harry potter universal trip letter

Complete Guide to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando

The Harry Potter worlds at Universal Orlando make you feel like you’re an incoming student at Hogwarts who is seeing the town, castle, and shops for the very first time. Exploring the Wizarding World of Harry Potter will leave you with a sense of déjà vu — buildings, pubs, and streets are identical to what they were in the movies, making you feel like you’ve been there before.

These highly-themed areas rank at the very top of our list of the best destinations for Harry Potter fans because they fully immerse you in the books and movies we all love. So read on for our complete guide to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando. We’ll take you through each of the Universal Orlando Harry Potter worlds — their rides, experiences, dining, and more — so you can plan ahead and make your vacation as special as possible.

Prefer to Speak With Someone? Get Free Help From Our Favorite Universal Travel Agent!

In This Article:

• Where is Universal’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter?

Rides in Hogsmeade

Experiences in hogsmeade, dining in hogsmeade, rides in diagon alley, experiences in diagon alley, dining in diagon alley, ministry of magic at epic universe (opening 2025), final thoughts on the wizarding world of harry potter at universal orlando, book your wizarding world trip today, overview: harry potter at universal orlando resort.

Going to the Harry Potter worlds/lands at Universal is the highlight of our family visit to the resort almost every time we go. And that’s really saying something considering we plan to visit Universal a few times each year! As a family, we’ve read all the books together and seen the movies. There is something so magical about the story and Universal found a way to bring that magic to life in a way that you must see to believe.

Where is Universal’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter?

The Harry Potter themed worlds are located within Universal’s major theme parks — Harry Potter is not a separate theme park at Universal, and it’s not part of Disney World .

Universal has two main theme parks: Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios . A third park, Epic Universe , is under construction and due to open sometime in 2025. Each of these parks has a Harry Potter component.

• Hogsmeade — Islands of Adventure
• Diagon Alley — Universal Studios Florida
• Ministry of Magic — Epic Universe ( opening 2025 )

Each experience is different, so I don’t recommend limiting yourself to just one when you go to Universal Orlando. Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley have a huge variety of rides, experiences, and food to enjoy, so I am going to make sure I cover it all so you can plan your trip with as much knowledge as possible.

Let’s begin with the original Harry Potter themed land, Hogsmeade at Islands of Adventure!

Hogsmeade at Islands of Adventure

Hogsmeade is my favorite of the two Harry Potter worlds currently open at Universal. Between the sweeping views of Hogwarts castle, the world-famous rides , and the Three Broomsticks, this world has it all.

Hogsmeade was built in 2010 and was the first Wizarding World of Harry Potter developed in Universal Orlando. The resort worked hand in hand with J.K. Rowling and filmmakers to make sure that the world of Harry Potter came to life in the most realistic way possible.

The original development of the park was a pioneering move in the realm of creating immersive environments, and you can definitely understand why when you walk around the Hogsmeade and try the rides. The world is centered around Hogwarts castle, which still takes my breath away every time I walk into the park.

The park combines adventure, excitement, and magic in a surreal, immersive experience. If you haven’t been before, you might think that to enjoy Hogsmeade you’ll have to take some time away from the thrill rides of Islands of Adventure. Thankfully that’s not the case!

Hogsmeade has some amazing rides for you and your family to try when you visit — so to my dads out there, make sure you don’t drink too much butterbeer right at the start!

Hogsmeade has great rides spread out throughout the land, and it even has one of the most highly-rated roller coasters in the world. The Harry Potter rides here are:

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey

• Hagrid’s Magical Creature Motorbike Adventure

Flight of the Hippogriff

Hogwarts express.

These rides combine the unbelievable surroundings of the castle and town of Hogsmeade, life-like interactions and visuals, and great storytelling to curate an interactive theme park experience that you will never forget.

This ride is not a typical roller coaster. A combination of a twisting/turning track, along with robot arm mounted vehicles, makes you feel like you are completely immersed in the Harry Potter Universe. Forbidden Journey has incredibly high-quality special effects that really help seal the illusion.

On the ride you flash around Hogwarts and you get to see a bit of every part of the castle grounds. Last time my son and I were on it, I remember seeing the Whomping Willow, flying directly through a Quidditch match, zooming through the forbidden forest, and more.

You get to see all the parts of the castle grounds that you will remember from the movie. I’ve heard the ride called a “Harry Potter highlight reel,” and I don’t disagree!

In terms of roller coaster thrill, this ride is definitely in between Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure and the Flight of the Hippogriff, but I’d still say that this ride is great for kids of all ages as long as they meet the height requirement .

Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure

The ride is a journey from start to finish. The story starts while you are waiting in line, where you can see bits of Hagrid’s work as he has cared for hundreds of magical creatures throughout the years. There are writings on the walls from past Hogwarts students and even parts of Hagrid’s nursery to be seen.

Once you get closer to the start of the ride, you can begin to hear the sound of a motorbike revving. I have ridden tons of roller coasters in my life, but that sound gets my heart pumping every time with excitement as I wait for the ride to begin.

After you sit down on your motorbike/sidecar and ride begins, you are fired out of the landing bay. Immediately you start flying through the sky, passing the rooftops of Hogsmeade, zooming around parts of the castle, past a lake, and then toward the Forbidden Forest. You really feel like you’re on Hagrid’s motorbike!

It truly is a must-try when you’re in Universal Orlando. One thing to keep in mind is that this ride often has the longest lines in Hogsmeade, and sometimes even in all of Islands of Adventure. So plan ahead when you want to visit to come during a busier time because the ride is excluded from Universal’s Express Pass because of its popularity!

After Hagrid’s, the Flight of the Hippogriff is a way to take a calmer flight around the grounds of Hogwarts. The ride is definitely on the shorter side and isn’t as fast as Hagrid’s, so it’s a great ride for younger kids !

In the line for the ride you can see an interpretation of Hagrid’s home, including the pumpkin patch, his hut, and more. As the name hints, the ride is supposed to mimic flying on a hippogriff’s back around Hogwarts castle. Just like when Harry rode Buckbeak in the Prisoner of Azkaban , you will be soaring through the grounds, in between buildings, and enjoying some of the amazing views.

There are a few really fun drops and turns, but I do have to admit that the ride is a little short and sweet for my liking.

Again, while this isn’t the most thrilling ride in the park, it still has some great views and is particularly good for kids.

You will remember from the Harry Potter books that the Hogwarts Express is the train that takes the students to and from Hogwarts. And thanks to the magic of Universal, you and your family can ride it! The Hogwarts Express is a unique attraction in that it is both a themed entertainment ride and a practical form of transportation.

Hogwarts Express serves as a way to get between the Harry Potter areas in Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida. It’s really the best way to connect between Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley. Because the attraction takes you from one theme park to another, you must have the Park-to-Park pass to ride it. I absolutely recommend getting this pass — not only for the chance to ride the Hogwarts Express, but also because it gives significantly more mobility for your day in Universal at only a slightly higher price point.

We love to dedicate a whole day to just Harry Potter and we always get the Park-to-Park pass to do that. We normally start the day in Hogsmeade and then hop on the Hogwarts Express to Diagon Alley in the afternoon.

The Hogwarts Express itself is a special ride, and while on the surface it may appear a bit simple, it’s one of my favorite rides at Universal .

When you board the train in Hogsmeade, you will be traveling toward London’s Kings Cross station. The train journey itself uses life-like visual effects that tell a story around your car as you move. You’ll see some impressive scenery and a few Harry Potter characters through the (video) windows of the train. Meanwhile, shadows of others walking in the train’s corridors will pass by the frosted glass windows of your compartment. The train cars are practically identical to how they were portrayed in the movies, so you’re going to feel as if you just stepped into the movies and novels that you’ve loved for decades.

Tip: Make sure to ride the train in both directions — it’s a different experience each way!

Ollivanders Wand Shop

Getting your own wand is a truly magical experience that makes you feel like you’re an incoming first year student at Hogwarts. When my family and I went to Ollivanders , my wife and I didn’t get wands but Ben went through the entire experience, smiling ear to ear the whole time.

Small groups are ushered into the shop and one lucky witch or wizard is selected by the Wandkeeper to participate in an interactive presentation. Of course, pairing the wand with the wizard can be tricky — it doesn’t always go quite right the first or second time.

Luckily, the Wandkeeper is an expert and everything always seems to work out in the end. (Frugal wizards will be pleased to learn that you’re not obligated to purchase the wand, even if you’re chosen to participate).

Everyone then makes their way into a separate sales area to view their own wand options in a more traditional “retail” environment.

Note: if you’ll allow me to step “outside of the magic” for just a moment here — there are Ollivanders wand shops in both Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley. While Ollivanders at Hogsmeade is probably the most intimate and movie-accurate of the Ollivanders experiences, it’s not necessarily the most practical due to the cramped size of the shop. If you’re going with a larger group, are visiting during peak season, or are simply interested in shopping for a wand, I’d suggest opting for the experience at Diagon Alley / Universal Studios instead. You’ll likely have less of a wait (if any), and a bit more breathing room.

The Frog Choir is a great way to take a break from the rides and enjoy a good show. The performance lasts about 10 minutes, so it won’t take up too much of your time while you’re in the park. I’ve seen the show a few times, and I’ll admit that once you have stood and watched it once or twice, that’s usually enough (though I don’t mind sort of bopping along as I pass by).

You’ll get to hear some great songs inspired by Harry Potter, performed in a catchy a cappella style. The highlight of the performance is Something Wicked This Way Comes , as featured in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban .

It’s a great way to see a moment from the Harry Potter books brought to life. Although, the show itself is tough to compare to any of the world class rides that are right next door.

I’d say that the Frog Choir is particularly good for kids who will find the extra magic in the experience by thinking back to seeing the choir’s performance in the Harry Potter movies.

This show happens several times a day in Hogsmeade, so check the app or ask a Team Member when you should stop by!

Triwizard Spirit Rally

The Triwizard Spirit Rally alternates throughout the day with the Frog Choir, so if you stick around by the stage in Hogsmeade you can see one show after the other! Like the Frog Choir, this is a quick show — a bit under ten minutes — that will put a smile on your face. The show features the different schools that visited Hogwarts for the Triwizard tournament in the Goblet of Fire .

You will get to see the Beauxbatons students spinning and dancing as the Durmstrang students show off their martial arts staff skills, just like in the movie when the schools enter the Great Hall for the first time.

I prefer this show to the Frog choir just because there is a bit more action, and my kids agree!

Because these shows alternate several times a day on the same stage, I wouldn’t worry about planning ahead to see them. You will likely just pass by them at some point while you are in the park!

Nighttime Lights

Depending on the time of year, you might be able to catch a Nighttime lights show at Hogwarts Castle. Unfortunately, there is no set published schedule for these shows, but they always occur after dark at Hogwarts Castle. Keep an eye on the Universal website when it gets close to your vacation date, because they will start to update show times a few days in advance of when they occur.

Universal originally started this light show as a part of their Christmas in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter program, but the show can also happen on select dates throughout the entirety of the year, usually during peak periods. The show lights up Hogwarts castle with brilliant displays on its walls along with lights in the sky. The light show tells a story, and without giving away too many details, you will see some of your favorite moments from Harry Potter.

The show has the feel of a fireworks display, but instead of just fireworks it has amazing graphics, music, and more. Although, the show still typically ends with a few fireworks for good measure!

This certainly isn’t something to plan your entire vacation around, but once you plan your trip keep an eye on Universal’s schedule so you can catch a show once you are there.

There are two main places to dine in Hogsmeade: the Hog’s Head or the Three Broomsticks. If these names sound familiar, it’s because both of these taverns are faithful recreations from the Harry Potter books!

Three Broomsticks

The Three Broomsticks is my favorite place to eat during my Harry Potter themed day. I remember the tavern very clearly from the movies, so it was a surreal experience to walk into a building I had never been in before, but felt like I had been there dozens of times. Once I was in, I could order a Butterbeer just like Harry, Ron, and Hermione did when they were students at Hogwarts.

Image © Universal

One of the main reasons I love coming to the Three Broomsticks is it saves our family a bit of money, while giving us a great experience at the same time. Feeding a family of four at Universal can get expensive and the Three Broomsticks is definitely more cost-effective than the average restaurant in Universal Orlando.

One thing that really surprised me when I went is that Butterbeer is actually good!

The flavor of this non-alcoholic drink is really hard to describe — Universal says it’s “reminiscent of shortbread and butterscotch” — but my kids and I both loved it. The tavern also has some great salads, pies, desserts, and more so you and your family can have a full lunch or dinner here after some rides.

Hog’s Head

Hog’s Head is in the back of the Three Broomsticks, and it is definitely more of a bar than a restaurant. Although it’s technically a bar, it’s still very family friendly. Parents could grab a beer or a glass of wine while the kids enjoy some classic drinks from Harry Potter such as Pumpkin Juice or Butterbeer.

Between drinks, snacks, and meals, there is plenty available to spend your entire day in Hogsmeade, or in both Harry Potter worlds with a park-to-park pass (which is what I would recommend).

Get Free Help Planning Your Trip to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Has all this information left you feeling like you’ve been hit by the Confundus Charm? Feat not — the Universal experts at  The Vacationeer can set you straight!

These Diamond-level Universal Preferred Travel Agents offer completely free help planning your trip to the Wizarding Worlds located throughout Universal Orlando Resort.

Their expect advice is worth its weight in Galleons, helping you find the perfect Universal resort hotel , make dining arrangements , and secure theme park tickets .

Your  Vacationeer will help you decide on how many days you’ll need and when to travel to avoid the worst crowds. They can even book ground transportation , including airport shuttles . And don’t forget to ask them how to get the Universal Express pass at no additional charge !

And of course, your agent will share all the best Wizarding World tips and tricks to make sure your vacation really is magical.

And because they don’t charge any planning fees , your trip won’t cost a single Knut more than if you’d booked it yourself!

Contact The Vacationeer today for a free consultation and no-obligation quote .

Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida

Diagon Alley

Diagon Alley opened in 2014 at Universal Studios Florida, just a few years after Hogsmeade had opened at Islands of Adventure. Diagon Alley expands the Harry Potter experience at Universal Orlando Resort by adding locations such as Gringotts, the Leaky Cauldron, and Knockturn Alley.

To reach Diagon Alley, you’ll first head to the London section of Universal Studios, passing by well known Wizarding World landmarks such as King’s Cross Station and 12 Grimmauld Place. From there, look for the opening in the giant brick wall and head inside. Diagon Alley is well-hidden from mere Muggles — you’ll have to really look for it!

Diagon Alley has fewer rides than Hogsmeade, but the quality certainly makes up for the lower quantity!

Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts

Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts is a thrill ride that incorporates surreal special effects, amazing designs, and a killer roller coaster to make one of the best rides in the park .

My daughter Ava was too young to ride this one the last time I was in Diagon Alley, so I went with Ben to give it a try. It was his first time on Escape From Gringotts and I think he was more impressed with this ride than any other in the park. He saw the Harry Potter films recently so he clearly remembered the scene when Harry, Ron, and Hermione try to steal the Sword of Gryffindor from Bellatrix Lestrange’s vault.

Like many of the other rides in Universal, the experience for Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts really begins while you are still in line. When you are waiting in line, you are standing in an exact replica of the Gringotts main hall. And when I say exact, I really mean exact! The lobby is identical to what you see in the movie when Harry, Ron, and Hermione are walking down the line of goblins to the main teller so they can try to bluff their way into the vaults.

The grand hallway is filled with animated goblins counting coins, taking notes, and suspiciously starting you down as you walk along — and they are just the first of many life-like animations you will see along the way. Once you get to the end of the hallway, the head teller will sometimes talk to you and instruct you where to go next as you make your way to the start of the ride. They might even “pull you aside” and have you take a security ID photo using a retro film camera.

Once the ride is about to start you put on your 3D goggles and take a seat in the carriages which are reminiscent of those in the film. Right at the start of the ride you have some quick turns and big drops, and then all of a sudden the ride will stop and you will be met with a super high definition screen.

As you continue on with the ride you will see real-life holograms of Ron, Hermione, and Harry as you all run from the dragon together. Its really hard to appreciate just how similar it is to what we have all seen on the screen without trying it yourself. This is a must try if you are going to the Harry Potter worlds throughout Universal.

As mentioned earlier in this article, the Hogwarts Express travels back and forth between Diagon Alley at Universal Studios and Hogsmeade at Islands of Adventure.

Here on the Diagon Alley side, you’ll actually need to make your way back out of the brick walls and onto the streets of “London” to enter King’s Cross station. There, you’ll be able to spot fellow travelers actually walking through the brick wall (thanks to a clever Pepper’s Ghost illusion) to reach Platform 9¾.

You’ll pass through too, and then hop aboard the train.

On your journey to Hogwarts, you’ll spot soaring owls and perhaps a flying motorbike just outside the “window” of your train. As the streets of London give way to the countryside, you’ll truly feel that you’re on your way to your first year at Hogwarts. Just watch out for Dementors!

The scenery on this journey is different from the trip going the other direction, so make sure to ride the train both ways!

And remember — you’ll need a Park-to-Park pass because you’re traveling between theme parks. It’s a worthy purchase because it lets you try Hagrid’s Magical Creature Motorbike Adventure, Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, Flight of the Hippogriff, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, and more — all in the same day! Also keep in mind, the rides in the Harry Potter world are only a small part of the total experience of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando, and there is so much more to enjoy while you are there!

Diagon Alley may be a bit short on rides, but it’s certainly not lacking for experiences. There’s so much to see and do in the way of live entertainment and interactive activities, that this is a fantastic place to simply while away a few hours. Heck, I could spend all day in here and never really get bored! The fire-breathing dragon alone is worth starting at for quite some time!

Knockturn Alley

This sketchy side street is where dirty deeds get done in the Wizarding World. It’s always nighttime inside this covered (and air-conditioned!) walkway, so it’s a huge relief from the blazing Florida heat .

Stop in at Borgin and Burkes to marvel at the oddities assembled there, and perhaps make your own Dark Arts purchase. If you’re buying an interactive wand , you’ll also find some spell locations here. Some of them are even “secret” spells, but they’ll show up in glow-in-the-dark ink on your wand map. And you can always be on the lookout for medallions embedded in the ground, showing you the correct wand maneuvers.

Knockturn Alley is well-hidden. The primary entrance is a tunnel alongside a towering stack of cauldrons just to the right of the Leaky Cauldron restaurant. Another entrance is located to the left of Diagon Alley’s restrooms, directly underneath a giant window full of chandeliers.

Ollivanders

Just like in Hogsmeade, you can walk into Ollivanders at Diagon Alley to get a personalized wand from the Master Wand Craftsman himself. The overall feel of this shop is the same as in Hogsmeade so I won’t rehash all of the details again (if you missed the section on Ollivanders, scroll up and you can read more about it under the Hogsmeade Experiences section). This location does, however, have a higher capacity than the Hogsmeade version, and I find it is a bit more leisurely of an experience, especially if you really want to take the time to “shop” for your wand.

You might remember the Knight Bus as the slim, double decker bus that Harry rides, speeding through London traffic and bending time along the way. Located just outside Diagon Alley on the streets of London, the Knight Bus here is just a prop. So while you won’t get to ride it, it’s still cool to peek inside and perhaps take a photo. You will get to see the little shrunken head hanging at the front of the bus, the cots, and even a chandelier. While it’s definitely not the main attraction in the park, it’s another cool way that Universal brings the magic of Harry Potter to life!

Gringotts Money Exchange

While you are in Gringotts you can actually interact with the Goblins, and this is something my youngest, Ava, was able to get involved in. You can exchange real money for Gringotts money when you speak with the bank tellers.

For all the parents out there, I know that the idea of trading real money for fake money is not the most exciting concept. But thankfully, the Gringotts money can be used for purchases all throughout Diagon Alley! So, you can take your Galleons and purchase a wand, some Hogwarts merchandise, candy, and more.

Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees

Like in Hogsmeade, you can see two shows while in Diagon Alley. The first is a singing production that performs wizard-themed songs. Celestina Warbeck doesn’t actually “appear” in the original books, but she’s certainly mentioned a few times throughout. Universal claims that this group is Molly Weasley’s favorite band, so there you go!

You will get to hear performances of “never-before-heard” songs such as ‘A Cauldron Full of Hot, Strong Love’, ‘You Charmed the Heart Right Out of Me’, and ‘You Stole My Cauldron But You Can’t Have My Heart’. The performance really adds to the atmosphere of Diagon Alley and is a great way to take a break from the rides and shops.

The Tales of Beedle the Bard

The Tales of Beedle the Bard is where Harry and his friends first learn about the Deathly Hallows in the book series. In Diagon Alley, you will have a chance to watch these stories performed live on a stage in Universal Studios. The actors use props, puppets, and great sets to bring the story to life. This event is great for kids of all ages, and like the singing performance, is a great way to relax for a bit in between rides and other experiences.

Leaky Cauldron

Jaimie and I love to grab food at the Leaky Cauldron when we’re in Diagon Alley, and it is definitely our favorite place to eat in the park.

This restaurant in Diagon Alley may look run down and old (as it was designed to be), but the food is great. You can get food here all day, and generally it’s good pub food that you would expect to be able to get in any bar in London. For example, last time I went I ordered a Beef, Lamb & Guinness Stew and a Butterbeer. The Leaky Cauldron is also reasonably priced so you won’t have to spend too many Galleons to visit!

Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour

Wizard and Muggle worlds combine with Florean Fortescue’s Ice Cream Parlour, where you can get a classic scoop or soft-served swirl of ice cream. Flavors range from the mundane to some great Harry Potter themed flavors. Depending on the menu-of-the-moment, you might find flavors such as:

• Granny Smith
• Earl Grey and Lavender
• Chocolate Chili
• Sticky Toffee Pudding
• Salted Caramel Blondie
• Chocolate and Raspberry
• Orange Marmalade

Get it in a waffle cone or opt for the souvenir glass. You can also get refreshments like Pumpkin juice, teas, ciders, and more.

Eternelle’s Elixir of Refreshment

One great thing about Diagon Alley is that you will have no shortage of dining experiences. Eternelle’s is a small beverage stand where you can purchase a variety of ‘potions’ and ‘elixirs’. While these drinks look like potions, they still taste great and they make you feel like you are in Snape’s potion class drinking something mysterious that was just made for you. A few of the elixirs you can try may include:

• Fire Protection Potion
• Babbling Beverage
• Draught of Peace
• Elixir to Induce Euphoria

The Fountain of Fair Fortune

The Fountain of Fair Fortune was named after one of the tales in the Tales of Beedle the Bard. Here you can get drinks like Frozen Butterbeer, Pumpkin Juice, Butterbeer, Gillywater, and more. There’s also an extremely limited snack menu (mainly bags of chips and some soft-serve ice cream).

The Hopping Pot

Like the Fountain of Fair Fortune, The Hopping Pot is a quick service location with beverages and snacks. You can get all the same drinks as the Fountain of Fair Fortune and more, including Otter’s Fizzy Orange Juice, Peachtree Fizzing Tea, Fishy Green Ale, and more. The snack menu is also a bit more robust than Fountain of Fair Fortune’s, with the addition of several “pasties” (hand pies) such as Shepherd’s Pie, beef, or chicken.

Accio Vacation! Start Planning Your Trip Today

Universal’s Epic Universe is Universal’s third major theme park, currently under construction and scheduled to open sometime in the 2025. We’re still awaiting most of the major details about the park, but we do know for certain that it will be home to a third Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

This section of the park will include nods to the 1920s Paris setting of the Fantastic Beasts books/films, along with elements of the Ministry of Magic. Universal hasn’t officially released any ride details, but it’s widely believed that you’ll go on an immersive adventure within the walls of the Ministry of Magic .

It’s a safe bet there will also be plenty of live entertainment (possibly a dedicated stage show), tempting food, and of course shopping to be found.

Is it worth delaying your trip to Universal to wait for Epic Universe to open? Probably not. There are already two amazing Harry Potter Worlds at Universal — you can enjoy them right away and save Epic Universe a later visit!

Want a Heads Up When Epic Universe is Ready To Book?

Universal Orlando’s Harry Potter worlds are some of my favorite parts of the entire resort. Both Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley are unique and fun experiences, and these two areas alone are worth a trip to Universal Orlando. And I can’t wait to see how the new addition at Epic Universe turns out!

People have varying opinions about which Harry Potter World is their favorite, but I always say that when you visit you need to see both. Getting the Park-to-Park pass ensures that you can see all the best sights, rides, and experiences in both parks, and it allows you to ride the Hogwarts Express which is one of my favorite parts of the resort.

Even if you aren’t a Harry Potter fan, you must visit these themed areas when you are in Universal. Although, if you haven’t seen any of the movies yet, I’d recommend watching a few before you go because it will make the visit that much more special!

Ready to book your trip? You don’t need a flying Ford Anglia, a handful of Floo Powder, or the Hogwarts Express — all you need is  The Vacationeer !

Here’s why you should let these Diamond-Level Universal Preferred Travel Agents handle your trip:

• Expert Advice: They know their way around the Wizarding World, no Marauder’s Map needed!
• No Hidden Charges: They match Universal’s prices and don’t charge any planning fees
• The Best Rates: They use their knowledge of discounts and promotions to make sure you don’t miss a chance to save
• Automatic Savings: If a new promotion is announced, they’ll automatically apply it to your booking
• Free, No-Obligation Quotes: It’s free to ask and you’re never under any pressure to book
• One Dedicated Planner for Your Entire Trip: No giant call centers or never-ending phone menus!
• Stress-Free Vacation Planning: No need to go crazy researching everything — let them help!
• Care-Free Logistics: They’ll book and organize your hotel, dining, tickets, and ground transport so you can focus on having fun with your family

Contact a Vacationeer today for your free consultation !

Related Posts:

Share This Page: Choose Your Platform!

About the author: joshua powell.

Related Posts

Leave A Comment Cancel reply

• All Articles
• Itineraries
• Guides and Tips
• Attractions
• Behind-the-Scenes
• Guest Stories
• Guides & Tips
• Universal Orlando Resort Deals
• Universal Studios Hollywood Deals

The Complete Guide to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

EDITOR’S NOTE: This blog was originally published in February of 2019 and then underwent extensive updates and editing in the fall of 2020 to remain current and relevant.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

Ollivanders

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

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.

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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.

Hogwarts Frog Choir

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

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

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

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.

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

See 12 Grimmauld Place

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

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

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 our exclusive The Wizarding World of Harry Potter vacation package .

Universal Destinations & Experiences

Never miss a thrill. Subscribe now to get email updates from Universal Parks & Resorts.

Kelsey Shea Weinrich

Kelsey is a Content Representative at Universal Orlando Resort. She considers The Mummy (1999) a perfect movie and doesn’t tolerate Hufflepuff slander.

You Might Also Like

Guide to Wands in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

First Time Tips for Visiting The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Guide to Shopping in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort

How To Spend One Day in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

18 comments.

You should go to Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts and to Flight of the Hippogriff also.

My husband and I want to plan a trip to Hogwarts’s. What motel accommodations are available?

Take a look at our on-site hotels here: http://bit.ly/2IPOqHj

Hi My family and I will be visiting during Halloween, are there any special attractions. We want to spend the entire day at the Harry Potter Wizarding World. Also, How do I purchase tickets in advance and how much are they. Looking forward to the attractions. Sounds amazing.

Hi Theresa!

We do have Halloween Horror Nights beginning September 6th – November 2nd, 2019. To purchase regular park tickets, please visit our website at http://bit.ly/2JjVa0y . We currently have a Halloween Horror Nights special under Deals & Specials on the page as well.

Planning to come Feb 20 and maybe 21st, 2021. Two adults, may only do one park. Will you also be having Mardi Gras Parades?

Hi Madison! There will not be a Mardi Gras parade this year, however a fleet of spectacular Pirate Treasure themed floats will be on display throughout Universal Studios Florida along with a collection of Universal’s classic Mardi Gras floats!

I’m bringing my daughter for her birthday. We have the flights and clerk hotel but I’m totally confused about how and where to buy tickets. She loves Harry Potter….I figure two parks in two days…. is that the best way to do it?

Hi Theodora! We’re so excited you’ll be celebrating with us! You can purchase tickets and look at all of our options online here: https://bit.ly/3sGy6Lp

Hi, afternoon~ if we are going in May, is there any sorting hat experience in either dragon alley or Hogsmeade? thank you

Hi Amanda, we do not offer this type of experience at either of our parks. We apologize for any disappointment this may cause.

Hello, my daughter and I (61/38 you don’t have to be a child, to have fun), will be visiting this weekend (November 10-12 2023) and we can’t wait to get started. There is so much to see and do and, we’ll do our best to get thru it all. Thanks for all the work you do in describing the parks, especially the “Pro Tips”. We’ll come back and let you know, how everything went on our trip. Harry Potter and all the other rides, shops and food, here we come!!! Is it very busy at this time of year and if so, should we purchase the express pass? (I have a bit of a mobility issue) Thank you in advance, for your responses. See you soon!

Hi Dianne. We are so excited to hear about your upcoming visit and can’t wait to welcome you! While you are here, we definitely recommend stopping by Mythos Restaurant for a delicious dining experience. Additionally, while crowd patterns can be hard to predict, holidays and school breaks are typically our peak attendance seasons. Our Universal Express Pass options are designed to give our Guests an enhanced theme park experience as a limited number of passes are sold in order to minimize the wait time in the express queues. We can’t wait for your visit!

My adult children and I are coming on February 2 for the day. Will it be busy? Do we need the express pass? what tickets will we need to enjoy both Harry Potter parks and a ride on the Hogwarts Express? We are huge Harry Potter fans and are looking forward to this!

Hi Linda! We’re happy to learn about your visit! While attendance does fluctuate throughout the year, historically, we find it that February is a very pleasant time to be at the parks! Additionally, Universal Express Passes are a great way to enhance your visit, however, it is not required in order to enjoy our attractions. Lastly, a Park-To-Park ticket will be required for all Guests that are looking to ride the Hogwarts Express. You can find more information about tickets by visiting this page. https://bit.ly/3HEvV48

Are there any activities suitable for toddlers in the Harry Potter world? I’m planning a visit with my 3yo daughter, she is really into wizards and magic themed but she doesn’t know Harry Potter yet, I wonder if it’s too early and she’ll get bored or if it’s a great start for a new fan.

Hi, my girlfriend and I are visiting in June for the first time! My girlfriend is a huge Harry Potter fan and I want to give her the best experience except due to other arrangements we are only able to visit the park for one day. which park would be the best to visit?

Hey, Hunter! We can’t wait to see you! Each park features an immersive land including attractions, entertainment, dining, and shopping. For the full experience we recommend Park-to-Park Admission for the day if possible. However, if you are only able to choose one we encourage you to explore our interactive website to make the most informed decision. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to Guest Services at (407) 224-4233 if you have any further questions!

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Vacation savings from Orlando Informer! Save with Orlando Informer! X

on select Universal Orlando Resort tickets

No blockout dates. Savings vary by day. Restrictions apply.

• FREE Wizarding World of Harry Potter Touring Plan – Accurate & Up-to-Date

Welcome to our Wizarding World of Harry Potter touring plan. We have created what we believe to be the most comprehensive guide available anywhere to experience all of Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley , giving families a sense of their true size and scope. Furthermore, using our plan will help you experience these magical venues just as Harry did for the first time.

IMPORTANT: this is not a traditional touring plan in the sense that it will help you avoid crowds. If that is a concern given how busy the parks are projected to be during your visit ( see our free crowd calendar ), we recommend that you use one of our other touring plans for the general framework of when to visit the Wizarding World, and then use this plan to help ensure you don’t miss a thing.

That being said, if you are only planning on visiting Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade during your visit to the parks, and you’re not interested at all in the other lands, then you could definitely use this as your full-day plan. We say that because, even with the Wizarding World being as grand as it is, it still only constitutes two out of a total of 16 lands across Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure .

There are two plans offered below: one for spending the full day at Diagon Alley before making the jaunt over to Hogsmeade, and the other for retracing Harry’s footsteps chronologically – the closest you can come to actually being the Boy Who Lived.

Skip to: Diagon Alley | Harry’s journey

Full-day, “don’t miss a thing” Diagon Alley touring plan

Plan on four hours to all day, depending on crowd levels and your family’s interest in Harry Potter .

1. We usually recommend that, whether or not you have Early Park Admission for Universal Studios Florida, you arrive at the turnstiles 45 minutes before you are able to get in (either as part of EPA or as part of general admission). But considering that your plan is to spend most of the day in the Wizarding World, anyway, it isn’t as necessary for you to be the first in line. (If you’d like to learn more, see our guide to Early Park Admission .)

2. When you are let through the turnstiles, grab a park map and proceed through to Diagon Alley.

London waterfront

The London waterfront that hides Diagon Alley from the rest of the park is more than just a barrier – it features its own set of stops, food, and must-dos, as well as being one of the most lavishly detailed areas of all of Universal Orlando Resort.

3. Stop by the Knight Bus and visit with the Conductor and his shrunken-head compatriot. Be sure to take a look inside the bus, including from the back – it’s one of the best photo-ops in the entire park!

4. Visit the London Taxi Huts. One serves food while the other offers Hogwarts house merchandise . If possible and desirable, grab a little something to snack on while you…

5. Snap a photo of Kreacher, Sirius Black’s house-elf, who periodically pokes his head out from behind the curtains in one of 12 Grimmauld Place’s windows.

6. Visit the telephone booth in front of Leicester Square and dial M-A-G-I-C for a little surprise. Then take a look into the record shop next to this booth for several Easter Eggs, including the Universal Creative department logo and references to Jaws (the attraction that existed here before the Wizarding World).

Once you’ve had your fill, proceed to the entrance of Diagon Alley under the Liecester Square signage.

Diagon Alley

The first street you see stretching out before you is called Diagon Alley. Like a true city block, there are several exits along the road: to the right, past Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes , is Carkitt Market ; to the left, just after The Leaky Cauldron , is Knockturn Alley ; and at the end of the street is Horizont Alley , whose intersection is dominated by Gringotts Wizarding Bank. We recommend doing everything you’d like in the Diagon section first before moving to any of the others.

8. Visit the shops: Quality Quidditch Supplies , Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes , Madam Malkin’s Robes for All Occasions , Ollivanders Wand Shop , and  Shutterbutton’s Photo Studio .

You’ll want to see the mirror inside Madam Malkin’s – it may have something to say about you or what you’re wearing.

If you already have an interactive wand, make sure to check out two of the three secret wand locations here. One can be found within the shop window next to Madam Malkin’s, and the other can be found directly to the right, in the Apocratery window. If you don’t have an interactive wand yet, then…

9. Stop at Ollivanders Wand Shop and see the wand-picking-the-wizard show. You can also shop here on your way out.

Keep in mind there are multiple effects in the show, and not every effect is used in every show. If the wait is very short, consider experiencing the demonstration more than once. There is also more than one Ollivanders employee working at any time, so you could experience a new wand keeper on your second or third trip through the show. This includes the new-to-Diagon-Alley female wand keepers, too.

Want to learn about interactive wands and spellcasting at the Wizarding World? View our guide .

10. Eat a meal at The Leaky Cauldron (open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner).

In case you haven’t seen it already, learn about the food and drinks of Leaky Cauldron and every venue inside Diagon Alley in our  comprehensive guide .

11. Have a snack at Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour (which typically opens bright and early in the morning and remains open all day long).

There is limited space for queuing inside Florean Fortescue’s. Because of this, the ice cream line will often begin outside the door and against the building. Note: if you’re only interested in Butterbeer ice cream, that item is also served next door at The Fountain of Fair Fortune (but, technically, that’s part of Horizont Alley, so we haven’t mentioned it yet!).

When you are ready, backtrack a bit to the entrance of Diagon Alley and head towards Carkitt Market, which is located next to Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes.

Carkitt Market

This is a large, (mostly) covered shopping area that is home to a number of street vendors, the new wizarding land’s only outdoor seating area, and, of course, live entertainment.

12. Visit Wands by Gregorovitch – that is, if you didn’t already buy a wand at Ollivanders .

13. Do your shopping at Globus Mundi , the traveling agency of the wizarding world.

14. Stop at The Hopping Pot , a mostly drink-only location, and either sip on your draught beer at the outdoor seating or take it on over next door to the stage so you can…

15. See the live entertainment : The Tales of Beedle the Bard and The Singing Sorceress, Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees. These are two separate shows whose performances alternate. (Times are not published in the guide map or online, but they do appear in the Universal mobile app.)

Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees does include crowd participation. If you are a male over the age of (around) 17, stand near the stage about 10 minutes prior to the show for a chance to be selected by a Universal team member to have a small role in the performance.

16. Visit the Gringotts Money Exchange to chat with the fully interactive audio-animatronic goblin teller while he exchanges your muggle cash for wizarding bank notes. You can also pick up some Gringotts merchandise here, as well.

Not interested in buying a bank note? No problem. You may still get in line and experience the goblin teller. It’s also worth noting that wizarding money is not required to make purchases throughout Diagon Alley – it’s simply a souvenir and a way to get gift certificates.

17. Mail home those special packages, for you or those special muggles in your life, at the Owl Post . Don’t forget that you can splurge on fancy wrapping!

When you are ready, head towards the next section, Horizont Alley, which officially starts with the bend in the road, right before Eternelle’s Elixir of Refreshment .

Horizont Alley

Although Diagon Alley is the main section of Universal Studios Florida’s Wizarding World, Horizont Alley is really its heart, with a number of refreshment stands, shops, and, of course, the land’s only ride: Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts.

18. Stop by Eternelle’s Elixir of Refreshment , a beverage stand that mixes flavored “elixirs” (really just shots of watermelon or pineapple flavoring) into a bottle of Gillywater (filtered water) right in front of your eyes.

19. Go to Gringotts Wizarding Bank to ride Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts . Exit the attraction with a look through its gift shop, Wiseacre’s Wizarding Equipment.

Remember to look up in Wiseacre’s to see repurposed remains of the Jaws ride.

20. Adjacent to Wiseacre’s and sharing the same building, you’ll find Scribbulus Writing Implements.

Outside Scribbulus, make sure to see one of the hidden wand experiences found in the window. Results may vary, so you’ll want to try it more than once.

21. Visit Magical Menagerie , full of plush animals found within the Harry Potter books and films. Check out the windows, including one that holds Nagini, He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named’s pet snake and a Horcrux.

22. Next, stroll down to the public conveniences to enjoy the wizarding Easter eggs hidden there. Utilizing a stall? Look above the toilet.

23. If you’re (still) thirsty, stop by The Fountain of Fair Fortune , another drinks-only venue that focuses on both Butter- and draught beer. Because it’s located adjacent to Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour, it also serves Butterbeer ice cream.

Once you exit the pub, turn left and head through the entrance to the last area of the land, Knockturn Alley.

Knockturn Alley

Knockturn may be the smallest section of Diagon Alley, but many consider it the most immersive – and certainly the creepiest. Despite its having only one store, be sure to spend just as much time here, drinking in all the exquisite details and spooky fun (including Diagon Alley’s most fun homage to Jaws and Amity, the land it replaced.)

Note: certain areas of Knockturn Alley will allow you to see otherwise-invisible messages found on your interactive wand map.

24. Visit Borgin and Burkes to explore some of the most unique pieces of wizarding merchandise, including Death Eater masks. There are also familiar items on display, including the vanishing cabinet (from Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince ) and the Hand of Glory (from Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets ).

Need a primer on all of the merchandise available inside Diagon Alley, including Borgin and Burkes? Yep, we have a complete guide for that, too!

Once you have finished all of your window shopping and Easter egg-hunting, it’s time to head through Knockturn’s exit next to The Leaky Cauldron.

Then head back towards the brick wall you entered through and exit. You’ll find yourself back in London. Now, just take a right, until you’ve landed at the only attraction in London: King’s Cross Station.

King’s Cross Station

This is it – the grand finale of Diagon Alley. King’s Cross, of course, is the home of the Hogwarts Express , which will take you to Hogsmeade over in Scotland (read: Islands of Adventure).

Once you arrive there, you can either tour that part of the Wizarding World or hop straight back on the Hogwarts Express to experience the journey back to London (which, yes, is different ).

Full-day, “Harry’s journey” touring plan (for both sides of the Wizarding World)

Plan on two to six hours, depending upon the crowds and your dedication to being authentic to Harry’s journey.

1. We usually recommend that, whether or not you have Early Park Admission for Universal Studios Florida, you arrive at the turnstiles 45 minutes before you are able to get in (either as part of EPA or as part of general admission). But considering that your plan is to spend most of the day in the Wizarding World, anyway, it isn’t as necessary for you to be the first in line. If you’d like to learn more, see our guide to Early Park Admission .

3. Stop by the Knight Bus and visit with the Conductor and his shrunken-head compatriot – this is how Harry arrived at London, after all! Be sure to take a look inside the bus, as it’s one of the best photo-ops in the entire park.

4. Visit the cabman’s shelters. One serves food while the other offers Hogwarts house merchandise. If possible/desirable, grab a little something to snack on while you head to Leicester Square Station, the entrance to Diagon Alley.

5. Eat breakfast at The Leaky Cauldron . Harry went through here first before doing his shopping at Diagon Alley.

6. Visit the Gringotts Money Exchange in order to pick up some authentic wizarding bank notes with which to do your shopping (this is just like Hagrid taking Harry to Gringotts Wizarding Bank to withdraw his galleons).

7. Pop into Knockturn Alley for a scare (or a quick spy on the Malfoys and the other Death Eaters). You can even pretend you’re being rescued by Hagrid once you’re done window shopping!

8. Go shopping for your school supplies. We recommend hitting up (a) Ollivanders Wand Shop (on Diagon Alley) for your wand (do the wand-choosing-the-wizard show for the most authentic experience), (b) Magical Menagerie (on Horizont Alley) for your pet owl, (c) Quality Quidditch Supplies (Diagon) for your broom, and (d) Madam Malkin’s Robes for All Occasions (Diagon) for your school robes (of course).

9. Grab a quick bite of ice cream at Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour . Harry ate here often before departing for school.

10. Board the Hogwarts Express at King’s Cross Station to head to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry at Hogsmeade (located in Islands of Adventure).

11. Ride Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey inside of Hogwarts Castle. There’s enough adventure in these five minutes to cover an entire school year of misadventures!

12. Visit Hagrid at his hut and ride Flight of the Hippogriff .

13. Not done with Hagrid yet? Take his Care of Magical Creatures class in the Forbidden Forest at Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure .

14. Have lunch at The Three Broomsticks and dessert at the Hog’s Head Pub. Be sure to try a Frozen Butterbeer here.

15. Enjoy the Frog Choir and the Triwizard Spirit Rally .

16. Pick up your final wizarding essentials at Hogsmeade’s shops, including (most importantly) the Marauder’s Map (at Filch’s Emporium of Confiscated Goods ) and some sweets ( Honeydukes ).

17. Hop back on the Hogwarts Express to experience the return journey to London.

18. Face down Voldemort on Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts inside of Gringotts Wizarding Bank.

Congratulations – you’ve helped defeat Lord Voldemort by destroying his Horcruxes!

• Design Your Own Universal Orlando Touring Plans for FREE
• FREE Islands of Adventure 1-Day Touring Plan – Accurate & Up-to-Date
• FREE Universal Studios Florida & Islands of Adventure 1-Day Touring Plan
• FREE Universal Studios Florida 1-Day Touring Plan – Accurate & Up-to-Date
• FREE Volcano Bay Touring Plan – Accurate & Up-to-Date
• OI Priority List: Islands of Adventure
• OI Priority List: Universal Studios Florida
• Universal Orlando 3-Day Touring Plan for Hotel Guests: Day 1
• Universal Orlando 3-Day Touring Plan for Hotel Guests: Day 2
• Universal Orlando 3-Day Touring Plan for Hotel Guests: Day 3
• Universal Orlando Resort Mini Vacation Planning

Get Savings

From Butterbeer to magic wands: Everything you need to know about Universal Orlando's Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Editor's Note

A visit to Universal Orlando to see The Wizarding World of Harry Potter had been on my wish list for a while. Suspension of disbelief takes place here every day. Visitors don wizarding robes, grab interactive wands and — at least for a day or two — pretend that they are following in the footsteps of Hermione, Ron and Harry, truly inhabiting the magical world of "Harry Potter."

There are families racing from ride to ride in Hogwarts-style robes and Harry Potter-style glasses. We witnessed the engagement of two fans right in front of Hogwarts Castle. We might even have wondered for a minute or two what it would be like to be able to cast spells and brew potions.

If this sounds like your cup of frozen Butterbeer, here's what you need to know to make the trip to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando a success.

Sign up for the free daily TPG newsletter for more travel news, reviews and tips.

When to visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

There is no bad time to visit The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, just times of the year when it may be more crowded or pretty darn hot. Don't overly stress over the choice of dates. Just check expected crowd levels at calendars like the ones from Undercover Tourist and TouringPlans.com and then use some strategies — like skip-the-line passes, VIP tours and early starts — to evade crowds if you need to (more on that later).

Related: Choosing the best Universal Orlando hotel for your trip

How to see more of The Wizarding World in less time

I won't lie to you. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter gets very crowded.

We visited Universal at what is a slower time of year and the attractions in Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley were still jammed. If you want to see as much of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter as possible in the shortest amount of time, there are some strategies you probably need to employ.

First, you can use Universal's Express Pass . This is a skip-the-line pass that works on most attractions at Universal's two theme parks. This includes within The Wizarding World, with the exception of Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure.

There are three ways to get an Express Pass. The easiest way is to book one of Universal's on-site Premier hotels. If you stay at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel , Hard Rock Hotel or Loews Royal Pacific Resort , you'll get a free Express Pass Unlimited to use throughout your visit. If you have a Premier-level Universal annual pass , you're entitled to Express Pass access beginning at 4 p.m.

Otherwise, you can purchase Express Passes:

• Universal Express: Prices start at $79.99 per person per day for one park and $89.99 for two parks and go up to almost double that amount. This pass lets you skip the regular line one time per participating ride at both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure theme parks.
• Universal Express Unlimited: Prices start at $109.99 per person per day for one park and $119.99 for two parks, though prices vary quite a bit from day to day. An Unlimited pass lets you skip the regular lines at participating rides as many times as you want at Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure.

Be aware that the list of participating rides and attractions is subject to change, so check with Universal Orlando's website before you purchase an Express Pass to make sure the rides you're most interested in are included.

The best strategy to ensure you do as much as possible within the World of Harry Potter, short of a VIP tour, is to rope-drop Hagrid's at the park's opening and then use your Express Pass for all the other attractions.

Speaking of VIP tours, there are two to choose from. You can book a small-group or private VIP experience at Universal. The price, while not cheap, packages together walk-on ride access during the tour, Express Passes and a dinner credit to use after the tour ends.

The small-group VIP tour starts at less than $200 per person while the private tour costs a few thousand dollars for the day. These tours will get you on rides like Hargrids that otherwise don't have short-cut access.

Related: How to get the most out of 1 day at Universal Orlando

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Diagon Alley

If you are staying at any of the on-site Universal hotels , you can get into The Wizarding World of Harry Potter one hour earlier than general admission.

Which park opens early varies by day and sometimes both parks open early. The front desk agent should give you this information at check-in or you can check the Universal Orlando website for the most up-to-date information.

No matter which park is opening early, plan to arrive at the front gates at least 15 - 30 minutes before the Early Park Admission opening time. It's the only way to beat the crowds and make the most of your extra time.

Only certain attractions open during Early Park Admission, but this typically includes all of the Wizarding World attractions. The ones you will most likely want to knock out are Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure at Islands of Adventure and Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts at Universal Studios Florida.

For Hagrid's, head to Islands of Adventure, take a right after passing through Port of Entry and head toward Seuss Landing. Universal team members will be on hand to scan your hotel keycard and allow you to go deeper into the park. Continue through Seuss Landing to The Lost Continent and you should see team members directing you toward the start of the line for Hagrid's.

If Escape from Gringotts is first on your list, walk straight through Production Central and turn right when you reach the New York section of the park (in front of the Revenge of the Mummy attraction). Continue on until you see a replica of King's Cross Station on your left.

Be careful not to overshoot and walk past the somewhat hidden entrance to Diagon Alley. When you see an opening in a brick wall, you know you've found it.

Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts

Once you've entered Diagon Alley, walk straight to Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts indoor steel roller coaster ride. You can't miss it; it's the building with the fire-breathing dragon perched on the roof.

Tip: Find any wizard or witch working in Diagon Alley and ask when the dragon will breathe fire next. The schedule is sporadic so asking is your best bet. Also, when you hear a low growl, that's your signal that this Ukrainian Ironbelly dragon is about to spew some fire.

There are free and paid lockers to the right of the line so you can stash your belongings before the ride.

Children must be 42 inches to ride; be sure your party meets that requirement so you don't get to the head of the line only to be turned away. There is also a "child swap" room where parents can take turns alternating riding or waiting with kiddos not tall enough (or ready) to ride.

There is also a test seat in front of the building where you can confirm whether or not the seating configuration will work for your body style.

Wait times can get long for this ride, but it does have an Express Pass line throughout most of the day. There's also a lot to look at while in line since you'll snake through the Gringotts bank lobby and see a multitude of goblins at work. The four chandeliers that hang inside the bank's lobby are made up of 62,000 individual crystals.

There is a photo opportunity in the line as you pass through Gringotts "security." You can purchase the photo after the ride if you'd like (this photo has been unavailable since the park reopened after a brief closure due to COVID-19).

This attraction was once The Wizarding World's flagship attraction, but it's been eclipsed by Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey and Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure (both of which can be found in Hogsmeade at Islands of Adventure). What's neat about Escape from Gringotts is the motion-based 3D projections that make you feel as if you're interacting with characters like Bill Weasley and the goblin Blordak.

Related: TPG's complete guide to Universal Orlando

Ollivanders

After exiting the Gringotts ride, you're just across from Ollivanders, so get in line to see the show that depicts how a wand chooses its wizard, if this type of show appeals to you.

It's a very personal process. One lucky guest is picked from the audience and the wizard in residence facilitates the wand choosing. After the show, you're escorted next door to the wand shop where they'll box up the wand for you to take home … assuming you want to spend the $50 or so for the wand, which is optional. You can also forgo the wand that was chosen for you and pick out a replica of your favorite wizard's wand.

If you weren't lucky enough to be chosen for the show, you can pick out and purchase your own wand.

Go for an interactive wand that helps you make magic — literally — at many locations in both Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade. Standard, non-interactive wands are also available if you are looking to save a little cash or your kids are too young to know the difference.

Assuming you've purchased an interactive wand, look for brass medallions set into the pavement in both Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley. These are the spots where you can cast spells and make magic. A map that plots each spot where you can cast spells is included with your wand purchase (including a few unmarked "secret wand spots"). Spells are categorized as easy, medium or hard. You also can order an interactive wand in advance of your trip or pick one up in the hotel gift shop at most on-site hotels.

Note that there is an identical Ollivanders wand experience at Hogsmeade, so feel free to skip the experience here if you'd prefer to see the show there later in your visit.

Dine at the Leaky Cauldron

If you didn't eat breakfast before heading to Diagon Alley, now may be the right time to grab a table at the atmospheric Leaky Cauldron. Breakfast is pricey, but where else can you dine among witches and wizards? Breakfast plates for adults all ring in at $17.99 and include a small beverage (yes, you can have Butterbeer for breakfast).

• Traditional Breakfast: Scrambled eggs, sausage links, black pudding, English bacon, baked beans, grilled tomato, sauteed mushrooms and breakfast potatoes.
• American Breakfast: Scrambled eggs, potatoes, crisp bacon, sausage link and a croissant.
• Pancake Breakfast: Three buttermilk pancakes, crisp bacon, sausage link and a croissant.
• Egg, Leek and Mushroom Pasty: Pastry-wrapped scrambled eggs, mushrooms and leeks served with potatoes and fruit.
• Apple Oatmeal Flan with Yogurt & Fruit.

The kids breakfast plate — traditional, pancake or American — is $12.99. Pumpkin juice will set you back $4.99.

If you're not a breakfast eater, leave this stop for lunchtime instead where you can order things like fish 'n' chips ($16.99), a ploughman's lunch (cheese, chutney, bread, pickles and Scotch egg) for two ($21.99), bangers and mash ($13.99) or a beef, lamb and Guinness stew ($15.99). Kids entrees include things like mac 'n' cheese and fish 'n' chips for $7.29. Desserts — sticky toffee pudding, Butterbeer potted cream or chocolate potted cream — shouldn't be missed.

Take in a 'Harry Potter'-themed show

While you're finishing breakfast at the Leaky Cauldron, take a look at the Universal Orlando app and find out when the shows in Diagon Alley will take place.

During our trip, we saw two shows here, including "The Tales of Beedle the Bard" — complete with puppets — and Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees. There's seating around the stage if you arrive early enough, or there's always plenty of standing room.

Gringotts Money Exchange

After the show, walk toward the Gringotts ride and you'll come upon the Gringotts Money Exchange. Go inside and don't be fooled. This isn't just a bank. Sure, there is a human clerk assisting with money exchanges here, but there is also a Gringotts goblin behind a teller's desk. Talk to him and he will interact with you. It's a neat experience — especially for curious kids.

Knockturn Alley

Knockturn Alley is dark, seedy and so well hidden that you might miss it. There are two entrances — one next to the Leaky Cauldron and one next to the Fountain of Fair Fortune.

The enclosed space is dark and a cool break from the heat. There are also five neat spots where you can use your interactive wand to cast spells. There's also a shop, Borgin and Burkes, that's oozing plenty of dark magic and a few benches where you can rest a bit before continuing your exploration of Diagon Alley right outside.

Explore the shops of Diagon Alley

Once you've tried casting spells in Knockturn Alley, go back out into the bright Orlando sun to finish exploring Diagon Alley.

Visit all the shops, and be on the lookout for a few "magic moments." Among them is a snake speaking Parseltongue in the window of the Magical Menagerie and a talking mirror in Madam Malkin's Robes for All Occasions. Be forewarned, she isn't always complimentary of your wardrobe choices.

Related: Unlock more magic: 16 Universal Orlando secrets to know before your next trip

And maybe get an ice cream at Florean Fortescue's Ice-Cream Parlour, or a Butterbeer at The Fountain of Fair Fortune or The Hopping Pot.

One word of caution: Harry Potter souvenirs are pretty expensive. You may want to set a budget with your kids before exploring the shops or explain to them why you won't be purchasing certain items. Robes — with the emblem of your house stitched on them — will set you back $125. A Gryffindor Quidditch robe replica is $150, while Hermione Granger's Yule Ball Gown in youth sizes is $99.95. Yowza. No wonder many parents bring robes from home.

Check out the Knight Bus and 12 Grimmauld Place

Once you've seen everything on Diagon Alley, leave this part of The Wizarding World through the opening in the brick wall. Directly across you'll see the Knight Bus. Here you can meet the conductor and the shrunken head that hangs at the front of the bus. Kids and adults love interacting with these two. Sit by the fountain to listen in.

Then, look across the way and you'll see a replica of a London street. Upon closer inspection, you'll see 12 Grimmauld Place, the home of Sirius Black (Harry Potter's godfather). He gifted the property to the Order of the Phoenix, which used it as a headquarters. Look up toward the second floor and you may catch a glimpse of Kreacher, the Black family house-elf, peering at you from the window.

Hogwarts Express – King's Cross Station

When you've thoroughly explored Diagon Alley and the streets of Harry Potter's London, it's time to make your way to King's Cross Station, where you'll board the Hogwarts Express and ride the train to Hogsmeade. Remember: You can only ride the Hogwarts Express if you have a Park-to-Park ticket. If you've got one-day, one-park tickets, there is no way to experience this attraction.

The wait queue is convincing and it appears as if you are waiting for a train in London. Pay attention to everything as you near the train platform. A neat mirror trick makes it look like you burst through a brick wall to reappear unharmed on Platform 9 3/4. The train whistle builds excitement, and when you see steam escaping from the locomotive, you'll know you're almost ready to board.

Eight passengers are loaded onto each car and it truly looks as if you're departing London on your way to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

The ride's spectacle takes place on the train windows. Be prepared to see some Dementors on the four-minute trip to Hogsmeade. The show is slightly different on the return trip, so be sure you ride it both ways.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Hogsmeade

You'll find Hogsmeade inside the Islands of Adventure theme park. Here, you can visit both the town of Hogsmeade and Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure

If you have your heart set on riding this thrill coaster, get in line as soon as you arrive in Hogsmeade. Wait times can get intense and the attraction does not accept Universal Express.

Should you miss riding at park opening, then rather than walking to the back of the park where Hagrid's is located, you can check wait times in the Universal Orlando app. You can even set wait time alerts and receive a push notification on your phone when the wait time drops below your designated limit.

This is by far the fastest ride in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. It reaches speeds up to 50 mph and includes both spikes into the air and fast drops. You need to be at least 48 inches tall to experience it. You'll either ride Hagrid's motorcycle or get in the sidecar.

Either spot will make your heart pound, but I think the ride in the sidecar is a bit easier for anyone that might be nervous.

Hogwarts Castle

While we'll talk about the ride that takes place inside Hogwarts Castle next, I wanted to mention the castle itself first.

You can see Hogwarts from many distant points in Islands of Adventure. It looks magical from afar but even more impressive as you stand beneath its turrets. There is a bridge with wonderful views of the castle as you leave Jurassic Park and enter Hogsmeade. This is where you can grab that quintessential photo of the castle -- don't miss it.

We visited during the holiday season and were treated to "The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle." As the sky gets dark, the castle is lit up with projections that include scenes from the books, faux fireworks, lasers and more. It is one of those experiences where your jaw will drop and you'll feel like magic is happening. If you're visiting during the holidays, it's worth it to stick around after dark to see this unique show.

On select nights during other times of the year, Universal shows "The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle," a similar show, but without the holiday music and wintry scenes.

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey was my favorite ride in all of Universal and the queue itself is filled with interesting scenes from the books.

When we visited, we zipped right through the line with our Express Passes and were disappointed that we didn't see all the neat things leading up to the ride. We decided to ride a second time and went through the normal wait line. We didn't wait that long (maybe 25 minutes) but we were able to take our time to inspect things like Professor Sprout's herbology greenhouse and Dumbledore's office with his talking portrait and the Mirror of Erised.

I was a little worried that I might not be able to ride this attraction since I'm heavyset. Universal's park guide notes that certain body types might not comfortably fit in the seat, which has a safety bar that comes over your head and shoulders to lock into place at your waistline.

For that reason, there is a pair of seats in front of Hogwarts Castle at the entrance for this ride. If you're not sure the seat will work for you, you can try it out before getting in line. If your waist is larger than 40 inches, you might not be able to ride.

There is another set of test seats about halfway through the queue and I did see two people turned away after an attendant tested them. If there's any doubt that you may not fit comfortably in the seat, try it out before waiting in line.

On this ride, you "ride a broomstick" in and around Hogwarts Castle. The attraction is a "robocoaster," where a robotic arm holds your seat above a track and you pivot in a multitude of directions. It makes you feel as if you're flying through the air and, if you are prone to motion sickness, may make you feel like you need to relieve the contents of your stomach when you disembark.

The ride is dark at times, with encounters with dangers like Aragog the spider in the Forbidden Forest, the Whomping Willow and a gang of Dementors. But you'll also screech around the Quidditch field. You must be 48 inches or taller to ride Forbidden Journey. There are lockers to the right of the castle entrance to store your belongings. Trust us, you don't want anything on your head or in your pockets during this ride.

Flight of the Hippogriff

Flight of the Hippogriff, dubbed a "family-friendly coaster," is across from the lockers at Hogwarts Castle.

The twists, turns and drops reminded me of a slightly tamer Big Thunder Mountain Railroad from Disney World's Magic Kingdom. My husband is not a fan of roller coasters and didn't want to ride this one — even if it is just a "junior" coaster — so I went alone. Plenty of little kids were riding and loving it; children have to be just 36 inches tall or taller to ride.

This ride is super quick, so I had to ride a few times to take it all in. The track is elevated so you get a nice view of Hogsmeade. The queue is neat, too, as you walk by Hagrid's Hut and on to an open area where you'll recognize the Care of Magical Creatures class site.

Related: 7 magical places every 'Harry Potter' fan should visit

Take a break and see a show

After enjoying the rides, it might be a good time to see one of the shows staged in Hogsmeade throughout the day.

When we visited, we saw the Frog Choir (a special version for the Christmas holiday) and the Triwizard Spirit Rally. The stage is small but we never had trouble getting a close-up spot as long as we arrived a few minutes before showtime. Check the paper guide given out at the park entrance or the Universal Orlando app for showtimes.

If you didn't see the "wand picks a wizard" show at the Ollivanders location at Diagon Alley in Universal Studios, you can get in line to see it here. (See the Diagon Alley section above for a full description of the experience.) After the show, shop for a wand if you don't already have one. There are some neat spots in Hogsmeade where you can cast spells with it.

Dine out, enjoy a drink and go shopping

You can't truly say you've seen Hogsmeade until you've had a meal at the Three Broomsticks or grabbed a drink at the Hog's Head bar next door (serving Butterbeer, beer and spirits).

At Three Broomsticks, many families opt for The Great Feast, which includes a salad plus a combination of rotisserie smoked chicken, spareribs, corn on the cob and roast potatoes. (A platter for four is $69.99; additional servings are $17.99.)

You can also buy British favorites like fish 'n' chips, beef pasties, smoked turkey legs and shepherd's pie, and there are soups and salads on the menu at both lunch and dinner. Kids ages 9 and younger pick from fish 'n' chips, chicken fingers, chicken legs and mac 'n' cheese — each entree is $7.49.

Nonalcoholic Butterbeer (regular or frozen) is $7.99, while pumpkin juice and pumpkin fizz are $4.99. Two draught beers on tap are Hog's Head Brew and Dragon Scale (both $9.49).

Three Broomsticks also serves breakfast daily until 10:30 a.m.

When you're ready to roll out of Three Broomsticks, get ready to do a bit of shopping. Honeydukes is a sweet shop filled with confections like Exploding Bonbons, Cauldron Cakes, Fizzing Whizzbees, Bertie Bott's Every Flavour Beans and Chocolate Frogs.

You can mail postcards or letters from the Owl Post, complete with an official Hogsmeade postmark. You can also purchase all kinds of writing implements (think quills and seals) as well as owl-themed souvenirs.

If you didn't ride Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, you would have missed Filch's Emporium of Confiscated Goods since the ride empties into this shop. This is a terrific shop if you're looking for house crest banners, T-shirts, hats or scarves.

Get your Hogwarts uniforms and robes, Sneakoscopes, Quaffles and Golden Snitches at Dervish and Banges.

Hogwarts Express – Hogsmeade Station

When you're ready to leave this part of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, walk through the arch toward Hogsmeade Station and get in line for the Hogwarts Express.

The train will take you back to "London" at Universal Studios. The experience is a bit different in each direction, so be sure to hop on — even if you rode the train from London to Hogsmeade earlier in the day.

Related: Choose the best hotel at Universal Orlando

Buying the right ticket for Harry's world

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Hogsmeade is part of Islands of Adventure while The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Diagon Alley can be found at Universal Studios, this is important when it comes to choosing your ticket.

Splitting this land into two sections was a brilliant move on Universal's part since it means you need to purchase the upgraded Park-to-Park admission ticket if you wish to see both parts of Harry's world on the same day.

That also means holding a Park-to-Park ticket or a Universal annual pass are the only ways you can ride the Hogwarts Express train attraction between the two lands. The Hogwarts Express is more than just a mode of transportation — it's an attraction in and of itself. Leave time to take the train in both directions because the experience is different depending on which way you're headed.

You can use single-day one-park tickets to visit each land separately, but there's no way to use those tickets to board the Hogwarts Express.

You can buy Universal tickets for one, two, three, four or five days.

Universal's website sometimes offers special promotions for multiday passes that throw in extras like a skip-the-line Express Pass, discounted admission to the Volcano Bay water park or a free day at Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure.

The least expensive tickets let you explore one park per day. Unless that's the only option on the table, for Harry Potter you really want the Park-to-Park tickets that allow you to visit both theme parks on the same day. That gives you the ultimate in flexibility and access to the Hogwarts Express.

If you plan to visit the parks for more than just a few days, or you think you may visit Universal Orlando twice or more in 12 months, consider a Universal annual pass . I never dreamed I'd become a Universal annual pass holder, but when I planned our trip, I had my eye on a special promotion that gave you an extra day in the parks when you bought a two-day pass.

I thought that was a good deal — but when I looked at pricing for a Florida resident annual pass, I found out it was only $8 per ticket more than the special promotional pass. For just a few bucks more, I went for the annual pass; now we can go back to Universal and get free admission until the pass expires.

When buying Universal tickets, look at all the combinations and prices to determine which is the best deal for your family.

Where to buy Universal tickets

You can purchase your tickets directly from Universal. Alternatively, you can buy from well-respected third-party vendors like Undercover Tourist . This can be an especially good idea right after a ticket price hike. Often, Undercover Tourist will have some tickets left over at the lower price for a few days or weeks after a ticket price increase.

Additionally, ticket purchases from Undercover Tourist typically code as travel for the purposes of earning or redeeming credit card points. Bookmark that site and comparison shop whenever you are buying tickets for Universal or other theme parks like Walt Disney World.

Related: Best credit cards to use for Universal Studios

How to use points to buy Universal tickets

Savvy parkgoers might want to redeem Chase Ultimate Rewards and Citi ThankYou points to buy their Universal Orlando theme park admission. But, at least for now, this option may not be available when you search.

If you have the Chase Sapphire Reserve , you can redeem Chase Ultimate Rewards points for travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards travel portal at a rate of 1.5 cents per point. Or, if you have the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card or the Ink Business Preferred Credit Card , you can redeem for travel through the portal at a rate of 1.25 cents per point.

Historically, Univeral Orlando tickets have often been available through the Chase travel portal at rates comparable to Universal's direct pricing. However, as of writing this article, we weren't able to find any Universal Orlando tickets bookable through the Ultimate Rewards travel portal. So, although it's worth checking, don't get your hopes up.

If you've got a stash of Citi ThankYou points , you can use them through the Citi ThankYou travel portal to redeem for activities, including tickets to select attractions and theme parks. However, as of writing, we didn't find any options to redeem for Universal Orlando tickets. This may change though, so check out the Citi ThankYou portal to review your options.

Related: How to use points to save money at Universal Orlando

What credit card to use at Universal

There is no one answer to the question: Which credit card should I use at Universal Orlando? The answer depends on how and where you purchase your theme park tickets and how that credit card codes purchases.

Data points from many travelers tell us that tickets bought at an on-site Universal hotel and charged to the hotel room have coded as "travel," but tickets and VIP tours purchased directly from Universal have coded as "entertainment."

If you know your charge will code as travel, you'll do well to use any of the best credit cards for general travel purchases , including:

• Chase Sapphire Reserve — 3 points per dollar spent.
• Chase Sapphire Preferred Card — 2 points per dollar spent.
• Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card — 2 points per dollar spent.

However, if you think your purchase will code as entertainment, you'll want to use one of the best cards for entertainment spending .

Related: Best credit cards for Disney and Universal vacations

Bottom line

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando is an incredible place to visit for muggles and wizards alike.

The rides and attractions are fantastic. It's fun to watch the daily performances that all relate to an aspect of Harry's magical world, and you must raise a pint of Butterbeer (or one of the beers specially brewed for The Wizarding World) in one of the themed establishments across the land — from the Leaky Cauldron to the Three Broomsticks to the Hog's Head and other neat spots.

To get the most out of your visit, splurge on Park-to-Park tickets and pair that with an Express Pass (might as well throw in valet parking while you are at it). Only then will you be able to get in early and (with a little magic) skip the worst of the lines. The added expense is truly worth it. If you're a "Harry Potter" fan, this is a theme park you'll want to return to again and again.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Attractions
• Amusement Parks

11 Secrets of Universal Orlando's Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Alohomora! We’re unlocking the Easter eggs and hidden gems you need to know for your next trip.

Universal Orlando Resort brings the Harry Potter universe to life in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and anyplace rooted in wizards, witches, and magic is bound to have a few secrets. To discover them all, you'll need to purchase a two-park ticket to visit Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida and Hogsmeade at Universal Islands of Adventure — you can even board the Hogwarts Express to travel between the two theme parks.

Some features, like the cleverly disguised entrance to Diagon Alley, are hidden in plain sight, while others are more subtle. Finding these secrets is part of the fun of visiting The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, but we figured we'd let you in on a few to help you get started.

These 11 lesser-known details will take you from a mere muggle to a certified wizard and ensure your next trip is all the more magical.

Julie Bang/Travel + Leisure

The Leaky Cauldron sign actually leaks.

The Leaky Cauldron is the spot for hearty English fare in Diagon Alley. Start your morning off with a full English breakfast or stop by later to try the fish and chips, bangers and mash, or cottage pie for lunch or dinner. Designed to resemble the pub and inn of the same name from the series, the Leaky Cauldron's dingy brick exterior opens to cathedral ceilings, weathered furniture, and a large cracked cauldron in the hearth.

Note that this particular cauldron doesn't leak, but the wrought-iron sign above the inn's entrance does. If you look up, you'll see small drops of water falling from the crack in the witch's cauldron, while looking down will reveal a small puddle on the ground beneath the sign. It's a tiny detail that's easy to miss, but it's fun once you spot it.

You might miss the hidden entrance to Knockturn Alley.

As it is in the books, Knockturn Alley is a bit more seedy and mysterious than the bright and bustling Diagon Alley. It's also easy to miss. The entrance — marked only by a small sign on the wall — is through an archway next to the Leaky Cauldron.

As you step into the dimly lit corridor, you may worry you've taken a wrong turn, but the shadowy world of Knockturn Alley will soon reveal its secrets. Once inside, you'll find spots to cast wand spells, decrepit decor, and the dark arts supplier, Borgin and Burkes .

The shop carries Death Eater masks, skeletons of various worldly and otherworldly creatures, and plenty of Azkaban and Deathly Hallows merch. Even if you don't intend to purchase any sinister souvenirs, it's worth stopping in for the atmosphere alone.

There are secret spots to cast wand spells.

When you purchase an interactive wand from The Wizarding World of Harry Potter (or let the wand choose you at Ollivanders Wand Shop ), you can test out your best "swish and flick" at magical wand spots throughout Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley.

Each wand comes with a map that marks the spell-casting areas, also denoted by bronze medallions on the ground. As of 2024, there are 25 official spell spots between the two lands, including a few secret ones you can't find on any map.

We won't ruin all the fun, but you may have some luck at the window outside the Scribbulus shop in Diagon Alley and with the shrunken heads in Knockturn Alley. The best way to find the others is by asking a friendly witch or wizard (a Universal team member) to point you in the right direction.

The beers are specially brewed for the land.

Non-alcoholic, easy-to-make-at-home Butterbeer dominates the drink menus in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. It’s available as a hot, cold, or frozen drink — there’s even a dairy-free version. You’ll also find the popular butterscotch-like flavor in dessert forms throughout the parks.

If you’re up for something a little stronger, the land's popular pubs also serve up custom beers specially brewed by a local beer company for Universal Orlando Resort.

At the Leaky Cauldron, The Hopping Pot, and The Fountain of Fair Fortune in Diagon Alley, thirsty muggles can try Wizard's Brew or Dragon Scale on draft — the former being a stout with notes of chocolate, the latter, an amber lager. Over in Hogsmeade, the Hog's Head pub offers Hog's Head Brew, a crisp red ale.

Two more custom brews were introduced in 2023 — Dark Forest Ale, a brown ale featuring caramel flavors, and Daisyroot Draught, a full-bodied British golden ale. Try the Dark Forest Ale at any of the four locations mentioned above, or the Daisyroot Draught at The Hopping Pot (in Diagon Alley) or the Hog's Head Pub (in Hogsmeade).

You can even combine those brews with others available on tap to create a one-of-a-kind beverage. We recommend the Deathly Hallows (also called The Triple), a layered drink made with Strongbow Cider and Hog's Head Brew that's topped with Guinness.

If beer isn't your thing, those same Wizarding World eateries serve a cinnamon-flavored whisky made exclusively for the park called Fire Whisky, best enjoyed with Strongbow Cider for a refreshing apple cinnamon cocktail with a spicy kick.

You can call the Ministry of Magic.

The red telephone box in the London area between Kings Cross Station and the hidden entrance to Diagon Alley is more than just clever decor. If you step inside and dial M-A-G-I-C (62442), you'll be connected directly to the Ministry of Magic. Stick around to hear a funny message from the Ministry and, if you have kids in tow, you can show them what a rotary phone is.

Keep an eye on the upstairs window of 12 Grimmauld Place.

Another little secret to look out for in the London area is hidden in the window above the row of houses past the entrance to Diagon Alley. If you take a look in the second floor window of 12 Grimmauld Place, a house-elf peeks out every few minutes. Harry Potter fans will recognize the address as the home of Sirius Black, and the house-elf peering out as Kreacher. If you time it right, you can take a photo on the stoop with Kreacher looking out from the window above.

Hogwarts Castle is full of references to the films.

There's so much more to Universal's Hogwarts Castle than the thrilling Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride — the towering stone structure is just as impressive on the inside as it is on the outside. Guests walk the halls of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry as they line up for the ride, and encounter familiar Harry Potter scenes and characters along the way.

In addition to passing through Dumbledore's office, the Defense Against the Dark Arts classroom, the Room of Requirement, and the Gryffindor common room, you'll see walls covered in talking portraits and the famous Sorting Hat. You may need to ride more than once to take it all in, though this one can be a bit intense, so maybe have a snack (or, better yet, a Dramamine) before your second go-round.

You can hear Moaning Myrtle in the restrooms.

You may remember Moaning Myrtle from the Harry Potter series, the young ghost of a Hogwarts student who haunts the school's restrooms. In the films, she sticks mostly to the girls' facilities, but if you visit Hogsmeade at Universal's Islands of Adventure, you may hear her moaning and wailing in the men's and women's restrooms. Look for the "Public Conveniences" sign near the Hog's Head Pub to find Myrtle's favorite hangout.

There's a money exchange where you can get Gringotts bank notes.

Next to the Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts ride in Diagon Alley, you'll find the official Gringotts Money Exchange . Here, you can trade muggle money for Gringotts bank notes that can be used to make Wizarding World purchases or kept as souvenirs (if you don't switch them back to U.S. dollars at Guest Services before heading out).

While inside the money exchange, you'll see a cantankerous animatronic goblin working behind the counter. He may even talk to you if you ask a question, though you may not like the answer. Goblins, after all, aren't known for their hospitality, especially if you interrupt their work.

You can see real props used in the Harry Potter films.

While many of the props seen throughout The Wizarding World of Harry Potter are replicas of those used in the films, a few of them came to Universal Studios directly from the movie sets. For instance, the barometer you see in Wiseacre's Wizarding Equipment was featured in "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince" and "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows." A whopping 90 percent of the props on the second level of Borgin and Burkes are straight out of the films, including the Vanishing Cabinet, the gigantic hand, and the eerie collection of elf, goblin, and giant skulls.

You can mail a letter from Hogsmeade.

Yes, it really is possible to send mail through the U.S. Postal Service from Hogsmeade, complete with a Hogsmeade postmark stamped on it. Just stop by the Owl Post , which is located next to Ollivanders wand shop and also carries stationery, quills, ink, and Harry Potter -themed stamps. While the postage will obviously cost you, the postmark stamp is free. You can bring your own letters or purchase them from the Owl Post and drop them straight into the letterbox to be mailed.

• Universal's Islands Of Adventure
• Universal Studios Florida
• Universal's Volcano Bay
• Bars & Nightclubs
• Movie Theatre
• Hard Rock LIVE
• Annual Events
• Halloween Horror Nights
• Cart (empty)

Universal's Islands of Adventure™

Universal Studios Florida™

Universal's Volcano Bay™ Water Theme Park

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™

Universal CityWalk™

Monthly Theme Park Hours

Guest Services Information

Accessibility Information & Height Requirements

See What's New

•   Video Clips
•   Photo Gallery

ENJOY THE EVENT WITH A MULTI-DAY PARK-TO-PARK TICKET

• Q&A sessions with the cast members and filmmakers
• A wand masterclass hosted by Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter featuring Wand Combat choreographer Paul Harris, plus a special guest.
• An exciting Harry Potter ™ film tribute with select cast members
• - Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ™
• - Dragon Challenge ™
• Opportunities to explore Hogwarts™ castle, and shop and dine in Hogsmeade™

• Islands of Adventure / News / The Wizarding World of Harry Potter / Univeral Studios Florida / Universal Orlando

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ – Exclusive Vacation Package

by Universal Blog · Published September 9, 2020 · Updated September 9, 2020

Universal Orlando Resort is offering an exclusive Vacation Package for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter!

Vacation Package Includes:

• 5-Night Hotel Accommodations
• 2-Park 2-Day Park-to-Park + 2-Days Free Promo Ticket1 to Universal Studios Florida AND Universal’s Islands of Adventure AND Universal’s Volcano Bay (Valid for bookings 2/13/20-9/30/20 and travel 2/13/20-12/31/21)
• Early Park Admission2 to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ and Universal’s Volcano Bay™ one hour before the park opens (valid theme park admission required, select attractions).
• Special Themed Keepsake Box§ with items to get started, including:
• Welcome Letter

-Travel Planning Guide -Set of Luggage Tags featuring Harry Potter™, Ron Weasley™ and Hermione Granger™ – one set of three (3) per package -Hogwarts™ Railways Lanyard – one per person

• Breakfast at the Leaky Cauldron™ in Universal Studios Florida™ – one per person
• Breakfast at the Three Broomsticks™ in Universal’s Islands of Adventure™ – one per person
• One (1) Shutterbutton’s™ Photography Studio8 session in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ – Diagon Alley™ that includes one commemorative DVD photo album and one exclusive designed 8” x 10” photo print
• Access to select live entertainment venues1 at Universal CityWalk™

For Package Arrivals after December 17, 2021 Package will include a 2-Park 5 Day Park-to-Park Ticket9 which includes admission to Universal Studios Florida AND Universal’s Islands of Adventure.

Universal Is Now Delivering Guests Special Themed Keepsake Box When they book 30 days or more in advance, your clients will receive their Special Themed Keepsake Box^ as a part of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ Exclusive Vacation Package delivered directly to the address provided at time of booking.

Contact your Let’s Adventure Travels agent for more details!

Tags: Exclusive Vacation Package The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Universal Orlando Resort

Get a FREE Quote!

• Name * First Last
• Number of Adults *
• Number of Children *
• Ages of Children *
• Select Your Destination * *hold ctrl or shift to select more Universal Orlando Unniversal Hollywood
• Approximate Travel Dates *

You may also like...

Wand Engraving Arrives at the Wizarding World in Universal Orlando!

April 16, 2023

 by Kristin Sabol · Published April 16, 2023

Which Nintendo Rides Should We Expect in North America?

June 20, 2022

 by David Mumpower · Published June 20, 2022

Treat Mom to a Delicious Universal Orlando Brunch!

May 7, 2023

 by Kristin Sabol · Published May 7, 2023

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Next story 8 Ways to Live Your Most Tropical Life at Universal’s Volcano Bay
• Previous story Lumos Maxima Harry Potter Collection from JuJuBe

We support these pages!

Recent Posts

Universal Studios Demand Finally Cools

World-Famous Studio Tour Accident at Universal Studios Hollywood Injures 15 Guests

Donkey Kong Country in Universal Studios Japan Delays Opening

NEW: Amazing Florida Resident Deal Just Announced!

• Universal Orlando Annual Passholder Bonus Perks are Back This May!

News / Super Nintendo World / Universal Hollywood / Universal Orlando

25 Apr, 2024

News / Universal Hollywood

21 Apr, 2024

attraction / Super Nintendo World / Universal Japan

19 Apr, 2024

Islands of Adventure / News / Univeral Studios Florida / Universal Orlando / Volcano Bay

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I change or modify my reservation?

Complete Guide to Planning a Trip to Harry Potter Universal Orlando

This page is your complete guide to planning a trip to Harry Potter World in 2024!  You’ll find that there is so much to do in Universal Orlando at Harry Potter World! With incredible restaurants, shops, and attractions that bring you right into the Harry Potter Universe, it truly feels like you’re in another world. For now, guests can enjoy two Universal Studios Harry Potter-themed lands themed after Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade Village.

We hope you find this post helpful! Our goal at The Park Prodigy has always been to help you save time and money on your next Universal Orlando vacation!  If you are planning a trip to Universal Orlando be sure to check out our   discounted multi-day Universal Orlando tickets  and  Universal Orlando vacation package deals   which include  EARLY PARK ADMISSION  to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter!

So if you’re planning a trip to Universal Studios Harry Potter World  read on!

SPECIAL NOTE: If you need help picking the best time to visit Universal Orlando for your next vacation be sure to check out our Universal crowd calendar!

 Universal Orlando Crowd Calendar

Planning a Trip to Harry Potter World at Universal Orlando

While there is so much involved with planning a trip to Harry Potter World , the most important thing is to remember to have fun and feel the magic! And that’s why we have created this guide to the best way to visit The Wizarding World of Harry Potter! Including all of our tips and tricks for using Harry Potter early park admission tickets to get on the most popular rides with very little wait!

The Basics of Your Harry Potter Trip:

Universal Orlando captivates Harry Potter fans with magical experiences in both of its parks (and soon be the third park Epic Universe). Universal Studios Florida hosts Diagon Alley, featuring magical shops and the Escape from Gringotts ride. Over at Islands of Adventure, visitors can explore Hogsmeade Village and Hogwarts Castle. Additionally,  a third Harry Potter-themed land at the forthcoming EPIC Universe , potentially themed around the Ministry of Magic. Universal promises a fulfilling adventure for every Potterhead, blending existing enchantments with the anticipation of new attractions.

Choosing Your Universal Park for Harry Potter:

• Universal Studios Florida : Explore Diagon Alley, featuring the Escape from Gringotts ride.
• Islands of Adventure : Wander through Hogsmeade Village and visit Hogwarts Castle.
• Coming Soon : A third Harry Potter-themed land at EPIC Universe, themed around the Ministry of Magic in 2025.

How Many Days Do You Need to Plan at Harry Potter World?

Two days at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter will also allow families to enjoy some of the other experiences such as the Harry Potter interactive wands and all of the fun-themed shops. Taking your time will allow your family to take everything in and bring the magic of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter home. Especially if you’re planning on visiting both Harry Potter-themed lands between the parks!

Related Page: Discount Wizarding World of Harry Potter Tickets

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade

The original and first land of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is Hogsmeade . Hogsmeade is located in Universal Islands of Adventure, and you will want to head right over to this section as soon as the park opens. For the fastest entrance to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is to go to the right as soon as you enter the park and take a left once you hit Seuss Landing.

For fans of the books and movies you will recognize Hogsmeade as the charming town covering in snow, and home to the famous butterbeer! You will also find some of the best attractions, stores, and restaurants in all of Universal Orlando.

You can also find the newest and coolest Harry Potter World attraction in Hogsmeade: Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure which is included with all of our Universal Early Park Admission tickets! 

Related Page: Early Park Admission Universal Tickets

Hogsmeade – Wizarding World of Harry Potter Attractions

In Universal Orlando’s Hogsmeade, part of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, visitors can immerse themselves in magical adventures through several iconic rides:

• Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey : Dive into the heart of Hogwarts castle for a unique ride that simulates flying on a broomstick, exploring various scenes from the Harry Potter series. Once the park’s most popular attraction, it’s located inside Hogwarts castle, offering an immersive experience into the Wizarding World.
• Flight of the Hippogriff : A family-friendly roller coaster that provides a fun, albeit brief, experience suitable for all ages. Positioned near the Forbidden Journey and Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, it’s a gentle ride with a usually short wait time, perfect for early park visits.
• Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure : Venture into the Forbidden Forest beyond Hogwarts on this exhilarating coaster. Encounter some of the series’ rarest magical creatures on a ride that has swiftly become a fan favorite for its depth of immersion and thrill, turning even the most loyal Disney fans into Universal enthusiasts.
• Hogwarts Express : Essential for park-to-park ticket holders, this train not only offers a unique experience with different scenarios in each direction between Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley but also serves as a rapid transit system connecting the two Harry Potter worlds. Riding the Hogwarts Express is a must for any Harry Potter fan, offering a magical journey complete with views of Platform 9 ¾.

Each attraction offers its own unique slice of the Harry Potter universe, from the spellbinding interior of Hogwarts castle to the whimsical journey aboard the Hogwarts Express, ensuring visitors a magical experience unmatched anywhere else.

Related Page: Complete Guide to all Harry Potter Rides

Guide to Harry Potter World Hogsmeade Shops

In our opinion one of the coolest aspects of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is how much attention to detail went into everything. This couldn’t be more true for the shops located in Hogsmeade as they are right out of the books and movies. Here is a list of the shopping things to do at Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

What are all of the Harry Potter Universal Shops in Hogsmeade?

• Ollivander’s Wand Shop : Step into the place where every wizard and witch finds their perfect wand companion.
• Honeydukes : Satisfy your sweet tooth with magical candies and confections.
• Dervish & Bangs : A must-visit for all your magical souvenirs and themed merchandise.
• Zonko’s Joke Shop : Dive into the whimsical world of wizarding pranks and discover some of the most enchanting merchandise and souvenirs Orlando’s Harry Potter World has to offer.
• Filch’s Emporium of Confiscated Goods : A unique collection of items that tell tales of mischievous Hogwarts students.
• Owl Post : Send your loved ones an official postcard from the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and let them in on the magic!

For those venturing into Orlando’s Harry Potter World, these Hogsmeade shops offer a magical immersion unlike any other

Related post:  Our Guide to Hogsmeade Village at Universal Studios

Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade Restaurants 2024

A Universal Orlando Harry Potter land would not be complete without dining options for witches and wizards to try some British fare. Perhaps, you’d even fancy a butterbeer , which comes in many different shapes and sizes throughout the lands. No matter what you’re craving, Hogsmeade has something for you with one of the food carts or restaurants.

What are the Universal Orlando Harry Potter restaurants in Hogsmeade?

The three broomsticks.

• Butterbeer stand
• Fresh fruit and snacks stand

The main restaurant in Hogsmeade offers up a variety of classic British food inspired by the books and movies. The Three Broomsticks serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner and begin serving guests around 9:30 AM. This restaurant is a must do whenever we plan a trip to Harry Potter World. 

This bar serves up classic drink choices such as pumpkin juice, butterbeer, and other grown up drinks. One of our best tips is heading to Hog’s Head to get your butterbeer. You’ll typically have a shorter wait than at any of the carts outside!

Butterbeer Stand

You can also grab your favorite butterbeer drink at various stands throughout Hogsmeade. This classic drink comes in two varieties of cold butterbeer and frozen butterbeer!

For a additional information on the restaurants be sure to check out our Complete Guide to Dining at Harry Potter World! 

Diagon Alley at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter 2024

The second land added to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is Diagon Alley (located in Universal Studios). If you are entering from the front of the park walk straight until you hit the Revenge of the Mummy attraction and make a right, then continue until you see the Knight Bus. The area outside of Diagon Alley is themed to fill like London, and you will need to make your way through the brick wall until it opens up as Diagon Alley.

Be prepared especially if you are a die hard Harry Potter fan as the attention to detail is unmatched in Diagon Alley. You will be in the middle of shops and cooked buildings, as well a fire breathing dragon nestled over Gringotts Bank!

Where is Diagon Alley in Universal?

Diagon Alley is located in the back left corner of Universal Studios. Directly to the right of Kings Cross Station and to the left of the Knight bus.

Related post:  The Complete Guide to Hogsmeade vs Diagon Alley at Universal Orlando

Diagon Alley – Wizarding World of Harry Potter Attractions

So now that you have arrived you are probably wondering what are the best things to do at Harry Potter Universal Diagon Alley. As of right now, and besides the Hogwarts express there is only one ride, but it is amazing!

What is the Harry Potter ride Universal has in Diagon Alley?

• Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts

Harry Potter and the Escape of Gringotts

This one of a kind indoor rollercoaster is themed exactly like the Gringotts wizarding bank found in the books and movies. Opening in 2014 it quickly became one of the most popular attractions in Universal Studios . On the downside because it is so popular it tends to have one of the longest wait times in the parks.

That’s why we recommend Early Park Admission to our clients so much! If you take advantage of entering the park one hour earlier than other guests you can ride Harry Potter and the Escape of Gringotts and save time later on in the day!

Be sure to check out our Universal Orlando tickets page to learn how we can help you get EARLY PARK ADMISSION without staying on Universal property!

Related post:  Complete Guide to Knockturn Alley at Universal Orlando

Guide to Harry Potter World Diagon Alley Shops 2024

Although we don’t like to pick favorites, the shops in Diagon Alley are simply magical. The attention to detail that went into not only the inside of the buildings but the outside is amazing. There is also a secret for those looking in the shadows, perhaps where Death Eaters may dwell in Knockturn Alley . Guests can find this section of Diagon Alley by following signs, or even looking for the spooky, dark streets that lead there.

• Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes : A must-visit for novelty gifts, magic jokes, and pranks, with Professor Umbridge amusingly featured.
• Ollivander’s Wand Shop : Offers a magical wand selection experience in two locations, essential for every witch or wizard.
• Madam Malkin’s Robes for All Occasions : Find all your favorite Harry Potter house apparel for a complete wizarding look.
• Quality Quidditch Supplies : The ultimate destination for Quidditch fans, offering gear, brooms, and team jerseys.
• Sugarplum’s Sweet Shop : A delightful candy shop offering whimsical and enchanting treats from the Harry Potter series.
• Magical Menagerie Shop : Adopt your own magical creature from a selection of mystical pets.
• Shutterbuttons : Create moving picture photos to capture magical memories in Diagon Alley.
• Gringotts Money Exchange : Exchange Muggle money for Wizarding currency to spend within the Wizarding World.
• Borgin & Burkes : Located in Knockturn Alley, this shop specializes in dark artifacts and sinister tales from the wizarding world.

Each shop provides a unique piece of the Harry Potter universe, from interactive experiences to memorable souvenirs

Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley Restaurants 2024

Diagon Alley offers an enchanting dining experience with a mix of one main restaurant and various smaller stalls for quick bites, all inspired by J.K. Rowling’s magical universe.

Main Dining:

• The Leaky Cauldron : The centerpiece of Diagon Alley dining, this restaurant serves traditional British fare reminiscent of the Harry Potter series. It offers breakfast until 10:30 AM, and lunch and dinner with a menu that blends comfort food with magical touches. A visit here provides an immersive experience into the wizarding world’s ambiance and flavors.

Treats and Snacks:

• Florean Fortescue’s Ice Cream Parlor : A favorite for unique ice cream flavors inspired by the Harry Potter books, including Salted Caramel Blondie, Sticky Toffee Pudding, Chocolate Chili, and, of course, Butterbeer ice cream.
• The Fountain of Fair Fortune : For a quick drink, this cart offers a selection of beverages, including pumpkin juice, butterbeer, and options for adults.

Related post:  Complete Guide to Dining at Harry Potter World

What Tickets to Buy for Harry Potter World in 2024

It is important to know if you’re planning a trip to Harry Potter World , access to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is included with any valid Universal Orlando ticket. It is important to know that, if you purchase a one day ticket ticket to Universal Studios, then your entry to Diagon Alley will be included in that ticket. If you purchase a one day ticket to Islands of Adventure, your entry to Hogsmeade will be included in that ticket.

If you want to visit both parks in the same trip, consider buying a park-to-park ticket to Universal Orlando .

What Universal ticket will I need when doing both Harry Potter Worlds on the same day?

The only ticket that will allow guests to visit both Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade in the same day is the Universal Orlando park-to-park ticket. It’s important to note that this is also the only ticket which will allow guests to ride the Hogwarts express!

It’s important to note that if you are looking for the least expensive tickets will allow you to visit one theme park per day. We suggest asking these questions when deciding which ticket is the best fit for your family. Do you plan on going and exploring the other rides at each Universal theme park? If so, then you will have plenty to do while visiting one park per day. Or do you plan on spending all of your time in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter ? If so, you might be better off purchasing a Universal park-to-park ticket so you can explore both Harry Potter World lands.

Related post:   How Much Should I Budget for the Wizarding World of Harry Potter?

Planning a Harry Potter Trip FAQ

Q: Do you need park-to-park tickets for Harry Potter?

A: Very simply, if you want to ride every single Harry Potter ride at Universal Orlando yes. The reason being is the park-to-park ticket is required in order to ride the Hogwarts express between the two parks.

Q: Which Universal park is best for Harry Potter?

A: That depends on what you’re looking for when it comes to the Harry Potter universe. If you want to visit Hogwarts, then you have to visit the Universal Studios Harry Potter World in Islands of Adventure. If you want to go into the mines of Gringotts or see a fire breathing dragon, you’ll have to head to the Universal Studios Florida Harry Potter land.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Universal Orlando?

Our   Universal Orlando Crowd Calendar   is the best tool to help you get the most out of your time in the parks. We breakdown the park crowds, park hours of operation, ticket prices by day, and average temperature.

Are You Ready to Plan Your Next Universal Orlando Trip?

If you are planning a trip to Universal Orlando be sure to check out our   discounted multi-day Universal Orlando tickets  and  Universal Orlando vacation package deals  which include  EARLY PARK ADMISSION  to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter!

And to stay up to date on everything going on inside the theme parks be sure to check out our partners at  Themeparktoday.com!

Who We Recommend

Ticket Subtotal: $325.45

Ticket Price Including Tax:

* Your magic rewards program points are automatically calculated into all theme park ticket prices!

Michael Belmont

Michael Belmont is the owner at Theparkprodigy.com, an authorized Disney and Universal travel agent. He specializes in Disney and Universal theme park tickets and vacation packages, as well as daily park plans to help optimize vacation time. Michael and The Park Prodigy have been featured on ABC’s Florida affiliate, WTFV, as well as over 10 Disney focused blogs. As owner, Michael manages The Park Prodigy blog and social media, a Disney themed podcast, and a Disney and Universal focused YouTube channel. Prior to starting The Park Prodigy, Michael was a long time Disney and Universal enthusiast, frequent visitor of the parks, and even served as a Walt Disney World Cast Member in Orlando, Florida!

RELATED PRODUCTS

Walt Disney World Tickets

Save time and money on your next Walt Disney World vacation with The Park Prodigy. With our discounted Walt Disney World theme park tickets guests can choose from the following parks!

• Magic Kingdom Park
• Disney’s Holywood Studios
• Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Universal Orlando Tickets

Save up to three hours at Universal Orlando with free vacation planning tools and added benefits. With our Universal tickets guests can choose from the following parks!

• Universal Studios
• Islands of Adventure

Disneyland Tickets

Save time and money with our your next vacation with The Park Prodigy. With our discounted Disneyland tickets guests can choose from the following parks!

• Disney’s California Adventure Park

A Muggle’s Guide to Universal Orlando’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Whether you’re a long-time Harry Potter fan who’s still waiting on their Hogwarts acceptance letter or a theme-park-loving Muggle who’s just there for the rides, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a must for anyone visiting Universal Orlando. So, grab your Portkeys and your Floo Powder, as we take a trip to Harry Potter World in Florida.

Visiting The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando

At Universal Orlando , you can don your best dress robes and visit two unique places in the wizarding world: Hogsmeade at Universal’s Islands of Adventure and Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida. While wannabe witches and wizards can walk the hallowed halls of Hogwarts at other Universal Studios theme parks throughout the world including Hollywood, Japan, and the forthcoming location in Beijing, Universal Orlando is currently the only place where Muggles (that’s non-magical folk, if you’re not up on the lingo) can wander the crooked cobblestone streets of Diagon Alley. 

Cost of Harry Potter World Tickets

If you’re wondering, “just how much are tickets to Harry Potter World Orlando?”, the answer is a little bit complicated. With Harry Potter lands in both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, if you want to visit the entire Wizarding World in Orlando, you can’t just buy standard Universal Orlando tickets . You’ll need either a 2-Park – 1 Day Ticket or a multiday ticket. (Oh, Universal and your crafty, moneymaking ways.)

If you only have 1 day at Universal Orlando and you want to go to both Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley, Park-to-Park access is key, as it allows you to get into both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure on the same day. 2-Park – 1 Day Tickets start at $164 for adults and $159 for children ages 3 to 9. 

If you have multiple days in the Wizarding World and the rest of the Universal parks, then getting a Park-to-Park ticket is nice, but not necessary. 2-Park – 2-Day Tickets (with access to only one park per day) start at $106.50 per day for adults and $101.50 per day for children. 2-Park – 2-Day Tickets (with access to both parks each day) start at $136.50 per day for adults and $131.50 per day for children.

In general, if you’d like to spend some time in Harry Potter World as well as going on rides in the rest of the parks, especially if this is your first time visiting, we’d recommend you spend at least one day each at Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. If this isn’t your first time to Universal Orlando and the Wizarding World, all you care about is Harry Potter World, or you simply don’t have the time, then you can get by with only one day – as long as you can park hop. 

First Stop: Diagon Alley at Universal Studios or Hogsmeade at Islands of Adventure?

Alright, you’ve got your tickets – now, which park should you visit first? It really depends on you and what you’d like to see first. If going on the Wizarding World’s newest ride, Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, is a priority (which it should be because the ride is incredible), then we’d recommend going to Islands of Adventure first so you can get that out of the way first as the line can get exceptionally long. 

Otherwise, I like going to Diagon Alley at Universal Studios first, then ending the day at Hogsmeade in Islands of Adventure. Why? Well, because it’s the same thing Harry did, of course! Think of this as your introduction to the magical world before experiencing the wonders of Hogwarts. 

Remember, whichever park you decide to go to first, as long as you have a Universal ticket with park-hopping, getting to the other part of the Wizarding World is easy with the Hogwarts Express. (More on that later.)

Wizarding World of Harry Potter Musts

When you’re visiting the Wizarding World, there are a couple of things that you should try if you have the chance for the quintessential Hogwarts student experience: Butterbeer and interactive wands. As you’re reading, you’ll also want to keep an eye out for my Magical Tips for Muggles for helpful hints on how to make the most of your time in the Wizarding World and bits of Harry Potter-inspired hidden magic to look for as you’re exploring. 

Butterbeer is an iconic treat in the magical world created by J.K. Rowling and the signature drink of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. In the real world, this popular brew tastes like a mix between butterscotch and cream soda topped with a thick, whipped foam which lends the drink most of its sweetness. And don’t let the name fool you, Butterbeer is non-alcoholic. 

As a beverage, you can get either Cold or Frozen Butterbeer, while Hot Butterbeer becomes available in the colder months (which tastes akin to butterscotch-flavored hot cocoa. You can also get the popular flavor in Butterbeer Ice Cream – both soft-serve and hard-packed – as well as Butterbeer Potted Cream and Butterbeer Fudge. 

Interactive Wands

To really live out your Hogwarts student dreams (Gryffindor forever!), you absolutely need an Interactive Wand. Yes, they’re expensive, but if you’re a nerd for all things Harry Potter, then they are also oh so worth it. Not just a souvenir for when you get home, these little beauties are what literally bring the Wizarding World to life, helping you to work your magic to move items, make sounds, and more.

As you wander through Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade, be on the lookout for special Interactive Wand locations notated by special medallions inlaid in the ground (you’ll also receive a map when you purchase your wand). These markers indicate which “spell” you can cast using your wand in that area, showing you which way to face and how to move your wand. Then, just wait for the magic to happen! 

Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida

The only Harry Potter land of its kind, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley packs a ton of atmosphere into a relatively small space. While there are really only 2 rides on this side of the Wizarding World, what Diagon Alley lacks in thrills, it more than makes up for in charm. 

London Waterfront

As you approach The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, the first thing you see is the London waterfront. King’s Cross Station towers to the side, but don’t make a run for Platform 9¾ just yet. The real magic sits behind that brick wall near Leicester Square Station. But hold on to your broomsticks, don’t head through just yet – there are some wonderful details here that deserve to be explored before you really enter the Wizarding World. This is a great time for your first… 

Magical Tip for Muggles:  This may be a Harry Potter theme park, but the Wizarding World is about the journey, not the destination. Yes, there are rides and a few of them are pretty great, but this part of Universal Orlando is really meant to be savored, not rushed through so you can cram as much as possible into your day. 

The Wizarding World is much more than a collection of some rides, restaurants, and shops – it’s an entire literary universe made real. When J.K. Rowling was writing the books, she came up with a literal world of details – many of which have been included in the parks. To make the most of your experience (and that’s what it is: an experience), take some to explore and appreciate the little things. 

Across from the entrance to Diagon Alley, the Knight Bus is parked for the perfect photo opportunity. Most of the time, the Knight Bus driver stands just outside, making chitchat with photo takers along with an animatronic shrunken head who heckles weary travelers. Number 12 Grimmauld Place , the former home of Sirius Black and the headquarters of the Order of the Phoenix, is just down the street and also worth a quick visit. Keep an eye on the upper windows – you may just see the house elf Kreacher pull back the curtains to take a peek outside.  

Before you walk through the magically shifting bricks and into the wizard shopping district beyond, you’ll also want to pop into the red telephone booth . Not to make a call – this is the visitors’ entrance to the Ministry of Magic. Just dial MAGIC 62442 to be connected. 

Diagon Alley 

This is the first part you see when you enter from the London waterfront. As a Harry Potter fan, while I certainly love seeing Hogwarts loom over the village of Hogsmeade, nothing compares to the feeling I got when seeing Diagon Alley for the first time. From the storefronts with windows filled with magical items to the vibrant advertisements hawking wizarding wares to the dragon spitting fire from the top of Gringotts, walking along the cobblestones here truly feels like stepping into the world of Harry Potter. 

As you wander around, be sure to stop into the many shops and look around. Even if you’re not shopping, many stores have unique bits of magic that breathe life into the world which are fun to see.  This is also a great place to grab something to eat. Whether you’re looking for a full meal, a quick snack, or just something to drink, there are a few places for you to choose from. Here are some of our favorite Harry Potter stores and dining options:

Leaky Cauldron

The Leaky Cauldron is the only full restaurant in Diagon Alley. Of the two quick-service restaurants in Harry Potter World in Orlando (Leaky Cauldron and Three Broomsticks), the Leaky Cauldron is my favorite. While both options serve up classic British eats like Fish & Chips and Shepherd’s Pie, the Leaky Cauldron has even more English favorites for a true pub experience. Before you leave, stop and look at the sign for a minute. See those water droplets? They don’t call it the “Leaky” Cauldron for nothing. 

Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour

At the end of the street, in the shadow of the dragon, sits Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour. This pastel-hued sweet shop was a favorite haunt of Harry’s when he lived temporarily in the Leaky Cauldron during Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. Harry’s favorite flavor? Strawberry and Peanut Butter, which is available here along with other flavors like Butterbeer, Salted Caramel Blondie, Sticky Toffee Pudding, Earl Grey & Lavender, and more. 

Ollivander’s Wand Shop in Diagon Alley

The best wandmaker in the Wizarding World – and the one Harry gets his wand from – is Ollivander. Luckily, he’s set up shop in Diagon Alley. They say that the wand chooses the wizard, so see what match gets made during the interactive Ollivanders Experience. If you’re not the special witch or wizard to have their wand chosen for them, no worries – you can choose your own in the attached store. Interactive and non-interactive wands are both available. 

Magical Tip for Muggles: Wanting to take a picture of the dragon (it’s a Ukrainian Ironbelly, if you’re curious)? Rather than standing transfixed in front of it, move off to the side of it instead. For the perfect timing, listen for the dragon to rumble right before breathing fire for an especially impressive photo.  

Looking for a Harry Potter souvenir of a different kind? There are several other shops along Diagon Alley that are worth a look. Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes is a must-visit for fans of the entrepreneurial Weasley twins, and anyone in the market for magical toys and tricks. Quality Quidditch Supplies stocks gear and apparel for the popular magical sport, while Madam Malkin’s Robes for All Occasions is the place to go for Hogwarts robes and other Harry Potter-inspired clothing. Or, star in your own moving portraits at Shutterbutton’s Photography Studio. 

Knockturn Alley

Knockturn Alley is the underbelly of London’s magical community, where witches and wizards go for evil artifacts and ingredients for the darkest of potions. This creepy corner of Diagon Alley is home to one store, along with several interactive spell locations. Before walking into the depths of Knockturn Alley, I suggest you sit for a minute or two near the entryway to the area to let your eyes adjust to the darkness, both for safety purposes and so you can really appreciate more of the area’s many design details. 

Borgin and Burkes

Borgin and Burkes is the place where Harry first comes face to face with dark magic. While you can buy all manner of Voldemort and Death Eater-inspired items here, it is also stuffed with Easter eggs – or rather, powerful artifacts filled with dark magic – from the books and movies. Stop, look, and listen near the disappearing cabinet (you can hear a chirping canary that’s been locked inside – I wonder how it got there?) and a chest with an angry Boggart locked inside. 

Magical Tip for Muggles: Before you leave Knockturn Alley, take a peek at the basement windows below Borgin and Burkes. See that green light that keeps flashing? Experienced witches and wizards know to steer clear of that ominous sight: Avada Kedavra, or the Killing Curse, emits an emerald-green jet that knocks the target dead. And it seems like someone is practicing – best make haste back out into the light of day.

Horizont Alley

First, Diagon Alley; then, Knockturn Alley; next, Horizont Alley. Diagonally, nocturnally, and horizontally – get it?  It might not be the headlining street in this magical shopping district, but this next thoroughfare in Diagon Alley hosts a few Wizarding World attractions, including Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts and several more interactive spell locations.

 If you’re parched, The Fountain of Fair Fortune is the place to go for all manner of magical beverages. Butterbeer is available here, along with an array of other unique non-alcoholic drinks, or opt for something boozy instead, like a glass of beer or a hard cider spiked with Fire Whisky.

Nearby, the Magical Menagerie sells a host of plushies and other items inspired by the Wizarding World’s magical creatures. While you’re visiting, stop and listen to the snake in his tank. He’s fluent in both English and Parseltongue, just like the boa constrictor Harry met at the zoo in the first book. 

Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts

Gringotts Wizarding Bank is at the heart of Diagon Alley, and the main entrance for Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts. This unique ride is a fusion between a roller coaster and a dark ride, with heavy use of Universal’s beloved screens. The queue here is long and highly immersive, with animatronic goblins lining the bank lobby counting out knuts and galleons and an “elevator ride” into the bowels of the bank. Once you hop in your ride vehicle, it’s a rollicking ride through the bank vaults. Just keep an eye out for He Who Must Not Be Named and Bellatrix Lestrange. 

Carkitt Market

Carkitt Market is the glassed-in neighborhood in Diagon Alley and the land’s entertainment area. Here, you’ll come across a number of interactive spell locations as well as several more shops and dining options. Wiseacre’s Wizard Equipment , which stocks wizard supplies and Hogwarts gear, and Scribbulus , an outpost for stationery, are right next to Escape from Gringotts. Globus Mundi is a wizarding travel agency, but they also sell apparel and other accessories.  

Near the front of Carkitt Market, Sugarplum’s Sweetshop offers Harry Potter foods like Chocolate Frogs and Bertie Bott’s Every-Flavour Beans, while The Hopping Pot dishes up Butterbeer, other beverages, and a few light snacks. Finally, Slytherins and others with an affinity for the dark arts (or those who simply prefer less of a crowd) may want to buy their wands at Wands by Gregorovitch instead of Ollivander’s. 

Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees

Over on the Carkitt Market stage, Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees, a vaunted singing sensation and talented witch known as “The Singing Sorceress”, serenades visitors with some of her greatest hits. Molly Weasley is a fan, her favorite song being “ A Cauldron Full of Hot, Strong Love”. 

The Tales of Beedle the Bard

Or, if you have a flair for the dramatic, you may want to check out The Tales of Beedle the Bard instead. Put on by the Wizarding Academy of Dramatic Arts, this stage show uses a magical mix of props and puppetry for a dramatic retelling of two of the wizarding world’s most beloved fables: The Fountain of Fair Fortune and The Tale of the Three Brothers. 

Costco Universal Studios Tickets: 2024 Offers & Savings

Magical Tip for Muggles: Don’t skip over the Gringotts Money Exchange . Though considered a shop, this little gem is more like a currency exchange booth, with an audio-animatronic Gringotts goblin on hand to answer any questions you may have. While you won’t find any gold galleons or bronze knuts here, you can trade your Muggle money for Gringotts banknotes which can be used throughout The Wizarding World of Harry Potter (or saved for an extra-special souvenir). 

Hop on the Hogwarts Express from King’s Cross to Hogsmeade

Just like 1 st through 7 th years heading to Hogwarts for the school year, the easiest way to get between Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade (AKA Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure) is to take the Hogwarts Express. In Diagon Alley, the Hogwarts Express leaves from Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross Station. To take the Hogwarts Express from either station, you must have a Park-to-Park Universal ticket. 

The Hogwarts Express is a ride-meets-transportation. Don’t expect any thrills here, however. This slow-moving ride recreates the experience of taking the Hogwarts Express. Leaving King’s Cross, you’ll see the streets of London give way to the English countryside just “outside” your “window.” Keep your chocolate close by though, because the dementors have been known to stop the train from time to time. 

Hogsmeade at Universal’s Islands of Adventure

If you’re in the mood for more Harry Potter rides, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade is the place to be. This Harry Potter land is broken into two different sections: Hogsmeade and Hogwarts. 

Hogsmeade Village

Stuck in a perpetually snow-covered winter wonderland (at least at Islands of Adventure, anyway), this quaint hamlet is home to the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry and is the only all-wizarding settlement in Great Britain. Like Diagon Alley, this pastoral town is made for wandering. So, grab a cup of Butterbeer and do some window-gazing (sorry, no shopping – most of these stores aren’t open for business) at the fascinating wizarding wares on offer. If you’ve got an Interactive Wand, you can also practice your magic skills at several spell spots here. 

Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure

Opened in 2019, Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure is the headlining attraction in Hogsmeade and the highlight of the entire land. This unique storytelling roller coaster is arguably the best in all of Florida, at least until the VelociCoaster officially opens. Animatronics of the magical creatures in Hagrid’s care, a long track, and multiple launches keep the fun coming for 3½ minutes. Plus, with the option to ride on Hagrid’s motorbike itself or shotgun in the sidecar, you’ll want to ride at least twice for the full experience. 

Owl Post & the Owlery

Ever wished you could send mail by owl like they do in the Wizarding World? Well, now you can(‘t). Sorry to get your hopes up – owls still aren’t able to hand-deliver correspondence and issues of The Daily Prophet, but you can mail a letter from here with a special Hogsmeade postmark. While you’re there, stop by to listen to the Howlers being sent. If you’re there long enough, you can even listen in on the messages from angry neighbors and upset parents. 

Three Broomsticks

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter’s other main dining outlet is the Three Broomsticks. While the Leaky Cauldron features a menu that’s decidedly more authentic, the Three Broomsticks serves up a mix of British favorites and comfort food classics like Fish & Chips, Beef Pasties, Rotisserie Smoked Chicken, and Spareribs. Also attached to the Three Broomsticks is the Hog’s Head , favored haunt of Dumbledore’s Army and the place to go if you’re looking for extra-magical to drink (i.e. boozy) in Hogsmeade at Islands of Adventure. 

Honeydukes is the first store Harry experienced on his first (unofficial) trip into Hogsmeade during his 3 rd year at Hogwarts and is our favorite sweets shop in the Wizarding World. With a kaleidoscope of treats piled in jars up to the ceiling, this is a fun place to walk through whether you’re hunting for some Chocolate Frogs, Pumpkin Juice, or Cauldron Cakes, or simply looking to soak up some atmosphere. 

Triwizard Spirit Rally

Get into the spirit of the Triwizard Tournament at the Triwizard Spirit Rally. Hogwarts may be hosting this magical competition, but students from two competing wizarding schools – Durmstrang Institute and Beauxbatons Academy of Magic – are also taking part. Check out the competition and show your Hogwarts school spirit at the Triwizard Spirit Rally, with performances by students from the visiting schools. 

Hoping (or rather, hopping) for some a cappella, Hogwarts-style? Hogwarts’ Frog Choir puts the throaty rumbles of these magical pets to good use. While the frogs play bass, students from Gryffindor, Slytherin, Ravenclaw, and Hufflepuff houses sing along to some of their favorite wizarding songs. 

Magical Tip for Muggles: Need a place to go to the restroom? Stop into the bathroom next to The Three Broomsticks and the Hog’s Head – just look for the Public Conveniences sign. Inside, you’ll get an unexpected visit from Moaning Myrtle. While she usually likes to haunt one of the girl’s bathrooms up in Hogwarts from the comfort of the u-bend, every once in a while, she likes to pop into Hogsmeade and pout. 

Still looking for other magical items and souvenirs? Dervish and Banges is a one-stop-shop for Hogwarts clothing and accessories as well as Quidditch equipment. And if you didn’t get a chance to get your Harry Potter wands at Universal Studios, you can also visit the Hogsmeade branch of Ollivander’s Wand Shop .

Hogwarts Castle

Hogwarts Castle is the pièce de resistance of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade. If you’re anything like me, fans of Harry Potter are sure to come down with a case of goosebumps as soon as its grand spires come into view. The castle itself is home to the land’s other main ride – Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey – as well as another gift shop, with another ride just next door. 

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey

As impressive as it is to walk past the rows of goblins in the Escape from Gringotts queue, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey takes the cake, with the queue wrapping around and through the castle grounds. With stops in Dumbledore’s office and the Defense Against the Dark Arts classroom, this is one line Harry Potter fans will have no trouble waiting in.

Once you’re through, you’ll set off on a Hermione-powered flight (she really is the brightest witch of her age) across Hogwarts as you take part in a Quidditch match, run from a dragon, almost get whomped by the Whomping Willow, and get chased by dementors.  When you’re done, you’ll empty off into Filch’s Emporium of Confiscated Goods , perfect for grabbing one last memento of your time in the Wizarding World. 

Flight of the Hippogriff

Looking for a ride for even the littlest witches and wizards? Then the Flight of the Hippogriff is for you. This easy-going family coaster swoops and dives just like Harry’s friend Buckbeak, making for a kid-friendly romp past Hagrid’s hut. 

Well ya’ll, that wraps up the Muggle’s Guide to Universal Orlando’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Which part of the Wizarding World is your favorite? Do you like your Butterbeer hot, cold, or frozen? Does the wand really choose the wizard? Let us know in the comments!

• Entertainment

Universal's Harry Potter vacation package includes a letter from Hogwarts

• Sharon Kennedy Wynne Times staff

Universal Orlando's relaunch of its popular Wizarding World-themed vacation package hits Harry Potter fans right in the sweet spot: They will get their very own letter from Hogwarts.

One of the new enhancements in Universal's Harry Potter vacation package, available now through Dec. 20 for Florida residents, is a keepsake box that arrives in the mail with the names of the family members and a welcome letter and travel guide.

The box is filled with goodies such as Harry Potter, Ron and Hermione luggage tags, as well as lanyards for Hogwarts Railways. As avid fans of the boy wizard know, the adventure begins when Harry gets a letter just before his 11th birthday from Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, his first indication that he's a wizard.

Starting at $135 per person per night, the package includes three nights in a Universal hotel (the price goes up for luxury hotels), two-day park-to-park tickets for both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, plus two additional park tickets that can be used at those theme parks or Volcano Bay water park.

The package also includes a breakfast at the Leaky Cauldron in Universal Studios and a session at Shutterbutton's Photography Studio in Diagon Alley at Universal Studios for a free DVD photo album and one 8-by-10 photo.

The idea of immersing yourself in the world of your favorite characters has not only brought unheard of double-digit attendance spikes since the Wizarding World of Harry Potter opened in 2010, but other theme parks have also made big investments in "lands," including Disney's Avatar -themed Pandora, the new Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge, opening Aug. 29, and SeaWorld's life-sized replica of Sesame Street.

Star Wars fans will get their own immersive vacation package someday. Disney has announced plans for a space-themed hotel where the windows look like portals into outer space. From there, guests will shuttle to the 14-acre Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge at Hollywood Studios.

Disney has said the hotel, currently under construction at Walt Disney World, will offer a "seamless connection" to Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge.

Some new features to look for at Universal this fall are the new Hagrid-themed coaster in Islands of Adventure and a fall debut of a light projection show called "Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle." The show will use high-tech projection mapping, making Hogwarts Castle come alive with Dementors, Death Eaters and other sinister creatures. The show, which already debuted at Universal Studios Hollywood in California, included Universal's first use of drones in a theme park. At one point, Harry Potter's Patronus filled the night sky in the form of dozens of glowing drones.

The park has not announced a schedule for the light show, giving a debut date of "fall" in Orlando.

Explore Tampa Bay’s sights and bites

Subscribe to our free Do & Dine newsletter

You’re all signed up!

Want more of our free, weekly newsletters in your inbox? Let’s get started.

For information about the Wizarding World vacation package, go to universalorlando.com .

Contact Sharon Kennedy Wynne at [email protected]. Follow @SharonKWn.

Events, Family and Travel reporter

MORE FOR YOU

• Advertisement

ONLY AVAILABLE FOR SUBSCRIBERS

The Tampa Bay Times e-Newspaper is a digital replica of the printed paper seven days a week that is available to read on desktop, mobile, and our app for subscribers only. To enjoy the e-Newspaper every day, please subscribe.

The Manic Wanderer

The Complete Wizarding World of Harry Potter Guide and Two-Day Itinerary

If you’ve spent years dreaming of one day receiving your Hogwarts letter, then a trip to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Universal Orlando will feel like a dream come true. From the amazing Hogwarts replica, delicious Butterbeer, fun rides, and plenty of places to explore you’ll believe you’ve been transported to that magical world. I’ve traveled to Universal twice now, and am still awestruck by the level of detail, and wonder found within the theme parks. If you’re planning a visit then read on to find the complete Wizarding World of Harry Potter guide and two-day itinerary. 

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means I’ll earn a small commission if you purchase through these links at no extra cost to you.   As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

What to Know Before Visiting the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

First and foremost, The Wizarding World is in both Universal Parks: Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios . On the Islands of Adventure side, you’ll find the village of Hogsmeade and Hogwarts, along with several rides. In Universal Studios you can find Diagon Alley, Grimmauld Place, and the Knight Bus. In this guide and two-day itinerary, you’ll visit both parks so you won’t miss a thing that the Wizarding World has to offer. 

Where to Find Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley

Both Harry Potter areas are somewhat out of the way, but once you understand how to get there it’s easy to find. Hogsmeade in Islands of Adventure is in the northern part of the park between Jurassic Park and The Lost Continent. Plenty of signs point to Hogsmeade once you near The Lost Continent section of the park. However, the entrance to Diagon Alley, found in the back of Universal Studios is unmarked. Just look for the brick wall next to the Kings Cross Station and walk on in. You can also see the purple Knight Bus across from the entrance.

Download the Universal Orlando App

If you plan to have any sit-down meals in the Wizarding World, then you’ll want the app for mobile food and drink orders. It cuts down on waiting time and makes for a seamless dining experience. Additionally, you can purchase park tickets, check park hours, use a digital map, and view ride wait times. The ability to see wait times for rides truly made my Wizarding World experience smooth and enjoyable. The waiting lines update in real-time, and you can utilize this to your full advantage to pick and choose where to go next based on that. I never waited longer than 45 minutes for any ride.

Purchase Park-to-Park Tickets 

Buying park-to-park tickets is my number one tip for visiting the Wizarding World. The Hogwarts Express, which runs between Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley is only accessible with the purchase of park-to-park tickets and is not to be missed. Like Hogwarts Castle, the train and the stations are beautifully detailed and accurate to the story, but best of all it feels like being on another attraction. 

Both Kings Cross Station and Hogsmeade Station have unique surprises while riding the train and should be experienced each way. On top of the incredible joy of riding the Hogwarts Express itself, it’s also a handy way to travel to and from each park instead of making the long trek in the Florida heat. Park-to-park tickets are more expensive than standard one-day tickets but are worth the extra cost. 

How Much Time to Spend in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

How much time to spend in the Wizarding World comes down to personal preference. Can you see and do everything in one day? Probably, if crowds are lower for that day. Would I recommend trying it? No, especially for a first-time visit. One day also leaves no time to explore the other lands in Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. Plus, that one day would be extremely rushed, and it’s better to have that extra day to take more things in. I found that two days was the perfect amount of time to see everything in the Wizarding World, explore other Universal lands, and go on plenty of rides.

Cost for Two Days in the Wizarding World

How much tickets will cost depends on the month and day you plan on visiting. There is the additional variable of if you are eligible for any promotions, so check out what current deals Universal has on their website before buying tickets. Additionally, the longer you stay the lower the cost of tickets will be. As of May 2023, the starting price for a 1-day park-to-park ticket for an adult is $164 and $159 for children. 

As a general rule, ticket prices are higher on weekends, holidays, and during the summer months. If possible, target off-season travel like September, end of January, and end of April during the week. In full transparency, for two adults in May 2023 with tickets and food, we averaged $500 per day. 

Best Time to Visit the Wizarding World

The best time to visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter Orlando varies each year. This is based on different factors, such as when athletic and dance competitions will be in town and when periods like spring break fall on. Overall, the summer months and the holiday weeks of Thanksgiving, Christmas, Presidents’ Day, and Easter are the least ideal times to visit due to crowds. Late spring through early fall in Florida is also when the state experiences its warmest temperatures which is something to consider when choosing when to visit. As mentioned above, there are lower-season times to visit such as September, the end of January, the end of April, and early March. 

Know All the Butterbeer Options!

Did you even go to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter if you didn’t enjoy several Butterbeers? You could, but you would miss out on the best drink in the parks! There are three different Butterbeer drink options: hot, cold, and frozen. Unfortunately, it’s always been too warm in Florida during my visits to sample the hot Butterbeer, but I’ve heard it’s amazing.

Besides the three Butterbeer drinks, there’s also Butterbeer-flavored food to try in the Wizarding World. There’s the beloved Butterbeer ice cream, a soft serve vanilla swirled with thick butterscotch. Butterbeer fudge is another tasty option with its butterscotch flavor and shortbread foundation. Lastly, there’s the Butterbeer potted cream which is similar to a pudding yet lighter.

Where to Find All the Butterbeer

Frozen and Cold Butterbeer -  Hogsmeade: Butterbeer street carts, Hog’s Head, and The Three Broomsticks.  Diagon Alley: The Hopping Pot, The Leaky Cauldron, and The Fountain of Fair Fortune.

Hot Butterbeer -  Hogsmeade: Hog’s Head, The Three Broomsticks, and the Butterbeer street carts.  Diagon Alley: The Hopping Pot and The Leaky Cauldron.

Butterbeer Ice Cream - Hogsmeade: The Three Broomsticks. Diagon Alley: The Hopping Pot, Florean Fortescue's Ice-Cream Parlour, The Leaky Cauldron, and The Fountain of Fair Fortune.

Butterbeer Fudge - Hogsmeade: Honeydukes.  Diagon Alley: Sugarplum’s Sweet Shop.

Butterbeer Potted Cream - Hogsmeade: The Three Broomsticks. Diagon Alley: The Leaky Cauldron.

Understand the Ride Lockers System 

For any thrill rides and some 3D/4D rides, you'll need to put your possessions in a park locker. The standard lockers are on the smaller side, consider this when deciding which bag to bring to the Wizarding World. The lockers are 14 in x 5.5 in x 16.9 in. For reference, a mini Hogwarts Loungefly backpack fit fine along with a gift bag and a few loose items. You’ll want to make sure to empty your pockets to store in the locker apart from your park tickets.

The single-use lockers are located near the attractions that require them and are free. They also easily open and close one time with the scan of a park ticket. Larger lockers are available for a fee, but I would avoid them unless necessary. The Wizarding World rides that use lockers are Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey and Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure in Hogsmeade, and Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts in Diagon Alley.

Note: You must have your park tickets to reopen your locker!  

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Two-Day Itinerary

Rise and shine because this is going to be an early day! If you’re staying at a Universal property resort, which I highly recommend, then it’ll be extra early too. For those who choose to stay at a Universal Hotel, you have the opportunity to take advantage of early park admission. This gives you an additional hour at one of the parks before they open to the public. Which park offering early admission changes based on the date, so check the Universal app or website for hours. 

Islands of Adventure - Hogsmeade 

Before jumping to the first stop, when you walk through the entrance to Hogsmeade, pause for a moment to take it all in. Admire the snow-capped buildings, the instrumental music playing in the background, and Hogwarts off in the distance. Congratulations, you’ve made it to Hogwarts. 

First Stop: Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure 

The first stop you’ll want to make is Hagrid’s Motorbike Adventure which takes you on a thrilling ride through the Forbidden Forest. It’s a unique attraction that combines the fast adventure of a roller coaster with immersive storytelling. This is undoubtedly one of Universal’s most popular rides and can see hours-long wait times. The ride is best attempted immediately after entering the park to get on the line as early as possible.

So, is Hagrid’s ride worth the wait? YES! It is absolutely worth the wait. Some elements I loved on the ride were going backward and a slight drop. It’s a thrill without being too extreme, and the perfect way to start your two-day Wizarding World adventure.

Second Stop: Butterbeer Carts 

All that exhilaration (and probably a bit of waiting) from Hagrid’s Motorbike Adventure is sure to leave you parched, and what better way to quench your thirst than with your first Butterbeer? I say first because you’ll want more than one throughout the day. The sweet cream soda and butterscotch drink are delicious and addicting. There are two Butterbeer carts in Hogsmeade. The first is next to Honeydukes, and the second cart is near the Hogwarts (aka Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride) entrance in a corner off to the side. The lines move fast at either cart, so choose whichever you’re closest to.

Third Stop: Pose for Pictures With Hogwarts

As soon as Hogwarts Castle comes into view, I immediately feel a sense of being at home. I’m transported to another world, one filled with magic and wonder. Each time I see Hogwarts is special, a new memory is made, and I love being able to capture that in a photo. Hogsmeade has two unique perspectives to capture photos with Hogwarts.

Photo Location # 1: The Front of Hogwarts (The Forbidden Journey Entrance)

Near the second Butterbeer cart, you won’t be able to miss this spot as it’s the entrance to the Forbidden Journey ride. This angle has Hogwarts in its full glory directly facing you. The castle stands atop a rocky cliff, each tower visible, with spires jutting into the sky, and statues up front. You’re also surrounded by crowds, who will be in your shot as this is a ride entrance, but honestly, it doesn’t take away from the picture. It also makes for a great selfie spot if the crowds are too much for a regular picture. 

Photo Location # 2: The side of Hogwarts on the bridge 

This is a favorite picture spot in not only all of the Wizarding World but all of Universal. The location is the bridge between Hogsmeade and Jurassic Park. Looking at the Islands of Adventure map, the bridge shows as the connection between the two lands in the park. The bridge provides an unobstructed view of the side of Hogwarts. Standing behind the bridge, the castle towers above, surrounded by lush greenery. Best of all, there will be zero other guests in your pictures because there is plenty of space to spread out. Be prepared to take tons of pictures!

Find my Gryffindor scarf here ! Find my Gryffindor headband here !

Fourth Stop: Visit Ollivanders Wand Shop 

Hogsmeade has plenty of stores to enjoy, but on the first day, you’ll want to visit Ollivanders Wand Shop. There are two Ollivanders in the Wizarding World, so if the one in Hogsmeade is too crowded, you can try the one in Diagon Alley instead later in the day. Ollivanders is no ordinary store, every 15 - 25 minutes they hold a wand-choosing ceremony. In this experience, the wand chooses a lucky wizard among a group of guests. There’s no guarantee to be selected, but it’s still a fun activity as a Harry Potter fan.

A variety of wands are available for purchase that are either traditional or interactive. The main difference between the two types of wands is that the traditional ones are purely decorative whereas the interactive ones are used for spellwork in the Wizarding World. Traditional wands are character-based and have a smaller selection but a cheaper price tag of $55 per wand as of May 2023. On the other hand, there’s a wide selection of interactive wands to choose from, with a slightly higher price of $63 per wand in May 2023.

Fifth Stop: Grab Sweet Treats at Honeydukes

Honeydukes is a colorful candy shop filled with every kind of Harry Potter-themed treat, unique merchandise, and a small bakery. Like the sweetshop in the Harry Potter movies, it has a bright pink staircase and green shelves lined with various candies. You can expect to find Chocolate Frogs, Bertie Bott’s Every Flavor Beans, and Exploding Bon Bons to name a few. In the small bakery section, there are items such as Cauldron Cakes, Pumpkin Pasties, and even Butterbeer Fudge.

Sixth Stop: Ride Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey 

Now it’s time to ride The Forbidden Journey! Luckily, wait times are usually much shorter for this than the other Wizarding World rides, and can range from 10 minutes to an hour. I never waited longer than 30 minutes during either visit. Not to mention, moving through the line is an experience in itself!

After entering through Hogwarts gates, you’ll pass Dumbledore’s office, the Gryffindor common room, and the Sorting Hat while waiting in the line queue. Then on this dark thrill ride, you are completely immersed in the Wizarding World. There are so many tributes to Harry Potter that each time I go on it, I find something new that I missed!

Seventh Stop: Take the Hogwarts Express 

After a morning in Hogsmeade, it’s time to travel to Diagon Alley via the Hogwarts Express. Riding the train each way at the Wizarding World is an attraction in itself. There are fun surprises to look out for on the window and through the closed train door. It’s also air-conditioned with plenty of seat space, making it a great way to relax before the next part of your day at the parks.

Universal Studios - Diagon Alley

Kings Cross is more detailed than Hogsmeade Station with plenty of subtle tributes found throughout the station. Lookout for the posters on the walls and the piles of trunks scattered here. You will be taking the Hogwarts Express back this way on day two of this itinerary, so there’ll be plenty of time to catch any details you miss tomorrow. 

Exiting the station, you’ll find yourself in Muggle London. There are display shops lining the street until you see the red phone booth. You’ll come across a large brick wall with the unmissable large purple Knight Bus across from it. This is the entrance to Diagon Alley.

First Stop: Watch the Gringotts Dragon Spit Fire! 

Before moving on to the next destination, take a moment to appreciate the surroundings of Diagon Alley. You’ll also want to hang out to watch the large dragon perched atop Gringotts bank spit fire. Fair warning, it’s a big ball of flame, so the closer you get to the dragon, the more likely you are to feel that heat. The show only lasts for a few seconds, but it’s an astounding sight. Gringotts dragon spits fire every 10-15 minutes, and you’ll know when it’s time when the dragon starts to make a rumbling sound. 

Second Stop: Sit Down for Lunch at the Leaky Cauldron

This is where mobile food ordering on the Universal app is important. Reservations aren’t available at the Leaky Cauldron, but mobile ordering will keep wait times short. The menu is classic British pub fare, but there’s enough variety for anyone to find something. 

I ordered the Cottage Pie, it was tasty, despite a lack of seasoning, and very filling. Some other menu favorites include Bangers and Mash, Fisherman’s Pie, and Beef, Lamb, and Guinness Stew. Overall, the food is good, not great, but the ambiance is its selling point. The Leaky Cauldron is modeled after its appearance in the movies with a cathedral ceiling, long wooden beams overhead, mismatched wall décor, and rustic metal chandeliers. It made me feel like I was in  Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban . 

Third Stop: Wander Through Diagon Alley

This is more of a recommendation on how to spend the next few hours of the afternoon in Diagon Alley. Which is to take it all in! Go get a Butterbeer from The Hopping Pot and walk around. There are so many unique and amazing touches sprinkled throughout the area that you’ll spot something different on every wall and hidden in corners. Diagon Alley has plenty of shops to stop into, but I saved most of these for day 2. You can also check out Ollivanders here if you skipped it at Hogsmeade earlier. 

Fourth Stop: Skulk in the Shadows of Knockturn Alley

Calling all witches and wizards interested in the Dark Arts! Hidden within the bright and magical Diagon Alley is a walkway to the darker side of the Wizarding World. There are two ways to enter Knockturn Alley, the first entrance is next to the Leaky Cauldron, and the second is across from the restrooms at the end left of Gringotts Bank. The alley is very dark, which is great to escape the Florida sun, but watch your step as you walk.

There are a few Dark Arts displays to observe, with different Harry Potter Easter eggs and spells to cast for those with interactive wands. The main attraction is the one shop here, Borgin and Burkes. The store is brimming with merchandise geared toward the Dark Arts. Like the alley, there are plenty of hidden gems to find, and there's even the vanishing cabinet tucked away in a corner.

Fifth Stop: Meet the Knight Bus Driver

Back outside the entrance of Diagon Alley is the Knight Bus, and standing next to it is both the driver and the shrunken head from Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban . They’re always up for a conversation and prepare to laugh because they have jokes ready. The bus itself is a replica from the film and feels larger than life to stand by. Best of all it’s a fun photo opportunity, and the Knight Bus driver will pose with you for pictures. 

End of Wizarding World Day 1!

Although the day doesn’t have to be over, for others such a long day can be exhausting, and plenty of people would be ready to get back to the hotel. However, if you choose to stay, as I did, then I suggest exploring the rest of Universal Studios and grabbing dinner in another part of the park.

It’s time for day two and another early day because the earlier you arrive at the parks, the better. Mornings can be crowded, but generally, there are fewer parkgoers compared to the afternoon. This is also Florida, and unless you’re traveling in the winter, the afternoons can be hot even in spring and fall.

Today you’ll start with Diagon Alley and then head back to Hogsmeade later on. In addition to experiencing anything missed in the Wizarding World from the first day, you’ll also have time to revisit some favorites.

First Stop: Harry Potter and the Escape From Gringotts

Escape from Gringotts is the only Wizarding World ride in Universal Studios, and similar to Hagrid’s Motorbike ride in Islands of Adventure, it can have long standby lines. You’ll want to make this your first stop on the second day in Diagon Alley to avoid a long wait. This thrill ride is a fun adventure through Gringotts vaults.

Like Forbidden Journey, the line queue is an experience in itself as you move through the stunningly detailed bank, a replica of the lobby from Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows . Made complete with a crystal chandelier and goblin bank tellers. Slowly moving to the lower levels of Gringotts, you begin your heist journey into the vaults! It’s nothing too scary, though it is fast, and a thrilling experience.

Second Stop: Shop Till You Drop In Diagon Alley

After escaping from Gringotts Bank, it’s time to visit the countless stores that make up most of Diagon Alley. Below I've listed my top three favorite shops with the rest of the stores. The list excludes Ollivanders and Borgin and Burkes since they were in yesterday's itinerary.

1. Weasley’s Wizard Wheezes

The Weasley twins' famous joke shop is the first store you see as you enter Diagon Alley. It would be hard to miss with its bright orange windows against a lavender building and the giant robotic Weasley removing its large hat. The shop is colorful and fun, filled with hilarious candies like Puking Pastilles and Nosebleed Nougats. Plus, there's joke merchandise and adorable plush Pygmy Puffs.

2. Magical Menagerie 

The Magical Menagerie is the store for all things magical creature related. The windows to this pet shop are filled with all types of Wizarding World beasts, including a snake that speaks in Parseltongue. Inside you’ll find endless plush creatures to take home and beast-centered merchandise. I snagged a cute Hedwig shirt here on my last visit. 

3. Sugarplum’s Sweetshop 

Sugarplum’s Sweetshop in Diagon Alley has all the candy and baked goods you desire behind its hot pink pained exterior. The items are the same as those found in Honeydukes in Hogsmeade, but who could turn down more delicious treats? So stop in and grab another Chocolate Frog or two. 

Other Diagon Alley Shops

• Wiseacre’s Wizarding Equipment : A whimsical atmosphere and celestial theme with house items and jewelry for sale. 
• Globus Mundi : Find travel merchandise and see the wall of clocks. 
• Wands by Gregororovitch : A second wand shop.
• Scribbulus : Stationary and writing supplies. 
• Quality Quidditch Supplies : You can find all the Quidditch-related merchandise here.
• Madam Malkin’s Robes for All Occasions : Hogwarts robes and uniforms as well as Hogwarts house items. Check out the mirror, it may compliment you.
• Gringotts Money Exchange : Get Wizarding World Bank Notes in exchange for Muggle money from a goblin. 

Third Stop: Ice Cream at Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour

Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour is a no-fuss ice cream shop that might look simple compared to the more eye-catching store designs in Diagon Alley, but there’s a reason a line quickly forms throughout most of the day. The ice cream is delicious, with plenty of different options and unique flavors.

The soft-serve Butterbeer ice cream in a cone is a personal and park guest favorite. For other soft-serve options, consider orange marmalade or strawberries and cream. For hard pack try the sticky toffee pudding or strawberry and peanut butter.

Fourth Stop: Look For Kreacher at 12 Grimmauld Place

Back outside of Diagon Alley, you’ll see an unsuspecting building next to the brick wall entrance and across from the Knight Bus. This is 12 Grimmauld Place, the Muggle facade of the Black family's ancestral home. The Black residence was an integral part of the Harry Potter series serving as the meeting place for the Order of the Phoenix. Every few minutes here you can catch a quick glimpse of Kreacher, the house elf, so keep your eyes peeled to the middle of the second-floor window. 

Sixth Stop: Make A Call at the Red Phone Booth

You’ve passed the cherry red phone booth several times, but if you haven’t stopped in for a cute photo and quick dial to a certain Ministry, then you should now. If you dial MAGIC (62442) inside the phone booth you’ll be connected to the Ministry of Magic for a moment. It’s a fun and quick stop for fans in Muggle London on the way to King Cross Station. 

Seventh Stop: Ride the Hogwarts Express From King Cross Station

This time we’re taking the Hogwarts Express from Kings Cross Station back to Hogsmeade. The elaborate station has countless touches throughout the space that you might have missed on your way in. A favorite Easter egg is the Make a Little Magic poster, similar to the poster seen in The Half-Blood Prince when Harry meets with Dumbledore at the station. Kings Cross Station also has the 9 3/4 platform sign. There are quite a few to stand under so make sure to take a picture with one.

Islands of Adventure - Hogsmeade

First stop: pose for pictures with the hogwarts express.

Back at Hogsmeade, the first thing to do is take a picture with the Hogwarts Express. It's challenging to get a decent shot on either of the train platforms, making the stationary train in Hogsmeade a great photo opportunity. After walking through Hogsmeade’s entrance, you won’t be able to miss the train, and it’s right next to Hagrid’s Motorbike ride. There’s enough background space that guests won't be in your photo. Throughout the day the Hogwarts Express conductor is nearby and will pose for pictures with you too.

Second Stop: Have Lunch at the Three Broomsticks

Like the Leaky Cauldron, the Three Broomsticks doesn't accept reservations, instead using mobile ordering. The menu is also traditional British food with some American dishes like rotisserie chicken and sparerib platters. Popular items include the Fish and Chips, which I had and were good, and the Shepherd's Pie. They also offer The Great Feast for four, with multiple sides and entries. 

Overall, the food is alright, but the restaurant's décor and ambiance can’t be beaten, especially with indoor and outdoor seating. Inside, the pub and inn is a complete immersion into the Wizarding World, with high vaulted ceilings, a wall of antlers, and endless staircases above you. Fans might notice that the restaurant looks identical to the Three Broomsticks seen in Harry Potter and The Half-Blood Prince, and that’s because they are. The same plans used for the park were then used for the movie. 

Third Stop: Peruse the Other Hogsmeade Shops

Hogsmeade doesn’t have as many shops as Diagon Alley, but there are still a couple that we skipped over yesterday that you might want to visit.  

• Dervish and Banges : This shop has a little of everything: house gear, Quidditch merchandise, and even brooms are available to purchase. While here make sure to see The Monster Book of Monsters locked up and snarling. 
• Owl Post: Find all your stationary needs here. You can also have your mail stamped with the Hogsmeade mark! 
• Filtch’s Emporium of Confiscated Goods : Hogsmeade's biggest shop, carrying a wide variety of Wizarding World items to purchase. They also have collectibles such as a chess set and Death Eater masks.

Fourth Stop: Relax With a Drink at the Hogs Head

The Hogs Head is connected to the Three Broomsticks, at the back of the restaurant, but it has a totally different vibe. True to the Harry Potter series, it has rustic décor, and behind the bar, the hog's head moves. There's no food on the menu, but they serve alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks, including specialty-themed beers. With plenty of seating indoors and outside, it’s a great spot to relax with a drink.

Fifth Stop: Ride Attractions Again and Enjoy the Rest of Islands of Adventure

Take this time to soak in Hogsmeade for a bit longer, perhaps grab another Butterbeer or ride Forbidden Journey again. You can also watch one of the 10-minute shows happening throughout the day (check the Universal app for show times.) Then go explore the rest of the park! Though this is a Wizarding World trip, I love the Jurassic Park and Marvel lands and never skip out on them.

Sixth Stop: The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts

In full transparency, I didn't get to do this in my Wizarding World itinerary. I was exhausted, and as much as I wanted to see the amazing display of lights illuminating Hogwarts at night, I crashed at the hotel instead. However, you should do this if you’re up for it. I’ve heard this is a beautiful light show experience where all the houses are represented with the music we love. You’ll see fantastic projections on the castle in the perfect way to end your trip to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Hotels Near Universal Studios Orlando

1. Universal's Endless Summer Resort - Surfside Inn and Suites : Endless Summer is an affordable and convenient resort part of Universal Studios. This is where I stayed on my last trip, and loved the spacious and clean rooms. Included are a short shuttle ride to the parks and early park access.

2. Universal's Cabana Bay Beach Resort : Cabana Bay is what I consider mid-tier among Universal's hotels. It's slightly more expensive than Endless Summer, but still reasonably priced and includes extra amenities. Volcano Bay is within walking distance, located across the road. Plus, the resort has a lazy river, two outdoor pools, and a bowling alley.

3. Universal's Loews Sapphire Falls Resort : This 4-star upscale hotel is more expensive comparatively, but it won't completely break the bank. Less bougie than the premium resorts but still a beautiful place to stay with an Island theme. Perks include a water taxi to the parks, being within walking distance of Volcano Bay, and a large pool with a sand beach.

4. Residence Inn by Marriott Near Universal Orlando : If you're looking for a hotel outside of Universal's resorts, but still close to the parks, the Residence Inn by Marriott is an ideal choice. It's approximately a 5-minute drive to Universal Studios and offers a comfortable stay. Rooms are spacious, and there's a complimentary shuttle service to the parks. 

Final Thoughts

No matter how you choose to spend your time in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience with lasting memories. I hope this guide and two-day itinerary helps plan your Universal trip. Be sure to let me know in the comments what you would want to experience in the Wizarding World! 

you may also like

• 10 Mistakes to Avoid When Planning a National Park Vacation
• The Best Places to See Cherry Blossoms in Central Park
• A Detailed Review of Divi Aruba All-Inclusive Resort
• An Essential Guide to Magens Bay Beach on a St. Thomas Shore Excursion

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

12 comments

I've never been to the Harry Potter world in Orlando but I've been to the one in Anaheim twice! We had the butter bear, bought some candy, and had a blast. Each time I visited, I rode the castle ride. I had to close my eyes halfway through trying not to puke and was super sick afterward. My motion sickness does not agree with the castle!

I haven't been to the one in Anaheim yet but hopefully someday soon! But oh no, the rides can be a lot if you struggle with motion sickness! It's worth going for the butterbeer alone though!

This is so well written. Loved all your pics. This is definitely my bucket list place. Saving this post for my visit. Seeing the Hogwarts Express is giving me goosebumps!

Thank you so much for your kind words! It was also a bucket list destination for me and trust me it will not disappoint you! Each time I see the castle and Hogwarts Express I get goosebumps!

Thank you for the blueprint! I’m so embarrassed that I missed majority of these cool places and I live in Orlando lol. So using this as a guide to really explore.

Don't be! There's so much to see that it's easy to miss things which is why I put this guide together! I hope you get to explore soon!

Ok, this is officially on my bucket list. I feel like I just got an exclusive sneak peak and now I’m itching to go! Looks so fun!

You will have the best time! It's such a fun trip for anyone to enjoy!

Great post and very comprehensive! Will have to make sure I check off everything next time I am at Universal.

I am so glad you enjoyed it! Last time I visited I missed so much so I hope this helps for when you return!

Thank you for this post! Very useful for me as I'm not familiar at all with this but am planning a trip with my wife for out 10th anniversary. Do you have any thoughts or posts on where to stay? We are looking at doing 3 nights and 2 days in the park. Thanks!

I'm so glad you enjoyed it and congrats on the 10 year wedding anniversary! In terms of where to stay I definitely recommend staying at one of the Universal hotels if you can! There are a few options to choose from plus you get an hour of early park access to the Wizarding World which is worth it. Universal's Endless Summer Resort and the Dockside Inn and Suites are similar in price value to the hotels surrounding the park. I stayed at Endless Summer and loved it! The Loews Sapphire Falls Resort in Universal is higher in price but a beautiful place to stay as well. Additionally, there's a Hyatt and Holiday Inn across from Universal, both are casual and convenient hotels. I hope this helps and that you have an amazing vacation!

follow @ themanicwanderer

Themanicwanderer, looking for something.

Upcoming Trip, Hogwarts Letter - trip reveal

First time poster, but have been reading a while.

What a clever idea! How old are the boys? What was their reaction?

Oh! I love it!

That’s genius!

Turning 9. One was all smiles. One smiled and fell backward into ben bag chair.

Twinsies!?!

This is awesome!!!

I love this idea!

I’m totally taking this idea to invite family members for an Orientation to the Wizarding World for our trip.

That’s so cute!

Soooo, our flight from Phoenix is supposed to arrive in Orlando at 10pm on 9/30. Keeping our fingers crossed.

Other TouringPlans Resources

Wizarding World of Harry Potter Fan Site

Finding Magic at Wizarding World Park and Beyond

Hogwarts Acceptance Letter

A personalized Hogwarts Acceptance letter is the perfect way to surprise the Harry Potter fan in your life with a trip to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando! You can now purchase an official acceptance letter from the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry! Check out the Hogwarts Acceptance letter in the video below--it arrived via Owl Post of … [Read more...]

Harry Potter Movie Deals!

With the release of the latest (and last) Harry Potter movie, the WB Shop (official Harry Potter merchandise shop) is having some deals on Harry Potter merchandise to celebrate the release of the last movie. To start, WB is shipping your entire order for only $5!  If you spend more than $60, your shipping is FREE! The WB Shop has many Harry Potter exclusives, including … [Read more...]

Hogwarts Acceptance Letter Review and Unboxing

I received my Hogwarts Acceptance Letter, today! Ms. Minerva McGonagall has accepted me into the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft & Wizardry! The letter is really quite cool, with the Hogwarts crest at the top, customized with my name and address, details about what I need to do to start "school" and deadlines for acceptance. The "letter" appears behind a "Chromalux" … [Read more...]

Get your own acceptance letter from the Hogwarts school!  This is seriously cool!  I just received an email from the Harry Potter WBShop about this new product that I just thought was awesome! A WBShop.com exclusive, this personalized Hogwarts acceptance letter panel is a fantastic gift for any Harry Potter fan.  You can personalize the letter for anyone -- just read the … [Read more...]

Top Posts & Pages

• 22 Harry Potter Printables & Coloring Sheets
• Top 5 Butterbeer Recipes You Can Make at Home!
• Create a Hogwarts Acceptance Letter
• 30 Harry Potter at Home Activities
• How to Pick Your Hogwarts House Colors + FREE Printable

Recent Posts

• 5 Reasons to Book a Universal Orlando Package
• Why You Need to Visit the Leaky Cauldron Universal Studios
• From Muggles to Wizards: Your Guide to Harry Potter Disney World
• A First-Timer’s Guide to Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
• What is Pram Parking at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter?

Privacy Overview

Or so she says...

Family Fun, Favorites, Food, and Faith

December 12, 2019 by Adelle Belnap

Surprise Universal Studios Trip Reveal Idea ~ Harry Potter Owl Post!

• Pinterest 1646

I have the best surprise Universal Studios trip reveal idea for you! Let’s be real – everything in the wizard world of Harry Potter is more fun. Even getting the mail! Can you imagine receiving post by owl who knows where to find you?! Now you can be a wizarding world owl yourself and the bearer of the best news  for you family – a vacation to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter Universal Studios Hollywood. And believe me, Get Away Today knows their stuff when it comes to family vacations, not to mention their ability to get you the best deal out there (their service is totally FREE.) So, make the wait for your vacation fly by with our Hogwart’s Owl Post Vacation Countdown!

Surprise Universal Studios Trip Reveal Idea

Getting started ~ harry potter owl post.

To begin this magic surprise, decide how many days you want to have as part of your countdown. I think anything between one to two weeks is perfect! For every day of your countdown you will need a brown paper bag to deliver your goodies.

We are going to print the design right on the bag, which you can download here . It makes your presentation look so fun and up to those wizard standards.

To get the design on your paper bag, tape the top securely onto a standard sheet of printer paper. I used a thick Washi Tape because it isn’t too sticky, it lays flat and it’s easy to peel it off once the design is printed on the bag. You also want to be sure to place the part of the bag with the flap laying down on the printer paper so that the top is smooth. Things go really smoothly when you follow these steps.

Print the Owl Post logo onto all of your bags. Make sure to look at the little picture on your printer that shows how to insert the paper into the feed tray. Mine went in upside down with the taped part of the bag at the top.

Now fill out the number of days left to you will be “delivered” to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter on the owl’s envelopes.

Filling the Owl Post Bags for the Harry Potter Trip Reveal

Here comes the best part! Fill each of the bags with all sorts of Harry Potter activities, treats and items. I liked to start off small and get more exciting as the trip gets closer. These are a couple ideas I thought of to get you get started:

• On day one, announce your going to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter! You can use pictures off of the internet or make your own surprise announcement.
• Put in a pair of socks for everyone’s favorite house elf, Doby! They can be old socks to make the kids laugh, or a pair of new Harry Potter themed socks to wear on your vacation.

• Dump some of the infamous  Bertie Bott’s Every Flavour Beans (a.k.a. potentially really good or really bad jelly beans) into your bag. When they say every flavor, they mean EVERY flavor.

• Print off a Harry Potter coloring page for the kids, or use an adult Harry Potter coloring book too! Fun for everyone!
• Download our  List of Spells  and learn some magic to prepare for your trip. You never know when a good spell will come in handy…

• If you are lucky and happen to grab a handful of Professor Lupin’s werewolf hair, toss it into the bag. The kids will get a kick out of this. (You can pick up some furry fabric at the craft store.)
• Make a batch of our very own  chocolate covered frogs . You can put the ingredients into the bag and print the recipe and let the kids help make them, or have the finished product in there for them to simply enjoy.

• Make a note to tell them that you are going to watch your favorite Harry Potter movie together. Or, slip the  DVD  into the parcel.
• Print a map of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter off of Universal Studios Hollywood’s website. Look at it together and talk about all of the places you are going to visit and where you are going to explore first. It is fun to make a game plan of everything you have to see!
• Fold our  Origami Sorting Hat . Take turns figuring out who is a member of each of the Hogwarts Houses. Let’s hope you don’t get Slytherin!

You can be as creative as you want. It is so much fun to fill each parcel with some sort of magical trinket or activity to surprise your family with every day. You can deliver the bags however you want! Leave one on the porch, ring the doorbell and run. Or leave one somewhere new every morning before anyone ways up. This is such a fun and easy way to get everyone excited and make the time go by faster until your magical vacation!

More Bag Ideas for Your Universal Studios Vacation Announcement

At  Universal Studios Hollywood they have their own Owl Post where send yourself a card or letter postmarked from Hogsmeade! Your family will be sure to have a magical time wandering the halls of Hogwarts, having a meal at The Three Broomsticks, riding the Forbidden Journey, watching a wand ceremony at Ollivanders and so much more.

The Best Place to Book Your Universal Studios Vacation

Book your Universal Studios Hollywood tickets online or call our vacation wizards at 855-GET-AWAY. Mention code OSSS10 and save an additional $10 on your Southern California vacation package. Like I mentioned earlier, I use Get Away Today for literally all of my vacations, from Disney vacations, to cruises , to Universal… and everything in between. They are totally free to use and will find you the BEST deal on your vacation. They’ll book it for you, line up cars, airfare, hotels, shuttle… and make everything work together, so you don’t have to deal with it. Plus, they travel to all of their vacation destinations, REPEATEDLY, so they know exactly how to answer your questions and share their best tips with you. You’ll love them, I promise.

If You Liked This Surprise Universal Studios Trip Reveal Idea…

• Harry Potter ‘Would You Rather’ Printable PDF Game – Both kids and adults love ‘Would You Rather’ questions. These questions are so fun for all ages of Harry Potter fans. Great for laughing about over family dinner or keeping the kids entertained on a road trip… maybe a road trip to Universal Studios Hollywood??
• Harry Potter Copycat Butterbeer Fudge – Here’s a thought… maybe the day that you first reveal your Universal Studios vacation, you can also whip up a batch of this amazing Hogwart’s favorite… butterbeer fudge. If you’re going to set the mood, set the mood!! Here are some additional great Harry Potter recipes too, if you really want to go big.
• Harry Potter DIY Wands – This is such a fun party or family craft! Make wands, turn on a Harry Potter movie, and have a super fun evening!

March 25, 2016 at 1:18 pm

I LOVE THIS, ADELLE!!! YOU ARE ALWAYS SO CLEVER!

March 28, 2016 at 9:32 am

Thank you! I have a pretty fun job. 🙂

April 25, 2017 at 2:44 pm

Hi Adelle – what a cute idea. I noticed the word “Special” is misspelled (speical). Is there any way you could make that correction and re-upload the template?

October 21, 2017 at 3:54 pm

Is there somewhere to get the rest of the Spell activity? Great ideas! Thanks!

The Rare Newsletter

It doesn't happen very often, but when it does... it's good!! Favorite things, great ideas, and all things "FAMILY."

Free Book of Mormon Offer

10 Reasons I Love Being a Latter-day Saint

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Affiliate Disclosure

‘Or so she says…’ is a participant in a variety of affiliate programs, including the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. Read more in the Disclosure ,  including info on Adthrive, the publishing network for this blog.

10 Most Popular Posts

• Choices & Consequence Family Lesson
• Free Book of Mormon Information
• The Best Family Vacation in St. George
• Swiss cheese Chicken Easy Dinner
• Would You Rather ~ Scripture Edition Game
• 150+ Sanity Saving Parenting Ideas
• Over 100 Family Movie Ideas
• The Ultimate Collection of Scriptures on Faith
• Foods to Freeze Dry ~ Ultimate List
• 30 Books to Read Out Loud to Older Kids

• Information

Welcome to The Harry Potter Personalised Experience Letter Created by Wizarding Wonders Ltd. A truly magical way to advise the recipient they've been accepted at Hogwarts or they're off to visit a Harry Potter Experience. Simply provide us with the recipients name & address for us to create a magical personalised invitation in the style of the Acceptance Letter Harry Potter receives. Variations available & description: Acceptance Letter - Invitation to Hogwarts

WB London Studio Tour - Invitation to visit the Warner Bro's London Studio Tour

The Cursed Child Play - Invitation to visit Harry Potter and The Cursed Child Play in London

Forbidden Forrest - Invitation to visit Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience

Universal Studios Florida - Invitation to visit The Wizarding Word of Harry Potter in Florida U.S.A.

Replica Letter - Acceptance Letter to Harry - Our Acceptance Letter creation with Harry Potter's name and address Instructions

Select letter from variation menu

How to Personalise:

Using Comments Box at Checkout, or by sending an email after purchase - [email protected] 

The details we require to create your perfect Letter are:

Title & Name:    Mr. Harry Potter, Room:    The Cupboard under the Stairs, Number & Street:    4, Privet Drive, Town:    Little Whinging, County:    Surrey

We will print Room: The Cupboard under the Stairs, used as default. This can be replaced with wording that better describes the recipients bedroom e.g. The Messiest Room, The Unicorn Room, etc.

We will also print the date of the experience if required.

Adding a date is optional: Experience Letters - Visit date  Acceptance Letter - Birthday date or custom date

"Date to be advised" is printed if no date is given. When no personalisation is required  - select "Replica" for an Acceptance Letter addressed to Harry. Sorting Hat Notice included!

This is optional and is not required to create your letter Advise of which Hogwarts House the recipient would like to be a part of and we'll include a small surprise that will make their day even more magical. Free Separate Short Message

We're frequently asked to include a "short" special message e.g. Happy Birthday, Merry Christmas, Bring your parents, etc. To keep the Letter true to the Book/Movie, we will create a special message separately in a magical font. This is optional and is not required to create your letter.

What's Included: 1 x Letter of invitation to Hogwarts or Harry Potter Experience - A5 1 x Real Wax Seal on envelope 1 x Hogwarts Express Ticket 1 x List of Requirements 1 x Hogwarts Envelope Bound by natural string

Order(s) are posted to the delivery address provided in protective discrete packaging. The recipient will not know what's inside.

If you have completed purchase and have forgotten something, please send an email asap: [email protected]

We'll print the exact details we're advised of and we will try to correct any obvious spelling mistakes. 

Main image is for illustration purposes only. Our letter creation features intricate detailing and is printed on card. Please note, personalised orders cannot be returned.

If you have any questions/requests, please ask before purchase.

Home   >  Shop   >  Collectables

12 Harry Potter Themed Airbnbs You Can Actually Stay At

• Airbnb hosts around the world are offering fully immersive Harry Potter-themed experiences, from cozy nooks under the stairs to rooms inspired by Hogwarts Castle and Diagon Alley.
• These accommodations cater to Potterheads with magical decor, themed bedrooms, and even activities like feasts and magical classes, allowing fans to relive the series and indulge in the wizarding world.
• Locations such as Salem, Massachusetts, Edinburgh, Scotland, and Colmar, France offer unique Harry Potter experiences, allowing guests to explore the real-world inspirations behind J.K. Rowling's magical universe.

Face it: no matter how old you are, a part of you will always wish you could have received an acceptance letter inviting you to attend Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Fortunately, some Airbnb owners have been transforming their vacation homes into fully immersive, Harry Potter-themed experiences.

From magical decor to wizard activities, lodgers worldwide are providing the most excellent places to stay for the ultimate Potter fan (known as Potterheads). Take a look at just some of the options below and plan a trip for just you or the entire family: no brooms or Floo Powder required!

UPDATE: 2023/09/01 17:18 EST BY NOAH STAATS

We've Found More Harry Potter-Themed Airbnb's To Visit This Year!

This article has been refreshed with a new Harry Potter-themed Airbnb listing, as well as links for booking all of these properties. Whether you're a fan of the movie books or want to spice up the next vacation you plan, here's to the wizarding world of Harry Potter! Have fun!

Harry Potter “Closet Under the Stairs” Experience (Sparks, Nevada, United States)

• You can book this Airbnb here .

One fun experience for Harry Potter fans in Nevada is the "Closet Under the Stairs" Airbnb listing. Here, people can experience a night under a stairwell mimicking the Harry Potter movie and book. Moreover, those here will stay in a comfortable nook under the stairs modeled after Hogwarts Castle and the magical world therein. This stay will be an experience like no other. Guests will also have access to all common muggle facilities in the home. At a nightly rate of roughly $55, you can't beat this property while in Nevada! The owner has amazing reviews as well.

This Airbnb is also roughly 45 minutes from Lake Tahoe, putting it in the Northern part of the state. Nearby Reno, Nevada, may also be worth checking out while here.

Harry Potter & Fantastic Beasts Fan Dorm (Salem, Massachusetts, USA)

What better way to have a witchy vacation than traveling to the location of the Salem Witch Trials ? Choose from the School Dorm Room . The owner will not only provide you with plenty of suggestions of Salem haunts to check out but also provide you with a proper English breakfast in Mrs. Weasley's Breakfast Nook!

You'll spot plenty of familiar creatures in the Fantastic Beasts room and have the option of sleeping in either Harry or Ron's bed in the School Dorm room. (You can only enter the School Dorm room if you tell the Pink Lady portrait the password, of course.)

West Bow Flat (Edinburgh, Scotland, UK)

Any true Potterhead knows Edinburgh, Scotland, is a must-visit , considering it is where J.K. Rowling was inspired to write the Harry Potter series! Not only is this apartment near Edinburgh Castle, but it actually resides on West Bow—Rowling's inspiration for Diagon Alley!

For $126 a night, you and up to three other guests can stay right where the magic started. The living room is covered in a wallpaper of portraits, reminiscent of the walls of endless moving paintings at Hogwarts. Complete with a bookshelf of antique books and an otherworldly chandelier; this Airbnb will transport you to the magical universe Rowling created just around the corner.

RELATED: These Are Some of The Most Interesting Themed Hotels In the World

Wizarding Home (Kissimmee, Florida, USA)

If you're planning a trip to visit the Harry Potter theme park at Universal Studios Orlando , this wizard home is only ten miles away. This impressive Magical Manor is available with a pool and a game room, that's certainly worth the price!

The dining room is complete with floating candles, and you are welcome to choose the themed bedroom that corresponds with your favorite Hogwarts House. With five bedrooms, all equally regal, luxurious, and perfectly magical, it'll be hard to decide which of the nine beds you'll want to sleep in!

The Common Room (Victoria, British Columbia, Canada)

Travelers sorted to Gryffindor (and also happen to be heading to British Columbia's Victoria) should book a couple of nights in The Common Room. Designed after the Gryffindor Common Room, this Airbnb is every Harry Potter fan's dream!

This condo is decked out with a decorative rug and a faux fireplace and adorned with a mélange of Harry Potter memorabilia, making visitors feel like they're hanging out at Hogwarts. You may even spot a popular house elf in the kitchen (make sure you give him a sock to free him of his master)!

Harry Potter Fan's Dream (Chickamauga, Georgia, USA)

Every nook and cranny of this home in Chickamauga is Harry Potter-themed, and if you look closely enough, you'll find some hidden magical surprises! With the den styled to look just like the cozy Gryffindor standard room and the beds styled to look like the beds you would see in your typical Hogwarts dorm, you will feel wholly transported into the magical world of a Hogwarts student.

There are plenty of games provided for you and your guests and lots of magical trinkets and knick-knacks to observe! Up to four guests can have this magical experience for $86 per night.

RELATED: Airbnb Hacks To Make Your Stay More Affordable (And Enjoyable)

A Magical World of Wizards & Witches (Tagaytay, Philippines)

The owner of this condo in the Philippines indeed went all-out, importing merchandise from Warner Bros. and Universal Studios to make sure guests have plenty of fantastic photo ops. You can sit in a Three Broomsticks booth to eat or wash your hands in a sink built into a model of the Hogwarts Express.

With plenty of Harry Potter knick-knacks, a pool, and all the movies already loaded up on the 43" Smart TV, this condo aims to be fan-friendly while also high-end.

Magical Potter Apartment (Prague, Czech Republic)

Feel like heading to Prague?

This cozy apartment can host up to 13 dedicated Potterheads! The owners have ensured that each option is fully furnished in the most magical ways. With super cool Harry Potter-themed wall art and modern, fresh furniture, these are the perfect places to stay to take in all Prague has to offer in wizard style.

Blackburn Academy Of The Magical Arts (Springville, Utah, USA)

This large home is not just a place to stay— it's a wizarding school ! The property owners provide feasts and magical classes, just as if you were an actual student at Hogwarts. The property is 129 years old, so it has a historical feel.

Check out the many classrooms, Grand Parlor, and plant conservatory. A place where roleplaying is taken to a 10 is a trip in itself. Their official website has tons of information on the activities and experiences they provide .

Magical Wizarding Residence (Edinburgh, Scotland, UK)

Another Edinburgh location, except this time set smack-dab in Edinburgh City Centre. With a wallpaper of books and a dementor looming over the front room, this apartment is 100% inspired by Harry Potter.

Indulge in all the books and movies while you sip from a Harry Potter-themed mug, and when you get antsy, you have some of the most historic parts of Edinburgh right outside your door. You and a guest can sleep in a modern bedroom with a double bed.

Wizards Way by Loma Homes (Florida, USA)

Wizards Way in Florida, USA, is a Harry Potter-themed house consisting of eight bedrooms. The house is a magical wonderland located at Champion's Gate. People who like Wizarding Home in Kissimmee, Florida, will even love Wizards Way more. The latter is the epitome of fantasy and luxury and sleeps up to 16 guests. They can enjoy the special effects, wizard-themed bedrooms, gorgeous carved beds, ambient sounds, and custom mood lighting. Furthermore, Wizards Way features a Great Hall dining room, an open living room, and a fully fitted gourmet kitchen.

Harry Potter-Themed Room (Colmar, France)

Potterheads will enjoy a trip to Eastern France to stay in this iconic Harry Potter-themed Airbnb in Colmar. The room features two four-poster beds and a Hogwarts-medieval-style bathroom. Visitors to the iconic town in France must include wine tasting in this Alsatian countryside, provided they're adult witches or wizards. The Harry Potter-themed room can sleep up to four guests, and the price starts at $113 per night. Who doesn't love a French AND Harry Potter-themed vacation?

NEXT: It's Easy To See How This London Market Became A Cornerstone Setting In 'Harry Potter'