Jenn did Ella's nails like various sea creatures for the cruise.

It is an oddly-long day (since we flew after work on a Friday), but we're happy to finally be at the Grand Pacific Hotel.

And happier to be in Diagon Alley to start our first day at Universal Studios.

Ollivander's Wand Shop.

Ella gets Harry's wand, which we'll use after we go on some rides.

First stop - Escape from Gringott's, where the line winds all through the bank and past its famous goblins.
It is a FANTASTIC ride - our overall favorite!

Outside, the dragon scares visitors every 10 minutes.

Ella tries out the wand and makes the frog fountain turn on.

After exploring all of Diagon Alley, we take the Hogwart's Express to Hogsmeade Station.

We enjoy the show.

Ptaradon Flyers.

Ready!

Afterwards, we crawl through the netted playground.

On to some wet rides!

Not too wet, yet, we hit the Carouseussel.

We don't spend much time in Hogsmeade, but do hit some sights after we hit all of the rides in Islands of Adventure.

Ella picks out her treat!

I get mine...

Actually, the girls get their Butter Beer, so we all have our treats.

Great day!