Are you a muggle or aspiring wizard ready to walk in Harry’s footsteps at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter Orlando? Walt Disney World isn’t the only magical place to visit in Orlando. The two parks at Universal Studios are also filled with magic and fun.
Based on the Harry Potter franchise books and movies, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios is a spellbinding adventure for the whole family and any super Harry Potter fans. It’s full of fun rides and thematic experiences everyone will love.
Located in Universal Studios, Florida, and Universal’s Islands of Adventure, there are plenty of rides, shops, and interactive experiences that apparate you right into the heart of Harry’s world. And, you will feel like you received your own owl mail invitation for your spot at Hogwarts!
My Gryffindor-loving kids were mesmerized by our enchanting experience at this incredible theme park fit for even the most knowledgeable wizards and all Harry Potter fans. It is so true to life that you feel like you are in Edinburgh on a Harry Potter tour with Harry himself. Or, more specifically, like you are a fellow wizard getting ready for your next year at Hogwarts.
But truth be told, it was a bit tricky to understand all of the house rules for navigating it when we were first planning our trip. So to ensure your experience is the most magical, I have created this helpful guide with tips and an itinerary that will impress even the most studious of wizards like Hermione!
This post contains affiliate links which means I receive a commission if you make a purchase using these links at no additional cost to you. See my disclaimer. Cover photo credit: © Solarisys13 | Megapixl.com
What You Need to Know Before Your Wizarding World Orlando Adventure
To take in the whole Universal Orlando Harry Potter World, it is important to note this magical experience is in two theme parks: Universal Studios Orlando and Universal Islands of Adventure.
Diagon Alley and several attractions, restaurants, and shops are in the Universal Studios Orlando theme park. Hogsmeade, Hogwarts, and several attractions, restaurants, and shops are in Universal’s Islands of Adventure theme park. To get in between the lands, you ride the Hogwarts Express between the two lands!
You could just visit one theme park on one day and the other side on another day. But if you want to take in the full experience of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter Orlando in ONE DAY, make sure you purchase admittance tickets to both places that are home to the Harry Potter attractions and rides. You’ll need to buy two tickets – one to Universal Studios Orlando theme park and one to Universal’s Islands of Adventure.
And, in order to ride the Hogwarts Express, you must have a Seasonal Pass, Annual Pass, or Park-to-Park ticket to ride the train.
Are you ready to walk in the footsteps of Harry Potter? Get your theme park walking shoes ready. Let’s go!
Purchase the Universal Express Pass for Theme Parks, and you get to skip the regular lines for participating in Harry Potter rides at Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventures.
The Universal Express Pass lets you skip the line once per ride, while the Universal Express Unlimited Pass lets you skip the lines an unlimited number of times.
While it is an added cost, I do recommend it as one of my Universal Studios park tips and tricks to maximize your visit and enjoy as much of the Wizarding World Orlando as possible!
Universal Studios Orlando – The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley
If you’re like me, who enjoyed all the Harry Potter books and Harry Potter films, you’ll be as excited as your kids are for all the Harry Potter rides and other attractions! There are so many fun things to do. Here are the rides and attractions on the Diagon Alley side of Harry Potter that will take you through Harry Potter’s world at Universal Studios.
Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Rides and Attractions
Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
In this thrill ride, you’ll enter Gringotts under a huge fire-breathing dragon and venture underground to navigate subterranean vaults where you’ll encounter Harry, Hermione, and Ron. But watch out! You must evade Bellatrix, trolls, Voldemort, and many other creatures to get back safely to Diagon Alley.
Hogwarts Express
Ride the Hogwarts Express from Universal Studio’s King’s Cross Station in London and travel through the countryside of Britain. You never know what or who you might see outside. The train is your ride between the two Harry Potter worlds.
Ollivanders – the Makers of Great Wands Since 382 BC
This location is special as you can buy your very own Ollivanders wand, fine wands, Interactive Wands, and Harry Potter character wand replicas. It’s where all the witches and wizards come to buy their wands at Universal Studios Florida.
Now, before you head into the shop, be sure to visit the experience beforehand, where the wand chooses the wizard!
My son was the lucky wizard selected during our visit and was chosen by a very special Harry Potter wand that we ended up purchasing! He was chosen by the Holly Wand!
You can cast spells using the Interactive Wand at specific attractions to create unique magical experiences.
You’ll find spell locations marked by medallions on your Universal Studios Florida map, and they are set in the pavement in front of locations where you can use your Interactive Wand. Some of these are secret spell locations, so I don’t want to give everything away.
Spell Locations in Diagon Alley
- Pillwinkle’s Playthings
- Horizont Alley
- The Magical Menagerie
- Wiseacres
- Scribbulus
- Brown E. Wrights Blacksmith Shop\
- The Mermaid Fountain near Carkitt Market
- Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes
- Slug and Jiggers Apothecary
Hogsmeade Spell Locations
- Zonko’s Joke Shop
- McHavelock’s
- Honeydukes
- Gladrags Wizardwear
- Madam Puddifoot’s
- Dervish and Banges
- Tomes and Scrolls Specialist Bookshop
- Sprintwiches
Knockturn Alley Spell Locations
These are the spell locations in Knockturn Alley.
- Dystyl Phaelanges
- Borgin and Burkes
Knight Bus
Visit the purple, triple-decker purple bus that wizards flag down and strands witches. You can look inside to see beds, a chandelier, curtains, and even a talking shrunken head.
Phone Booth
Before you go into Diagon Alley, be sure and stop at the phone booth. Dial 62442 (or M-A-G-I-C) and be connected to the Ministry of Magic!
Wizarding World of Harry Potter Orlando: Places to Eat in Diagon Alley
The Leaky Cauldron
One of my favorite places to eat in the Harry Potter Universe in Universal Studios, Florida, is the Leaky Cauldron. Here you can dine on traditional British fares such as Fisherman’s Pie, Bangers and Mash, Toad in the Hole, Sticky Toffee Pudding, and more. There are also kid-friendly eats such as macaroni and cheese, fish and chips, and more.
The Hopping Pot
The Hopping Pot is a walk-up counter inside Carkitt Markett where you can get drinks like Butterbeer, Tongue Tying Lemon Squash, and more.
The Fountain of Fair Fortune
Adults enjoy this watering hole, where you can buy alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages such as Frozen Beerbutter, Pumpkin Juice, Pumpkin Fizz, and more.
Florean Fortescue’s Ice Cream Parlour
Muggles and Wizards of all ages will love the delicious ice cream here. You’ll find ice cream in delightful British flavors such as Earl Gray and Lavender, Sticky Toffee Pudding, Butterbeer-flavored ice cream, and more. This is the best place in Universal Studios, Florida, to get delicious pastries here.
Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Shops in Diagon Alley
Gringotts Money Exchange
Ask the Gringotts goblin at this wizarding bank any questions (just don’t ask if he is a house elf!) And then, trade your U.S. money for Gringott banknotes that you can use to buy things at Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley.
Borgin and Burkes
Famous for shady patrons and objects with magical and unusual properties, Borgin and Burkes is the place to buy skulls, Harry Potter costume replicas, jewelry, collectibles, and more.
Magical Menagerie
This is the place to find anything that flies, slithers, leaps, creeps, or crocks. You can purchase plush toys such as Buckbeak, Scabbers, Gang, Hedwig, Pigwidgeon, and more. Check out the window to see if the giant snake communicates to you in Parseltongue!
Madam Malkin’s Robes for All Occasions
Buy your robes, uniforms, ties, hats, and more here to build your wardrobe just like Harry Potter’s at Madam Malkin’s Robes.
Scribbulus
Here you’ll find genuine writing supplies that every witch or wizard needs, from feather quills to ink wells to notebooks and journals.
Quality Quidditch Supplies
Buy everything you need for Harry Potter’s favorite sport, including brooms, sweaters, Golden Snitches, Quaffles, Bludgers, and more at Quality Quidditch Supplies.
Wands by Gregorovitch
This Universal Studios Florida shop is the other place that sells wands. You can buy Interactive Wands, wand replicas, and more here.
Weasley’s Wizard Wheezes
Here’s the novelty joke store run by George Weasley and Fred Weasley. Buy your magic tricks and toys, Pygmy Puffs, Puking Pastries, U-No-Poo-Pills, and other funny gag gifts.
Sugarplum’s Sweetshop
You’ll find delicious fudge and other candy here, like Bertie Bott’s Every-Flavour Beans, Chocolate Frogs, Butterbeer Fudge, Cauldron Cakes, Pumpkin Pasties, and more!
Wiseacre’s Wizarding Equipment
You’ll find all the equipment a wizard or witch needs here at Wiseacre’s in Universal Studios, Florida. This story has a unique selection of accessories and apparel, along with crystal balls, telescopes, and more.
Possible Harry Potter World Orlando Itinerary
Every family is different, so you can use this blog post to create the schedule that works for you. But here is what my family likes to do.
Start at Diagon Alley
- Stop at the Knight Bus and have look inside.
- Next Visit the Telephone Booth and dial M-A-G-I-C for a message from The Ministry of Magic!
- Then Visit Ollivander’s – It’s essential!
- Stop at Gringott’s to exchange your money for Gringott banknotes at this wizarding bank
- Ride the Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts thrill ride
- Visit a few of the Spell Locations and shops!
- Eat lunch at the Leaky Cauldron
- Visit the other shops and a few more Spell Locations
- Get To Platform 9 3/4 to catch a ride on the Hogwarts Express to Hogsmeade village.
Universal’s Islands of Adventure – The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade
Once you hitch a train ride on the Hogwarts Express and head to Diagon Alley, you’ll arrive at Hogsmeade Station in Universal’s Islands of Adventure. Get ready for a fun time! You can also start here if you want, but to follow Harry’s path, you want to start at Diagon Alley.
There are so many fun things to do on this side of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter adventure.
Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Rides and Attractions
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
Join Harry Potter and his friends in this amazing and unforgettable adventure as you journey your way through Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Innovative, cutting-edge technology makes this a unique ride as you then soar above the castle with Harry. Keep an eye out for the moving Mandrakes while you wait in line! This is one of our favorite Harry Potter adventures at Universal parks.
Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
Now you can fly with the beloved Hagrid (one of my favorite characters) into the Forbidden Forest on this roller coaster ride at Universal Orlando Resort. As this roller coaster sends you flying above the forest, you’ll plunge and travel deep into the Forbidden Forest to get glimpses of the magical creatures in this enchanted world.
Flight of the Hippogriff
The whole family can enjoy this ride that spirals over Hagrid’s hut, where you travel on a coaster and enter the Care of Magical Creatures grounds. As you ride through the pumpkin patch, you may hear barking – that’s Fang! Along the way, Hagrid will give you instructions on the right way to walk up to a Hippogriff, so you’ll know how when you get closer.
Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle
Get ready to face Voldemort, the Death Eaters, and Dementors in a brilliant display of music and lights.
The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle
You don’t want to miss the celebration of Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle at Universal Studios Florida. On certain nights you’ll be awed by the stunning light display that unfolds against the magnificent backdrop of Hogwarts Castle. It’s the perfect way to end your day at the Universal Studios Orlando Harry Potter Hogsmeade.
Wizarding World of Harry Potter Orlando: Places to Eat at Hogsmeade
Three Broomsticks
Three Broomsticks is a great place to eat lunch and serves traditional British food like Beef Pasties, Fish and Chips, Great Feast Platter, and more.
Hog’s Head
You can find Hog’s Head in the back of Three Broomsticks. Here you’ll find beer, wine, spirits, and specialty drinks.
Wizarding World of Harry Potter Orlando: Shops in Hogsmeade
Dervish and Banges
Here you’ll find all the magical items you need, like Omniculars, Sneakoscopes, and more. Plus, buy everything you need to play Quidditch, as well as Hogwarts uniforms, Hogwarts clothing, and more. Be sure and look for the Monster Book of Monsters in the cage (but keep your fingers away!)
Honeydukes
You can’t leave the wizarding village of Hogsmeade at Universal Studio’s Florida without eating a Chocolate Frog, just like Harry. You’ll also find other delicious items such as Exploding Bonbons, Cauldron Cakes, Fizzing Whizzbees, and more at this popular sweet shop.
Filch’s Emporium of Confiscated Goods
You’ll find all the things that the school’s caretaker, Argus Filch, has confiscated, like Hogwarts uniforms, toys, house crest banners, and more.
Ollivanders
Yes, there’s an Ollivanders at Universal Orlando on this side, too, so get your Interactive Wand at this wand shop if you haven’t yet! There are plenty of places to use it in Hogsmeade too.
Owl Post
The Owl Post is a fun store where you get your stationery needs like paper, quills, ink, seals, and more. You can even send Owl Mail with a special Hogsmeade postmark to your family and friends! Check out the storefront for a message from the Howler!
Possible Wizarding World of Harry Potter Orlando – Hogsmeade Itinerary
You don’t necessarily need to hit any of these places in order, but don’t skip them. Here is what my family likes to do when visiting Universal Orlando.
Hogsmeade
- Don’t forget to buy your Interactive Wand if you haven’t yet. And be sure to hit some of the Spell Locations!
- Ride Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
- Ride Flight of the Hippogriff
- Enjoy Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure at the Universal Orlando resort
- Grab a bite to eat or snack at the Three Broomsticks — this pub is based on the one in the Harry Potter series.
- Buy your Harry Potter necessities, like clothing and magical items at the shops here.
- Get your Chocolate Frog from Honeydukes.
- Send an Owl Mail
- Visit any last shops for Hogwart’s essentials
- Catch a ride on the Hogwarts Express back to Diagon Alley
Like Diagon Alley, if you haven’t bought your Interactive Wand yet, stop at Ollivander’s before going to the other attractions so you can use it throughout Hogsmeade. This activity is one that I would advise you not to skip, as this wand shop elevates your Harry Potter experience.
Your little ones will love the Flight of the Hippogriff. You don’t want to miss the other rides and adventures either – Hagrid’s Motorbike Adventure at Universal Orlando Resort and Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey – to be sure and enjoy the complete experience.
Your adventure isn’t complete without a delicious Chocolate Frog and other fun magical items, Harry Potter Stamps and stationery, and more. Be sure and visit the shops for all of your Hogwarts essentials at Universal Orlando.
And remember to send an Owl Mail! At the end of the time, ride the Hogwarts Express back to Diagon Alley.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Wizarding World of Harry Potter Orlando
How do I get Harry Potter World Orlando Tickets?
To explore both Harry Potter lands at Universal, you need tickets to Universal Studios and Universal’s Islands of Adventures. You want a part-to-park ticket, and you can learn more about how to get those tickets here.
Can you see the Wizarding World of Harry Potter Orlando in one day?
Yes, you can with a park-to-park ticket that gets you into both Harry Potter lands. If not, you’ll miss one of them because you need a park-to-park ticket to ride the Hogwarts Express between King’s Cross Station to Hogsmeade Station.
Which Universal park is best for Harry Potter?
If your family is really focused on Harry Potter, then you want to do both! But many say that The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade represents the Harry Potter story the best and makes you feel like you’re immersed in the world of Harry Potter.
The Hogwarts Castle replica and cobblestone streets lined with shops at Univeral Orlando are truly amazing.
Your Universal Studios vacation wouldn’t be complete without the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. It’s the perfect chance for your kids to actually live all the details of the magical Harry Potter movies in real life.
From their very own magic wand to meeting a magical creature like the Hippogriff, it’s a dream come true for your kids. Where else can you buy a Hogwarts uniform and eat the foods that Harry Potter and his friends do? It’s a vacation your family will never forget.
Where Are Lockers At Universal Orlando In Harry Potter World?
Unlike rides at the Walt Disney World theme park, Universal Orlando does not permit bags on some of the Harry Potter Orlando attractions. There are Universal Studio’s lockers located near Gringott’s (Diagon Alley) in Universal Orlando and small ones near Hagrid’s Magical Creature Motorbike Adventure, and Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey (Hogsmeade). The lockers range in price from $10 a day to $15, depending on the size. Not all sizes are available at all locker locations.
What To Wear At Universal Studios?
Well, it is hot in Orlando most times of the year, so you will want to dress comfortably and for the weather. That said, it is hard to step inside the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando theme park without dressing your wizarding best. My kids went with Harry Potter t-shirts to show off their house spirit!
Does Universal Studios Have Stroller Rentals?
Yes, just like at Disney World with toddlers and babies, you can rent single or double strollers at Universal Studios Orlando and at the Islands of Adventure near the entrances. They offer single and double strollers, and there are designated parking areas for strollers in various locations. You can bring your stroller onto the Hogwarts Express. However, if you don’t want to travel with it on the train, you can park it at the station and pick up a new one at the other station upon your arrival.
Where to Stay at Universal Studios Florida
I just wanted to add a quick note about finding places to stay for your adventures at Universal’s two parks. Here are some of our favorite places to stay in the area:
- Universal’s Hard Rock Hotel
- Hyatt Place or Hyatt House
- Wyndham Garden Orlando Universal
- Ramada Plaza Resort & Suites By Wyndham
If you stay in one of Universal Studio’s resorts, like Universal’s Aventura Hotel, Universal’s Loews Sapphire Falls Resort, or the Surfside Inn and Suites allows, you to enter the parks up to one hour early with Early Park Admission.
The Last Thing You Need to Know About the Harry Potter World Orlando
This adventure is truly one your family doesn’t want to miss if you come to Universal Studios Orlando for vacation. From the thrilling rides to the places to eat with British food to the shops with unique Harry Potter gifts, there’s something for everyone in your family to enjoy.
If your family loves Harry Potter, this is one vacation you want to add to your bucket list. It’s really like stepping into the Harry Potter movies. So, book your trip and pack your travel suitcases now. You’re in for the adventure of a lifetime.
Want to check it out before you go? Watch a virtual tour of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter World Orlando!
Like this post? You might also like these!
London With Kids: An EPIC Five Days In London Itinerary Your Kids Will LOVE
The Ultimate Lockers at Universal Studios Guide
Guide To Universal vs Disney World: Similarities and Differences
Travel From Home: The Best Harry Potter Virtual Tours And Experiences For Muggles Of All Ages
50 Awesome Things To Do In Orlando With Kids and Toddlers!
Walt Disney Resort For Beginners: A Complete Guide To Plan A Disney Vacation
The 8 Very Best Products for Kids’ Carry-ons You Need!
50+ Best Snacks in Disney World You Must Try
Our Disney World Cost Calculator: Our Real Costs and Tips For Disney On A Budget
Disney World 2023: What You Need To Know Before Visiting Walt Disney World This Year
Great Wolf Lodge Massachusetts Family Resort: All You Need To Know
Travel Subscription Boxes for Kids
Best Trips for Road Tripping with Kids
25+ Best Restaurants in London for Kids
Disneyland Castle vs. Disney World Castle: The Similarities and Differences Between The Two Parks
25+ Best Things to Do in Kauai With Kids
Top 12 Best Resorts in Oahu for Families
Disney’s Hilton Head Review: All You Need to Know
40+ Travel Gifts for Teens and Tweens They’ll Absolutely Love
