsmeade Station welcoming you to Hogsmeade.

Pro Tip: Take a photo with him to remember your Hogwarts Express journey.

Send a Letter Through Owl Post

Location: Hogsmeade

Here, you can mail a letter complete with a special wizarding world postmark.

Pro Tip: This is a great way to let your friends and family know you’re thinking about them during your trip in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Meet the Knight Bus Conductor

Location: London Outside of Diagon Alley

Knight Bus Conductor in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

On the London embankment, you’ll find this three-storied bus and its amiable driver.

Pro Tip: You can also chat up the shrunken head hanging over the steering wheel.

Exchange Your Muggle Money at the Gringotts Money Exchange

Location: Diagon Alley

Have a conversation with the goblin behind the counter before trading your U.S. currency for Gringotts bank notes in $10 or $20 denominations.

Pro Tip: The bank notes can be used for purchases within Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade, and at select locations throughout the theme parks.

Check Out Dark Magic in Knockturn Alley

Location: Diagon Alley

Knockturn Alley in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Diagon Alley

Inside Knockturn Alley, you can get a taste of the dark magic in the wizarding world. Visit Borgin and Burkes for gruesome trinkets, and use your interactive wand on some secret spells that are only visible in the darkness.

Pro Tip: Try and keep your eyes peeled for all kinds of subtle, hidden details like singing shrunken heads and a wanted poster for Bellatrix Lestrange.

SEASONAL: Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Location: Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley

Diagon Alley, London, and Hogsmeade are transformed with festive décor and brilliant lighting during the holidays. Not only do the shows incorporate some favorite holiday tunes, but look out for special treats and drinks! The atmosphere is simply brimming with excitement.

Pro Tip: Plan some time to take in all the detail of the beautiful decorations.

Get Your Moving Photograph at Shutterbutton’s

Location: Diagon Alley

Create a portrait of yourself that actually moves and purchase a collectible photo album in commemoration of your trip.

Pro Tip: Borrow props and costumes or bring your own. Explore more of the experience.

FOOD & DRINK

Butterbeer

Location: Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley

You simply can’t come to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and not try Butterbeer! This concoction is reminiscent of butterscotch and shortbread. Find it at many of the restaurants listed below and various snack stands throughout Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley. 

Pro Tip: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter has several ways to enjoy that delicious Butterbeer flavor, so prepare your taste buds in advance.

Three Broomsticks

Location: Hogsmeade

Great Feast from Three Broomsticks

This cozy, snow-capped inn offers tasty British fare including Fish and Chips, Shepherd’s Pie, Cornish Pasties, Turkey Legs, and Fresh Vegetables. View a breakfast menu and a lunch and dinner menu. 

Highly Recommend: The Great Feast – A platter of scrumptious food for four, featuring fresh garden salad tossed with a signature vinaigrette dressing, rotisserie smoked chicken, spareribs, corn on the cob, and roast potatoes.

Hog’s Head

Location: Hogsmeade

This pub in the back of the Three Broomsticks is the perfect place for a Butterbeer and Pumpkin Juice, along with domestic and imported beers, the pub’s exclusive Hog’s Head Brew, Gillywater (bottled water), specialty drinks, wine, spirits, and mixed drinks.

Pro Tip: Pay attention to the stuffed hog’s head over the bar — it just might snarl at you.

Leaky Cauldron

Location: Diagon Alley

Leaky Cauldron in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Diagon Alley

A small, grubby-looking pub and inn where you’ll find foods like Bangers and Mash, Fisherman’s Pie, Toad in the Hole, Ploughman’s Platter, and more. View a breakfast menu and a lunch and dinner menu.

Highly Recommend: Ploughman’s Platter – A selection of English cheese, crusty bread, field green salad, roasted tomatoes, cornichon pickles, apple beet salad, branston pickle and scotch eggs. Perfect for sharing!

Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour

Location: Diagon Alley

Florean Fortescue's Ice-Cream Parlour

In this ice-cream parlour, witches, wizards and Muggles of every age can indulge in scoop and soft-serve ice-creams with fantastic flavors like Butterbeer, Sticky Toffee Pudding, Chocolate and Raspberry, and more.

Pro Tip: Keep an open mind…some unusual flavors may surprisingly delight you! Our recommendation is to try the Chocolate Chili or the Earl Grey and Lavender for something different.

The Hopping Pot

Location: Diagon Alley

Nestled within Diagon Alley, you can cool off with a variety of delicious drinks at this walk-up counter like Butterbeer, Tongue Tying Lemon Squash, Otter’s Fizzy Orange Juice, Fishy Green Ale, and more.

Pro Tip: This is a great place to grab a snack while watching a show in Carkitt Market.

The Fountain of Fair Fortune

Location: Diagon Alley

Fountain of Fair Fortune

Named for one of the fables in The Tales of Beedle the Bard, this location serves a variety of beers, like the exclusive Wizard’s Brew, Dragonscale, and a handful of non-alcoholic beverages. 

Pro Tip: You can also get Butterbeer ice cream here.

Eternelle’s Elixir of Refreshment

Location: Diagon Alley

Here, you can try a variety of colorful elixirs. All you need to do is choose your elixir, pour it into Gilly Water, and watch it transform into a tasty beverage. You can pick from Fire Protection Potion, Babbling Beverage, Draught of Peace, and Elixir to Induce Euphoria.

Pro Tip: Not only are they delicious, but they’re a fun gift to bring home for your Muggle friends.

London Taxi Cart

Location: London outside of Diagon Alley

Jacket Potato from London

Before hopping aboard the Hogwarts Express or wandering into Diagon Alley, stop by this cart for a Jacket Potato snack. Choose from Loaded, Broccoli and Cheddar, Bean and Cheese, or Shepherd’s Pie toppings.

Pro Tip: After getting your potato, check out the buildings behind you. You may see a familiar face peeking out the windows.

SHOPPING

Ollivanders 

Location: Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley

Ollivanders-in-The-Wizarding-World-of-Harry-Potter

In search of the most essential wizarding item? Look through the thousands of boxes filled with wands waiting to choose their wizard.

Pro Tip: There are many variations of wands in addition to character wands, and make sure to check out the interactive options.

Dervish and Banges

Location: Hogsmeade

This shop offers it all from brooms, Hogwarts clothing, journals, and stationery to magical items like the flying Golden Snitch and Quidditch supplies like Quaffles.

Pro Tip: Discover your Hogwarts house before arriving so that you’ll know which product will best show your house pride.

Honeydukes

Location: Hogsmeade

Honeydukes Wizarding World of Harry Potter

The shelves of this legendary sweet shop are lined with all manner of colourful treats including Acid Pops, Cauldron Cakes, Fizzing Whizzbees, Chocolate Frogs, and Bertie Bott’s Every-Flavour Beans.

Pro Tip: Every Chocolate Frog comes with a wizard trading card, so look out so you can collect them all! 

Filch’s Emporium of Confiscated Goods

Location: Hogsmeade

Peruse items taken from students who got on the wrong side of the school’s resident caretaker, Argus Filch. You’ll find Hogwarts t-shirts, shoulder bags, caps, scarves, house crest banners, and stationery.

Pro Tip: Keep your eyes peeled for the Marauder’s Map and watch as inhabitants move about Hogwarts castle.

Owl Post

Location: Hogsmeade

Here, you’ll find correspondence materials like stationery, quills, seals, and ink. This is also where you can send a letter with a special Hogsmeade postmark.

Pro Tip: Just like Harry Potter found Hedwig, you can even pick out your very own owl plush to take home.

Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes

Location: Diagon Alley

Weasleys' Wizard Wheezus

This colourful emporium is the novelty joke shop run by identically ingenious prankster twins Fred and George Weasley. Shop for all manner of mischief such as magical jokes, tricks, and toys. Check out our 9 must-haves!

Pro Tip: Don’t miss the dazzling display of never-ending fireworks exploding on the ceiling and a few other fun finds you may recognize from the films.

Madam Malkin’s Robes for All Occasions

Location: Diagon Alley

Madam Malkin's Robes for Every Occasion

Build your wizarding wardrobe at this cheerfully appointed shop. You can buy authentic replicas of Hermione’s Yule Ball gown. You’ll also find Hogwarts uniforms, ties, scarves, hats, and cardigans as well as jewelry.

Pro Tip: Model your potential purchase in front of the mirror and it just might talk back to you.

Magical Menagerie

Location: Diagon Alley

Purchase a variety of plush toys including Crookshanks, Fang, Buckbeak, Fluffy, and Scabbers. Also available are Cornish pixies, ferrets, Pygmy Puffs, and an assortment of owls, including Pigwidgeon and Hedwig.

Pro Tip: Try out your Parseltongue when you peek in at the snake in the window from outside the store.

Borgin and Burkes

Location: Diagon Alley

Borgin and Burkes In Diagon Alley

This dark and dusty Knockturn Alley shop is infamous for shady patrons. As you walk among the dimly lit shelves and displays teeming with malevolent relics, you’ll find Death Eater masks, skulls, apparel, accessories, jewelry, and collectibles.

Pro Tip: Look (and listen) for the Vanishing Cabinet just like the one Draco Malfoy once used to sneak Death Eaters into Hogwarts.

Quality Quidditch Supplies

Location: Diagon Alley

This is the destination for everything you need to play the most popular sport in the wizarding world, including Quidditch sweaters, brooms, Golden Snitches, Bludgers, Bludger bats, Quaffles, and more.

Pro Tip: You can even pledge your allegiance to professional teams like the Holyhead Harpies or the Chudley Cannons, Ireland or Bulgaria.

Sugarplum’s Sweet Shop

Location: Diagon Alley

Sugarplum's Sweetshop in Diagon Alley

Discover a wealth of wizarding treats. Every nook is stocked with tasty temptations like Bertie Bott’s Every-Flavour Beans, Acid Pops, Exploding Bonbons, Pink Coconut Ice and more.

Pro Tip: Feed Bertie Bott’s Every-Flavour Beans to unsuspecting friends and family and brace yourself as they just might end up with a flavor like earthworm or earwax.

Scribbulus

Location: Diagon Alley

Find all the authentic writing supplies a witch or wizard could need including ink and inkwells, feather quills, parchment, journals, stationery sets, seals, bookmarks, and backpacks.

Pro Tip: Everything here is perfect for back-to-school or your office.

Wiseacre’s Wizarding Equipment

Location: Diagon Alley

Wiseacre's Wizarding Equipment in Diagon Alley

Browse a variety of apparel and accessories from your Hogwarts house, as well as a variety of fun Butterbeer-themed items.

Pro Tip: You can have packages delivered to the front of the park or your Universal Orlando hotel room so that you don’t have to carry them all day in the theme parks.

Wands by Gregorovitch

Location: Diagon Alley

This long-time rival to Ollivanders also creates some exceptional wands. Here, you can choose from a wide assortment of Harry Potter character wand replicas.

Pro Tip: Boxes with gold labels are interactive and will help you practice magic in the theme parks.

Globus Mundi

Location: Diagon Alley

Globus Mundi In Diagon Alley

Globus Mundi is a travel agency of the wizarding world. Stop into their shop over by Carkitt Market where you can get all your travel essentials for your next magical journey like luggage tags, wallets, sweatshirts, and more.

Pro Tip: Look around the shop and you’ll see a gorgeous wall of ticking clocks representing different time zones and some of the coolest posters and maps from around the world.

SHOWS

Hogwarts Frog Choir

Location: Hogsmeade

Frog Choir Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Hear the vocal stylings of this small choir of Hogwarts students, accompanied by the smooth bass rumbles of their giant throaty frogs.

Pro Tip: Look in your park map or on the official Universal Orlando Mobile App for times.

Triwizard Spirit Rally

Location: Hogsmeade

Triwizard Spirit Rally in Hogsmeade

Cheer on the colourful procession of students from the legendary wizarding schools of Hogwarts, Beauxbatons, and Durmstrang as they lead the excitement for the Triwizard Tournament.

Pro Tip: Stick around after the show for a potential meet-and-greet opportunity.

The Tales of Beedle the Bard

Location: Diagon Alley

Tales of Beedle the Bard

Watch as adept players perform a trunk show using stylized scenic pieces, props, and puppetry. See them retell two famous tales of Beedle the Bard, a 15th-century author of wizarding fairytales, including The Fountain of Fair Fortune and The Tale of the Three Brothers.

Pro Tip: This stage is right near The Hopping Pot in Carkitt Market (see above), so grab a snack and enjoy! 

Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees

Location: Diagon Alley

Celestina Warbeck in Diagon Alley

Sway and groove to the dulcet tones of wizarding world sensation, Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees. The swinging show features never-before-heard songs including “A Cauldron Full Of Hot, Strong Love,” “You Stole My Cauldron But You Can’t Have My Heart,” and “You Charmed The Heart Right Out Of Me.” 

Pro Tip: Visit during the holidays and enjoy four hits from Celestina’s chart-topping holiday album, including “My Baby Gave Me a Hippogriff for Christmas.”

HIDDEN GEMS

Call the Ministry of Magic

Location: London Outside of Diagon Alley

Magic Telephone Booth in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Try entering the telephone booth in London and dialing 62442 (`MAGIC`) to see what you get connected to. 

See 12 Grimmauld Place

Location: London Outside of Diagon Alley

Keep an eye out for the Black family`s loyal house-elf, Kreacher – you might just see him.

Watch Out for The Monster Book of Monsters

Location: Hogsmeade

The Monster Book of Monsters

A Book with Bite! Stop inside Dervish and Banges to view this beastly required reading for Hogwarts students taking the Care of Magical Creatures class. It’s caged for a reason.

Discover the Heavily Jeweled Shell of a Fire Crab

Location: Hogsmeade

Fire Crabs are one of the magical creatures that Hagrid used to create Blast-Ended Skrewts. You may be able to catch a glimpse of one of these creatures’ massive jeweled shells in the queue of Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure.

Be sure to keep an eye out for all the hidden gems inside The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort.

So much to see and do! Where to first? Tell us in the comments below.

To have the ultimate Harry Potter experience, book the exclusive The Wizarding World of Harry Potter vacation package.

Not to sound like every millennial in your Instagram feed, but I really do love the fall months. I’ve got a September birthday, a love of sweaters, and a pretty consistent hankering for pumpkin-chocolate-chip-cookies. 

Fall is my time to shine and with the smaller crowds, cooler weather, and some real tasty fall treats, Universal Orlando Resort is my place to do so.

And I am happy to tell you all the reasons why. Or, honestly, you can just check here for all our current fall offerings.

Halloween Vibes

Halloween Horror Nights Tribute Store - Frankenstein Lab

While Halloween Horror Nights is off for 2020, the teams at Universal Orlando Resort have made sure to salvage at least SOME of this crazy year with some spooky offerings throughout the parks. 

  • First off, there is the phenomenal Halloween Horror Nights Tribute Store. The theming alone is an homage to years past and the extensive merchandise offerings include several must-haves for any horror junkie. You can get throwback designs from your favorite event years on T-shirts and posters, your favorite icons on collectible glasses and lanyards, and even limited edition items.
  • TWO haunted houses will be open daily now through Nov. 1 in Universal Studios. This gives you horror-fanatics a chance to get your scream on, and you scaredy cats like me a chance to take a step toward fear in the daytime. Plus, keep an eye out near the houses for some foodie favorites.
  • Trick-or-treating will be available in Islands of Adventure for guests 12 and under! Grab a free bag and go door-to-door at certain retail stores throughout the park. Just look for the pumpkin sticker that marks each participating location!
  • Get into the Halloween spirit with a costume of your own! While totally optional, costumes are encouraged when you come visit Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure to fully embrace the season.
  • Catch horror films playing at Universal Cinemark in CityWalk throughout the fall months.
  • Scarecrow Stalk is your chance to come search for horror in all the right places. There will be thirteen unique scarecrows and skeletons throughout Universal Studios Florida and a prize at the end of the journey once you’ve found them all. 

Check out some of the ways to find HHN Vibes at Universal Orlando.

Fall Food and Beverage

ZucchiniBread

Fall food and beverage items can be found in several locations and I highly recommend sampling them all. Sure it will be a lot of steps, but, c’mon, you could use them after treats like these…

  • Try some HHN-inspired desserts like Werewolf Chocolate Cake Pops and Beating Heart Sour Gummies in the HHN Tribute Store.
  • The classic, beloved, delectable Pizza Fries are ready for you at Louie’s in Universal Studios.
  • Swing by Voodoo Doughnut for a Pumpkin Spice Specialty Doughnut and/or a Jack-themed Doughnut. 
  • Skeleton Bar in Cafe La Bamba is open on weekends and offers three unique, Halloween-inspired cocktails. Plus, as you’re walking toward the bar, there will be food offerings, so if you find yourself Screaming for S’mores Fries, you’re in the right place.
  • TODAY Cafe is serving a fall-themed Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread and I will be ordering approximately 1,789 of them once they’re available in October.
  • Cold Stone Creamery in CityWalk if offering a Fall Into Chocolate Signature Creation.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Photo Credit | L: @motherofhogwarts | R: @capricecole

To be clear, I love The Wizarding World of Harry Potter all year long, but there’s just something about strolling through Hogsmeade when there’s a crisp in the air that feels right. Plus, I can rock my house scarf with a hot Butterbeer in hand. Truly the dream.

Volcano Bay

VolcanoBayUGC
Picture Credit: IG @larifp

While the weather is a little cooler in the fall months in Florida, it’s always swimsuit weather at Volcano Bay because of the beautiful invention of temperature-controlled water! A visit to Volcano Bay in the fall is pretty much guaranteed to offer beautiful and breezy weather, be relatively low on crowds, and still involve all of the thrill and chill opportunities you’re looking for, just with shorter lines.

The Hotels Get In On The Fall Action, Too

FirePitHotels

Staying at a Universal Orlando Resort hotel is the best way to ensure you’re close to the action of the theme parks, have access to a ton of great theme park benefits, and just have an exceptional, themed, comfortable stay. All of this is always true, but even truer in the fall when the hotels get in on the cozy vibes for their guests. I’ve personally already got a handful of stays planned at Universal hotels in the coming months and am most looking forward to…

HHN Hotels Drinks
  • HHN Icon Cocktails – I’m still internally deciding which I’ll order first, The Director (Ketel One Vodka, Kahlua, Amaretto, Heavy Cream) or The Chance (Bacardi Superior Rum, Aperol, Sour, orange bitters, orange, soda). Both of these cocktails are available at Velvet Bar and Beach Club at Hard Rock Hotel Orlando; Bula at Loews Royal Pacific Resort;  Swizzle Lounge at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort; and Sand Bar Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites. So wherever you choose to stay this fall, you can grab one of these cocktails and will likely catch me doing the same.
  • Fire Pits – I am such a fan of fire pits that I have multiple candles in my apartment to make my home smell like a bonfire. Getting to enjoy ACTUAL fire pits at our hotels is an absolute bundle-y delight that I highly encourage you to add to your list of must-do’s during your fall stay. At Cabana Bay, you can even grab a s’mores kit at Bayliner Diner.
  • Fall Beers – Fall beers are the best kind of beers, in my opinion. So much so that most years for my September birthday, friends gift me fall beers. They are GOOD and they are AVAILABLE at Jake’s American Bar in Loews Royal Pacific Resort. Sample them all with a beer flight and some pretzel rods with Porter cheese fondue.

There you have it, my favorite fall things and, honestly, my agenda for the next few months. Let us know in the comments below what your favorite fall indulgences at Universal Orlando Resort are and don’t forget to come see us soon to experience it all!

Planning a cruise vacation involves many decisions. One of the most difficult is how to choose the best cabin type and location for your budget and lifestyle interests. When looking at cruise ship layouts and decks either online or in brochures, those planning a cruise will quickly notice the many different cabin categories. Sometimes there are over 20 different categories on a ship! Travel agents  often get ased two questions:

  • How do you find the right cabin to meet your needs and budget?
  • How do you get an upgrade on a cruise ship cabin?

Let’s review the different types of cruise accommodations to help you pick the best cabin on a ship according to your needs and style.

What Is the Best Cruise Ship Cabin? 

Choosing the best cabin on a cruise ship is definitely a matter of personal choice, with cost and location being the primary factors in making a decision. You can have a great time in an inside cabin on the lowest level. However, an outside cabin with a window, or better yet a balcony, makes the cruise experience much better and more enjoyable. Sitting on the balcony with a good book or just being able to step outside and breathe in the sea air helps differentiate cruising from a resort vacation. Having a cabin as a retreat after a busy day ashore can add something special to the cruise experience for those who enjoy quiet time on their cruise vacation.

Although many people recommend to new cruisers that they book the cheapest inside cabin since, “they won’t be spending much time in there anyway”, it’s not really true for everyone. If you are on a seven-day or longer cruise, you will have days at sea that you might want to spend relaxing in your room, watching a movie, or taking a nap. On a cruise ship, your cabin is the one place you can get away from everything and everybody. Selecting a cabin type is as personal as deciding where to cruise and which ship to cruise on. Everyone is different, and what is not important to one person might well be important to you.

Is Cabin Price Important? 

Price is certainly a consideration, but if your vacation time is limited, you might be willing to pay more to get a cabin better suited to your lifestyle. The best advice is to be informed about cruise ship cabins and make the right decision for you.

A balcony (veranda) cabin will cost you from 25 percent more to almost double the price of an inside cabin. Some cruisers would prefer to go twice as often and stay in an inside cabin. Others with more limited time might prefer to splurge on a balcony or a suite. Balcony cabins are sometimes smaller than those with just a window since the balcony is replacing the inside space. Be sure to check when booking your cruise if room size is more important to you than a balcony.

What Are the Different Types of Cruise Ship Cabins? 

The price of a cruise ship cabin or stateroom (the terms are interchangeable) is dependent on its size, layout, and location. Cabins on large mainstream cruise ships are often advertised as standard inside, ocean view, balconied, or suite. The smallest cabins on luxury lines are sometimes much larger than those on mainstream lines and are either ocean view or balconies, making the quality of accommodations one of the biggest differences between cruise lines. Cabin and balcony size and cabin location can vary significantly within the same price range on any ship.

Standard Cruise Ship Cabins – Inside Cabins (No Porthole or Window) 

Many cruise ships today have standard cabins of similar size and amenities, with the price differential being the location. The least expensive, inside standard cabins on a mainstream cruise ship run from about 120 square feet to 180 square feet. Since most cruise ships are relatively new or have been refurbished, the cabins usually are tastefully decorated with twin beds that can be pushed together to make a queen-sized bed for couples. The staterooms have wall-to-wall carpeting, individually controlled air conditioning/heating, a dresser or storage space, a closet, a telephone, and satellite television. The television usually has news, sports, and local on-ship channels for broadcasting information on shore excursions or from guest lecturers, and movies. Some cabins have VCRs or DVD players, and some televisions also have radio/music channels. The cabins also usually have a night table, reading lamps, and a chair. Most modern cruise ships come with a hairdryer, so you won’t have to bring one from home. Some standard staterooms feature personal safes, table, desk with chair, convertible loveseat, mini-refrigerator, and even Internet access, although it is often much more costly than in the common Internet lounge. The cruise line brochure or website usually specifies which amenities are in each cabin.

The standard cabin bathrooms are usually tiny and most only have a shower (no tub). The shower often has good water pressure, with the only complaint being its small size. Don’t be surprised if the shower curtain keeps trying to attack you! The bathroom also has a sink, toiletry shelves, and a noisy vacuum toilet like on an airplane. Often there is a small step up between the bedroom and bathroom, perfect for stubbing your toe. The bathrooms also usually have a retractable clothesline for drying your swimsuit or hand laundry.

Standard Cruise Ship Cabins – Outside Ocean View Cabins (Porthole or Window) 

Oftentimes the ocean view standard cabins and the inside standard cabins are almost identical in size and layout. The only difference is the window. Most modern ships have large picture windows rather than portholes, but these windows cannot be opened. So, if you want to have a sea breeze in your room, you will need to get a balcony. Some ships have both porthole cabins and those with windows. The porthole cabins are on the lowest decks and are less expensive. About the only view, you have from a porthole is whether it is daylight or dark. Sometimes you can also see the ocean waves splash against the porthole while sailing—it’s almost like looking into a front-loading washing machine.

Cabins with Balconies or Verandas 

The next step above an outside cabin is one with a balcony (veranda). These cabins have sliding glass or French doors giving you access to the outside. The sliding doors also mean you can see outside from anywhere in the cabin, i.e. lie on the bed and still see the ocean outside. Usually, the balcony cabins are also larger than the standard cabins, and some qualify as mini-suites. which means they have a small sitting area with a loveseat or convertible sofa. The mini-suites also usually have a curtain that can be drawn to separate the sleeping and sitting areas. This feature is ideal for couples (or friends) who have different sleeping habits. Early risers can sit in the sitting area or balcony, and enjoy the early morning sunrise without waking up their significant other.

Most balconied cabins do not have verandas large enough for a lounge chair where you can lie down and sunbathe in private. The balconies are often narrow, just wide enough for two chairs and a small table. If you want a larger balcony, look for a cabin on the rear of the ship. The balconies on some ships offer no privacy. These balconies would definitely not be appropriate for daytime nudity.

Suites 

A “suite” can mean you have (1) a small sitting area, (2) a curtain to separate the bed from the sitting area, or (3) a separate bedroom. It’s important to ask and look at the cabin layouts before booking since the name can be somewhat misleading. Suites almost always have balconies. The suites are larger, and many have bigger bathrooms with tubs. A suite will have all the amenities found in the other cabin categories, and you might even have butler service. Suites come in all shapes, sizes, and locations. They are a wonderful treat, especially if you have a lot of sea days or want to spend a lot of time together in your cabin. Some luxury lines have all of their cabins as mini-suites or suites.

Cabin Locations 

The cabin location is the third major factor in cruise category other than size and type. Sometimes cruise ships will offer passengers a “guarantee” cabin, which means you are paying for a category rather than a specific cabin. A guarantee cabin can be less expensive than choosing a specific cabin, but it might not give you the location you desire. You are taking a chance and leaving it up to the cruise line to assign you a cabin in a given category. Be sure to do your research before you book a “guarantee” cabin (or any cabin). You might be delighted in the value you get for your dollar, but you might also be disappointed if other cabins in the same category are in much better locations. When reviewing deck plans be sure to check out what is above, below, or next to your cabin. For example, a cabin can be very noisy if it is located under a dance floor! Also, an ocean view cabin on a promenade deck will have lots of foot traffic passing by.

Lower Deck Cabins 

The inside cabins on the lowest decks are usually the least expensive cruise ship cabins. Although the lower deck cabins will give you a smoother ride in rough seas, they are also the furthest from the common areas such as the pool and lounges. You will be hiking the stairs or riding the elevators more from a lower deck, but you can also work off some of those extra calories. Therefore, even though standard inside cabins might be are all the same size and layout on a ship, you can save a few hundred dollars by choosing to be on a lower deck. The same applies for standard ocean view cabins, but you might want to inquire about the size of the window since the lower deck ocean views might only have portholes or a smaller window. Two problems that you might experience with cabins on the lower decks are engine noise and anchor noise. If your cabin is near the front of the ship, it can sound like the ship has hit a coral reef when the anchor is dropped. The racket will wake anyone up, so the only good thing about the noise is it can serve as an alarm. Newer ships tend to have less engine noise and their stabilizers suppress the ship’s motion, but you might get that anchor noise a couple of times a day at ports where the ship must use a tender.

Higher Deck Cabins 

Cabins on the upper decks usually cost more than those on the lower decks. Since these cabins are nearer the pool and sun decks, they are more desirable for those on warm weather cruises who plan to use these amenities. They also offer better panoramic views. However, you will get more rocking motion up high, so on smaller ships, those who are prone to becoming seasick might want to avoid a higher deck cabin.

Midship Cabins 

Sometimes midship standard cabins are a good choice due to their central location and less motion. They are excellent for those who have mobility problems or who are seasick prone. However, a midship cabin can have more traffic outside in the hallways since other passengers will often be passing by. Some cruise ships charge slightly more for midship cabins or even have them in a separate category. If you are thinking of a midship cabin, be sure to check out the location of the tenders or lifeboats. They can block your view and be noisy when raised or lowered. Most cruise lines will tell you if a cabin has a blocked or limited view, but it is wise to check for yourself.

Bow (Forward) Cabins 

Cabins on the front of the ship get the most motion and appeal to those who feel they are “real” sailors. You will get more wind and spray on the front. In rough seas, a bow cabin can definitely be exciting. Note that the windows on cabins on the front are sometimes smaller and slanted or recessed, meaning you can’t see as much as you might on the side or rear of the ship. Cruise ships often put suites on the front of the ships to take advantage of the unusual shape and use the opportunity to provide the passengers with larger balconies.

Aft (Rear) Cabins 

If you want a large balcony with your cabin, look to the rear of the ship. These cabins also provide a panoramic view of where you have sailed. Cabins in the aft of the ship have more motion than centrally located cabins, but less than those forward. One disadvantage—depending on the shape of the ship, sometimes passengers in the lounges or restaurants can look down on the balconies of the aft cabins. Not much privacy!

If all of this information is confusing, it just demonstrates how much diversity there is among cruise ship cabins. When planning your next cruise, study the layout and architecture of the ship’s deck plans before selecting your cabin. Query your travel agent and others who have sailed the ship. Think about what is important to you and consider the cost differential. If your vacation time is limited, you might want to spend a few more dollars for a better cabin.