This page is your complete guide to planning a trip to Harry Potter World in 2023! It is also the perfect starting point for any muggle getting ready for their Universal Orlando trip! You’ll find that there is so much to do in Universal Orlando at Harry Potter World! With incredible restaurants, shops and attractions that bring you right into the Harry Potter Universe, it truly feels like you’re in another world.
So, what is the best way to see Harry Potter at Universal Orlando? Since there are two parks at Universal Orlando, soon to be three with EPIC Universe, there is a lot of magic to be had! Each of the three parks will have its own Universal Studios Harry Potter land once the new theme park will be finished in 2025. For now, guests can enjoy two Universal Studios Harry Potter themed lands themed after Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade Village.
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!
So if you’re planning a trip to Universal Studios Harry Potter World read on!
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
There is no doubt that the Wizarding World of Harry Potter has quickly become one of the most popular destinations in all of Orlando. But with this increased popularity can sometimes come increased lines, and families left overwhelmed trying to figure out which rides to go on and when. While there is so much involved with planning a trip to Harry Potter World, the most important thing is to remember to have fun! And that’s why we have created this guide to the best way to visit The Wizarding World of Harry Potter! Including all of our tips and tricks for using Harry Potter early park admission tickets to get on the most popular rides with very little wait!
First let’s start out with the basics and that is where exactly is the Wizarding World of Harry Potter located? And guests might be surprised to learn that the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is located between two parks being Diagon Alley which is located in Universal Studios Florida, and Hogsmeade Village is located in Islands of Adventure.
For fans of the enchanting Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Universal Orlando offers a spellbinding experience across both of its parks. You’ll find the cobbled streets of Diagon Alley nestled within Universal Studios Florida, beckoning visitors with its magical shops and the thrilling escape from Gringotts. Meanwhile, the snowy rooftops of Hogsmeade Village, complete with the iconic Hogwarts Castle, await guests at Islands of Adventure.
But the magic doesn’t stop there. Exciting whispers hint at a potential third Harry Potter-themed land in the upcoming EPIC Universe, rumored to be inspired by the Ministry of Magic. So, whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in the enchantments of the Wizarding World Orlando or eager for the latest Potter-themed attractions, Universal ensures every Potterhead’s dream is realized.
Related Page: Discount Wizarding World of Harry Potter Tickets
We have found that families who have the best experience at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter always have a great plan going into their Universal Orlando trip. This includes knowing exactly how to use all of our Harry Potter early park admission tickets , which rides their family will want to go on, if they plan to have meals inside of Harry Potter World, and what they plan to do with their free time! Below are some of the most important things families should consider when planning a day at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter!
Now of course every family is different so there might be a few additions or deductions to this list. However we have found this is the best place to start when planning the perfect day at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Below is also additional information on the Wizarding World of Harry Potter basics for your next trip!
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Venturing into the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is an enchanting experience that many dream of, but with the right tips for Harry Potter World, you can elevate your journey to the next level. Drawing from years of exploration and countless trips to Harry Potter World, we’ve curated some essential strategies for you:
As you delve into Harry Potter World trip planning, remember that the magic unfolds differently for everyone. With our tips on how to go to Harry Potter World, you’re equipped to craft an unforgettable journey tailored to your own magical preferences.
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Picking the best time to plan a visit to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter isn’t too difficult. As a general rule we typically say to avoid any major school breaks whenever possible. Next we have found one the best ways to visit Harry Potter World and plan around the crowds is to use our Universal Orlando Crowd Calendar. This free tool breaks down the expected crowds, average temperature, and even theme park ticket prices. We find that the least crowded times of year tend to be early fall and right after New Years Eve!
One of our favorite tips is also to pay attention to Universal Orlando theme park ticket pricing. Just like Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando theme park tickets now fluctuate based on the time of year you visit. So one of the easiest ways to pick the best time to visit Universal is to compare the cheapest Universal Orlando ticket prices. The cheaper the tickets the more likely it is that the parks won’t be as crowded during that time of year. If you prefer a few great dates we have outlined them below.
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Another popular question we receive, is how many days should I plan at Harry Potter World? And as you can imagine there are so many amazing things to do in each section, you should give yourself at least two days to experience everything the Wizarding World of Harry Potter has to offer. That’s not saying that you can’t see a ton of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in one day, however we find the best way to see Harry Potter in Universal Studios is to not feel rushed. As even guests who purchase the Universal park-to-park ticket to ride the Hogwarts Express will want to ride the train twice as the attraction is different going both ways.
Two days at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter will also allow families to enjoy some of the other experiences such as the Harry Potter interactive wands and also all of the fun themed shops. Taking your time will allow your family to take everything in and bring the magic of Wizarding World of Harry Potter home.
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A frequent query that resonates with Potterheads is, “Which tickets should I purchase for the Wizarding World of Harry Potter?” As outlined earlier, the enchanting realms of Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade span two separate parks. Thus, obtaining the appropriate ticket is paramount to gain access to both. For those eager to embark on all the Harry Potter-themed rides, the Park-to-Park ticket is indispensable. Yet, this ticket isn’t the sole gateway to relishing the magic these parks have to offer.
Below are the most common questions we receive when purchasing Universal tickets to visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
It is important to know if you’re planning a trip to Harry Potter World, access to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is included with any valid Universal Orlando ticket. It is important to know that, if you purchase a one day ticket ticket to Universal Studios, then your entry to Diagon Alley will be included in that ticket. If you purchase a one day ticket to Islands of Adventure, your entry to Hogsmeade will be included in that ticket.
If you want to visit both parks in the same trip, consider buying a park-to-park ticket to Universal Orlando. Plus all of discount one day Universal Orlando tickets that we sell will include Early Park Admission to the Harry Potter rides!
The best fit ticket for anyone looking to visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter on two separate days is the Universal Orlando standard one park per day ticket. Interesting enough this ticket can actually be a great option if you are visiting Universal Orlando during peak season. The reason being is Universal will actually open both Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios for early park admission. This will allow you to experience both parks separately for early park admission during your vacation.
The only ticket that will allow guests to visit both Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade in the same day is the Universal Orlando park-to-park ticket. It’s important to note that this is also the only ticket which will allow guests to ride the Hogwarts express!
It’s important to note that if you are looking for the least expensive tickets will allow you to visit one theme park per day. We suggest asking these questions when deciding which ticket is the best fit for your family. Do you plan on going and exploring the other rides at each Universal theme park? If so, then you will have plenty to do while visiting one park per day. Or do you plan on spending all of your time in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter? If so, you might be better off purchasing a Universal park-to-park ticket so you can explore both Harry Potter World lands.
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We offer some of the best Universal Orlando vacation packages and discounted tickets! Not only do our experts know all of the best deals, there are a ton of perks and benefits that come with booking with our small business.
Receive EARLY PARK ADMISSON to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and purchase discounted Universal Orlando theme park tickets with The Park Prodigy! All of our tickets are the exact same tickets you receive if purchasing from Universal directly. The best part is you can combine our Universal Orlando ticket deals with any vacation package booked through our travel agency.
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So now that you know what tickets to buy for Harry Potter World, let’s plan your perfect Universal Studios Harry Potter Itinerary! Not everyone’s Harry Potter Itinerary will be the same though. Some might prefer to see the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in one day and others might have a full weekend. We are going to start with the basics tips for visiting the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and then break down the best way to visit Harry Potter World based on your trip length.
For a majority of the year guests, who are using Early Park Admission can get into the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at 8:00 AM. And the main reason we say a majority of the year is because there are certain times when the Wizarding World of Harry Potter will actually open up earlier than that. Hopefully you can see what a huge advantage this extra time in the parks can be, especially since the Harry Potter rides thend to be some of the most popular in the parks.
So one of the first steps to planning a trip to Harry Potter is to figure out how early to arrive at Universal Studios. We always recommend arriving as early as possible to avoid long lines later on in the day. This is true even if you are spending a few days at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Typically, the Wizarding World Hours are the same as park open hours, meaning, as soon as the gates are open, guests are allowed to enter.
The Harry Potter theme park hours will remain the same as regular park close. Both Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade close along with the rest of the parks, which we know varies throughout the year. Be sure to check our Universal Orlando Crowd calendar for all theme park hours.
The Hogwarts Express operates under the regular park hours! It’s important to note that you will need a Universal Park-to-Park ticket in order to ride the Hogwarts Express.
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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. For the fastest entrance to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is to go to the right as soon as you enter the park and take a left once you hit Seuss Landing.
For fans of the books and movies you will recognize Hogsmeade as the charming town covering in snow, and home to the famous butterbeer! You will also find some of the best attractions, stores, and restaurants in all of Universal Orlando.
You can also find the newest and coolest Harry Potter World attraction in Hogsmeade: Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure which is included with all of our Universal Early Park Admission tickets!
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So now that you have arrived you are probably wondering what are the best things to do in Hogsmeade in 2023. There are incredible Harry Potter rides at Universal, some of which are the best in Orlando in our opinion! Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure has been one of our favorite Harry Potter rides, and a favorite coaster of all time.
The original Wizarding World of Harry Potter attraction and still one of the most popular rides in Hogsmeade! Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey is located inside of Hogwarts castle and is a one of a kind ride which will allow you to experience the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry on your very own broomstick. This used to be the most popular attraction with the longest line in the parks however they have not been as bad ever since Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure opened last year. (more on this soon)
This family friendly ride is short but sweet. This kid friendly roller coaster is located directly between the Forbidden Journey and Hagrid’s Motorbike Adventure. The line for this ride is usually short so no need to make it a priority during Universal early park admission.
Fly deep into the wilds of the Forbidden Forest, beyond the grounds of Hogwarts castle, on a thrilling roller coaster ride that plunges into the paths of some of the wizarding world’s rarest magical creatures. To be honest, I have been a Walt Disney World annual pass holder for years and this ride single handedly convinced me to purchase a Universal annual pass. IT’S THAT GOOD! It is a must when you’re figuring out what to do at Universal Studios Harry Potter.
This attraction is also one of the quickest ways to travel between the Wizarding World of Harry Potter Hogsmeade (Islands of Adventure) and Diagon Alley (Universal Studios). This train ride will bring you from Hogsmeade to the King’s Cross Station in London. It simply is a must do for all die hard Harry Potter fans and your chance to see platform 9 3/4. That’s why we always recommend that the best way to do Wizarding World of Harry Potter is by purchasing the the park-to-park ticket. (Park-to-park ticket is required to ride the Hogwarts Express)
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In our opinion one of the coolest aspects of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is how much attention to detail went into everything. This couldn’t be more true for the shops located in Hogsmeade as they are right out of the books and movies. Here is a list of the shopping things to do at Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
For those venturing into Orlando’s Harry Potter World, these Hogsmeade shops offer a magical immersion unlike any other
Ahh yes, the wand does indeed choose the wizard! You might recognize this wand shop from the original Harry Potter book where Harry receives his very first wand. At this fun shop, you can participate in your own wand ceremony! Universal has also stepped their game up and now offers interactive wands which can be taken through out the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to interact with different parts of Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley.
Fill your sweet tooth craving with a visit to Honeydukes candy shop. In this shop you will find a ton of goodies and treats from all of the Harry Potter books and movies. Think peppermint toads, Chocolate Frogs, Fudge Flies, Candy Floss, Fizzing Whizbees, and exploding bonbons.
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A Universal Orlando Harry Potter land would not be complete without dining options for witches and wizards to try some British fare. Perhaps, you’d even fancy a butterbeer, which comes in many different shapes and sizes throughout the lands. No matter what you’re craving, Hogsmeade has something for you with one of the food carts or restaurants.
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.
This bar serves up classic drink choices such as pumpkin juice, butterbeer, and other grown up drinks.
You can also grab your favorite butterbeer drink at various stands through out Hogsmeade. This classic drink comes in two varieties of cold butterbeer and frozen butterbeer!
For a additional information on the restaurants be sure to check out our Complete Guide to Dining at Harry Potter World!
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 you will need to make your way through the brick wall until it opens up as Diagon Alley.
Be prepared especially if you are a die hard Harry Potter fan as the attention to detail is unmatched in Diagon Alley. You will be in the middle of shops and cooked buildings, as well a fire breathing dragon nestled over Gringotts Bank!
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.
If taking the Hogwarts express from Hogsmeade, you will find yourself on platform 9 3/4 at King’s Cross Station. You will want to exit this station and make a left. From here you will see the Knight Bus, and can enter Diagon Alley through the same brick entrance.
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So now that you have arrived you are probably wondering what are the best things to do at Harry Potter Universal Diagon Alley. As of right now, and besides the Hogwarts express there is only one ride, but it is amazing!
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.
That’s why we recommend Early Park Admission to our clients so much! If you take advantage of entering the park one hour earlier than other guests you can ride Harry Potter and the Escape of Gringotts and save time later on in the day!
Be sure to check out our Universal Orlando tickets page to learn how we can help you get EARLY PARK ADMISSION without staying on Universal property!
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Although we don’t like to pick favorites, the shops in Diagon Alley are simply magical. The attention to detail that went into not only the inside of the buildings but the outside is amazing. There is also a secret for those looking in the shadows, perhaps where Death Eaters may dwell in Knockturn Alley. Guests can find this section of Diagon Alley by following signs, or even looking for the spooky, dark streets that lead there.
This shop is a must see for any aspiring wizard or magician. Be careful as you enter as will see Professor Umbridge swinging from the celling. This store is full of fun novelty gifts for magic, jokes, and pranks.
With two locations across the Wizarding World in Orlando, Ollivander’s ensures every aspiring witch or wizard has the opportunity to be chosen by a wand, no matter which part of the Harry Potter universe they’re exploring. Stepping into the dimly lit, enchanting atmosphere of the shop is like being transported straight to Diagon Alley. It’s not just a shopping experience; it’s a rite of passage for every Harry Potter fan. Whether you’re a seasoned Potterhead or introducing the magic to a new generation, a visit to Ollivander’s is a momentous occasion. So, be ready. The wand chooses the wizard, and it’s a moment you won’t soon forget.
Just like in Hogsmeade you can find all of our favorite Harry Potter house apparel in Madam Malkin’s Robes. Dress up in your favorite house colors as you explore the Wizarding World of Harry Potter Diagon Alley.
For every Quidditch enthusiast visiting Universal’s Harry Potter World in Orlando, Quality Quidditch Supplies is the ultimate destination. This vibrant store brings the magical sport of Quidditch to life, offering a wide range of gear, from the latest broom models used in professional matches to the signature jerseys of popular Quidditch teams. Whether you’re an aspiring seeker, a loyal fan cheering for your house team, or just an admirer of the sport’s rich history, there’s something for everyone here. Dive into a collection of Quidditch paraphernalia, including gloves, goggles, and even golden snitches. It’s the perfect place to immerse oneself in the thrill of the wizarding world’s favorite sport while at Universal Harry Potter experience.
Venture into Sugarplum’s Sweet Shop, nestled in the heart of Diagon Alley at the Harry Potter World in Universal Orlando. This charming establishment offers an array of whimsical and enchanting candies reminiscent of the very treats relished in the Harry Potter series. Whether you’re seeking a quirky gift or a personal indulgence, Sugarplum’s ensures a delightful experience that marries the magical universe with a sweet tooth’s paradise.
The Wizarding World isn’t just about spells and adventures; it’s also home to a myriad of fascinating creatures. At Magical Menagerie in the heart of the Universal Harry Potter experience, every visitor has the chance to befriend their very own magical creature. While owls are a time-honored companion of wizards and witches, the shop hosts an array of mystical pets awaiting adoption. Whether you want the wisdom of an owl, the sneakiness of a rat, or the curiosity of a cat, this shop ensures you find the perfect magical companion for your journey.
For those looking to capture memories in the most magical way possible, Shutterbuttons offers a unique experience. Located within the bustling streets of Diagon Alley at Harry Potter World Universal Orlando, this shop lets visitors recreate their own moving picture photos, much like the enchanting portraits and photos within the Harry Potter universe. Step inside, strike a pose, and let the wizards behind the camera work their magic. Leave with a memento that brings your memories to life, every time you look at it.
This is the perfect stop if you plan on giving your young Wizards a few spending dollars once you get into Diagon Alley. Here you can exchange for Wizarding currency in nominations of $10 & $20 to be spend in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Stepping into the mysterious Knockturn Alley in Universal’s Harry Potter World, visitors will encounter the enigmatic Borgin & Burkes. This store, with its shadowy ambiance, caters specifically to those intrigued by the darker side of the wizarding world. Whether you’re a collector of dark artifacts, a fan of the more sinister tales from the Harry Potter series, or simply curious about the allure of the dark arts, Borgin & Burkes promises an experience steeped in mystique. From replicas of the cursed objects found in the series to unique merchandise that celebrates the darker nuances of the wizarding world, the shop is a must-visit for any Harry Potter enthusiast venturing into Universal Orlando.
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Diagon Alley at Universal’s Harry Potter World in Orlando offers an immersive dining experience, primarily centered around one main restaurant. This venue captures the essence of the wizarding world, treating visitors to a blend of familiar and magical flavors. Beyond the primary eatery, the alleyways brim with smaller stalls and carts, each offering unique snacks inspired by J.K. Rowling’s universe.
For culinary enthusiasts, Diagon Alley promises a gastronomic adventure. Whether you’re in the mood for a bubbling potion or a magically-infused treat, there’s something here to tantalize every palate. The combination of ambiance and delectable offerings makes it a must-visit during your Universal Harry Potter experience in Orlando
Nestled in the heart of Diagon Alley, The Leaky Cauldron stands as a testament to the enchanting world of Harry Potter, offering visitors an authentic dining experience reminiscent of the Wizarding World. Taking inspiration from traditional British fare, its menu mirrors the comforting and hearty dishes served at the Three Broomsticks in Hogsmeade, making it a delightful spot for both Harry Potter aficionados and food lovers.
Starting the day off, The Leaky Cauldron offers a specially curated breakfast menu, available for guests to indulge in until 10:30 AM. This early morning treat promises a hearty start, complete with Wizarding World-inspired dishes to kick off your magical day. For those exploring Diagon Alley during the afternoon and evening, the restaurant also boasts a delectable lunch and dinner menu. Each visit to The Leaky Cauldron ensures a rich blend of ambiance, delicious food, and a touch of magic that’s signature to the Universal Harry Potter experience in Orlando.
This is one of my favorite treat spots in all of Universal Studios. Guests can snack on different ice cream flavors inspired by the Harry Potter books and movies.
You can pick from Salted Caramel Blondie, Sticky Toffee Pudding, Chocolate Chili, Early Grey and Lavender, Chocolate and Raspberry, Granny Smith, and clothed Cream. Oh and of course Butterbeer!
The Fountain of Fair Fortune: A cart carrying a variety of different beverages from pumpkin juice, butterbeer and adult beverages.
For a additional information on the restaurants be sure to check out our Complete Guide to Dining at Harry Potter World!
A: Very simply, if you want to ride every single Harry Potter ride at Universal Orlando yes. The reason being is the park-to-park ticket is required in order to ride the Hogwarts express between the two parks.
A: That depends on what you’re looking for when it comes to the Harry Potter universe. If you want to visit Hogwarts, then you have to visit the Universal Studios Harry Potter World in Islands of Adventure. If you want to go into the mines of Gringotts or see a fire breathing dragon, you’ll have to head to the Universal Studios Florida Harry Potter land.
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.
If you’re ready to plan your trip to Universal Studios, be sure to check out Universal Orlando Tickets! Not only will you save money vs buying direct, but all of our Universal Orlando tickets come with some amazing benefits which can help save you up to three hours in the parks!
And to stay up to date on everything going on inside the theme parks be sure to check out our partners at Themeparktoday.com!