Complete Guide to Planning a Trip to Harry Potter Universal Orlando

Complete Guide to Planning a Trip to Harry Potter Universal Orlando

Complete Guide to Planning a Trip to Harry Potter Universal Orlando

This page is your complete guide to planning a trip to Harry Potter World in Universal Orlando! Witches and wizards can enjoy three Universal Orlando Harry Potter-themed lands, Diagon Alley located in Universal Studios Florida, Hogsmeade Village located in Islands of Adventure, and Ministry of Magic located in Epic Universe.

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 the latest deals on Universal Orlando vacation packages and our discounted Universal Orlando tickets which include EARLY PARK ADMISSION to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter!

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

We are going to start this guide with the basics, which is, what are the Harry Potter-themed lands at Universal Orlando? Universal Studios Florida is home to Diagon Alley, featuring magical shops and the Escape from Gringotts ride. Over at Islands of Adventure, visitors can explore Hogsmeade Village, which is home to Hogwarts Castle and one of the most popular rides in Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure. Additionally,  a third Harry Potter-themed land at the forthcoming EPIC Universe, will be themed around the Ministry of Magic. Universal promises a fulfilling adventure for every Potterhead, blending existing enchantments with the anticipation of new attractions.

As you will see, when comparing the Harry Potter lands each of them does have its strengths and its weaknesses. As a general rule of we typically recommend planning to spend more time in Hogsmeade village if you are trying to enjoy as many rides as possible and on the flip side to spend more time in Diagon Alley if you are looking to enjoy the ambiance of the parks.

The basics when planning a Harry Potter trip at Universal Orlando 

How many days do you need? As a general rule of thumb, guests can see and do everything in Harry Potter World within one day; however, we believe it is best to enjoy both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure at night. Especially now if you want to visit Ministry of Magic, at least 2 days is highly recommended.

How many rides are there? Universal Orlando Resort features six Harry Potter-themed rides: Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, Hogwarts Express, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, Flight of the Hippogriff, Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, and the new Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry.

What are the main restaurants? The Leaky Cauldron (Diagon Alley), The Three Broomsticks (Hogsmeade), Café l’Air de la Sirène (Ministry of Magic), Le Gobelet Noir (Ministry of Magic).

Which is the best park for early park admission? We always lean towards taking advantage of early park admission at Islands of Adventure as it does have the most popular Harry Potter ride in Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure.

Does Universal Orlando have a harry potter nighttime show? Yes, there is a brand new show called Hogwarts Always which is projected on Hogwarts Castle in Hogsmeade Village.

Sample Universal Orlando Itinerary for Harry Potter –

Day 1 –  Islands of Adventure (Hogsmeade) & Universal Studios Florida (Diagon Alley)

• Hour 1 – Approx 8:00 am **early park admission – Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure (35 Minutes) & Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey (20 Minutes)
• Hour 2 – Approx 9:00 AM Harry Potter and the Flight of the Hippogriff (25 Minutes)
• Hour 3 – Approx 10:00 AM Visit Olivander’s wand shop (30 Minutes) & Cast Spells around Hogsmeade Village (45 Minutes)
• Hour 4 – Approx 11:00 AM Lunch at Three Broomsticks (60 Minutes)
• Hour 5 – Approx 12:00 PM Hogwarts Express (40 Minutes)
• Hour 6 – Approx 1:00 PM Harry Potter and the Escape From Gringotts (65 Minutes)
• Hour 7 – Approx 2:00 PM Explore and cast spells around Diagon Alley

Day 2 – Epic Universe Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic

• Hour 1 (Approx 9:00 AM): Arrive before park opening. Head straight to the Ministry of Magic area. Ride Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry (20 minute projected wait time)
• Hour 2 (Approx 10:00 AM): Breakfast at Café L’air De La Sirène for a Butterbeer crepe!
• Hour 3 (Approx 11:00 AM): Come face-to-face with fantastic beasts at Le Cirque Arcanus (live show), a spectacular mix of live performers, puppetry, and special effects.
• Hour 4 (Approx 11:00 AM): Visit Cosme Acajor Baguettes Magique (wand shop) and experience amazing new interactive wand magic as you cast spells and interact with fantastic beasts on the streets of wizarding Paris.
• Hour 5 (Approx 12:00 AM): Explore the streets of Wizarding Paris, lookout for characters and grab a Bièraubuerre (french for butterbeer!)
• Hour 6-10 (Approb 1:00 PM): Explore other lands within Epic Universe. This is where you might experience attractions.
• Hour 8 (Approx 5:00 PM): Grab dinner at Le Gobelet Noir – a hotspot for Dark witches and wizards to gather
• Hour 9 (and beyond): Return to the Ministry of Magic. Perhaps catch a show you missed earlier or ride Battle at the Ministry again (possibly with a shorter wait).

Related Page: Discount Wizarding World of Harry Potter Tickets

Hogsmeade Village in Islands of Adventure

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, especially if you’re taking advantage of early park admission. We always recommend arriving an hour before the extra hour even starts, and this will allow you to be some of the first guests on Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure and then also take advantage of lower wait times on Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey.

Hogsmeade Attractions

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.

“Triwizard Spirit Rally” & “The Frog Choir”: Daily stage shows in Hogsmeade

Each Harry Potter 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 Post: Is The Harry Potter Vacation Package Worth It? 

Guide to Harry Potter World Hogsmeade Shops

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 like quidditch gear.

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

Hogsmeade Restaurants

The Three Broomsticks: 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. 

Hog’s Head: 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!

Related Page: Complete Guide to Dining at Harry Potter World! 

Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida

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 guests will be delighted to see a fire breathing dragon nestled over Gringotts Bank upon walking in!

Diagon Alley Attractions

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.

“Tales of Beedle the Bard” and “Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees: Daily stage shows in Diagon Alley.

Diagon Alley Shops

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.

Related Post: Guide to Interactive Wands

Diagon Alley Restaurants

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.

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.

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

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic

The exciting expansion of Universal Epic Universe includes The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic. This new land builds upon the success of the existing Wizarding World of Harry Potter areas. It will captivate guests with the magical side of 1920s Paris from the Fantastic Beasts films and the British Ministry of Magic from the Harry Potter series through a bustling shopping district named Place Cachée.  Epic Universe’s grand opening is on May 22, 2025.

This magical Epic Universe land features the tallest buildings ever created for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. The smallest building in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic is actually larger than the tallest building in Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida.

Related Post: New Epic Universe Hotels

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic Attractions

Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry: Guests will travel from Paris to the British Ministry of Magic via the Métro-Floo, a unique mode of wizarding transit inspired by the Floo Network. They will witness the trial of Dolores Umbridge, enter the Ministry’s grand atrium, and explore various departments before boarding magical, omnidirectional lifts. Umbridge attempts to escape, leading guests to join Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger, and Higgledy (Umbridge’s house elf) in a thrilling chase throughout the Ministry, dodging attacks from Death Eaters and creatures.

Le Cirque Arcanus: Guests can step into the big top for a live stage show inspired by the circus featured in Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald. The show features live performers and aerialists, stunning puppetry, brilliant special effects, and fantastic beasts. The story centers around Ringmaster Skender, who has stolen Newt Scamander’s suitcase, and Gwenlyn’s attempt to rescue the creatures.

Related Post: Epic Universe Vacation Cost

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic Entertainment

Character Experiences: While exploring Place Cachée, guests may encounter talking portraits, Cosme Acajor, the renowned Parisian wandmaker. Exchange students from Hogwarts and even fantastic beasts!

Interactive Wands and Spells: Guests can use their interactive wands to cast spells at various locations throughout Place Cachée. They can interact with fantastic beasts like Nifflers, Bowtruckles, and a Demiguise, and engage with enchanted objects in storefront windows and other areas.

Related Post: Universal Orlando Characters 

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic Dining

Café l’Air de la Sirène: This restaurant features French sandwiches, plats du jour, and desserts.

Le Gobelet Noir: A hotspot for Dark witches and wizards. Guests can enjoy soups, salads, entrées, and desserts.

Bar Moonshine: U.S. Quidditch team pennants and other items of wizarding Americana, offering delightful beverages.

Bièraubeurre Cart: It’s not a wizarding world trip without Butterbeer!

Related Post: Universal Orlando for Adults

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic Shopping

Cosme Acajor Baguettes Magique: A new wizarding wand shop where the wizard selects the best wand for them. It offers a selection of interactive wands to cast spells around the land in signature three-sided boxes with a list of spell-casting locations.

Tour en Floo: This gift shop, cleverly named after the Métro-Floo, offers Ministry of Magic-inspired items.

Les Galeries Mirifiques: This merchandise location offers a range of goods, including wizarding gear and memorabilia.

K. Rammelle: Guests looking for a sweet treat can visit this confectionery shop.

Related Post: Which Harry Potter is in Epic Universe? 

Planning a Harry Potter Trip FAQ

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.

Do you need park-to-park tickets for Harry Potter?

Very simply, if you want to ride every single Harry Potter ride at Universal Orlando yes. The reason is a park-to-park ticket is required in order to ride the Hogwarts Express between the two parks.

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!