Are you ready to enter a magical world of spells, potions, and quidditch? As regulars to Harry Potter Disney World, we are excited to share a guide to all of the magic in this Wizarding World.
Harry Potter Disney World
Let’s first start by clarifying the location of Harry Potter Disney World. It is NOT actually at Disney World. It is actually not part of Disney World. This park is about 15 minutes down the road at the Universal Orlando Resort. This is a completely different theme park.
Unfortunately, many of the visitors to Orlando think this amazing park is located at Disney World. As a past Disney Cast Member, I even remember guests at the park asking “where do I find the Harry Potter Disney World?”
The Harry Potter park is called the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. It is divided into two separate Universal Theme Parks called Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios. Hogsmeade is located at Islands of Adventure and Diagon Alley is located at Universal Studios. There is a train called the Hogwarts Express that takes you from one area to the other.
Keep in mind that you need a ticket called the Universal Park to Park ticket to get from Diagon Alley to Hogsmeade. Click here to learn more about the Park to Park ticket.
Rides and Attractions
As you wander through the cobblestone streets of Hogsmeade or the twisted corridors of Knockturn Alley, you’ll come across several rides and attractions. Among the most popular is Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey at Hogsmeade and Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts at Diagon Alley. Both rides are a cutting-edge.
For a thrill, you can ride Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure. The new coaster features a vertical free-fall, several launches, and a near vertical launch followed by a backwards drop. Plus, it’s now the longest roller coaster in Florida! Woohoo!
For a family favorite, you can ride Flight of the Hippogriff. This family roller coaster zooms past Hagrid’s hut and the pumpkin patch. You may even see a Hippogriff up close.
We recommend the train ride called Hogwarts Express. This train makes its way between Hogsmeade Station and King’s Cross Station in London.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter has many shows and experiences. If you want to put your magical skills to the test, head over to Ollivanders Wand Shop. In this show a wizard helps you choose a wand or really the wand chooses the wizard.
You can watch a show like the Triwizard Spirit Rally or the Frog Choir. All of these rides and attractions are sure to leave you hungry and thirsty. In the next section, we’ll explore the delicious food and drinks that await you in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Food and Drinks
Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade are filled with tantalizing smells of Butterbeer, pumpkin pasties, and chocolate frogs. One of the most popular items is the iconic Butterbeer. You can buy both frozen, regular, or even hot Butterbeer. The creamy and frothy drink is a perfect blend of butterscotch and cream soda. It is a must do for any visitor to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Besides Butterbeer, you can try one of the secret alcoholic beverages, Pumpkin Juice, or Gillywater.
There are many things to eat at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. From savory options like shepherd’s pie and fish and chips to sweet treats like treacle tart and cauldron cakes, there is something for everyone.
You can eat breakfast, lunch, or dinner at one of the sit down restaurants. There are two restaurants. One is called Three Broomsticks at Hogsmeade. The other one is located at Diagon Alley called Leaky Cauldron.
Souvenirs and Merchandise
One of our favorite things to do at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is shop. There are incredible souvenirs and Harry Potter merchandise at both Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley.
A popular souvenir is the interactive wand from Ollivanders. You can use these wands through out the Wizarding World. You will get a map with each want spot, along with your interactive wand. Your family will love casting spells and seeing the result. Some of the spells are really funny! Plus, the wands are a great souvenir.
You can find a ton of Harry Potter attire including house robes, Quidditch jerseys, sweaters, t-shirts, and more. You can also get magical creatures like Hedwig the Owl or Pygmy Puffs.
Before you head back to the muggle world, take the time to browse through the various souvenir shops.
Photo Gallery
Tips and Tricks
We have many tips and tricks for your visit to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Arrive Early: One of our first tips is arrive early to avoid long lines and crowded spaces. This is especially important if you plan on visiting during peak tourist seasons.
Purchase Tickets Before You Arrive: A money saver and timer saver is purchasing your tickets before you arrive to Universal Orlando. This will save you $10 per ticket. Plus, it will save you time waiting in lines to pick up your tickets.
For an extra freebie, book your tickets with our partner at Destinations in Florida. You will get FREE Early Park Admission with your tickets. This allows you to visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter one hour before the gates open to the general public. You can only get this perk when you book with our partner.
Watch for Hidden Gems: While exploring the Wizarding World, be on the lookout for hidden gems. This may be interactive experiences, wand-activated window, or talking portraits. Don’t be afraid to ask team members (aka wizards) for recommendations or hidden gems.
Check the Universal App for Shows: Be sure you download the Universal Orlando app before you leave home. You will use this app for mobile ordering, virtual queues, and show times.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a magical destination for Potterheads. Remember Harry Potter Disney World is actually not at Disney World. Follow these tips to start planning your magical vacation.
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