Universal Orlando Resort has become a must-visit destination for Harry Potter fans from all around the world. With two amazing lands, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter-Hogsmeade and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter-Diagon Alley, there's so much to explore and discover. Whether you're a Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, or Slytherin, let's take a closer look at all the magical things you can experience at Universal Orlando Resort as a Harry Potter fan!
Explore The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Hogsmeade
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Hogsmeade is located inside Universal's Islands of Adventure park. As you enter, you'll step right into the snowy village of Hogsmeade, complete with snow-capped rooftops and quaint storefronts. You can grab a Butterbeer from the Hog's Head pub or the Three Broomsticks, and stroll around the village, taking in all the sights and sounds.
One of the highlights of Hogsmeade is Hogwarts Castle. You can take a tour of the castle, which includes a visit to Dumbledore's office, the Defense Against the Dark Arts classroom, and the Gryffindor common room. You can also experience the thrilling Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride, which takes you through the castle and on a wild adventure with Harry, Ron, and Hermione.
The newest addition to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Hogsmeade is Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure. This exciting tour of the Forbidden Forest is my favorite ride at Universal Orlando because of its interesting story line, high speeds, and thrilling drops, twists, and turns. Guests can ride on the motorbike or in the side car: I'm partial to the motorbike myself!
Visit The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Diagon Alley
Located inside Universal Studios Florida, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Diagon Alley is a must-visit for any Harry Potter fan. As you walk through the brick walls of the Leaky Cauldron, you'll find yourself in the bustling streets of Diagon Alley, with shops selling everything from magical wands to broomsticks.
One of the main attractions in Diagon Alley is Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, which takes you deep into the underground vaults of Gringotts Bank. You'll also want to visit Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes, where you'll find all sorts of magical toys and jokes. If you're tracking down dark wizards, be sure to take a turn down Knockturn Alley as well. You might even hear something interesting inside the vanishing cabinet at Borgin and Burkes.
Take the Hogwarts Express
One of the most exciting experiences for Harry Potter fans at Universal Orlando Resort is taking the Hogwarts Express between Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley. The train ride is an attraction in itself, with interactive windows that show you scenes from the Harry Potter films. You'll need a Park-to-Park ticket to ride the Hogwarts Express, but it's well worth it for the immersive experience, which is different both ways.
Attend a Wand Ceremony
At both Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley, you can witness a Wand Ceremony, where a wandkeeper from Ollivanders chooses a lucky guest to try out a wand. The ceremony is a magical experience, with interactive elements and special effects that will transport you right into the heart of the Wizarding world. Once you purchase your own interactive wand, you can use it to cast spells throughout the Wizarding World. This is a fun activity for young wizards and grown up wizards alike!
Try the Butterbeer
No trip to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter would be complete without trying a Butterbeer. This sweet, frothy non-alcoholic drink is a Harry Potter fan favorite, and you can find it at multiple locations throughout both parks. You can even try it frozen or hot, depending on your preference. I'm a fan of the frozen!
Universal Orlando Resort offers a truly magical experience for Harry Potter fans. From exploring the snow-capped village of Hogsmeade to walking the bustling streets of Diagon Alley, there's something for everyone. When you book your visit to the Wizarding World with me, you pay the same price as booking on Universal's website, but you get my concierge level vacation planning services for free! I assist with helping you choose the perfect hotel and ticket type, making dining recommendations and reservations, monitoring for discount, keeping track of deadlines, and sending detailed touring tips to help you get the most out of your vacation. So grab your wand and your Hogwarts robe, and get ready to enter the Wizarding World like never before! Click here to request a free quote!
