The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is one of the most popular locations at Universal Studios Theme Parks. There's so much to do when visiting both Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley, from trying out some of the specialist food to traveling on the Hogwarts Express itself!
There's plenty of tips for newcomers and perhaps even veterans though, to get the most out of the experience. It could be about where to get the best snacks, or how the wands will interact with the environmental features. It may even be in regards to the attractions scattered across the park. These tips will ensure guests have the most fun on their visit!
Pumpkin Juice Bottles
For those looking for refreshments while at the Wizarding World, Butterbeer is often the go-to option, but Pumpkin Juice also shouldn't be overlooked. It's a surprisingly delicious combination of cinnamon and fruit flavorings that is served all across the park.
But, fans should look out for the special bottled version of the drink. While some places like The Three Broomsticks may pour Pumpkin juice into a plastic or glass cup, there are beautifully designed bottles with pumpkin adorned lids that are perfect as a keepsake after leaving Universal Studios.
Grab An Interactive Wand
Wands are a crucial part of Wizarding life and Warner Bros. has guaranteed that they are still an important part of the experience in the parks. Fans should make sure to pick up a wand at one of the shops; although Ollivanders is of course the best opportunity to do so, the Wand Carts are often far more convenient.
The wands interact with places across the Wizarding World, allowing guests to cast spells of their own. All of the wands, no matter the core or wood, are accompanied by a map showcasing the aforementioned locations, and guests should definitely try to find them all to experience the true magic of Harry Potter.
Ride The Hogwarts Express Twice
The Hogwarts Express is an iconic vehicle from Harry Potter and one plenty of readers have dreamt of climbing onto, thus riding towards the magical castle. Platform 9 & 3/4 is where guests can board the steam train which also doubles as a ride.
It may seem logical to only ride this one way, towards Hogsmeade and away from Diagon Alley. Yet, there's a different experience in either direction which means if there's time, guests should try to ride this attraction twice! You could encounter a Dementor or simply order something from the trolley.
Pay Attention To Shop Windows
One of the benefits of visiting the Wizarding World is that fans can explore the businesses and shops of both Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade first-hand. It's a transformative moment walking down these iconic streets for the first time, but guests should make sure to try to take it all in.
It would be easy to brush past minor details in favor of some of the larger spectacles of the films. While the famous castle is certainly exciting, there's a whimsicality to looking through the shop windows and noticing some of the magical scenes that have been created for those paying attention.
Wait For The Dragon
Veterans and major Universal Studios fans will be well aware of the Dragon which sits atop Gringotts Bank. The beast is certainly intimidating and guests may hear it growl and produce other noises that are sure to frighten anyone who skipped Care For Magical Creatures class.
Wait around long enough though and the Dragon will actually breathe fire! It's a fun moment to capture on camera and it almost always catches someone by surprise, as the blast of flame is far grander than might be expected. It's one of the many fantastical moments worth hanging around for when the sun goes down especially.
Don't Skip The Lines
It seems like a very natural decision to make in most theme parks, to purchase the options that cause the least amount of delay. Indeed, it's easy to see why guests would want to skip many of the queues that could result in hours of waiting surrounded by boring scenery.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter has something to appreciate around every corner. The Forbidden Journey takes guests through the corridors and classrooms of Hogwarts itself, with portraits to talk to and artifacts to investigate. Flight Of The Hippogriff will bring audiences up close and personal with some magical creatures. Whether it's in Gringotts or Hagrid's Hut, no ride line should be skipped otherwise all the storytelling is lost!
Plan The Day Properly
Far too many people visit the Wizarding World expecting to spend a few hours there. Although it is just one aspect of Universal Studios it definitely isn't a land that can be completed in a few hours. Most Harry Potter fans will argue it takes more than a day to appreciate.
When planning out a trip to Universal Studios, especially at the Orlando Park, it's important to know that it cannot be factored in alongside other attractions. It's a beast unto itself and should be treated as a separate event; arrive early, stay till after dark and maybe even grab lunch there!
Don't Bring Lunch
It's common for some guests to bring lunch with them or plan to eat outside of the Wizarding World since there are so many other food options around. The park has so many great British and Harry Potter classics that have to be tried though that a packed lunch just isn't a viable option.
There are some good snacks in Honeydukes and the bakery is worth checking out, as is Florean Fortescue's Ice Cream Parlour. Although Harry Potter contains some weird foods, stepping into a place like The Leaky Cauldron or the Three Broomsticks will open up traditional must-haves like fish and chips, scotch eggs, and plenty of Butterbeer.
Stop Using Muggle Money
Muggle money or US dollars are certainly acceptable tender across the Wizarding World, but there's something satisfying and immersive about purchasing a Zonko's product using Galleons. Luckily guests can actually exchange their currency for coins more appropriate.
Head into Gringott's Bank and someone will be able to help with the transaction, maybe even a Goblin. They are also great collector's items, so even if a guest has exchanged too much they could be kept as a great keepsake or even to return to the park with in the future.
Try A Visit During Christmas
The theme park is a stunning location all year round, but there's something extra magical about visiting during the festive period. Christmas brings out the best in the Wizarding World, with each street and Hogwarts Castle itself decorated for the holidays with reefs, lights, and other assorted displays.
There's a unique flavor to the designs of these Christmas exhibitions, inspired hugely by the source material. Other unique features include warmed Butterbeer, changes to the menus, and unique performances that result in an experience unlike anything else. Fans should definitely try to drop by at the end of the year!