The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, located in Orlando, Florida inside of Islands of Adventure-Universal Studios is a must see! 

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter first opened in the summer of 2010 and has since been flooded with Harry Potter fans day and night. 

When I first started planning my trip to Orlando and the Wizarding World, I was confused on which park that I needed to purchase admittance tickets. To be able to drink butter beer, pumpkin juice and climb the inside of the Hogwarts Castle tickets must be purchased to Universal Studio's Islands of Adventure. Harry Potter is a section of that park and includes everything a Harry Potter fan can love. 

At the Wizarding World you can shop for robes, joke toys, candy and even be matched up with a wand that will choose you. Once you've shopped and tried some butter beer, you can head over to the Hogwarts Castle for an interactive ride that leads you through the castle. 

For anyone who's a Harry Potter fan, visiting the theme park is a definite must. 

The park is open daily and prices vary. 

Swingers

One of the best meals in the Los Angeles area can be found at Swingers.

Photo Credit: swingersdiner.com

Swingers diner offers patrons a fun, kitschy dining environment while serving up scrumptious food. Their menu which boils over with options features everything from breakfast to dinner to deserts and spirits. They also offer many organic choices.

the swingers menu

On one of my visits to Swingers, I tried their Organic Eggs breakfast platter which features 3 eggs any style, choice of bacon or sausage served with breakfast potatoes and toast. It was also reasonably priced at 7.25 $

Swingers is Open Daily from 6:30a.m-4:00a.m.

Located at 8020 Beverly Blvd. for other locations check their website 

So the next time you're in Los Angeles and Santa Monica stop by Swingers... trust me, you won't be disappointed!

The Heartbreak Hotel

Elvis Presley's Heartbreak Hotel located in Memphis, Tennessee is a one of a kind boutique hotel that takes a page out of the King's unique style book for their decor. 

The Heartbreak Hotel is an Elvis lover's dream offering a heart shaped pool, themed suites such as a Burning Love, Gold and Platinum, Graceland and Hollywood, each offering unique decor and stay. They also offer a Jungle Room Lounge and a 24/7 Elvis movie channel. If that isn't enough, they also have an onsite gift shop and are within walking distance to Graceland. 

In addition to their unique decor and theme, they also offer free parking, a free continental breakfast, airport shuttle service, wireless internet and free local calls. 

For reservations you can visit Elvis.com or from within the U.S. call toll free (877) 777-0606. 

Stax Museum

The Stax Museum of American Soul, located in Memphis, Tennessee at the original site of Stax Records takes patrons through the history of Stax Records. 

Stax Records began in 1959 and launched the careers or unknown artist into superstars and later into icons. A few of their recording artists included Isaac Hayes, Booker T & the MG's, Otis Redding, Wilson Pickett, Aretha Franklin and many more. 

The museum shares the history of Stax through films, artifacts and memorabilia. Museum patrons also walk in the footsteps of where the music was recorded and can view instruments used in the recordings of legendary songs. 

Stax Museum of American Soul is open April-October Monday-Saturday 10:00a.m-5:00p.m. and Sunday 1:00p.m-5:00p.m. November-March Closed Mondays, Tuesday-Saturday 10:00a.m-5:00p.m. and Sunday 1:00p.m-5:00p.m.

General Admission is $12.00 for adults

Discounts vary depending on age and group size

Check their website or inquire at the ticket desk for prices

The Albuquerque Zoo

The ABQ BioPark Zoo located in Albuquerque, New Mexico is home to over 250 exotic and native animals. Founded on 64 acres located beside the Rio Grande, you'll get a chance to see hippos, elephants, lions and many more. They also have a rare bald eagle on site. 

While visiting the Zoo patrons can expect to walk up to almost 3 miles viewing animals and exotic/native birds. At certain times of the day, camel rides are available. 

The ABQ BioPark Zoo is open daily from 9:00a.m.- 5:00p.m. Closing hours due vary depending on the season. Each adult ticket cost 7.00$ but vary depending on package deals and age. Tickets can be purchased at the ticket booth or online.