Universal Studios, Hollywood

Universal Studios, Hollywood is a smaller version of the one in Orlando. Convenient for West Coast fans, it offers a Hogsmeade experience that matches Orlando. Though it currently lacks Orlando’s Diagon Alley and the Hogwarts Express that links them, there are rumors Hollywood will be adding Diagon Alley in a few years (20??). The annual pass is a bargain even if you only attend twice and it offers 15% off on all merchandise and restaurants. Depending on your interests, the greater Los Angeles area offers many other alternative attractions. A couple of tips: Staying in theme park hotels gets you admitted to the part an hour early — definitely worth it in peak seasons. Also, using the ‘single rider’ line will get you on rides a lot faster — almost as good a VIP pass.