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The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ — Diagon Alley™ at Universal Studios Florida, Part of Universal Orlando Resort

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter ™

So, you never got that letter from Hogwarts™? You’re not alone. But if you've ever fantasized about leaving the Muggle world behind and adventure alongside wizards and witches, prepare to have your dreams come true at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ at  Universal Orlando Resort !

Save on tickets:   Universal Orlando Resort

Too wildly imaginative and expansive to be contained by any one theme park, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ is split between Diagon Alley™ at  Universal Studios Florida  and Hogsmeade™ at  Universal Islands of Adventure , with the Hogwarts™ Express connecting the two. Before you know it, you’ll be casting spells, sipping Butterbeer™, going to a Quidditch™ match and even facing off against Lord Voldemort™ himself.

In short, it’s the fantasy adventure of a lifetime — and it’s all waiting for you at Universal Orlando.

Two Amazing Lands at Two Theme Parks

Please note that you’ll need admission to Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure to experience all the wonders of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™. A  Park-to-Park admission ticket  or an Annual Pass will grant you access to both parks, as well as the Hogwarts™ Express.

Discover :   The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ : Tips for the Best Experience

Travel Tip:  Staying at one of Universal Orlando Resort’s official hotels will allow you to enter The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ up to one hour before the parks open with Early Park Admission.

The Hogwarts™ Express

It’s a train ride like no other, and it’s one of the most immersive experiences at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™. Board the famous Hogwarts™ Express at Hogsmeade™ Station in Universal Islands of Adventure or King's Cross Station at Universal Studios Florida and take an exciting ride through the British countryside.

The action happens outside the train window as well as in your compartment, as scenes and characters from the movies emerge. Featuring different storylines depending on your point of departure, it’s an enthralling journey for wizards and witches alike. * Park-to-Park admission required. Additional restrictions apply.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ — Hogsmeade™ at Universal Islands of Adventure

It’s the one-and-only, all-wizarding village of Hogsmeade™, and you’ll only find it at Universal Islands of Adventure. The main attraction here is Hogwarts™ castle, which comes to majestic life on select evenings for The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts™ Castle.

Looming over Hogsmeade™, Hogwarts™ also features Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™, an attraction that will take you soaring high above the castle grounds. For more airborne adventures, hop aboard the family-friendly Flight of the Hippogriff™ roller coaster, which you’ll find at Hagrid’s hut.

Speaking of Hagrid™, he takes center stage in  Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure ™. Sending you deep into the Forbidden Forest for up-close encounters with a menagerie of wondrous creatures, this innovative attraction combines state-of-the-art coaster technology and gripping storytelling for one of Universal Orlando Resort’s most incredible experiences yet.

High Street — a popular hangout for Hogwarts™ students and professors alike — is brimming with enchanted shops. Send magical mail to family and friends at Owl Post™, load up on sweets at Honeydukes™, or get your very own Sneakoscope at Dervish and Banges™, among other arcane retailers.

You’ll also want to stop by Hog’s Head™ for a glass of Pumpkin Juice™ or Butterbeer™, which can also be found, along with a variety of tasty British fare, at the Three Broomsticks™. Once your appetite is sated, enjoy the vocal stylings of Hogwarts Frog Choir and get hyped for the next Triwizard Tournament at the Triwizard Spirit Rally.

Once your adventures in Hogsmeade™ are complete, Universal Park-to-Park ticket-holders can depart for Diagon Alley™ at Universal Studios Florida aboard the Hogwarts™ Express, with trains leaving regularly from Hogsmeade™ Station. Of course, with so much to experience here, it might be a while before you’re ready to say farewell.

It’s no secret that exploring the familiar corridors of Hogwarts™ castle on your way to ride Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™ is an attraction in and of itself. Guests can wander the halls and classrooms of the famous wizarding school inside the hallows of Hogwarts™ castle. Towering walls adorned with talking portraits are just one of the incredible touches along with the Mirror of Erised™, Dumbledore’s office, the Sorting Hat™, the Gryffindor™ common room and the Defence Against the Dark Arts classroom. An unparalleled attention to detail makes this experience a fan favorite.

Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure™

All aboard for the most immersive roller coaster at Universal Orlando Resort. Combining masterful storytelling, next-generation roller-coaster technology, and fully realized environments and sets that include a real forest with more than 1,200 living trees, this ride also features Universal Orlando Resort’s most lifelike animated figure yet: Rubeus Hagrid™. With the gentle giant as your guide, you’ll travel deep into the Forbidden Forest surrounding Hogwarts™ castle for a wild flight packed with a menagerie of magical creatures pulled straight from the Harry Potter™ books and films.

Height restrictions : 48 inches (122 cm)

Flight of the Hippogriff™

A Hippogriff is a mythical creature with the head of a giant eagle and the body of a noble horse. Not sure how exactly to ride a Hippogriff? No worries, Hagrid™ is on hand to guide you with expert instruction as you spiral and dip over Hagrid’s hut — an authentic replica of the one featured in the movies — and around the pumpkin patch.

Height restrictions : 36 inches (91 cm). Children under 48 inches (122 cm) must be accompanied by a supervising companion.

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™

Take off on an enchanted bench and soar above the Hogwarts™ castle grounds, check out a Quidditch™ match, propel under a bridge, be chased by a Hungarian Horntail, and descend into the Forbidden Forest. Be prepared to come face-to-face with unforgettable creatures and eerie Dementors™. It’s a multi-sensory adventure with Harry, Hermione and Ron that you won't forget.

Grab a bite to eat — wizard-style — when you visit Hogsmeade™ at Universal Islands of Adventure.

Three Broomsticks™

Rustic and at the same time cozy, this traditional pub gives off the distinct feeling that you just might run into some Hogwarts professors outside of class. Authentically British, menu fare includes the usual suspects: roast beef and Yorkshire pudding, cottage pie, fish and chips, and of course, Butterbeer™. The real triumph here is the Butterbeer™ Potted Cream — a creamy, lush butterscotch pudding topped with a bit of whipped cream and served in a glass jar.

It’s doubtful anyone can resist these clever and authentic stores. Don’t return home without at least a piece of the magic.

Dervish and Banges™

Visit this whimsical purveyor of all things musical and magical. They even repair enchanted instruments. Need a Sneakoscope? You’ve come to the right place, and there are plenty of Spectrespecs, Omnioculars and a diverse range of Quidditch™ essentials. Pick up a furry copy of The Monster Book of Monsters (this reading material looks more monster than book). Beware — the book bites and is caged up for your protection.

Filch’s Emporium™ of Confiscated Goods

There’s a spellbinding trove of goods to be had here. Magical creature toys such as the Hedwig™ hand puppet, pink or purple Pygmy Puffs, or a hatching Norbert puppet are tough to resist, while spooky Death Eater™ masks, the Marauder’s Map and special chess sets inspired from the movies are sure to be equally tempting. Diehard fans can also pick up authentic movie prop replicas to add to their Harry Potter™ collections.

Honeydukes™

It’s easy to spot the pink and green sign. What a delight it is to enter a wondrous sweetshop, home to noteworthy confections like Exploding Bonbons, Fizzing Whizzbees and Chocolate Frogs™. Bright green shelving and glass decanters filled with a colorful assortment of candy and specialty treats popularized by the Harry Potter™ book series line the shelves and tables. It’s a sweet-lover’s dream come true. Be sure to purchase some Bertie Bott’s Every-Flavour Beans™, delicious surprises coupled with a few jarring flavor options. Travel Tip : If you’re prone to buying excessive Honeydukes™ goodies, it’s no problem. You can have your purchases sent to the front entrance and claim them as you leave the park.

Ollivanders™

“The wand chooses the wizard” is the thinking, and Ollivanders™ would know. They’ve been making fine wands since 382 BC. Head inside to experience a special selection ceremony where a witch or wizard is paired with the wand that chooses them. It’s truly a magical experience, so there are no spoilers here. Replicas of the wands used by Harry, Hermione, Dumbledore and Luna Lovegood™ along with other assorted wands can be used to cast spells throughout the park. Each wand comes in a special box with a secret map that outlines spell locations. It’s a worthy magical investment.

Owl Post™ & Owlery

Don’t miss this quirky stationery shop that also sells The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ stamps and writing instruments along with owl-themed gifts. The best part is that you can mail your letters and postcards from here, which means your mail will be stamped with a Hogsmeade™ postmark. Check out a couple of dozen owls roosting (they move and make sounds) while a howler screams in the window.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ — Diagon Alley™ at Universal Studios Florida

Experience The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ — Diagon Alley™ as you walk the familiar streets of London, passing buskers, red telephone booths and King’s Cross Station. You will know you’re close to Diagon Alley™ once you see the Knight Bus™. Just pass through the brick archway and catch your first glimpse of this hidden magical marketplace.

Once inside, grab a cup of Butterbeer™ or Pumpkin Juice™ from iconic establishments like Leaky Cauldron™, The Hopping Pot and other themed dining options, or even from a passing street vendor. Several Diagon Alley™ venues also have wizard-friendly eats.

Of course, it’s not the wizarding world without adventure, and you’ll find plenty of it at Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts™. Keep a watchful eye on the roof of Gringotts™ Money Exchange while you’re there, though — the 60-foot Ukrainian Ironbelly dragon is known to breathe fire.

Next, it’s time to gear up on everything you’ll need to make your time at Hogwarts™ a success. Find the perfect wand at Ollivanders™, get sized for your school uniform at Madam Malkin’s Robes for All Occasions, prepare for the big game at Quality Quidditch™ Supplies, or just stock up on side-splitting gags at Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes, among other shopping opportunities. And if you have the nerve to brave Knockturn Alley, Borgin and Burkes™ is your source for Death Eater™ masks and other merchandise coveted by members of House Slytherin™.

Lastly, King's Cross Station is where you can board the Hogwarts™ Express and journey from the center of London to Hogsmeade™ Station. Universal Park-to-Park ticket-holders can travel between the destinations aboard the iconic train.

Endless adventures unfold inside Diagon Alley™ at Universal Studios Florida — starting with the land’s magical ambiance and continuing to its wizard-friendly attractions.

Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts™

It’s a daring break-in and escape as you navigate the underground vaults of Gringotts™ on one of the bank’s carts. Ride alongside Ron, Hermione and Harry as they travel deep into the vaults looking for the magical object that will help them defeat Lord Voldemort™. This ride features a state-of-the-art 3D Infitec projection system with high-tech special effects to put you right in the middle of all the action.

Height restrictions : Children under 48 inches (122 cm) must be accompanied by a supervising companion.

Hogwarts™ Express

Pass through the icon brick barrier to Platform 9 3/4™ and board the Hogwarts™ Express to journey to Hogsmeade™, home of the wizarding village of Hogsmeade™ and legendary Hogwarts™ castle. In this ride, you’ll encounter Death Eaters™ and Dementors™, plus see some other familiar faces from the wizarding world*. * Park-to-Park admission required. Additional restrictions apply.

Come hungry to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ — Diagon Alley™, or risk missing out on these wizard-friendly eats and drinks.

Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour

This may just be one of the coolest ice cream parlors around, with their creamy treats coming in both soft serve and scoop ice cream. Gaze up at the flavor board and you’ll be charmed by imaginative flavors such as Earl Grey and lavender, clotted cream, apple crumble, sticky toffee pudding, strawberry and peanut butter, and of course, Butterbeer™. Decidedly British desserts are on hand such as tarts, scones, cookies and sweet cakes, as well as an assortment of teas.

Leaky Cauldron™

Not your average restaurant: The Leaky Cauldron's ramshackle appearance belies its true purpose. Partake in a frothy cup of Butterbeer™ or grab a pint of Wizard’s Brew lager (must be 21+ with valid ID to purchase or consume alcoholic beverages). Cottage pie and fish & chips are popular favorites, and there’s also family favorites like mac & cheese.

Street Vendors: Butterbeer™ and Pumpkin Juice™

So what’s all the fuss surrounding Butterbeer™? Butterbeer™ is a refreshing wizarding world beverage with a flavor reminiscent of a blend of butterscotch and shortbread. Since its introduction, it has won over legions of fans. Not surprising, Pumpkin Juice™ has a distinctly fall taste with a hint of cinnamon sweetness.

Harry Potter™ fans can’t seem to get enough of the items that they’ve read about in books and can experience for themselves. Ingenious souvenirs and authentic Hogwarts™ apparel can be found among the various shops of Diagon Alley™.

Borgin and Burkes™

Stroll down Knockturn Alley and you’ll happen upon this sinister shop overloaded with Dark Arts objects. Skulls, Death Eater™ masks, costume replicas and more are a few of the eerie items on hand.

Gringotts™ Money Exchange

Inside, marbled halls and a goblin ready to exchange your money await. Walk up to an interactive, audio-animatronic goblin and exchange your Muggle money for Gringotts™ Bank Notes. Ask the goblin specific questions and he will answer back. The interaction is quite fun, but don’t ask him if he’s a house elf.

Madam Malkin’s Robes for All Occasions

If you need a wizard’s hat or a Gryffindor™ robe, you’re in the right spot. Every Hogwarts™ house is represented: Gryffindor™, Ravenclaw™, Hufflepuff™ and Slytherin™. Best of all, there’s a diverse offering of apparel and jewelry here to be found.

Magical Menagerie

Here you can find an assortment of plush toys from the Harry Potter™ books and movies. Choose between a Pigwidgeon or Hedwig™ owl. If you’re not in need of a messenger owl, there’s no shortage of cuddly creatures: Hippogriffs, Crookshanks™ and more. Gaze up at the second level to spy a Crumple-Horned Snorkack, Luna Lovegood’s favorite mythical creature.

The details are painstakingly authentic — expect to see tons of wands haphazardly stacked in this ancient magical shop. Witness a wand choosing a wizard in a style similar to Harry’s experience when his wand selected him.

Quality Quidditch™ Supplies

Sports fanatics, specifically Quidditch™ obsessed ones, will be drawn to the allure of this shop specializing in all things Quidditch™. Brooms, Quidditch™ apparel, the Nimbus 2000™, Holyhead Harpies gear and even Golden Snitches are for sale. Get your team spirit on at Quality Quidditch™ Supplies — you’ll score big.

Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes

The prank-loving twins, Fred and George Weasley, seem to be up to their tricks again at this ultra-amusing gag shop. Jokesters and little pranksters will delight in the variety of novelty gifts. Magical jokes, love potions and Extendable Ears are just a few of the amusing items available for purchase.

Wiseacre's Wizarding Equipment

Magic needs its devices. After you exit Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts™, explore this shop and add resourceful items to your wizarding inventory. Magnifying glasses, binoculars, hourglasses and even crystal balls are just some of the wizarding items available for witches and wizards alike.

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trip harry potter world

Complete Guide to Planning a Trip to Harry Potter Universal Orlando

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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

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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

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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

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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

trip harry potter world

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

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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

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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

trip harry potter world

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

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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

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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

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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

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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!

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

Andrea M. Rotondo

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.

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The dragon atop Gringotts breathes fire several times a day. (Photo by Andrea M. Rotondo/The Points Guy.)

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

No. It doesn't really snow in Orlando but it does in Hogsmeade. (Photo by Leonard Hospidor.)

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

Walk through the opening in this brick wall to enter Diagon Alley. (Photo by Leonard Hospidor.)

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.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Diagon Alley. Photo by Leonard Hospidor.)

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.

You can see the "wand picks the wizard" show at Ollivanders in Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley. (Photo courtesy of Universal Orlando.)

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.

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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.

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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).

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  • 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.

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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.

Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees

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.

The goblin at the Gringotts Money Exchange may frighten young children. (Photo courtesy of Universal Orlando.)

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.

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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 Knockturn Alley. It's dark and cool! (Photo courtesy of Universal Orlando.)

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.

Diagon Alley (Photo by Andrea M. Rotondo/The Points Guy.)

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

Pick up some souvenirs on Diagon Alley. (Photo by Andrea M. Rotondo/The Points Guy.)

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.

The Hopping Pot is a nice spot to grab a drink and rest for a bit. (Photo by Andrea M. Rotondo/The Points Guy.)

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.

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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.

Hogwarts Express. (Photo by Andrea M. Rotondo/The Points Guy.)

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

Christmas at Hogwarts Castle

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.

There are a lot of details to take in as you wait in line for Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey. (Photo courtesy of Universal Orlando.)

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 "junior" roller coaster is a hit with kids and adults. (Photo courtesy of Universal Orlando.)

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.

Triwizard Spirit Rally

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).

Hog's Head. (Photo by Leonard Hospidor.)

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.

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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.

Hogsmeade (Photo by Leonard Hospidor.)

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.

Hogwarts Express - Hogsmeade Station

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.

Hogwarts Express (Photo by Summer Hull / The Points Guy.)

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.

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The ultimate guide to visiting the wizarding world of harry potter orlando.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Thank you Expedia for sponsoring this post. Book your travel on Expedia.com to save with the Add-On Advantage!

If you’re visiting Universal Studios Orlando, be sure to read this ultimate guide to visiting the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Unlock the secrets and find out how to save money on your stay and get the most out of your time in this magical place. 

For Abbi’s 12th birthday this year, I knew I wanted to do something epic. She loves birthdays and I am not a great party planner or a fantastic celebrator of holidays. They just take SO much effort and money. I knew that I’d have to budget and plan well for this trip.

Abbi has loved Harry Potter since she was little. During our first trip to Europe, we spent hours driving through Europe listening to all the Harry Potter Books in the car. Then we would watch the movies, and when she got a little older she read the books on her own. Needless to say, we are all kind of huge nerds about Harry Potter.

She has wanted to visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter for a long time. So I secretly planned a trip just for her and me! And Harry Potter World turned out to be everything we hoped for and more! Here’s is everything I wish I’d known before going.

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO THE WIZARDING WORLD OF HARRY POTTER ORLANDO! Learn all my best tips and tricks for making the most of your time in this magical world!

Where is Harry Potter World?

There are actually two! One in California and one in Orlando, Florida, not far from Disney World.  We visited the Wizarding World of Harry Potter Orlando. This is the original Harry Potter land, and also the biggest. Learn more about what to do in Orlando with teens .

I bought my flights through Expedia , one of the world’s leading full-service online travel brands.  Their flight search engine was fast and efficient and I was able to find great flights from Washington DC to Orlando. I waited to book our hotels, knowing that the Expedia Add-On Advantage would be coming to me in a few days!

The Expedia Add-On Advantage is a program that offers hotel savings on select properties that are instantly unlocked up until the start of your trip. They will be sent to your email several days after you purchase a flight or package, or book a rental car.

The hotels they sent for us were killer deals! We booked a room at the Allure resort, less than a mile from Universal Studios, for only $44/night! The hotel stay needs to occur within the travel dates of the flight, car or package purchase, but the Add-On Advantage deals are always amazing.

I love the Add-On Advantage because it takes the pressure off of having to pay for the entire trip at once. I booked my flights, then booked the hotel the following week using the Expedia Add-On Advantage.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Transportation

Honestly, if you plan on just doing the parks in Orlando, I don’t recommend renting a car. A Taxi, UBER or Lyft ride from the airport will cost about $25 as well as the ride back. Most hotels have free shuttles to the parks and if you are staying close to the parks a ride there will cost about $7 each way. By the time you pay for a rental car plus parking, it ends up being more cost effective to not rent a car.

If you do rent a car, be sure the check the Expedia Add-On Advantage for awesome deals on rental cars.

We did rent a car for one day that we weren’t doing the parks to go to Daytona Beach and take a dip in the ocean. The beach is about an hour away by car and the warm water and white sand is totally worth the drive.

Tips for the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

As this was my first visit, I want to share all my Wizarding World of Harry Potter tips that I wish I’d known before we went. I don’t recommend just showing up without knowing anything. These tips will save you money and help you make the most of your time.

One World, Two Parks, Massive Headache

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter consists of two separate sections of two separate theme parks. Sound confusing? That’s because it is. Instead of creating ONE “world” contained in ONE theme park, Universal Studios Harry Potter cleverly divided their most popular attractions between TWO theme parks, requiring you to purchase a park hopper ticket to see all of it. Well played Universal, well played!

The two halves of the Wizarding World are divided between Hogsmeade in Islands of Adventure and Diagon Alley in Universal Studios and are connected by the Hogwarts Express, which is not only a shortcut between parks, but a ride in itself.

If you want to ride the Hogwarts Express, you MUST buy a park hopper! I made this mistake and bought tickets to spend one day in each park, but since they weren’t park-hopper tickets, we couldn’t ride the Hogwarts Express. We ended up “downgrading” our tickets to just a one-day park hopper so that we could see both parks in one day and ride the Hogwarts Express. Totally worth it by the way!

If you are coming solely to spend time in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, I suggest buying a one-day park hopper ticket, as both sections of the world can easily be thoroughly explored in one day.

Buying Tickets to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

We like to buy our theme park tickets with Getaway Today. They are a trusted company and have the best deals out there. You can also book your Universal tickets and hotel together in a vacation package, which can save you a lot of money. You can purchase Universal packages here and Universal tickets here.  

  • Arrive at Universal Studios Harry Potter World before the park opens
  • Start at Hogsmeade, go to Diagon Alley at noon, then go back to Hogsmeade in the evening.
  • Buy an interactive wand. There will be fun little stops in both parks where you can do some of your own magic.
  • Lockers are available for the Harry Potter and Gringott’s rides. They are free for the duration of the ride.
  • Bring a fannypack if you can to avoid having to use the lockers as the space gets extremely crowded! Fawn Design makes my very favorite fannypack!

I’m dividing this guide into two sections: Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley

Hogsmeade (Islands of Adventure)

I recommend starting and ending your day in Hogsmeade. If you have early access because you are staying in a Universal property, this will only allow you early access to Universal Studios. Sure the half-hour extra is great, but what I’ve found is that it’s more crowded by the time the park opens. Sure, it’s great for those first 30 minutes, but so is Islands of Adventure. So ESPECIALLY if you don’t have early access, head to Hogsmeade in Islands of Adventure first thing!

The park opens at 9 AM, but they let us in around 8:30. The fastest route to Harry Potter is to go to the right once you enter the park and take a sharp left when you hit Seuss Landing.

Islands of Adventure is home to Hogsmeade where you’ll find the quaint town with snow-covered pitched roofs, Hogwarts Castle and lots and lots of butterbeer!

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey: This ride inside of Hogwarts Castle is an interactive ride that will bring you on a journey through Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry and on a forbidden journey as you ride along on your very own broomstick with your favorite characters. The line for this ride can get crazy. I recommend going straight here first thing in the morning. Your wait will only be the time it takes you to walk to the ride entrance.

Flight of the Hippogriff:  Don’t blink, this brief ride lasts approximately 1 minute and 6 seconds. I recommend doing this ride first thing in the morning right after Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey. Be sure to spot Hagrid’s cottage and Buckbeak’s nest while you’re in line.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

The Hogwarts Express: Used as an amazing shortcut between Hogsmeade (Islands of Adventure) and Diagon Alley (Universal Studios), the Hogwarts Express is a ride in itself. Note: you MUST have a park-hopper ticket to ride the Hogwarts Express!  

This quick train ride will take you on a journey from Hogsmeade to King’s Cross Station, London, where you’ll make your way through Platform 9 3/4, into London, and through the brick wall to Diagon Alley. You’ll ride in your very own carriage car with several others. The cars look just like the movie. I don’t want to give away too much, but it’s worth a ride!

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

The best part of Hogsmeade, for me at least, is all the adorable shops! Not necessarily what’s IN the shops, but just the detail that has been put into each shop. In Hogsmeade you will find:

  • Honeydukes: This adorable harry potter candy store is full of all the goodies from the Harry Potter books and films including Sugar Quills, Exploding Bon Bons, Fudge Flies, Candy Floss, U-No-Poo, Chocolate Frogs, Pepper Imps, Bertie Bots Every Flavor Bean, Fizzing Whizbees, Peppermint Toads and more.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

  • Olivander’s: This wand shop, owned by Olivander is where Harry Potter receives his wand (well the wand chose him really). Although the original Olivander’s was in Diagon Alley, there is one located in Hogsmeade as well. At Olivander’s you can participate in your own wand choosing ceremy, where a wand can choose you if you’re lucky enough to be picked. I recommend going right after you ride the two rides first thing in the morning to avoid a long wait. The less people in your group, the better chance you have of being chosen.Abbi was lucky enough to be chosen in the ceremony and we purchased her $55 Interactive Wand which we used all over Hogsemeade and Diagon Alley.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

  • Zonko’s Joke Shop: Full of fun novelty gifts and other souvenirs.
  • Filch’s Emporium of Confiscated Goods: A souvenir shop
  • Dervish & Bangs: Souvenir Shop

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

  • Owl Post: Look out for the nesting owls and the Howler! Send your own postcards to be sent by owl to friends and family with an official Hogsmeade postal stamp!

I’ll be honest, after my experience at Disneyland Paris, I was slightly worried about starving to death while at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. I am not generally a fan of overpriced theme park food, but the food here was actually incredible and consisted of a legitimately British menu with items like Fish & Chips, Full English Breakfast, Bangers & Mash, Meat pies, Pasties, and Sticky Toffee Pudding. It was such a happy surprise for me and I wish I could have gone back an extra day just to try all the menu items.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

  • The Three Broomsticks: This is the main restaurant in Hogsmeade and offers a fantastic variety of British food. The cozy snow-capped in is decorated to look like an old tavern and it’s so well done. We came here for breakfast after doing the two rides and Olivander’s. By this time it was around 9:30 AM.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

The portions are large. The two of us split the full English Breakfast which consists of eggs, bacon, sausage, blood pudding, beans, tomatoes, mushrooms and a croissant. We couldn’t even finish it. We also ordered pumpkin juice which is my new favorite thing.  SO GOOD (I actually liked it better than butterbeer)!

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

  • Hog’s Head: At this bar, you can get classic Butterbeer, Pumpkin Juice, and other grown-up drinks.
  • Neeps: These little stands in Hogsmeade will offer bottled drinks and snacks. There was a wide variety of fresh fruit, which I was so grateful for after all that Butterbeer!
  • Butterbeer: There are several Butterbeer stalls in Hogsmeade where you can get cold Butterbeer or (my favorite) Frozen Butterbeer, which is like a Butterbeer Slushie. I’m still dreaming about it!

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Diagon Alley

Around noon, I recommend heading to Diagon Alley. Take the Hogwarts Express, pass through Platform 9 3/4 and into King’s Cross Station. As you exit the station, you will find yourself in “London,” which is super adorable! Make your way through the brick wall that opens up to Diagon Alley. As adorable and well-done as Hogsmeade is, Diagon Alley is over the top perfection with the detail. You’ll be greeted by tall crooked buildings, and a dragon towering over the palatial Gringott’s Bank!

I recommend going to Diagon Alley during the hotter part of the day as it feels more shaded, and you can escape to “Knockturn Alley” and into near-darkness and cool bliss!

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Rides (or ride, really)

Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts: This is the only ride we waited in a long line for. At the busiest time of day, the wait was 45 minutes. We went a second time and did the single rider line. It was about 30 minutes. It was well worth the wait though as this was our favorite ride of the day! It incorporates all the interactive parts of the Hogwarts ride, but the movements of this one are faster and more exciting. It’s such a long wait because it’s the only ride in Diagon Alley.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

The shops at Diagon Alley are so well done! They are whimsical and spooky and totally magically make you feel like you’ve been transported into another world. Pay attention to all the little details and spend a good few hours wandering the crooked streets.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

  • Gringott’s Money Exchange: Come here first thing to exchange your Muggle Money for Wizard currency to spend in Diagon Alley or Hogsmeade. The money comes in denominations of $10 or $20 and is an even exchange. You can make the exchange using cash or card. It’s just a fun thing to do, especially if you’re giving the kids spending money.
  • Shutterbuttons: At this cute photo studio you can create your own moving pictures just like the ones in Harry Potter.
  • Borgin & Burkes: This spooky shop in Knockturn Alley sells objects and oddities for the dark arts. Or really just spooky T-shirts.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

  • Weasleys’ Wizardly Weazes: This was Abbi’s favorite shop. Full of fun pranks, jokes, and gifts. Watch for Professor Umbridge swinging from the ceiling.
  • Quality Quidditch Supplies: Find everything you’ll need to play the most popular sport of the wizarding world, Quidditch!

Madam Malkin’s Robes for all Occasions: Find all the best wizarding wardrobe essentials.

  • Magical Menagerie: Come here to adopt your own furry magical friend.

Wands by Gregorovitch: The “other” wand shop and rival to Ollivander. Find interactive wands here as well.

  • Sugarplum’s Sweet Shop: This cute little candy store has all the same fun Harry Potter themed candy that Honeyduke’s has.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

There are plenty of great food and treats in Diagon Alley, and don’t forget the Butterbeer!

  • The Leaky Cauldron: Find more traditional British fare here, such as fish & chips, meat pies, and more! Be sure to take a picture with the giant leaky cauldron.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

  • The Fountain of Fair Fortune: A bar carrying Butterbeer, Pumpkin Juice, and adult beverages.
  • Florean Fortescue’s Ice Cream Parlor: Find magical ice cream flavors at Florean’s! Soft serve Butterbeer ice cream is a favorite, but you can get Clotted Cream, Granny Smith, Earl Grey and Lavender, Chocolate Chili, Sticky Toffee Pudding, Salted Caramel Blondie, Chocolate and Raspberry, and more.

Granny Smith, Earl Grey and Lavender, Chocolate Chili, Sticky Toffee Pudding, Salted Caramel Blondie, Chocolate and Raspberry, and more.

Once you’re finished wandering Diagon Alley, hop back on the Hogwarts Express and head back to Hogsmeade. Wander the town some more then settle yourself on the bridge to Jurrasic Park to watch the light show on Hogwarts Castle.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Hopefully, this guide to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter was helpful to you. There are tons of other rides in both Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios, but we only stuck to Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley. Beyond the rides, shops, and food, there are so many beautiful little details all around both parks. I hope you spend time just wandering!

Don’t forget to book your flight and car through Expedia and then book your discounted hotel through the Expedia Add-On Advantage. Check out even more Universal Studios tips.

I was selected for this opportunity as a member of CLEVER and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.

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Wanderlust Crew

2 thoughts on “ the ultimate guide to visiting the wizarding world of harry potter orlando ”.

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Love it!! I tried the Earl Grey/lavender ice cream there last year and it was heavenly. I can’t wait to go back next month and have some more.

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Yum! I love their ice cream flavors!

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The Complete Guide to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Diagon Alley

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

Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure

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

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

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey

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

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

Hogwarts Express in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

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

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

Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts

Location: Diagon Alley

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

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

EXPERIENCES

See a wand choose a wizard at ollivanders.

Location: Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley

Ollivanders in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

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

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

Cast Spells With Your Interactive Wand

Interactive Wands in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

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

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

Meet the Hogwarts Express Conductor

Hogwarts Train Conductor in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

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

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

Send a Letter Through Owl Post

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

Knight Bus Conductor in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

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

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

Exchange Your Muggle Money at the Gringotts Money Exchange

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

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

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

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

SEASONAL: Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

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

Great Feast from Three Broomsticks

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

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

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

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

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

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

Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour

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

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

Jacket Potato from London

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

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

Ollivanders

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

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

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

Dervish and Banges

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

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

Honeydukes Wizarding World of Harry Potter

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

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

Filch’s Emporium of Confiscated Goods

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

Weasleys' Wizard Wheezus

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

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

Madam Malkin’s Robes for All Occasions

Madam Malkin's Robes for Every Occasion

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

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

Magical Menagerie

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

Borgin and Burkes In Diagon Alley

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

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

Quality Quidditch Supplies

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

Sugarplum's Sweetshop in Diagon Alley

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

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

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

Wiseacre's Wizarding Equipment in Diagon Alley

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

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

Wands by Gregorovitch

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 In Diagon Alley

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

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

Hogwarts Frog Choir

Frog Choir Wizarding World of Harry Potter

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

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

Triwizard Spirit Rally

Triwizard Spirit Rally in Hogsmeade

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

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

The Tales of Beedle the Bard

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

Celestina Warbeck in Diagon Alley

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

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

HIDDEN GEMS

Call the ministry of magic.

Magic Telephone Booth in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

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

See 12 Grimmauld Place

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

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 .

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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.

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18 comments.

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

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

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

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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.

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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!

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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

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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.

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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!

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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!

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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

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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.

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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!

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Two sisters exploring the world while trying to get college degrees

11 Essential Tips for Visiting Harry Potter World in Orlando

Harry Potter World Tips and Travel Guide

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando, Florida is such a fun and exciting place to visit! But planning a trip to Harry Potter World can be stressful! That’s where this guide comes in – it will share all of the best tips for Harry Potter World and as well as our best tips and tricks for planning your amazing vacation!

Sound good?

Let’s get right into the Harry Potter World tips! 

Tips for Visiting Harry Potter World

Buy park hopper passes.

There are two different areas of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and they are located in two separate parks. Diagon Alley is located in Universal Studios, and Hogsmeade and Hogwarts Castle is in Island of Adventure. 

The Hogwarts Express train runs back and forth between the two parks, but you can only ride it if you get park hopper passes . 

Park hopper passes are a little more expensive, but are definitely worth it for the Hogwarts Express. 

If you’re visiting Universal Studios for multiple days, you can save money by just getting park hopper passes for one day in order to be able to ride the Hogwarts Express. 

The Hogwarts Express in Universal Studios, Orlando.

Don’t get Express Passes the First Day

If you’re visiting on a weekday and you have more than one day to spend at Harry Potter World, I don’t recommend getting Express Passes on the first day. 

This is for two main reasons. One, they’re very expensive – an extra $79.99 – $109.99 per person, per day. 

Second, on weekdays, the lines for rides aren’t always super long, especially in the morning. 

For example, on a Friday morning in both Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade, I never waited more than 20 minutes to get on a ride. Personally, it was fine with me to wait 15-20 minutes for a ride instead of spending an extra $100. 

If you find that the park is very busy on your first day, visit all of the shops and restaurants and buy Express Passes for the next day, so you can easily go on all the rides. 

Visit for at Least Two Days

While it is possible to see both sections of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in just one day, it will feel a little rushed – especially if you want to go on all the rides. 

Because of this, I recommend spending at least two days at the park. Personally, I think two days is the perfect amount of time, but someone who loves going on rides will probably enjoy spending 3+ days between the parks.

Visit in the Colder Months

Florida, and Orlando specifically, gets extremely hot and humid during the summer. Because of this, I recommend visiting in the fall or winter when it’s more mild. 

Standing in line when it’s 90 degrees, sunny and humid is not super enjoyable – and it will definitely make your time at the park a little less pleasant. 

Even during the winter months you’ll have temperatures in the 70s, which personally I think is perfect for visiting a theme park.

Download the Universal App

When you enter the park you can grab a paper map to find your way around, but an easier option is to download the Universal App. 

The app is really great, as in addition to having a digital map, it also tells you wait times at rides and attractions. This is a great way to plan your stops and see which rides you should visit when! 

The app also tells you what time various shows begin, which is very helpful!

Gringotts Bank ride at Universal Studios, Orlando.

Head to the Most Popular Rides First Thing in the Morning

In order to get the shortest wait times, I recommend heading to the most popular rides first thing in the morning. 

If you’re staying in a Universal Studios Hotel, you get to enter Island of Adventure Park (Harry Potter World: Hogsmeade) an hour early. 

In Hogsmeade you’ll find the Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride (in Hogwarts Castle), Flight of the Hippogriff and Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure. 

If you go to Universal Studios first, home of Diagon Alley, head directly to the Escape from Gringotts ride. This is the most popular attraction in Diagon Alley, and the line can get long quickly.

Hogwarts castle at Universal Hogsmeade village.

Stay at an On-Site Hotel

As mentioned above, staying at a Universal Studios on-site hotel has certain perks. For example, you get to enter Island of Adventure (Harry Potter World: Hogsmeade) an hour before the park officially opens. 

Additionally, each of the on-site hotels offers free transportation to the parks, either by shuttle or water taxi. The transportation options are fantastic, and make getting to the park super easy. 

Lastly, the more luxury accommodations, such as Loews Portofino Bay Hotel , Loews Royal Pacific Resort and the Hard Rock Hotel , provide guests with free, unlimited Express Passes for each day they are in the park. 

During my most recent stay, I stayed at Universal Endless Summer: Surfside Resort . This is the most budget friendly of the hotels offered  – along with its sister hotel across the street: Universal Endless Summer: Dockside Resort . 

Although Universal Endless Summer: Surfside Resort is considered a “value” option, it was very clean, comfortable and well decorated! Additionally, it’s only 5 minutes by free-shuttle to the park entrance. 

I definitely recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Universal Studios. It’s great for families, couples and groups of friends. 

Click here for Universal Endless Summer: Surfside Resort rates and to book! 

You Can Share a Wand

When visiting Harry Potter World, part of the fun is getting a wand from Olivander’s shop. There are so many to choose from and it’s such a unique experience. 

Around both Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade you will be able to use your wand to perform spells, and they’re honestly pretty cool! You can make water shoot from fountains, flowers bloom, and make a music box play – just to name a few. 

That being said, the wands are expensive, at $60 each. I recommend picking out one wand per group, and sharing it to perform the spells. 

It might be a little less special to not have your own wand, but you realistically won’t use it again when you leave the park.

Try the Fun Treats – But They’re Not All Great

The most exciting part of Harry Potter World, for me, is all of the fun wizarding treats (especially the butterbeer!) 

I made it my personal mission to try as many of the treats as possible, and many were very good! However, some were also super disappointing. 

Check out my full post about the Best Treats and Butterbeer Snacks to Eat at Harry Potter World !

But as a quick preview: 

  • Definitely have lunch at the Leaky Cauldron or the Three Broomsticks
  • Have butterbeer ice cream from Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour 
  • Drink butterbeer at the Hogshead 
  • Have a Fizzy Orange Juice at the Hopping Pot

Butter Beer cart in Hogsmeade in Islands of Adventure park.

Eat Lunch Early (or late) to Miss the Lunch-Rush 

The service at both the Leaky Caldron and the Three Broomsticks is relatively quick, likely due to the semi-limited menu. However, the lines get very long around 12pm. 

In order to avoid waiting in line for lunch, I recommend going early, around 11am, or later in the day, after 3pm. 

The food at these restaurants isn’t gourmet or life changing, but it’s such a fun experience to eat at both. I definitely recommend making time for it!

Check Out All the Shops

I could spend all day at Harry Potter World walking around and checking out all of the fun and unique shops. A few of my favorites are definitely Sugarplum’s Sweet Shop (Diagon Alley), Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes (Diagon Alley) and Honeydukes (Hogsmeade.) All of these are candy/sweet shops – so I think it’s pretty clear what my favorite kind of store is! 

However, in addition to the fun candy shops, there are also lots of souvenirs you can buy, including wands, robes and other collectables. 

Many of the shops in Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade sell similar items, but each shop has its own unique souvenirs. I recommend checking out all of the shops first, and then going back to buy your favorite items. 

PRO TIP: When purchasing items in Universal Studios and Island of Adventure, ask for them to be “sent to the front of the park.” This means that your purchases will be sent to City Walk (where you exit the park) and will be waiting for you after you leave the park for the day! 

I highly, highly recommend this option! It makes it so much easier not to have to carry tons of bags around the park with you. 

If you’re staying at an on-site hotel, and are staying for multiple days, you will also have the option to have your purchases sent directly to the hotel’s front desk! This is another fantastic option, and something to absolutely take advantage of. 

When planning a trip to Harry Potter World, one of my biggest tips is to save room in your suitcase! I really didn’t plan on buying anything – but I ended up with lots of candy, a wand and souvenirs for friends. Trust me, you’ll definitely purchase things as well!

Sugarplums Sweet Shop in Diagon Alley at Universal Studios.

Quick Harry Potter World Tips and Facts to Know

  • Universal Studios: Diagon Alley 
  • Island of Adventure: Hogsmeade 
  • Get tickets in advance, and keep the QR codes on your phone 
  • You have early access to Island of Adventure (8am) if you’re staying at an on-site hotel 
  • The parks close at varying times throughout the year, from 6pm onwards 
  • City Walk is open very late, it closes between midnight and 2am

Harry Potter World FAQ

  • I highly recommend staying in one of the Universal Studios on-site hotels as they come with many perks, like early park entry! There are tons of options to fit many budgets . 
  • Ticket prices range depending on the number of days you’re visiting the park. The more days you visit the park, the less expensive daily tickets become. Click here for prices and ticket packages. 
  • Diagon Alley, in Universal Studios, in my opinion is slightly better than Hogsmeade in Island of Adventure. This is because it’s less compact, and there are more shops and places to eat. Hogwarts Castle is located in Hogsmeade though, and there are more rides in this part of the park, so it does come down to personal preference. 
  • You don’t need specific tickets for Harry Potter World, as they are parts of other parks. 
  • As mentioned above, I recommend park hopper tickets so you can move between parks on the Hogwarts Express. 
  • You can only take the Hogwarts Express if you have park hopper tickets, as it moves between parks. 
  • I recommend spending at least two days in the parks, visiting both parks on both days.

Guide and tips for visiting Harry Potter World

Other posts to check out for planning a trip to Harry Potter World:

  • The Ultimate Universal Studios Photo Spots and Instagram Guide
  • The Best Treats and Butterbeer Snacks at Universal Studios, Harry Potter World

Note: This post includes affiliate links. Read our disclosure  here .

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13 comments.

Love Harry Potter. We went to Universal and Island of Adventures back in 2014, months before the Hogwarts Expressed opened. Gutted!

Wow! Didn’t realized this place exist in Orlando! I’m a huge Harry Potter fan! Looks like I know where to go next! Thanks for your article.

Harry Potter World is sooo fun! Thanks for all this helpful trip planning information!

I consider myself a HP world expert but had never heard of sending your purchases to the front! Such a great tip so that you don’t have to carry things around

I absolutely agree with getting to the popular rides in the am and staying two days! Great tips!

I live in Orlando and Harry Potter World has easily become one of my favorite places! Great article.

This was so helpful! Excited to visit HP world soon!

Great guide for Harry Potter World. I haven’t been to the Orlando parks since I was a child, but this looks like a fun place for a Harry Potter fan!

Totally worth it to get the park hopper pass – the Hogwarts Express is a can’t-miss for any Harry Potter fan! Also the suggestion to have your meals at the off hours is a great tip – we found that gave us the best chance to actually enjoy the food and not feel rushed. Thanks for this great post.

Oh my gosh I’ve wanted to go to Harry Potter World for so long! It looks incredible. Your tips like not getting an express pass for weekdays and downloading the app are genius – I didn’t know about these things before. Thank you!

Wow! This looks like such a fun park. I imagine that the rides are amazing. I’ve read all the books and seen all of the movies and the scenes would lend themselves to very imaginative rides. And, I too, would love the Butterbeer.

I am a big Harry Potter fan and I have visited the London studios. I must say that after reading your article, I will definitely visit the Orlando one when I’ll be nearby. It looks amazing!!!

I am a huge #potterhead this looks like such fun! I’ve only been to the London studio tours and that is small scale compared to this, definitely visiting Orlando for the sole purpose of HP World in my lifetime haha!

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  • How to Ensure Your Trip to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a Success!

Too often we’ve heard from guests who arrived at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter with no plan, waited in long lines for two rides, wandered around, and didn’t make it into any of the shops. At the end of their trip, they were overwhelmed, exhausted, and actually saw very little of what Universal has to offer. Don’t let this be you!

While Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley aren’t always packed with wall-to-wall people, there are many times when they are, and our motto is always be prepared for crowds . The logic behind the advice on this page is simple: the Wizarding World, during busy times, can be extremely crowded from mid-morning until around the last three hours before the park closes. There is nothing stopping you from hanging out in the area all day long, and getting into any lines you want, but you will be doing so with thousands of other Harry Potter fans.

So review the tips, tricks, and guidelines on this page, and you will be well on your way to the best wizarding trip ever.

Skip to: Crowd levels | Hagrid’s Motorbike Adventure | Know before you go | The ideal plan | FAQs

How crowded will The Wizarding World of Harry Potter be?

The first step to successfully planning your vacation to Universal Orlando Resort is to be aware of the “season” in which you are visiting. If you haven’t already, check out our free 12-month Universal crowd calendar to learn how crowded we expect the theme parks to be during your visit. Make a note of what time the parks will open and close, bearing in mind that Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida may shutter at different times and may have different special events taking place.

Below, we will discuss the ideal setup for your visit to Universal and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Please be aware that the advice given on this page is based on two fundamental assumptions: that fully experiencing Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley is your primary objective at the resort, and that you are going to Universal when crowd levels are expected to be busy or very busy – when the headline attractions, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey , Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts , and the newest ride, Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure have wait times over two hours. In addition, during high crowd levels and due to the lands’ replicating the cozy feel of the wizarding world’s boutique shops, the stores can get very packed and may even develop their own queues and wait times.

What about Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure?

The best way to find out what is happening with Hagrid on the day of your visit is to use the official Universal Orlando app for your smartphone, which will list the current wait time. You can even set a wait time alert to be notified when the queue reaches a more desirable wait time for your party!

If you are intent on riding Hagrid’s Motorbike Adventure, our best advice is to try to keep an eye on what is happening every day via the app for a few days before your trip. If the attraction is opening with the park, go straight there on your Islands of Adventure morning; conversely, if you are okay with skipping Hagrid, proceed through our plan as follows.

What do I need to know before I plan my Wizarding World of Harry Potter trip?

To conquer the crowds and experience the best of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, we’ve outlined the ideal itinerary for a busy day at Universal Orlando Resort. Our goal is to have you be prepared for the worst crowds with a solid plan on how to make your way through Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade by understanding crowd-flows and peak crowd times – when planning your vacation, these two points will help you decide how to arrange your days.

First, study up on  Early Park Admission , which is available to any guest staying at one of Universal Orlando’s hotels or who books a  vacation package at a partner hotel that also offers Early Park Admission.

Second, plan on entering the Wizarding World at least four times, either at the very beginning of the day or in the last three hours before the park closes . The basic strategy is to have a morning and evening in Hogsmeade, and a morning and evening in Diagon Alley. This is what you will do during your visits:

  • Ride Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
  • Visit the shops, shows, and dining of Diagon Alley
  • Ride Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey and Flight of the Hippogriff
  • Visit the shops, shows, and dining of Hogsmeade
  • Ride the Hogwarts Express

What is the ideal plan for visiting The Wizarding World of Harry Potter?

If you’ve booked a one-night stay at one of the Universal hotels, such as Royal Pacific Resort , you will have access to Early Park Admission for two mornings. On your first morning, arrive at the hotel at least an hour before Early Park Admission begins and check in. Leave your bags with bell services, get your park tickets and room keys, and speak to a team member or consult the Universal Orlando app to confirm which park is hosting EPA. For our example, we will have an 8:00 am early admission to Universal Studios Florida.

Consider bringing a breakfast that you can eat on the go, or grab something from the quick-service restaurant at your hotel. Make sure you are at the Universal Studios Florida turnstiles 30 minutes before Early Park Admission begins, and enter the park whenever they open the gates (up to 20 minutes or so before the official opening time). The goal is to be one of the first through the turnstiles, going directly to Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts – even if the wait time says 30 minutes, this is probably the shortest wait you will get.

Exit Gringotts and go straight over to Ollivander’s to experience the wand show. Use the rest of this time to cast some spells with your interactive wand, sneak around in Knockturn Alley, and visit the goblin at the Gringotts Money Exchange in Carkitt Market . By late morning, you will notice that the area is really starting to fill up. Grab a late breakfast or early lunch at  The Leaky Cauldron , which shouldn’t be too busy during the 10:30-11:00 am off-peak time. Rather than battling the growing crowds, exit Diagon Alley and explore the other experiences available at Universal Studios Florida.

If you have park-to-park tickets, you could also ride the Hogwarts Express over to Hogsmeade. However, we don’t recommend going into Hogsmeade at this time, as the crowds will have similarly grown as the morning goes on. Instead, when you exit the train, head right and take the Hogsmeade bypass bridge into Jurassic Park and make your way around Islands of Adventure.

During the busy season, the parks are typically open until 9:00 or 10:00 pm, so plan to return to Diagon Alley around 7:00 that same evening, after an early dinner somewhere in the park, at CityWalk , or at your hotel. Step back inside Diagon Alley as the sun starts to set and spend the evening enjoying the atmosphere and magic. Have a treat at Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour and then grab a drink at The Hopping Pot to watch an evening show of Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees or The Tales of Beedle the Bard (or to visit the other spell locations you might have missed). Consider riding Gringotts again if the line gets shorter towards the end of the evening, or take a ride on the Hogwarts Express if Universal Studios is closing before Islands of Adventure does. Of our four recommended visits to the Wizarding World, you’ve now completed two.

The next day, arrive at Islands of Adventure 30 minutes before the opening time, whether it is early or regular admission. Go straight to Hogsmeade via Seuss Landing , and consider jumping in line for Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure. If the wait is already too long for your liking, press on towards Hogwarts Castle and ride Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, which you should be able to hop on in less than 20 minutes.

After doing Forbidden Journey, have a look in Filch’s Emporium of Confiscated Goods in Hogwarts, then walk across to ride Flight of the Hippogriff. Explore the other shops of Hogsmeade, including the Owl Post and Dervish and Banges. Pop over to the Hogsmeade stage to catch a showing of the Triwizard Spirit Rally or the Frog Choir , which begins around 10:00 am and alternates showings every half-hour (consult your times guide or ask a friendly wizard employee). Try to visit The Three Broomsticks for lunch at the off-peak time around 11:30 am; if the weather is nice, grab a seat on the back patio for a great view of Hogwarts and the lagoon. Once Hogsmeade starts to get too crowded, exit and tour the rest of Islands of Adventure or anything you missed at Universal Studios Florida.

Finally, return to Hogsmeade around 7:00 pm to behold the spectacle and wonder of the theme-park land in the evening. The introduction of The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle has encouraged guests to linger after dark, but you’ll find that as the evening goes on, the land will start to empty out. Grab something sweet from Honeydukes and find a spot for the intermittent showings of Nighttime Lights taking place between dusk and park close. Return to any shops you may have missed, and pop into the Hog’s Head Pub (connected to Three Broomsticks) to order a Butterbeer from this infamous establishment. Keep an eye on the wait times at Forbidden Journey, and if they get low enough, you might brave another jaunt on a charmed flying bench.

The ideal Wizarding World of Harry Potter itinerary – FAQs

You may still have some questions after going through our ideal way to ensure your trip to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a success. Well, we have some answers!

Can I switch around the days?

The key to this plan is making four visits to the Wizarding World, either first thing in the morning or in the evening before the park closes. You could certainly do this itinerary with four morning visits only, but you would be missing the ambiance of evening time in Diagon Alley and The Nighttime Lights at Hogsmeade.

Do I need a park-to-park ticket?

You do not need park-to-park tickets to see most of the Wizarding World with this plan. However, if you have one-park-only tickets, you will not be able to ride the Hogwarts Express , and you will want to make sure that you plan your morning and evening in the same park each day; for example, you won’t be able to do the morning in Diagon Alley and the evening in Hogsmeade on the same day with a one-park ticket, so don’t mix and match!

What if I don’t have Early Park Admission?

Not everyone can stay at a hotel that offers Early Park Admission. If this is your situation, we are confident that this plan will still work for you, but you will be at a disadvantage at the theme park that features early admission for that day. One option, for those on a longer trip, is to stick to the plan of one morning and one evening at the park with no early admission, as you won’t be at a disadvantage there – but you’ll need to do two evenings at the park that does have EPA, in order to avoid the morning crowds of on-site guests.

If you are on a short trip and only have two days, then just know that you will have a longer wait for the rides in the early admission park. Plan to be at the turnstiles an hour before the parks’ regular opening time, as Universal may let off-site guests enter up to 20 minutes before the published time. If the wait times are unbearably long, consider purchasing an Express Pass in the park to shorten your waits both in the Wizarding World and around Universal.

What if I have Express Passes?

Beginning July 2017, Universal added Express access to most attractions in Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade, including the Hogwarts Express  (but not – at this time, at least – Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure). By using our plan, you will encounter the shortest possible wait times, so you can be strategic in your use of Express, especially if you have the basic pass, which only allows one usage per attraction. Consider using the standby queue while the lines are short, and use your Express Pass when lines get longer. Express Passes, of course, won’t allow you to skip the lines for shops or avoid the general crowds, so early mornings and late evenings are still the way to go.

If you have Unlimited Express Passes, rejoice! You may visit the attractions at any time and re-ride as much as you want with significantly reduced wait times.

What if a ride is closed or delayed for weather?

Unfortunately, attractions do sometimes close for repairs or seasonal maintenance. On top of that, Florida weather is unpredictable, and outdoor shows and rides, such as Flight of the Hippogriff or, more especially, Hagrid’s Motorbike Adventure, must close during inclement weather. Should you arrive at an attraction to find that it’s closed, simply proceed with the other activities on your checklist and keep an eye on your app or the sign boards posted around Universal to see if the ride comes back online.

While we hope you will be able to see and do everything on offer at Universal, remember that if you miss something on this trip, it will be something you can “save” for your next one!

Is it always busy inside the Wizarding World of Harry Potter?

No, it certainly is not. Again, use our crowd calendar to help guide your planning.

OI Universal Center » Insider’s Guide to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

  • Butterbeer at Universal Orlando Resort – Complete Insider’s Guide
  • Diagon Alley & Harry Potter Return Tickets – Complete Insider’s Guide
  • Early Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter (at Universal Studios & Islands of Adventure) and Volcano Bay
  • Interactive Wizarding Wands & Spell-Casting in the Wizarding World – Complete Guide
  • Shopping and Merchandise in Diagon Alley – Complete, Up-to-Date Guide
  • Shopping and Merchandise in Hogsmeade – Complete, Up-to-Date Guide
  • The Leaky Cauldron at Universal’s Diagon Alley – Complete Insider’s Guide
  • The Specialty Drinks, Meals, and Desserts of Diagon Alley
  • The Three Broomsticks & Hog’s Head (quick-service) at Universal’s Islands of Adventure
  • Wizarding World of Harry Potter: 4 Ways to Beat the Crowds

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The Only Harry Potter World Guide You’ll Need

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For true fans, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is an absolute dream. Literally.

When I was younger and reading the books I would walk the streets of Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade in my imagination and I never believed I would be able to do that in real life.

So obviously I geeked out on my first trip to Harry Potter World!

This really is a bucket list trip for Harry Potter fans and I would recommend visiting as soon as you can. It can be intimidating to think about planning a trip here though because there is so much to see and do!

I’ve already written about my general tips for visiting Universal Studios Florida so here is my complete Harry Potter World Guide!

Disclaimer: This post ma y contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through this link, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thanks for keeping Stuck On The Go going!

How to Plan a Trip to Harry Potter World

Hogwarts Castle up on a rock with trees down below. Harry Potter World Guide.

Do Your Research

Just by reading this article (and I’m sure many others) you are ahead of the game! The things I would research beforehand are when there will be fewer crowds, what souvenirs or treats you want to buy, which rides are best, and how virtual lines work.

Youtube is a fantastic resource for planning your trip and I found this video about one day in Harry Potter World super helpful when planning my own trip. I know it’s a bit long but it’s full of great tips.

Choose the Right Time to Visit

If you are anything like me and you can’t stand crowds then this will make or break your trip. I hate waiting in long lines and not being efficient with my time so I want to visit when the least people will be there.

I’ll go over the best times to visit in a bit.

trip harry potter world

Plan Your Days Around Crowds

Just realized most of my tips center around staying away from lots of people… I’m not a mean person, I promise.

If at all possible get Early Access to the parks. This lets you in by 8am when the parks typically open at 9am.

The only way to get Early Access though is by booking a vacation package with a Universal partner hotel, staying at a Universal Studios Resort hotel, or if you have a Preferred or Premier Annual Pass.

If you can’t get early access, then get to the parking deck by 8:30am and get in as soon as you can. Hit the rides or attractions that are #1 on your list first and then eat lunch around 11 – 11:30am.

The crowds really swarm the park during the middle of the day so you’ll want to be prepared for that. If you can swing it I would get the Express Pass – you can read more about that in my general Universal Studios tips.

Express Passes are expensive but worth it (to me). A couple hours before the park closes the crowds will start to thin out again. If you missed anything at the beginning of the day you can go back and get in pretty easily now.

The three story purple Knight Bus from the Harry Potter Series.

When to Visit Harry Potter World

Obviously the best times to visit are when kids are in school. You’ll want to avoid the months of June, July, and the first half of August.

Also avoid spring break which is typically in early/mid-April and Thanksgiving or Christmas break.

Another obvious thing – weekdays are better than weekends. If at all possible visit the parks on the weekdays.

The best months to visit Universal Studios Florida are September through December (skipping Thanksgiving and Christmas) and late January, February, and April (skipping spring break).

What to Do In Harry Potter World Guide

Here is the fun part! Get excited about all the fun things to see and do in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

A pale dragon on top of the Gringotts three story bank. Harry Potter World Guide.

Rides of Diagon Alley

Escape From Gringotts – One of my favorites! We rode this one three different times. While you’re in line you get to walk through Gringotts Bank and you even see the goblins.

This is one of the best show/roller coaster combos in the park. You get to wear the 3D glasses and follow Harry, Ron, and Hermione as they find their way out of the vaults of Gringotts.

Ollivanders Wand Experience – There is always a super long line for this but I’ve heard it’s one of the coolest experiences in the park.

If you’ve ever dreamed of your very own wand choosing you then you’ll love this. In case you’ve already purchased a wand (or don’t want to), you don’t have to buy one if you’re selected.

Hogwarts Express – What an experience. The train looks exactly like it does in the movies. The benches on each side of the rooms will seat four people each but during COVID each party gets their own room.

The “window” is actually a TV screen that plays a short movie during your trip from one park to the other. The movie is different in both directions so be sure to take it both ways! You’ll have to have the park-to-park ticket if you want to ride this one.

The station here is Kings Cross Station from London. There is even a “trick” glass that makes it look like people are walking through the brick column to Platform 9 ¾.

Kings cross train station from Universal Studios

Shops in Diagon Alley

I won’t go into too much detail on the shops because you really should just walk in all of them to see what’s there. You’ll find more shops in Diagon Alley than you will in Hogsmeade.

Definitely walk through Knockturn Alley and stop in Borgin and Burkes. Anyone who is a Slytherin will be happy here.

At the Gringotts Money Exchange, you can exchange your money for Gringotts bank notes to use throughout Harry Potter World.

At Madam Malkin’s Robes for All Occasions there is a huge selection of clothes and accessories. This is also where you’ll find the cloaks and you can get things customized with embroidery.

Pick up stuffed animals at the Magical Menagerie or Quidditch gear at Quality Quidditch Supplies.

Fix your sweet tooth at Sugarplum’s Sweetshop and get all your practical jokes from Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes. There are all kinds of fun shops to explore!

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Rides of Hogsmeade

Harry’s Forbidden Journey – For this ride you sit with your feet dangling and the safety bars come over your head. You fly sideways through the Hogwarts Castle while you watch Harry fly around the castle on his broom.

If you have any issues with motion sickness, this ride may not be for you. One of the best parts though is walking through Hogwarts before you get on the ride. It’s so fun to see it come to life.

Flight of the Hippogriff – This was the first real roller coaster that we rode on our trip and while it isn’t a huge coaster, I thought it was tons of fun! You can actually take your bags on this one and they have a net that goes over your legs.

Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure – If you ride anything in the park make it this one. This was one ride that I absolutely LOVED (even though it broke down on us the second time).

While you wait in line you walk by Hagrid’s hut and through what looks like an abandoned castle. Hagrid talks to you the whole time you are on the ride and it’s actually a pretty thrilling coaster. 10/10 would recommend.

Fake crumbling castle walls

Hogwarts Express – Here you’ll wait in Hogsmeade Station which has beautiful high vaulted ceilings. The wait at this station can get incredibly long so if you’ve already ridden the train I would skip it and walk between parks.

Shops in Hogsmeade

In Hogsmeade, Dervish and Banges is sort of a catch-all where you can find clothes, Quidditch supplies, and other wizarding items like Sneakoscopes.

In Filch’s Emporium of Confiscated Goods you’ll find items “confiscated” by Filch. These will be clothes, Hogwarts memorabilia, and the like.

Honeydukes is the sweet shop here and then you’ll find the Owl Post where you can get stationary, journals, and even quills.

Honeydukes sweet shop show window.

Watch a Show

There are stages in both Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade where you’ll find shows being performed at different times of the day. The performers are actually pretty good and while I’m not usually a show person, I loved this.

There are two different shows in each park. The two in Diagon Alley are Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees and The Tales of Beetle The Bard. The ones in Hogsmeade are the Frog Choir and the Triwizard Spirit Rally.

Eat at the Restaurants

I keep saying “you have to do this” so I hope you get the point that if you are a true fan you really have to do everything in Harry Potter World.

Eating at The Leaky Cauldron and the Three Broomsticks was honestly so cool. The Leaky Cauldron is in Diagon Alley and Three Broomsticks is in Hogsmeade of course. Have the app downloaded and you can order while you’re in line to be seated.

The Hog’s Head bar is attached to the Three Broomsticks where you can stop in for a beer if you want to test your chances. I wanted to try the Wizarding World beers – Hog’s Head Brew, Wizard’s Brew, and Dragon Scales – but I was too chicken to drink one before a coaster.

Line to enter the restaurant, the Three Broomsticks with a peaked roof and fake snow on top.

There are more options for drinks and snacks in Diagon Alley. If you want ice cream you can visit Florean Frotescue’s Ice Cream Parlor where they have Butterbeer ice cream and sticky toffee pudding ice cream.

You can also order drinks at The Hopping Pot and The Fountain of Fair Fortune. I got Butterbeer ice cream from The Hopping Pot and didn’t have to wait in line at Florean Fortescue’s – it gets long throughout the day.

Pro tip: You can order on the Universal app from The Hopping Pot and when they tell you it’s ready you walk right up to the registers and pick it up. No waiting in line.

The front of The Hopping Pot drink stand with a crowd in front.

While I was reading the Harry Potter books I would have given anything to be able to do magic. I mean ANYTHING. I was obsessed.

As we all know, you get older and more practical. I’ve grown into an old fuddy-dud. I refused to buy the interactive wand because it was $60. Yes, my inner child was disappointed.

My sister did buy one though and it was so cool to walk around and do magic! The wand comes with a map that shows you where the different spots are.

There are specific ways that you have to wave the wand and then it makes things move, lights, twinkle, or water flow depending on the place.

Things to Know Before Visiting Harry Potter World

I know this has been a long Harry Potter World Guide already, but here are my final tips for making the most of Harry Potter World. Again, you can find a few more tips in my tips for visiting Universal Studios post.

There’s More than Just the Rides

Obviously, there are so many more things to do than just the roller coasters. Don’t come in and ride the rides and be done with it.

Though the coasters are one of the best parts, they are only part of the experience. Eat in the restaurants, catch a show, and buy a wand so you can fulfill your witch or wizard dreams.

Buy Souvenirs Before You Go

The merchandise in the park is incredibly expensive. The only thing I bought was a chocolate frog and a Christmas ornament, but if you know you’ll be tempted to purchase a lot when you go then buy things ahead of time.

You can find all kinds of Harry Potter merchandise on Amazon for much cheaper than what you can buy in the park. This is a great way to save money as those costs add up quickly.

Ollivanders Isn’t the Only Wand Shop

If you want to buy a wand and the line to Ollivanders is out the door then no worries. Head to Wands by Gregorovitch, Borgin and Burkes, or the movable sales cart in Hogsmeade.

Try All the Butterbeer

Butterbeer is served multiple different ways and if you don’t like one then I highly recommend trying another. I tried the cold Butterbeer first and while the first few sips were great, it got too sweet for me very fast.

I then tried the frozen Butterbeer which was FANTASTIC and finally the ice cream which was also delicious. It is also served hot in the winter, as fudge, and as potted creme.

Frozen Butterbeer in a plastic cup. Harry Potter World Guide.

Diagon Alley is Hard to Spot

If you don’t know what you are looking for, Diagon Alley could be difficult to spot the first time you walk through Universal Studios Florida.

Walk towards the back of the park and you’ll come to King’s Cross Station on your left. You’ll see the Knight Bus ahead on your right and Diagon Alley will be directly across from it through two huge openings in a brick wall.

Find Kreature

Outside of Diagon Alley where the Knight Bus is, you’ll also find Grimmauld Place. If you stay there for a bit and watch the windows you’ll find Kreature peaks out at the people walking by.

A tall brick building with Grimmauld Place partially painted black. Harry Potter World Guide.

There Will Be Lots of People Wearing Cloaks

If you are debating wearing a cloak but worried that you’ll stick out, don’t even think about it. There are tons of people that wear cloaks so you will not be alone!

I didn’t just because they are expensive, but I thought it would be so neat to dress up and kind of play the part.

Speaking of what to wear – you’ll want to be sure you have the right shoes! Here is the list of the best shoes for theme parks !

Lines for the Hogwarts Express are Not Always Worth Waiting In

I think I’ve already mentioned this, but it’s worth mentioning again. If you have already been on the Hogwarts Express then I would not wait in a long line to ride again.

One of the best ways to get on quickly is to go when the park first opens. Early in the morning the line isn’t long and the ride itself is short so it won’t take up too much of your time. Then you can get in line for whatever other rides you would like.

Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Ride & Virtual Lines

When the park is at capacity, Hagrid’s roller coaster goes to a virtual line only. This is how it started out each day that we were there.

However, sometimes at the end of the day as people leave they will open the ride up and you can wait in line like normal.

Apparently, many people stop checking the virtual line status by the end of the day so they don’t realize that the line is open.

We got on the ride in maybe 30 minutes towards the end of the day and planned on hopping in line to ride a second time. That’s when it broke down on us though.

Harry Potter World Guide Final Thoughts

For Harry Potter fans, a visit to this park is a must. I would definitely recommend spending three days at Universal which gives you enough time to see other parts of the park as well.

Universal Studios is definitely one of the best theme parks in the US and shouldn’t be missed!

I loved everything about Harry Potter World – except maybe the crowds. Be sure to take a minute and soak everything in because it’s such a unique place and fun atmosphere.

And how often do you get to live out your childhood dreams?

Pin this post for later!

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Orlando is the perfect place to act out your childhood dreams. This tells you all about the rides, Wizarding World food, and shops! #wizardingworldofHarryPotter

Anna is a North Carolina native who grew up traveling the southern US with her family. Now she is a full-time travel blogger who loves providing trip inspiration and travel tips for traveling the US. Want to know more? Read my full story here.

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Your BEST Wizarding World of Harry Potter Itinerary (How to Do it in a Day)

Hogwarts Castle Wizarding World of Harry Potter Islands of Adventure

Are you looking for the best Wizarding World of Harry Potter itinerary for your upcoming trip?

Witches and wizards, if you’re heading to Universal Orlando Resort to brush up on your magic and be immersed in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, then look no further.

From Diagon Alley and the darker Knockturn Alley to Hogsmeade I’m covering everything you need to do if you only have one day at the two Universal theme parks.

Diagon Alley at Christmas in The Best Wizarding World of Harry Potter Itinerary.

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS. PLEASE READ MY  DISCLOSURE  FOR MORE INFO.  Which means if you click on certain links, I may receive a small commission at no additional charge to you.

Morning: Start at Hogsmeade (Universal’s Islands of Adventure)

To start, you’re going to want to ensure that you have a ticket that allows you to go to both theme parks in one day because the train from Platform 9 3/4 will leave without you if you don’t have a ticket.

Universal Orlando Resort Hogwarts Express Train at Universal Studios Florida (2)

The first thing you should do after getting to Universal Orlando Resort is head straight for Universal’s Islands of Adventure.

Hogwarts Castle: The Best Wizarding World of Harry Potter Itinerary.

This is where you’ll find The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Hogsmeade.

Universal Studios guide and tips

Here there are three attractions, and the Hogwarts Express that will take you between the two Harry Potter-themed lands at Universal Orlando Resort.

Ride Hagrid’s Magical Creature Motorbike Adventure

To start, hop on the newest Harry Potter attraction, Hagrid’s Magical Creature Motorbike Adventure.

Universal Orlando Resort Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure in Islands of Adventure unicorn

The thrilling rollercoaster takes you on a tour of the Forbidden Forest with Hagrid as your guide.

Sirius Motorbike Hagrid Roller Coaster. Keep reading to get The Best Wizarding World of Harry Potter Itinerary.

Throughout the ride you’ll spot plenty of magical creatures like Hippogriffs, unicorns, and centaurs.

Universal Orlando Resort Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure in Islands of Adventure preshow with Arthur Weasley and Hagrid. Keep reading to get The Best Wizarding World of Harry Potter Itinerary.

The line for this attraction does get long very quickly , so getting here right when the park opens is the best bet for the shortest wait time.

Cheat Sheet: Universal Orlando Resort Height Requirements (Full Guide)

Visit Hogwarts Castle then Ride Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey

After whizzing through the forest, take a tour of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry before getting on Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey.

Hogwarts in Harry Potter World Universal Orlando Resort Islands of Adventure. Keep reading to get The Best Wizarding World of Harry Potter Itinerary.

This high-flying attraction takes you through the school to iconic moments from the movies like a quidditch match, through the Forbidden Forest, and coming face-to-face with the villains from the movies.

Universal Orlando Resort Wizarding World of Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey Ride in Hogwarts Castle Islands of Adventure Hogsmeade

One thing to note about this attraction: if you have any sort of motion sickness you definitely should not ride .

NikkyJ in front of Hogwarts Castle in Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey Universal Islands of Adventure

You can still go through the queue if you’re traveling with friends or family to see the moving photos and the precise detail of the castle, then exit just before boarding.

Ride Flight of the Hippogriff

By now it should be close to 11:00 a.m. If you’re traveling with smaller kids then hop on Flight of the Hippogriff, which is a family-friendly roller coaster just in view of Hogwarts Castle.

Flight of the Hippogriff Hogsmeade Universal Orlando. Keep reading to get The Best Wizarding World of Harry Potter Itinerary.

The coaster is short but has a few fun drops that kids will like.

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Relax and Explore The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Hogsmeade

If you’re traveling solo, make your way through the shops, listen to the Hogwarts Frog Choir, and explore the storefronts to see what types of goodies are available to pick up later.

Hogshead with Long Island Ice Tea in Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Keep reading to get The Best Wizarding World of Harry Potter Itinerary.

Get up to 25% off of your Universal Orlando Vacation with Groupon TODAY!

Afternoon: Take the Hogwarts Express Train to Diagon Alley (Universal Studios Florida)

Hop onboard the Hogwarts Express to Universal Studios Florida and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley.

Hogwarts Express Train on Hogsmeade at Universal Studios. Keep reading to get The Best Wizarding World of Harry Potter Itinerary.

Here, you’ll find one attraction, plenty of shops, our favorite ice cream shop, and a decent spot for lunch.

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Have Lunch at the Leaky Cauldron

Once you’ve gotten off the train make your way to the Leaky Cauldron. This is themed after the pub and inn of the same name from the Harry Potter series.

Universal Orlando Resort nice lemon drink and chicken dinner at The Leaky Cauldron of Diagon Alley in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Keep reading to get The Best Wizarding World of Harry Potter Itinerary.

The casual eatery is serving up British staples like fish and chips, Shepard’s pie, and more.

Grill Chicken Sandwich in Leaky Cauldron in Diagon Alley at Harry Potter World Universal. Keep reading to get The Best Wizarding World of Harry Potter Itinerary.

After ordering, you’ll be taken to a table and just a few minutes later your food will show up. Take time to really enjoy your lunch because you’re only halfway through the day.

Diagon Alley: Leaky Cauldron with cafeteria style seating at lunch. Keep reading to get The Best Wizarding World of Harry Potter Itinerary.

Ready to start planning your next Universal Orlando vacation? Listen to the  latest podcast episode on Apple  or on your  non-Apple  device now!

Shop at Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes

After lunch, take a gander around some of the shops in Diagon Alley.

One of my favorites is Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes, which looks exactly like it did in the movie, complete with moving toys and an adorable entryway.

Diagon Alley Grand Opening Day Wheezes Wheezing Wizards Joke Shop. Keep reading to get The Best Wizarding World of Harry Potter Itinerary.

Take a Stroll Down Knockturn Alley

Be sure to make your way to the dimly lit Knockturn Alley, where you may come face-to-face with a Death Eater, or you can buy a curious dark relic from Borgin and Burkes.

Harry Potter Green Spell Diagon Alley Avada Cadaver in Knockturn Alley

Ride Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts

When you’re done browning around, get in line for the premier attraction in this area, Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts.

Diagon Alley with Dragon on Top of Gringotts. The Best Wizarding World of Harry Potter Itinerary.

The 3-D roller coaster attraction takes you through the depths of the wizard bank before trying to break free due to the presence of Voldemort and his motley band of Death Eaters.

Gringotts Bank interior with Globin at Diagon Alley. The Best Wizarding World of Harry Potter Itinerary.

In the process, you’ll also attempt to free the dragon that’s been held in the bank’s basement for years.

5 Best Rides and Attractions at Islands of Adventure for Solo Travelers

Tour London

Make your way through the winding streets of Diagon Alley and out to London.

Decor in Diagon Alley for Christmas at Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Keep reading to get The Best Wizarding World of Harry Potter Itinerary.

This is where the immersiveness of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter somewhat ends because you can see other parts of Universal Studios Florida .

London Facade with Kings Cross Station at Harry Potter World Diagon Alley. Keep reading to get The Best Wizarding World of Harry Potter Itinerary.

However, you’ll want to step out to see the Knight Bus and say hello to Kreecher the house elf.

Diagon Alley Number 12 Grimauld Place with Kreature Globin in the Window Sirius House with Kreature. Keep reading to get The Best Wizarding World of Harry Potter Itinerary.

You can find the Knight Bus just outside the station for the Hogwarts Express, and Kreecher peers through the window of Number 12 Grimmauld Place every few minutes.

Universal Orlando Express Pass – Save Money And Skip The Lines!

Enjoy a Harry Potter Sweet Treat

After seeing London, make your way back to Diagon Alley for an ice cream cone at Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour.

Butterbeer Ice cream in Diagon Alley in Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Keep reading to get The Best Wizarding World of Harry Potter Itinerary.

Here you can get just about any flavor you can think of as either hard-pack ice cream or soft-serve ice cream.

My favorites are butterbeer, sticky toffee pudding, and earl grey and lavender.

Parking at Universal Orlando Resort in 2022: Prices, Hotels, and FREE Options

Explore the Wizarding World of Harry Potter Diagon Alley

This is your time to enjoy the wonderful shops, visit Ollivander to possibly be chosen for a wand, watch the Tales of Beedle the Bard, and listen to Celestina Warbeck!

Celestina Warbeck and Banshees Singing on Stage in Diagon Alley. The Best Wizarding World of Harry Potter Itinerary.

SMACKDOWN: All Wizarding World of Harry Potter Rides Ranked!

Evening: Hop on the Train and Go Back to Hogwarts (Islands of Adventure)

As the sun sets, get back on the Hogwarts Express and make your way back to Hogsmeade.

Universal Orlando Resort Hogwarts Express Train at Universal Studios Florida Wizarding World of Harry Potter Diagon Alley

Depending on the line, the train can take a long time in the evening, but it’s worth it because the theme of the ride is different going both directions, and you’ll want to experience both.

Eat at the Three Broomsticks

Once in Hogsmeade, grab a snack at the Three Broomsticks or a drink at the Hog’s Head Pub.

Hogshead Bar at Harry Potter World. Keep reading to get The Best Wizarding World of Harry Potter Itinerary.

If you want the real Harry Potter experience , you’ll dine at the Three Broomsticks then get a butterbeer from one of the many carts around the area.

Front Entrance to the Three Broomsticks. Keep reading to get The Best Wizarding World of Harry Potter Itinerary.

Watch the Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle (Temporarily Postponed)

When darkness falls, be sure to get close to Hogwarts Castle so you can watch The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle.

The projection show is filled with favorite Harry Potter characters, exciting music, and school house pride.

New Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle Show. The Best Wizarding World of Harry Potter Itinerary.

This really is the best way to end your day at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

ORDER NOW to secure your Universal Studios theme park ticket! GET MY TICKETS.

3 Pro Tips for Your Wizarding World of Harry Potter Itinerary

Now that you have your own personalize Wizard World of Harry Potter Itinerary, let’s go through a few tips for your trip.

Universal Orlando Resort Red Telephone Booth in front of Kings Cross Station at Harry Potter World Diagon Alley. Your best Harry Potter Itinerary.

1. Skip Ollivanders

If you really want a wizard wand, consider getting it from one of the merchandise carts versus going to Ollivanders.

Ollivanders Wizarding World of Diagon Alley at Universal Studios. Keep reading to get The Best Wizarding World of Harry Potter Itinerary.

Adults are rarely chosen to take part in the show, and the line to get in here can be very long.

Read NEXT: 7 AMAZING Things I Can’t Wait to Do at Universal Epic Universe in 2025!

2. Try ALL the Butterbeer!

Butterbeer comes in a variety of items, from frozen and hot beverages, fudge and ice cream. Be sure to try them all before leaving the park.

Universal Orlando Resort Butterbeer in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter Hogsmeade. Keep reading to get The Best Wizarding World of Harry Potter Itinerary.

3. Dress Like a Hogwarts Student

Wearing those wizarding robes always look fun, especially since you can show off your house colors, but they are incredibly hot.

Universal Orlando Resort NikkyJ Ravenclaw Flag at Celebration of Harry Potter World. Keep reading to get The Best Wizarding World of Harry Potter Itinerary.

A better way to show off your house pride is to dress in those colors in a more theme-park-friendly way, like a t-shirt and comfortable shorts.

For a no obligation, FREE Universal Vacation Quote, you can fill out the form with  The Park Prodigy by Clicking HERE!

My Final Thoughts on Your Wizarding World of Harry Potter Itinerary

And there you have it!

I hope you enjoyed this full touring plan for your next Wizarding World of Harry Potter adventure.

How to do harry potter world in one day! The Best Wizarding World of Harry Potter Itinerary.

Do you think this Wizarding World of Harry Potter itinerary is doable in only one day? Did I leave something out? Leave your comment below!

Until next time, Happy Park Hopping Hipsters!

Megan DuBois Theme Park Writer

About the Author

Megan is a theme park expert and frequent traveler to magical places. She covers all things Disney and Universal and runs marathons for fun.

She thinks you can tell a lot about someone by the name of their signature lipstick, and hers is NARS Dragon Girl.

UP NEXT: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Guide YOU DIDN’T KNOW YOU NEEDED

(Original Article Date: January 10, 2022/Updated by Editor on February 23, 2024)

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Planning Away

Plan A Trip To Harry Potter World – The Best Harry Potter Vacation!

Are you ready to plan a trip to Harry Potter World? The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Universal Orlando is AMAZING !

You are in the right place if you want to learn how to plan a trip to Harry Potter World! 

In this post, we are going to give you some Harry Potter theme park trip tips.  These will include deals on Harry Potter World, the best Harry Potter rides in both parks, as well as an overview of what is in each park.  You will be a Harry Potter World vacation planner in no time! 

Let's make a Harry Potter World itinerary for your visit to Harry Potter World! 

Harry Potter World is amazing! There is so much to see and do! If you are a Harry Potter fan this is going to be a dream come true. Even if you are not a big fan, you can still have a great time.

Harry Potter planning can be a little overwhelming!  I am going to show you step by step the best way to get the best deals and how to Plan a trip to Universal Studios Florida – Harry Potter World.

Let's plan the best Harry Potter vacation ever! 

If you want to save this information for later be sure to Pin this to Pinterest.

This post may contain affiliate links that will give me a commission at no additional charge to you. 

1. Where is Harry Potter World?

In this post, we are going to focus on the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando. There are Universal locations with Harry Potter World in California, Japan, Beijing, Singapore, and a stand-alone attraction in Australia.

London also has the Harry Potter Studios which is more of an amazing museum and not associated with the Universal Theme Parks.

Harry Potter Universal Orlando is the best! 

Plan a Harry Potter World Vacation at Universal Studios Florida

Planning a trip to Harry Potter world is exciting but there is a lot of things to consider before you book your trip.  I am going to answer some of the questions I had the first time I went.

2. How Many Days Should I Attend the Wizarding World of Harry Potter?

How big of a Harry Potter fan are you?  This will help you determine how long you will want to spend at the Harry Potter park in Florida. 

While you could ride all the rides and explore the Harry Potter areas in both Universal parks in one day, that does not give you much time to peruse the shops, eat in the Harry Potter-themed restaurants, and take in the shows.  

Plus, one day would definitely not give you enough time to enjoy the rest of Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. 

Hot Tip for Harry Potter World Universal Studios

To be honest the more days you stay at Universal the more affordable it is.  There are often promotions such as buy 2 days get 2 free.  FOUR DAYS would be plenty of time to enjoy all that both parks have to offer.  

Our Experience at Harry Potter World

Just a thought, when we first asked the question, “How long does it take to do Harry Potter World?” We were told that we could do Harry Potter world and the rest of Universal Studios in one day.  We found this to be false! (We even had front-of-the-line passes, and it was not on a peak day.) I feel like two or three days would be much better.

3. The Best Time to Visit Harry Potter World

Orlando has certain peak seasons and low seasons.  Usually going when school is in session is going to be less crowded! This is not always an option so I have found that the Undercovertourist has a great Orlando Crowd Calendar . 

This calendar can really help you know the best time to a Harry Potter vacation!  We have used it many times! 

Least Expensive Times to Go to Harry Potter World

If you are looking for the cheapest times to visit Harry Potter World, January, February, and September offer lower rates on hotel prices, and usually, there will be PROMOTIONS for ticket prices and overall deals for Harry Potter World.

Best Time to Go for Lower Crowds and Nice Weather.

April and May are great times to go because traditionally crowds are lower (except during Spring Break)  and the weather is nice. So you get the benefits of low-season crowds and nice weather.

With that said, we have been at Christmas time and in the heat of summer, and both times we had a great time without crowds.

4. Do I Need to Purchase Tickets to Both Parks to Experience Harry Potter World?

Unfortunately, the answer is YES.  

Universal Orlando has two theme parks right next to each other: Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios. (Universal Orlando also has a water park, but as of yet does not have a boat emerging from a lake (Harry Potter Book 4) or a dragon ride that has you jump into water! ( Harry Potter Book 7)

Park-To-Park Pass

Both parks have Harry Potter World attractions. And you can’t just go to one park one day, and the second another if you want the whole experience. You will need a 2-park pass, which allows you to go to both parks in one day, in order to ride the Hogwarts Express between parks.

Islands of Adventure – Hogsmeade

This is where it all started. You will find the true Hogwarts Orlando experience with the Castle here, as well as Hogsmeade.   Hogsmeade, The Forbidden Journey (located in the castle), Hagrid's Magical Creature Motorbike Ride (the newest ride), and the Flight of the Hippogriff are the rides located at Islands of Adventure.  These are the best rides at Islands of Adventure in my book! 

There are also shops and food (The Three Broomsticks) located at Hogsmeade. 

Universal Studios – Diagon Alley

The Harry Potter World area at the other park, Universal Studios, is themed around Gringotts Bank, Knockturn Alley, and Diagon Alley. I love the theming! To enter the area, you go through a brick wall. We actually couldn’t immediately find the way in. It’s like entering a new world!

This area also has shops and food (The Leaky Cauldron). There is one ride, and it’s a good one: Escape from Gringotts. 

Hogwarts Express 

The only way to ride the Hogwarts Express is to have a 2-park pass. So if this is your first time to Harry Potter World I suggest getting a 2-Park pass so you can experience the Hogwarts Express.  

5. How Much Should I Budget for the Wizarding World of Harry Potter?

Universal Studios is not cheap.  Like I said earlier the longer you stay the more affordable it is.  

The first time we went we got a $1,500 Harry Potter vacation package which included a one-night stay at Cabana Bay, tickets for 5 people, fast passes, and the dining plan.  I thought that was expensive but we had planned and anticipated the cost ahead of time.  

Universal has deals for Harry Potter World depending on the time of year The B2G2 deal is the best! 

Admission 

Prices for Harry Potter Orlando tickets are different on each day of the week. Orlando Harry Potter tickets can become more expensive during holidays and high seasons. 

$115 is the starting price for both Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios for a one-day pass .

Discount Tickets 

We found that Sams Club /Costco had great discount tickets if you are planning on staying at least 3 days.

Does it Cost Extra to Go to Harry Potter World?

No , your admission to Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure gives you access to Harry Potter World.

6. Should I Get a Vacation Package at Universal Studios Florida?  

Do you want to get into the park an hour early?  Then a Harry Potter vacation package may be the way to go. 

Personally, with little kids, it can be draining to go early unless you plan to take a break later in the day. But if you can do it, it’s worth getting a head start to both beat the crowds and, for many parts of the year, to beat the heat!

What Does a Vacation Package Include?

A Harry Potter vacation package includes hotel, tickets, early park admission, and extra benefits associated with staying on the property. You can also add a dining plan and front-of-the-line passes.

Deciding if you want a Harry Potter vacation package does play a big role in your Harry Potter planning because if you decide to stay onsite it allows you to get into Harry Potter World an hour earlier  which gives you more time to play.

GetAwayToday

Getawaytoday is a great company to work with.  They book Harry Potter vacation packages. Often times they run fabulous promotions. In fact, I have a Harry Potter World coupon code that will save you a little more if you book with them. Coupon Code: Planaway10

7. Should I Stay at a Universal Orlando Hotel?

Universal has eight on-site hotel rooms.  There are also lots of hotels located all around Universal Orlando. 

 I am not going to go into detail about each hotel located on-site only the benefits associated with staying onsite and how that will affect your planning a Harry Potter vacation.  

On-site Benefits for Your Harry Potter Vacation

Early entrance to the wizarding world of harry potter.

This benefit is so worth it!  Especially, if you are going during a really busy time of year. 

We really wanted to do the Ollivanders Wand Shop first thing and getting to the park early was great because our daughter was chosen to be the one who got to get a wand. Also, riding the rides before the lines get long is amazing! 

Transportation to Harry Potter World

Image Courtesy of youtube

Staying on the resort allows you to easily get transportation to all the parks without having to drive your car, park it, and commute to the park.  It is so nice to walk right out of your hotel room and jump on a bus.

Once you get off the bus at the parks, there is an escalator going up, and then moving walkways. The moving walkways went a long way, and you can look out in both directions as the sides were not enclosed. It helped build up the anticipation for us!

There are also water taxis that run starting 30 minutes before the early hours start.

If you want to drive, parking starts at $25 but is free after 6:00 pm except during Halloween time.

Express Unlimited Pass

This pass is a benefit if you stay at a premier hotel.  We wanted to stay at a premier hotel but our family was too big. The main reason was to get this pass for free.

We value our time and the patience it takes to wait in long lines with little kids.  We were happy to know that we could add those passes to our Harry Potter vacation package.

Our Experience on Booking A Harry Potter Vacation Package

We thought Cabana Bay Beach Resort was a great family option.  The room we received was very large and could easily fit a family of six in it! We loved the lobby and arcade.  Being able to get to the park early made it worth it for us to stay on-site.

8. Should I Get an Express Unlimited Pass (Skip the Line Pass)

This pass is a benefit if you stay at a premier hotel.  Like I said early, we wanted to stay at a premier hotel but our family was too big. The main reason was to get this pass for free. 

Advantages of Express Unlimited

So should you get it? Well, when we went we knew we had limited time. We live far away, and we realized the cost to travel back out to Orlando to go to Universal is expensive, and perhaps by more fully utilizing our time while in Orlando, we could save overall.

If we spent a week at Universal, we probably could have been fine without the pass.

The Disadvantage of Express Unlimited

There was also one other downside to the pass. You move through the queues extremely fast.  Some of the queues are themed.  I almost wanted to get out of the line at one point so I could wait in line and walk slowly through Hogwarts Orlando castle to take it all in.

Well, almost. I’ll be honest. I loved that ride so much, that maximizing the times I could do it was so worth it! 

Please note that the pass has variable rates, so the more crowded it is, the more you are going to have to pay.  I hope that helps your Harry Potter vacation planning!

Our Experience Using the Pass at Harry Potter World

This pass was worth it!  Standing in line with little kids sounds miserable to us.  We added it to our Harry Potter vacation package even though we did not stay at the premier hotel and did not regret that choice even a little.

9. Dining Plan at Harry Potter Universal Studios in Florida

One question I had when planning a Wizarding World of Harry Potter trip was if I should get a dining plan. 

I found that Universal Studios Florida does offer a dining plan but, I am going to save you the trouble right now and tell you it is Not Worth It !

If you are used to the Disney World Dining plan this does not compare.  We would have spent less on purchasing food than the cost of the plan.

Plus, when I would go into a store most things were not included in the plan such as sweet treats and ice cream.  I personally would not do this again!

If you are determined to get the plan, the official Universal Dining Plan is only offered if you get a Harry Potter vacation package.  There are other quick service plans that you can purchase without a vacation package.

10. Food Options at Universal Studios Harry Potter World

What is a theme park without food? Okay, you may be a die-hard that brings your own food. (Trust me, been there done that with PB&J, goldfish, and even Pop-Tarts.) And maybe Cabana Bay Beach Resort with a kitchenette is all you need.

Harry Potter World Restaurants

If you want to experience the food at Harry Potter World, you primarily have two choices for meals: The Three Broomsticks in Hogsmeade, and the Leaky Cauldron in Diagon Alley. We did not get a chance to try the Three Broomsticks. 

Leaky Cauldron

We have been to the Leaky Cauldron. It was a so-so atmosphere for us. It felt like we were in an assembly line until we got seated. The menu was okay but seemed limited.

For our kids that thrive on chicken nuggets and fries (I know, parents of the year), fish with those chips and cottage pie just didn’t do it for them.

My husband and I thought the food was okay but saw the rides and the villages and stores as the highlights. Keep that in mind in your Harry Potter planning!

11. Treats at Harry Potter World

Now we liked the treats!  Chocolate frogs, butterbeer, frozen butterbeer, hot butterbeer, and cold butterbeer. 

We tried it all, including butterbeer fudge (but did not get around to the butterbeer ice cream, if they had it when we went). All of it was wonderful!

Honey Dukes

Honey Dukes was one of my favorite stores.  There are so many fun choices of treats.  This is where the fudge is located as well as love potions, bloodsuckers, and so much more.

Different family members had different preferences, but we were really glad to try different things and share them. For Harry Potter fans, this helps you breathe in the world that you love so much.

It was one of the highlights of my Harry Potter Universal experiences.

12. Hogsmeade VS. Diagon Alley

Hogsmeade is in Islands of Adventure and Diagon Alley is in Universal Studios. I have an entire article about which park, Universal Studios vs Islands of Adventure – The Wizarding World of Harry Potter park is better for the best Harry Potter vacation experience. 

What Harry Potter Park Should You Start With?

So if you only have time for one park, or you are planning what park to spend the most time in, you may be wondering which is better for Harry Potter.

Diagon Alley

Well, both have great things to offer. We found the layout of the Diagon Alley to be more immersive.

When we arrived at the park via the Hogwarts Express, we couldn’t tell at first how to enter Diagon Alley. The wall dividing the “two worlds” actually did a great job.  This is in contrast to Hogsmeade where you walk up the entrance without really anything exciting.

Interactive Harry Potter Park in Orlando

The colors of some of the buildings, the liveliness of the area, the fire-breathing dragon, Weasley’s Wizard Wheezes; all good stuff!

We did find parts of Diagon Alley too dark. It made it difficult to see what we were doing with wands.

If you want a more interactive experience the Harry Potter World in Universal Studios has more areas to use your magical wands.

Of course, the two areas boast different rides. Now with Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, we see Hogsmeade as the clear winner. (But as a personal preference, I’ve always loved Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey over Escape from Gringotts.)

If you love rides then Hogsmeade should be your choice.

13. Ollivanders Wand Shop

Interactive wand.

Ollivanders Wand Shop has two locations one in Hogsmeade and one in Diagon Alley. So no matter which park you choose you can still participate in this activity.

Get A Wand at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter Orlando

Consider getting an interactive wand at Ollivander’s Wand Shop. The wand can be used at Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley in several locations.

By casting certain spells (i.e., by moving your wand certain ways as directed), you can make the items in windows, above you, and elsewhere move. It’s a great interactive experience.

14. Rides at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Hogwarts express.

As mentioned above, you need the park hopper to do the Hogwarts Express. Is it worth it? YES. We thought so!

We are fans. Sitting on the train that we’ve read about and watched in the film was pretty cool, especially the first time.

Different Experiences Each Direction

We didn’t have to wait in line too long.   You can call this a ride, but once you’ve ridden it once, it’s a transport (though you see different things out the window depending on what direction you’re going).

 Please note that you can’t use the Express Pass for the Hogwarts Express.

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey

Location: Island of Adventure

Walking through the Hogwarts Orlando castle is almost as exciting as going on the ride.  Every detail you can imagine went into the design of the castle.

This is my favorite ride.  It is a four-minute ride.  As you fly on a broomstick you will go on the quidditch field, through the forbidden forest, and on an incredible adventure. 

This is one of those rides that I could ride again and again. We actually rode it four times on our last visit. 

Please note that some people say they can get motion sickness but I did not experience this.

Flight of the Hippogriff

Location : Island of Adventure

The Flight of the Hippogriff is a junior coaster.  It is a very mild, short coaster.  If this is your first time in Harry Potter World then you should do it.

After that, I would not wait more than 15 minutes for this ride.  It is fun but so short.

Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure

Location : Islands of Adventure

Hagrid's ride is the newest addition to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. It takes you on a journey through the forbidden forest.

I love the design. You actually hop onto Hagrid's motorbike.  You have the option to jump on the motorcycle or the side bucket seat.  I rode both and like sitting in the bucket seat better. My husband is taller and preferred sitting on the bike. 

This coaster is awesome. It has a surprise that I won't spoil but let me just say it is amazing!

Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts

Location : Universal Studios

Gringotts is a highly-themed ride.  This was my daughter's favorite ride.

The most impressive part of this ride is the dragon that sits on top of the ride. It actually blows out fire! It is one of the best rides at Universal Studios . 

15. Shows at Harry Potter World

We liked the Harry Potter shows, although we were not overwhelmed.

The Tales of Beedle the Bard is a puppet show. The puppets; amazing. The puppeteers; amazing. At least for the parents. The kids liked it but I don’t think they appreciated the artistic elements as much.

There is also a Frog Choir. We enjoyed listening to our favorite song “Double Double Toil and Trouble.”

Harry Potter World Hogwarts Orlando Castle Show

And finally, there is a lights show projected on the walls of Hogwarts. We found the later show was more manageable the time of year we went, but it is still very busy. You may want to ask a worker ahead of time what place is the best to stand to see the show.

16. Harry Potter Merchandise and Souvenirs

There are some pretty fun souvenirs at Harry Potter Universal Studios.   They have pins, Luna Lovegood glasses, and of course the interactive wands.  

Should I Purchase Souvenirs at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter?

I highly recommend getting a wand because not only is it a great souvenir you can use it in both Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley.  I think it is worth it.  

Other items such as shirts, mugs, and magnets. I wouldn't necessarily purchase at the park.  You can find these types of things at souvenir stores located throughout Orlando or on Amazon for a lot cheaper. 

However, if there is something you love and have not seen anywhere else then I suggest getting it. 

My Favorite Place to Buy Harry Potter Souvenirs

I loved going to HoneyDukes.  I bought some really cool Harry Potter Souvenirs for my kids.  There are so many amazing treats.  The one downside in the summer is that you can't buy anything chocolate because it will melt.  

17. Harry Potter World Itinerary

One Day at Harry Potter World Itinerary (Park 2 Park Pass)

  • Reserve a Time for Ollivanders Wand Shop
  • Reserve a Time for Hagrids or go on this Ride First. 
  • Ride Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
  • Ride Flight of the Hippogriff
  • Spend Time Looking at the Shops
  • Enjoy a Show
  • Eat at Three Broomsticks
  • Ride Hogwarts Express after Lunch
  • Ride Gringotts
  • Walk through Shops 
  • Do Magic in Knockturn Alley and Other Areas.
  • Head Back at Night to Watch the Hogwarts Orlando Castle Show.  

If you have only one day at Harry Potter World Universal Orlando,  it is going to be long but so fun!

If you have more time you can break your Harry Potter World itinerary into 2 days and add more shows and eat at the Leaky Cauldron as well. (Not to mention Universal has a ton of other fun rides and lands.)

Harry Potter Vacation Planning Complete!

Hopefully, this post has given you enough information to get you set for the perfect Harry Potter Vacation!  You will have a fabulous time! Universal is one of the best amusement parks in the USA ! 

Harry Potter World Universal Orlando is out of this world! I am so excited you get to visit Harry Potter World in Florida! Have so much fun! If you need help planning get in touch with Getawaytoday .  They are great! 

More Harry Potter World Universal Information

As you  plan a trip to Universal Studios Orlando  be sure to check out my other posts! The  best rides at Universal Studios,   the best rides at Volcano Bay , as well as the  best rides at Island of Adventure ,   are sure to help you plan your trip!  Plus, check out my favorite  restaurants at City Walk!  

Facebook Group

If you have any questions when planning your trip come join me in my private Facebook Group .  

This group is a place where you can ask any question about your upcoming trip and help others plan their trips.  It is also a place where I put travel deals.

I am not a travel agent. I just blog for fun.  If I see a good deal I will send it your way but you have to be in the group to see these offers!

trip harry potter world

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158 Comments

When we visited Harry Potter world at Universal it was so incredible. The creativity that goes behind every inch is mind blowing! A must visit for sure!!!

I agree, it is so detailed just like you would imagine as you are reading the book!

This looks so fun!! I’ve read the first couple of Harry Potter books and now I want to read them all! If I ever get to Florida, I’m adding a trip to Universal Studios to my bucket list.

I love Harry Potter! It is hard for me to not devote all my time to Disney but since we have some big Harry Potter fans we gave it a try and I would go back for sure!

All of the Harry Potter rides are so fun! A word of caution: you must stash everything in a locker before riding, which turned out to be kind of a pain.

We did the rider switch off so that’s probably why I don’t remember that!

This is such a helpful guide-not only for Harry Potter World but for visiting Universal in general. That drink you posted looks absolutely delicious!

It was so delicious, I want to go back and get more!

I’ve had a trip to Universal in the back of my mind, but my daughter really isn’t into thrill rides, so I keep putting it off. I’m afraid my husband and I would spend all day switching off riding rides. The Harry Potter stuff does look cool, though. I keep thinking maybe we’ll try it when my kid’s a teen. She’s turning 10 this summer, so maybe soon! My husband and I would love it!

Yes, We have little kids and they do have kids rides that aren’t too intense but I would totally agree that going when your kids are older is better.

Such a bummer you can’t ride the train without the two park pass. We missed out getting to do this several years ago. Hope to do that some day. We loved the frozen Butter Beer!

We love butter beer! We are always trying new recipes at home to find the perfect one!

Love Harry Potter! And love how comprehensive your posts are…you anticipate every possible question.

Thanks! I love Harry Potter too!

Never read the books, saw all the movies, I guess now it’s time to “experience” Harry Potter. Thanks for sharing all the great travel info.

Yes, you really feel like you are a Wizard or Witch! It is so fun!

I loved Harry Potter World! We went prior to reading the books but have since and I’d love to go back. Thanks for all the insider tips!

I love everything about Harry Potter World! I want to go back too!

This is some awesome step by step planning tips. I love how you cover all the small details that may get over looked our forgotten.

My husband and I love planning trips and try to remember all the little details we would have done or did that worked or did not work.

Beautifully written, with great pictures. Makes Harry Potter World very enticing. I love the pic of the bedroom.

That room would be really fun to stay in for sure!

I would love to visit Harry Potter World…I just love the books my daughters would binge watch it all the time, and your pictures remind me of the books!!

Oh yes, I love reading Harry Potter and watching the movies over and over again. It pretty much the only movie I will watch!

I am lucky enough to live in central Florida (except when it is as hot as it is right NOW) and yes this place is amazing. I love your advice about the dining plans. That is good to know. Great information!

It would be really fun to live near all the most amazing parks but I bet the summer is hot! We like to go during winter months!

This looks like such a fun place to go. Thanks for all the great info!

It is so fun!

I love Harry Potter and this is a really comprehensive guide which I so appreciate. Thank you!

Thanks! They did such an amazing job making it feel like you stepped into the book!

Being a huge HP fan, this is so up my alley, I guess I need to collect one other grown up friend that’s willing to go on the adventure with me!

I know it is a fun place to visit and totally worth it if you are a huge fan!

When we went to Harry Potter world a couple of years ago I had to drag my husband. He wasn’t convinced until we found our way through the ‘magical brick wall’ and into Diagon Ally! So Amazing! This post has so many amazing tips that I will keep locked away for when we visit again! 🙂

That is great he had a great time even without being a big fan!

The chocolate drink looked really good.

I know right!

Fellow Gryffindor fans here and we can’t wait to go thanks for the sneak peek. Always wanted to go to Florida as it is but this is like the cherry on top.

I know right! Harry Potter World is so amazing, you will love it!

Great information and your photos are awesome! I finally got to go last year (took too long considering I only live 1.5 hours away) and it was amazing. That whole area is so magical, just like the movies.

I want to go back now that they have the new ride! I’m glad you got to go!

We really need to get back there for a visit. We did only one day and NOT enough time at all. Thanks for all the info

I agree with you, so many people say you can do everything in a day and we wanted more time!

Woah, this looks like an amazing and memorable trip. My sister would love something like this!

I am one of the few who is not a fan of Harry Potter. I know, I’m sorry. I just could never get into it. BUT, your pictures make it look like I would have a lot of fun. I know my nieces would have a blast.

The rides are really cool and the snacks are good so I’m sure you would have fun even if Harry isn’t your guy!

If I ever get to Disneyland, then I will definitely be going to see the Harry Potter world, but I’m probably more likely to experience the UK version, having been in the “real” Diagon Alley and climbed the stairs used as the stairs the children stood at the first time they arrived at Hogwarts. However, the experience at Disney would be “magical”!

I was just in London and went to the Harry Potter Studios, It was awesome! Different not an amusement park but very entertaining.

Lisa, this looks so fun! I’m a big fan of HP and hope to get my family down there soon. It looks like you guys all had a great time.

It was so much fun, I just wish we had more time!

This is so on my bucket list! I am a die hard harry potter fan!

You should totally go!

I am a huge HUGE Harry Potter fan. I have made it to Universal in L.A, but not to Orlando yet. That is my next plan hopefully. So thanks for the tips. These are great!

I haven’t been to California yet!

I’m a huge Harry Potter fan! I’d love every bit of this…except the food would pose a problem. But I’m sure I could get by! Thanks for all the info.

I wasn’t a big fan of the food!

This is o our family’s bucket list. I’d love to go so bad!!! Great tips.

It is a fun family vacation for sure!

This sounds like so much fun! I think Payton would love it! Thanks!

Harry Potter World is so fun!

We loved Harry Potter World. We visited for the first time last year. We can’t wait to return! Great post!

Thanks! It is really fun!

We did this trip with our kids and it was amazing. I hadn’t watched the movies but the kids loved it so much and the details made it fun for us adults.

I am a big fan and it really is fun for adults and kids!

This is such a helpful guide. My 12 year old daughter just started reading the first Harry Potter book this week. She’s never been into it before. I have a feeling that a trip is in our future.

I just made my 11 year old read the series this summer. He wasn’t too into it until he was! He is on book 6 now. I am so happy he likes it now.

I have been to Harry Potter World once, before the add-on, and have been wanting to go back since! This post is so helpful and I will definitely use it for my next trip. Thank you!

Thanks! I love that keep adding cool things!

I really want to take my 10-year-old. She would love to see Harry Potter’s World. I love all the themed food in the park, super cool. I know she would love the caldron cake.

That is the perfect age to go! It is so detailed!

Oh, boy! Our kiddos are so into Harry Potter, and this would be their dream trip right now! Looks fantastic! Thanks for sharing all the details, we will need them…So happy you visited in 2020! Looking forward to going there soon!

I hope you get to take your kids, they will love it!

Really appreciate all the detail and tips. As a first time visitor it’s hard to know what to do and see. This would be a super fun couple of days for Harry Potter fans.

That was my hope, that if you are going for the first time that this would be helpful!

What an amazing trip! I appreciate all your tips. Can’t wait to make it out there.

It is so fun! You will love it when you go!

This is so helpful – thank you! I am pinning it so that I can re-read it when we visit Harry Potter. My daughter and I are HUGE HP fans, so we are wanting to go. Covid has delayed our plans, but hopefully we can make it in the not too distant future!

Yes, Harry Potter is so fun! You will love it when you get to go!

This is so informative, and looks so fun! I’ve seen the Harry Potter world at universal studios Hollywood, but it’s nothing like this!

It is a little bigger in Orlando.

I bet this is really popular with the kiddos!

My kids loved it! It is for a little older kids not little kids.

I would love to visit Harry Potter world. Probably without the kids so I could fully indulge.

We took our kids but this last trip was just a couples trip and it was amazing!

I’m a huge Harry Potter fan! I’d love to visit HP World…just me.

Oh yes! Harry Potter World is amazing for all ages!

I can’t wait to see this! Its been on my must see lit for a few months.. hopefully next year! Thank you for the great info!

I hope you get to go!

This is a great guide! I love HP World, especially the FROZEN butterbeer!! So delicious!!

We are huge butter beer fans. We are also making it home with different recipes. But Universal has the best so far.

How fun! I like Harry Potter and look forward to sharing this with my little one some day!

It is such a magical place!

We went to Universal Orlando a few summers back. I loved Harry Potter World and I am not even into the books or movies. The Forbidden Journey was by far the best ride there when we went. So fun walking through and visiting all the shops. Would love to go back!

It is my favorite ride too!

The last time we visited Universal Harry Potter World was only in one park, so it sounds like we need to go back! I’ve actually been considering a trip for the last few years, but we keep ending up at Disney instead!

I know how that goes! We love Disney, but Harry Potter World is the same quality as Disney Parks. I actually like the Castle Ride better than Avatar and they are similar.

Oh. My. GOSH this looks awesome! We’ve been to the WB studio in England, but have yet to see Harry Potter world!

Universal is so fun. The Castle ride is incredible!

This is such great information! This destination is totally on my bucket list I believe my kids would love it but I am a Harry Potter fan so I’m sure I’d love it even more. Thank you!

You would love just as much as your kids!

Great comprehensive post. Thanks so much. Appreciate your caution for the food plans. The park looks amazing though – all the detail. Just watched the first movie again yesterday – so this was timely to read in your post. Thanks for sharing!

Thanks, Love Harry Potter!

What a wonderful trip for Harry Potter fans. Glad to see all the masks.

They did such a great job with making everyone feel safe and still have just as much fun, just like before Covid.

What a fun trip! I’m happy they are taking precautions to make sure everyone is healthy!

They really are. I was so impressed with all the COVID precautions they had in place.

Forget the kids, I want to go!!

Exactly! It is totally for adults!

Great detailed information and lots of good tips in general! My kids love Harry Potter 🙂

Oh good! Hope it helps plan a Harry Potter trip!

Good to know that the meal plan isn’t worth it! I’m super excited to go hopefully next year!

The food plan wasn’t great! Harry Potter World was amazing!

Oh this looks like so much. My nieces love Harry Potter so I’ll have to pass this song to my sister!

Oh for sure! It is such a fun trip!

The Harry Potter series is what finally made my son find a love for reading. I wish this had existed when the boys were younger.

I love all the magic and it really is a great series.

One of our family’s favorites to watch all together. This looks like so much fun, definitely worth the trip.

For sure, I love watching the last movie over and over!

Wow, I really felt as if I was there through your photos! What an amazing place! They didn’t have Harry Potter World when my kids were young and into Harry Potter books. We all would have loved this. I’m sure I still would!!

When we went last time there were more adults than kids!

We’ve never done HP, but I know many other families that would find this magical.

Oh it is pretty cool and there is magic all around if you buy the $50 wand. HAHA

Looks like a really fun experience!

I can’t wait until we finally make it there. I just started reading my kids the first Harry Potter book. Thanks for the tips. I’ll be referring to them once we can get there!

My son is finally reading the series and is on book 6. He is 11. I want my 8 year to read book 1 before we go for Spring Break.

What a fun and iconic attraction!

It really is so cool!

my husband and I visited last year on a brief stop in Orlando and it was so fun. This post has really great info and helps for those who haven’t been able to try it yet.

Thanks, It is so fun for adults. When we went last time there were more adults than kids!

We LOVE LOVE LOVE Harry Potter World! We were so lucky to get a couple of days there in January before COVID hit. It was our third time there, and this time, we stayed onsite. Amazing! I have to say, my fave ride was Hagrid’s Motorcycle! lol… best ride ever! The kids were thrilled that they got to use their wands a second time too. Next time, we hope to hit the park in California!

When we heard they were opening in June we booked tickets and went. But it was just my husband and I so now I want to take my kids for spring break.

This looks fantastic! You sure seem to have had a good time. We wish there was a HP – themed park in India. 🙁

If life gets back to normal hopefully they will build one!

Awesome, this is such a thorough and helpful guide! I’m a big HP fan but we haven’t made it here yet. Our kids are too young, but hopefully, the husband and I can sneak away here just ourselves sometime soon!

This is a park I think older kids would like for sure. But there are kiddie areas at Universal as well just not in the Harry Potter area.

We loved visiting the HP world, was so fun! Great info for anyone going for the first time.

Thanks! It is a cool experience!

I have wanted to go here for years! Literally since they opened. I haven’t gotten there yet 🙁

It is worth a trip. I would plan to take advantage of their deals and stay longer!

Looks like a great time. Great information.

It is a really fun place!

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We took our nephews to Harry Potter World, and had an amazing time. Like you, we booked straight to Ollivander’s Wand Shop before the lines got long, and my nephew was chosen for the wand pairing ceremony. It was definitely a highlight of our visit!

That is so exciting! We love Harry Potter World!

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  • United Kingdom

Review of the Fully Guided Harry Potter Studio Tour ⚡️

A standard visit to the harry potter studios in london is remarkable, but nothing compares to a fully guided tour. i've paid the extra to be taken behind the scenes, and you can too..

Kristoffer Fons avatar

I’ve just returned from London, where I embarked on a fully guided tour of the Harry Potter World. 

  • I bought this exact tour .

In this article, I’ll share insights from this exclusive, behind-the-scenes tour of London’s Harry Potter Studios in this post.

First, let me tell you about the Harry Potter World in London to set the scene.

What can you expect at Harry Potter Studios?

See everything from diagon alley to gringotts and hogwarts, changing exhibits yearly, my review of the fully guided studio tour ⭐️, what’s included in the ticket price 🎟️, fast travel by train from london, arriving at harry potter studios, behind the scenes in harry potter world, this is the best harry potter experience in london, is the behind-the-scenes luxury tour worth it , how to get to the studios from london, what do you see at harry potter studios.

See my other guide, the general guide to visiting Harry Potter World in London .

Travel blogger at Harry Potter World

So, what’s it all about? Well, imagine stepping right into the pages of J.K. Rowling’s books or onto the sets of the films. 

That’s what visiting the  Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter  (the studio’s proper name)  feels like.

  • By the way – it’s not in central London but in Leavesden , near Watford.

I returned on the same tour to film a video – check out my 2023 guide to the Harry Potter Studios:

This place is huge, packed with real sets, costumes, and props used in the Harry Potter films.

Great Hall at Harry Potter Studios in London

Think of standing in the iconic Great Hall , sneaking down Diagon Alley , and even gawking at the doors of Gringotts Wizarding Bank . It’s all there, and it’s all real.

And it’s not just about looking. This place lets you get hands-on with the magic, too.

You can hop aboard the Hogwarts Express at a recreated Platform 9¾ – they’ve even got a luggage trolley disappearing into the wall. And if you’ve ever fancied a spin in the Weasley’s flying car , this is your chance!

diagon alley

One of the most incredible things about the studios is how it peels back the curtain on filmmaking. 

Ever wondered how they made Dobby look so lifelike or how they built those complex sets?

The Creature Effects and Art Department sections have you covered, showing off the incredible craftsmanship and detailing that went into creating Harry’s world.

Hogwarts castle in Harry Potter Studios

Moreover, the studios keep things fresh with changing exhibits and events throughout the year.

Imagine seeing the Hogwarts castle model dusted with a wintery coating of snow or exploring the darker side of magic in the ‘Dark Arts’ event.

There’s always something new to see and do.

Christmas at Harry Potter World

Whether you’re a die-hard Potterhead, a film buff, or just looking for a day out that’s a bit different, the Harry Potter Studios offers a peek into the magic behind the movies that brought one of our favourite wizarding worlds to life. 

And honestly, who could resist that?

I’m a massive Harry Potter fan, so I had to book the fully guided tour that takes you behind the scenes in the Harry Potter Studios. 

Was it worth it?

Wands at Harry Potter Studios in London

While browsing GetYourGuide , I chanced upon tickets for a guided tour at Harry Potter Studios, scheduled for a week later. As a long-time fan, I couldn’t resist.

I swiftly secured my ticket, booked a flight to London and arranged a night’s stay at The Phoenix – a charming hotel in the Paddington/Bayswater area of London .

With that, I was set for my magical escapade.

Tickets for this luxury tour are quite pricey, but when you consider the array of benefits included, it’s undeniable value for money:

  • A guide accompanies you from Euston St to the Harry Potter Studios
  • Return train ticket from Euston to Watford Junction
  • Shuttle bus transfer from Watford Junction to the studios
  • Complete guidance and fast-track access throughout the entire tour
  • Opportunity to re-enter the studios after completing the guided tour, again bypassing the queue

Read more about the tour and book for yourself here (free cancellation)

Our rendezvous point was at Euston Station, underneath the grand ‘ Arrivals ‘ board.

The guide, easy to spot with his tour flag, briefed us that we had about 15 minutes before the train departure – just enough time for a coffee and an Irn-Bru (the drink I’m still craving daily after living in Scotland). 

The journey from Euston to Watford Junction was a swift 20 minutes.

Once there, our guide led us to a shuttle bus for a brief 10-15 minute drive to the studios, located amid the tranquil countryside.

Harry Potter Studios from the outside

Though the exterior of the Harry Potter Studios may not be particularly awe-inspiring, what lies inside is nothing short of spectacular.

Upon disembarking from the shuttle, our second guide led us into the massive box-like building.

Once inside, each visitor was given a headset, a brilliant feature ensuring everyone could clearly hear the guide, regardless of their proximity.

Guided tour of Harry Potter World, tour guide

As we stepped into the studios, we were greeted by the splendid sight of the Great Hall.

As an ardent fan who has read each book at least ten times and sought every Harry Potter experience in London, and Edinburgh I was thoroughly impressed by the wealth of knowledge our guide offered.

Our guide expertly navigated the roped-off boundaries separating us from the numerous sets, props, and costumes, providing a depth of insight and engaging stories about the actors, the Harry Potter universe, and the exhibits.

inside Harry Potter World

The opportunity to experience such intimacy with the magic behind the films validates the cost of the ‘luxury tour’.

I’ve done a video from the Studios – and even though it’s in Danish I’m sure you can get a feel for the vibes:

At the tour’s conclusion, the guide offered to escort anyone who wished to revisit the studios back to the entrance, bypassing the queue.

However, I opted to return to London – travelling alone, waking up incredibly early, and the shuttle back seemed the best choice with a busy day at the office ahead.

There’s no doubt about it: if you’re a superfan of Harry Potter then this fully guided tour is a must and in my opinion one of the best things to do in London .

Check out availability for the tour at GetYourGuide here (they usually sell out quickly as it’s extremely popular!).

Frequently asked questions:

In response to this question, I cannot help but answer with an enthusiastic yes ! In this article, I’ve alluded to my Harry Potter fandom several times, expressing how the series has formed an integral part of my childhood.

Suddenly finding oneself walking through the Forbidden Forest, strolling down Diagon Alley, and stepping into Hagrid’s hut is surreal.

Given these uniquely personal experiences, I firmly believe the exclusive studio tour is worth the additional cost.

This sentiment isn’t just mine but echoes the overwhelmingly positive feedback from other superfans who have embarked on the tour. For these reasons, the luxury behind-the-scenes tour is a justifiable expense for any die-hard Harry Potter fan.

Although referred to as ‘Harry Potter Studios in London’, they’re technically located in the small town of Leavesden, just outside Watford, around 30 kilometres north of central London. There are numerous transportation options from London; the easiest is the combined entrance and transport ticket from London.

You’ll find an abundance of mesmerising exhibits! From the awe-inspiring Great Hall and the winding alleyways of Diagon Alley to the exterior of Petunia Dursley’s house, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into the Harry Potter universe. Other attractions include the knight bus, the Forbidden Forest complete with Hagrid’s Cabin, Dumbledore’s office, the intricate corridors of Hogwarts, the Ministry of Magic, the Weasley’s flying car, and the Hogwarts Express – which you can actually step aboard. Furthermore, you can enter the Elixir classroom and absorb the detailed ambience. 

Websites I use to book my trips 👇 • Booking.com has the best offers on hotels and unique places to stay • GetYourGuide is the best place to book tours & activities with free cancellation • Omio is my go-to booking platform for trains in Europe • Welcome Pickups is the best & safest place to pre-book airport transfers Psst 👀 Have you subscribed to my Youtube channel and my Instagram where I provide more useful travel tips?

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  • North America

How Much Does It Cost To Go To Harry Potter World?

Are you a die-hard fan of the magical world of Harry Potter? If so, you’ve likely considered the idea of visiting the Harry Potter World in Orlando, Florida. The cost associated with such a dream trip varies depending on the type of package you choose. Here is a breakdown of what you can expect to pay when visiting the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

The cheapest way to experience the Harry Potter World is by purchasing an individual ticket. Single-day admission for adults costs $155 per person, and there are discounts available for Florida residents. Multi-day tickets are also available, with the 3-day ticket costing $198 for adults and the 4-day ticket costing $216. There are also special packages that include other Universal Orlando Resort theme parks, such as Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure.

For fans who want to experience the Harry Potter World beyond the main attractions, there are several options available. The two most popular options are the Universal Express Unlimited Pass and the Universal Dining Plan. The Express Unlimited Pass allows you to bypass the regular lines and experience the rides and attractions more quickly. The cost of the pass varies depending on the park and number of days. The Universal Dining Plan is a great way to save money on food while experiencing the theme park. The cost of the dining plan varies depending on the number of meals and snacks included.

For those who want to experience the Harry Potter World to the fullest, there are several vacation packages available. The “Wizarding World of Harry Potter Vacation Package” includes 3-night hotel stay, 3-day park-to-park ticket, and a choice of Early Park Admission or Universal Express Unlimited Pass. The cost of this package is approximately $285 per person. Other packages include the “Vacation Like a Wizard Package”, which includes 4-night hotel stay, 4-day park-to-park ticket, and a choice of Early Park Admission or Universal Express Unlimited Pass. The cost of this package is approximately $420 per person.

When planning a trip to the Harry Potter World, it’s important to consider all of the available options and packages. You’ll want to choose the one that best fits your budget and needs. Whether you choose a single-day ticket or a multi-day vacation package, you’ll be sure to have an unforgettable experience.

How much does it cost to go to Harry Potter world?

How Much Does A Harry Potter World Vacation Cost?

Are you a Harry Potter fan looking for your next vacation destination? The Harry Potter World Vacation might be just what you need! Learn what you need to know about the cost of a magical Harry Potter World Vacation.

A Harry Potter World Vacation is a wonderful way to experience the magic of the beloved Harry Potter books and films. The Harry Potter World Vacation offers visitors the chance to explore the wizarding world and experience the attractions and activities that make up the Harry Potter universe. Whether you are a die-hard fan, or just want to learn more about the world of Harry Potter, a Harry Potter World Vacation is sure to be a magical experience.

The cost of a Harry Potter World Vacation will vary depending on the type of package you choose. A basic package will include a two-day ticket to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, admission to the Harry Potter Studio Tour, and a day at the Warner Bros. VIP Tour. This package will cost around $600 per person, depending on the dates. If you want to add more days or attractions to your package, the cost will increase.

If you are looking for a more comprehensive experience, you may want to consider the VIP Experience package. This includes a two-day ticket to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, admission to the Studio Tour, a day at the Warner Bros. VIP Tour, and access to exclusive events and activities. This package will cost around $1,500 per person, depending on the dates. This package is perfect for those who want to experience the full Harry Potter World Vacation experience.

The cost of a Harry Potter World Vacation also includes meals and accommodation. Most packages include hotel accommodations and meals, although the cost of these will vary depending on the package. Additionally, there are a number of additional activities that you may want to add to your package, such as a visit to the Butterbeer Pub, a trip to Diagon Alley, or a trip to Hogwarts Castle.

As you can see, the cost of a Harry Potter World Vacation can vary greatly depending on the type of package you choose. However, a Harry Potter World Vacation is sure to be a magical experience that will be remembered for years to come. So, if you are a Harry Potter fan looking for a magical vacation, a Harry Potter World Vacation is the perfect choice.

How much does it cost to go to Harry Potter world? 2

Breaking Down The Cost Of A Trip To Harry Potter World

Are you a big fan of the Harry Potter series? If your answer is yes, then you must be wondering how much it costs to go to Harry Potter World. While it’s a great experience to visit Harry Potter World, it can be quite expensive when you consider the cost of airfare, tickets, meals, and accommodations.

In this article, we’ll break down the cost of a trip to Harry Potter World so you can plan your visit accordingly. So let’s get started!

The cost of admission to Harry Potter World varies depending on the type of ticket you purchase. A single-day ticket to the theme park is $145 per person for adults and $140 per person for children. However, if you plan to visit multiple times, you can opt for a three-day ticket, which is $236 per person for adults and $226 per person for children. Finally, if you plan to go to Harry Potter World and the adjacent Universal Orlando Resort, you can purchase a two-park ticket for $188 per person for adults and $178 per person for children.

The cost of airfare to Harry Potter World depends on where you’re flying from and the time of year you visit. You can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $500 roundtrip for a flight to Orlando, Florida, depending on the time of year and your departure city.

The cost of accommodations also varies depending on your budget and the time of year you visit. If you’re looking for a luxury experience, you can stay at one of the many on-site hotels at Universal Orlando Resort. Rates start at $175 per night for standard rooms, but can go up to $500 per night for more luxurious suites. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, there are plenty of hotels and motels located near the theme parks that offer more affordable rates.

Finally, the cost of food and beverages at Harry Potter World can add up quickly. If you plan to eat at the park, you can expect to pay around $15-$20 per person for a meal. You can also bring your own food and snacks to save money.

So, to sum it up, a trip to Harry Potter World can cost anywhere from $350 to $900 depending on the type of ticket you purchase, the time of year you visit, and the type of accommodations you choose. Of course, this cost can vary depending on your budget and the number of people in your group.

The cost of visiting Harry Potter world varies by destination, ticket type and season.

Yes, there are discounts for children depending on the destination and ticket type.

The cost of visiting Harry Potter world includes admission into the theme park, attractions, and other experiences.

Some attractions require additional tickets, depending on the destination and ticket type.

Yes, there are discounts available for groups depending on the destination and ticket type.

Yes, there are discounts available for military personnel depending on the destination and ticket type.

Yes, there are discounts available for senior citizens depending on the destination and ticket type.

Yes, there are additional fees and taxes associated with visiting Harry Potter world depending on the destination and ticket type.

Yes, there are discounts available for students depending on the destination and ticket type.

Yes, there are discounts available for first responders depending on the destination and ticket type.

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  • South America

Gangnamtimes

Inside the World’s Biggest Harry Potter Travel Destination

① warner brothers studio tour.

T he Warner Brothers Studio Tour may lack theme park rides, but it makes dreams come true for Harry Potter fans, especially in London and Tokyo. These two international versions of the immersive movie studio tour, which also operates in Hollywood, are solely dedicated to the making of “Harry Potter”. They exhibit sets, costumes, and props from the Harry Potter movies for about 3 to 4 hours.

The London version of the tour was selected as the most in-demand attraction in the UK in a 2023 analysis by the nation’s largest hotel chain, Premier Inn. The Tokyo version opened in June 2023 and has become the world’s largest indoor Harry Potter attraction.

Many tourists may think Universal Studios has more to do with Harry Potter. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Universal Orlando is divided into two parks, and visitors can choose either Hogsmeade or Diagon Alley.

② A globally popular attraction

The Warner Brothers Studio Tour London ranks jointly first as the world’s most in-demand tourist attraction, following Germany’s Neuschwanstein Castle and Peru’s Machu Picchu. The tour is adjacent to the practical Warner Brothers Studio Leavesden, just outside London, where the Harry Potter movies were made.

Thus, you will see many of the costumes and sets, like the cavernous Great Hall, are the originals used during filming. This is where the reunion special Harry Potter 20th Anniversary: Return to Hogwarts was filmed for HBO Max in 2022.

As you explore the expansive tour, you follow in the footsteps of stars such as Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint.

The tour opened in 2012, after the end of the eight-part Harry Potter series, and in 2019 and 2022, two newly rebuilt sets, Gringotts Wizarding Bank and Professor Sprout’s Greenhouse, were added.

The bank run by goblins, including the Lestrange Vault, is a unique tour course that cannot be seen at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo.

The Hollywood tour includes a greenhouse exhibit, but it is smaller in scale than London, where you can experience pulling out a screaming Mandrake root. And, of course, there’s a Butterbeer bar.

③ Meeting Harry Potter in Tokyo, Japan

Harry Potter naturally fits in the UK, his home country, where studios can be visited in real life, rather than other filming locations outside theme parks. While it might be hard to expect a larger sanctuary of his adventures in Japan, the Warner Brothers Studio Tour Tokyo is precisely that kind of place.

Located on the former amusement park site in Nerima Ward, it reproduces many of the same movie sets as the London tour, with a few big and small differences. For instance, you’re likelier to see things like the toothy Monster Book of Monsters at Universal Studios Japan in Osaka.

The massive Ministry of Magic set (above photo) is unique to Tokyo. It features a Floo Network fireplace, where you can teleport through green smoke, centered around the Magic Is Might monument.

At the end of the tour for Japanese and English-speaking visitors, you arrive at the world’s largest Harry Potter gift shop. Towering shelves in the store are stacked with orbs, similar to those in the Hall of Prophecy.

You can explore a small warehouse of souvenirs that match the actual costumes and props, including the Goblet of Fire. Like the London tour, the Warner Brothers Studio Tour Tokyo is so popular that you must book online.

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  1. 19 Magical Tips for Visiting the Wizarding of World of Harry Potter at

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  2. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Orlando

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  3. The Ultimate Guide to Visiting the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

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  4. 10 Things You Must Do at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando

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  5. A First Timer’s Guide to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at

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  6. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Holidays, Universal Studios

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COMMENTS

  1. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™

    Offers. Enter two lands of groundbreaking thrills and magical fun in Universal Islands of Adventure™ and Universal Studios Florida™. Step inside the story on the streets of Diagon Alley™ where hidden dangers lurk far beneath Gringotts™ bank. Travel to the village of Hogsmeade™ and into Hogwarts™ castle for a spellbinding journey ...

  2. It's Time to Visit Hogwarts

    Experience the magic of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ at Universal Orlando Resort. Explore two amazing lands, Hogsmeade™ and Diagon Alley™, ride the Hogwarts™ Express, and enjoy exclusive vacation packages for military personnel. Don't miss this unforgettable adventure for Harry Potter fans of all ages.

  3. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

    Explore Harry Potter's world with Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade at Universal Studios and Universal Islands of Adventure. Plan your trip and get tickets today! ... Ride alongside Ron, Hermione and Harry as they travel deep into the vaults looking for the magical object that will help them defeat Lord Voldemort™. This ride features a state-of-the ...

  4. Planning a Trip to Harry Potter World Universal Orlando 2024

    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. ...

  5. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

    From magical spells to magical creatures, from dark villains to daring heroes, it's all here at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™, now open at Universal Studios Hollywood™. Explore the mysteries of Hogwarts™ castle, visit the shops of Hogsmeade™, and sample fare from some of the wizarding world's best-known establishments.

  6. TPG's guide to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando

    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."

  7. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ Exclusive Vacation Package

    The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ Exclusive Vacation Package ...

  8. The Ultimate Guide to Visiting the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

    Basic Tips. Arrive at Universal Studios Harry Potter World before the park opens. Start at Hogsmeade, go to Diagon Alley at noon, then go back to Hogsmeade in the evening. Buy an interactive wand. There will be fun little stops in both parks where you can do some of your own magic.

  9. The Complete Guide to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

    The Complete Guide to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. February 1, 2019. 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.

  10. 11 Essential Tips for Visiting Harry Potter World in Orlando

    Tips for Visiting Harry Potter World. Buy Park Hopper Passes. Don't get Express Passes the First Day. Visit for at Least Two Days. Visit in the Colder Months. Download the Universal App. Head to the Most Popular Rides First Thing in the Morning. Stay at an On-Site Hotel. You Can Share a Wand.

  11. Official home of Harry Potter & Fantastic Beasts.

    An all-new behind-the-scenes touring exhibition making its world premiere in 2022. Harry Potter: The Exhibition celebrates the films and stories of Harry Potter, Fantastic Beasts™, and the expanded Wizarding World utilizing best-in-class immersive design and technology. This groundbreaking touring exhibition presents beautifully crafted ...

  12. FREE Wizarding World of Harry Potter Touring Plan

    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.

  13. How to Ensure Your Trip to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a

    The basic strategy is to have a morning and evening in Hogsmeade, and a morning and evening in Diagon Alley. This is what you will do during your visits: Ride Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts. Visit the shops, shows, and dining of Diagon Alley. Ride Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey and Flight of the Hippogriff.

  14. FULL TOUR of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

    Join me as I walk through Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida! We talk about the shops...

  15. The Only Harry Potter World Guide You'll Need

    We rode this one three different times. While you're in line you get to walk through Gringotts Bank and you even see the goblins. This is one of the best show/roller coaster combos in the park. You get to wear the 3D glasses and follow Harry, Ron, and Hermione as they find their way out of the vaults of Gringotts.

  16. Universal Orlando Resort

    Book an exclusive vacation package and enjoy the magic of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ at Universal Orlando Resort. Ride, shop, and explore like a wizard.

  17. Wizarding World

    The Wizarding World doesn't just live on the page, screen or stage. Explore all the different experiences you can enjoy across Wizarding World below, from witnessing filmmaking magic at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London to following in the footsteps of Harry and his friends at the ground-breaking immersive themed land, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and much more.

  18. Warner Bros. Studio Tour London

    Discover the magic of Warner Bros. Studio Tour London! Explore authentic sets, props, and costumes from the Harry Potter films. Book now for an unforgettable experience.

  19. Your BEST Wizarding World of Harry Potter Itinerary (How to Do it in a

    Visit Hogwarts Castle then Ride Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey. Ride Flight of the Hippogriff. Relax and Explore The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Hogsmeade. Afternoon: Take the Hogwarts Express Train to Diagon Alley (Universal Studios Florida) Have Lunch at the Leaky Cauldron. Shop at Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes.

  20. Plan A Trip To Harry Potter World

    Admission. Prices for Harry Potter Orlando tickets are different on each day of the week. Orlando Harry Potter tickets can become more expensive during holidays and high seasons. $115 is the starting price for both Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios for a one-day pass.

  21. Wizarding World

    Step on to authentic sets, discover the magic behind spellbinding special effects and explore the behind-the-scenes secrets of the Harry Potter film series. Discover the iconic Hogwarts Great Hall and explore the Forbidden Forest, all before boarding the original Hogwarts Express at Platform 9-3/4. and wandering down Diagon Alley.

  22. Review of the Fully Guided Harry Potter Studio Tour ⚡️

    A standard visit to the Harry Potter Studios in London is remarkable, but nothing compares to a fully guided tour. I've paid the extra to be taken behind the scenes, and you can too. Kristoffer Fons. October 21, 2023 Updated. 6 min Read. I've just returned from London, where I embarked on a fully guided tour of the Harry Potter World.

  23. How Much Does It Cost To Go To Harry Potter World?

    The cost of admission to Harry Potter World varies depending on the type of ticket you purchase. A single-day ticket to the theme park is $145 per person for adults and $140 per person for children. However, if you plan to visit multiple times, you can opt for a three-day ticket, which is $236 per person for adults and $226 per person for ...

  24. Inside the World's Biggest Harry Potter Travel Destination

    The tour opened in 2012, after the end of the eight-part Harry Potter series, and in 2019 and 2022, two newly rebuilt sets, Gringotts Wizarding Bank and Professor Sprout's Greenhouse, were added.