Chelsea Gentry My favorite place in the world might be the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando. Even if you aren’t a fan of the books or movies, you will love this park. Read below to discover my Ultimate Guide for the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
1. Visit on the Off-Season
One of my first tips on the original Wizarding World post was to visit on the off-season and I stand by that tip. The Undercover Tourist has a crowd calendar to check, but basically I would avoid holidays and big events. It’s nice to go to the Wizarding World during Christmas, but I wouldn’t go on Christmas week. Large crowds make it a little less magical.
2. Wear Comfortable Shoes and Clothes
Just getting to the Wizarding World part of the park is quite a little trek. Dress comfortably. We do over 20,000 steps a day, so I imagine your step count will be similar. Keep in mind the weather in Florida is almost always hot and humid, depending on the time of year. I wouldn’t wear too many layers.
3. Stay at a Universal Orlando Hotel
We have now stayed at three different Universal Orlando hotels, and I cannot say enough good things. Staying at a Universal Hotel will get you all sorts of perks, but most importantly it allows you inside the parks a full hour before those not staying on property. Our personal favorite place to stay is the Loews Sapphire. You can find a qualifying hotel list HERE.
4. Do not Over-Pack
My husband and I brought a backpack on our first trip to Universal Studios and it was a mistake. Sure, some of the things we brought did come in handy, but mostly the bag was a hindrance. If you need to bring a bag, there are lockers available to rent.
My pro-tip is to bring a small Loungefly or fanny pack. Or if you don’t have kids, just utilize your pockets. The less you carry, the easier it will be.
5. Keep an Eye on the App
It’s obviously a good idea to knock out your favorite Wizarding World rides first thing in the morning or right before closing, because the lines will be shorter. However, you might be able to snag a ride at any time of day and not wait too long in line. Keep an eye on the Universal Studios app and the ride times posted there.
6. Attend a Wand Ceremony
The Wand Ceremony that takes place in Olivanders is simply magical. I thought it would be cheesy, but I love it every single time. Team Members can also help you choose a wand in the store afterwards.
7. Use Your Wand Around the Park
Speaking of wands, you can purchase an interactive wand that can be used to cast spells all over Diagon Ally and Hogsmeade. A small chart with all the spell locations will be included with your wand, but there are also bronze plaques on the pavement marked with the movements for the appropriate spell.
8. You CAN do the Park in One Day
Once you visit the Wizarding World, or Universal Studios in general, you will want to stay for weeks. (Or come back again and again like we do.) However, you CAN see it all in a day. The Wizarding World is split between two parks: Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. Diagon Ally is on the Universal Studios side while Hogsmeade and Hogwarts are on the Islands of Adventure side. They are connected by the Hogwarts Express. If you manage your time well, it can be done.
9. Ride the Hogwarts Express Both Ways
Yup, you heard me right. The parks are connected by Hogwarts Express, and you get to ride an actual train. Be sure to ride it in both directions as each is a different experience. Even the walk through Kings Cross Station is authentic. There’s also an elevator for strollers and I have found they tend to prioritize those with strollers… so…
10. Send Post By Owl in Hogsmeade
Go by the Owl Post in Hogsmeade and write a postcard to your best friend. You can send mail from the village, which is a special treat for friends and family at home! The Wizard or Witch at the Owl Post will also stamp your postcards with the official Hogsmeade stamp if you would like to take them home with you.
11. Watch the Four Essential Shows
The four shows that are certainly a must see include: Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees, The Tales of Beedle the Bard, the Hogwarts Frog Choir, and the Triwizard Spirit Rally. My favorite is The Tales of Beedle the Bard, but my toddler loves the Frog Choir. I suggest getting there a little early so you can get a spot in the front. The show times are listed in the Universal app.
12. Prioritize the Light Show
At the end of the day there is an outstanding light show outside Hogwarts. We were there during the Christmas season, so it was holiday themed. Be sure to snag a front row spot to witness the magic. You will need to get there early and wear your patient pants when exiting afterwards. It’s a little busy, but worth every second.
13. Eat Meals During Off-Times
Restaurants can get pretty busy during traditional lunch and dinner times. Try eating your meals a little early or late. The food itself has not overly impressed me in the past, but there are some gems.
Bonus tip: There is a wonderful table behind the Three Broomsticks that’s tucked into an alcove. Find it and enjoy the incredible ambience with a view of the castle and the Velocicoaster
14. Don’t Forget the Details
Slow down, soak it in. The details in the Wizarding World are absolutely astounding. You will not want to miss out on any of it. Remember to explore Knockturn Ally and look up at all the shelves in each of the shops.
15. Take a Tour of the Castle
You can tour Hogwarts castle. Yep. A witch or wizard will take you through Hogwarts and point out all sorts of incredible memoribilia and answer any of your questions. And it’s free! Just ask at the entrance of Forbidden Journey if they have someone who can take you. Keep in mind they may not be able to take you on a tour if the park is super busy. Be kind!
16. Dress Up
Give in to the nostalgia and the magic. Dress in robes or like your favorite character. It might feel a little silly to fully nerd-out and put your love of Harry Potter on full display. Don’t worry, no one will gawk at you. They all love the Wizarding World as much if not more than you.
17. Utilize Child Swap
My husband and I recently discovered the magic of Child Swap on the rides in the Wizarding World. We were able to take our two year old into the depths of Gringotts until we were about to board the ride. Then, a team member led us to a themed room where one of you can wait with your toddler while one of you rides. They you swap!
There was even a TV playing all the scenes that take place in Gringotts. It’s incredible. If you have kids with you at the park who aren’t able to ride, but you would like to… take advantage of Child Swap.
18. Call the Ministry of Magic
Outside the Wizarding World you can see a red telephone booth. If you dial the numeric equivalent of M A G I C (it’s 62442), you can hear a special message from the Ministry of Magic.
19. Don’t Let Rain Deter You
The Wizarding World in the rain is magical. Please do not let a little rain deter you from exploring the park. Wear your rain gear and enjoy!
20. Snag Florean Fortescue’s Ice Cream
Some of the best ice cream I have ever had the pleasure of enjoying is at Florean Fortescue’s in Diagon Ally. They also have souvenir cups that are super cute and worth taking home. Make time for the ice cream.
21. Talk to the Gringotts Goblin
You can convert your muggle money to wizards money at Gringotts and use it throughout the park. Seriously, the authenticity of Diagon Ally is unparalleled. Be sure to ask the Goblin at the desk a few questions.
22. Utilize Single Rider
My husband wanted me to add this tip, because he is a roller coaster fanatic. When you are waiting in line for Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure TM or the Forbidden Journey, ask a worker how long the single rider line would be. It might be a shorter wait, so if your group is okay splitting up it will save time.
23. Try all the Butterbeer Things… but beware
Butterbeer is amazing in all its forms. There’s frozen, hot, and cold Butterbeer, fudge, ice cream and even potted cream. They even have a vegan butterbeer now! Try it in all its forms, but beware. Too much Butterbeer in one day may hurt your stomach. Just speaking from experience…
Was it worth it? Yes.
24. Visit Kreacher
You can visit Kreacher as you leave the Wizarding World and walk by Number 12 Grimmauld Place. Be sure to knock on the door and he will peek out from the curtains in a window above.
25. Halloween Hosts Death Eaters
We haven’t had the opportunity to visit Universal at Halloween, but I’ve heard the Death Eaters come out to play and that it is really fun. You can duel them and they will interact with you especially if you have a dark mark tattoo (temporary or otherwise).
Thank you for reading the Ultimate Guide for the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. I hope they will help you on your next trip to Universal. For more travel tips, be sure to read the additional content below:
How to Entertain a Toddler at Universal Studios Orlando
The Best Foods at Universal Studios Orlando
8 Expert Tips for Universal Studios with a Baby
If you have any questions feel free to send me an email or message on Instagram. Follow @gentryjourneys on Pinterest for more travel tips and tricks and don’t forget to subscribe below for new content every week!
Safe Travels,
