There Are Many Types Of Butterbeer At Universal Orlando Resort
Though cold and frozen Butterbeer are the most popular versions , there are even more ways to enjoy this butterscotch and shortbread-flavored treat. You can get Butterbeer Fudge at Honeydukes and Sugarplums, Butterbeer Potted Cream at Leaky Cauldron and Three Broomsticks, and Butterbeer Ice Cream at Three Broomsticks, Leaky Cauldron, Florean Fortescues The Hopping Pot, and various snack carts.
Can I Rent Houses Near The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter
Yes, of course. Vrbo has 18,914 Houses near The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Our other popular types of vacation rentals near The Wizarding World of Harry Potter include:
- Villas: 4,811 rentals available
- Cabins: 75 rentals available
- Condos/Apartments: 6,205 rentals available
But you can also enjoy a great stay in one of our other vacation rentals including Resorts and more.
Universal Studios Hollywood Harry Potter Restaurants
- The Three Broomsticks Head on into the rustic tavern for a quick service meal of shepherds pie, fish & chips or even The Great Feast. Inside the theming has beautiful cast-iron chandeliers, exposed wooden beams and the normal wizarding trinkets youd find laying about.
- Hogs Head Located on the backside of The Three Broomsticks, this pub offers Pumpkin Juice, Butterbeer, specialty drinks, wine, spirits and brews.
Don’t Miss: Who Is Harry Potter’s Father
The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter Hogsmeade At Universal’s Islands Of Adventure
Its the one-and-only, all-wizarding village of Hogsmeade, and youll only find it at Universals Islands of Adventure! The main attraction here is Hogwarts castle, which comes to majestic life on select evenings for The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle spectacular.
Looming over Hogsmeade, Hogwarts also features Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, an attraction that will take you soaring high above the castle grounds. For more airborne adventures, hop aboard the family-friendly Flight of the Hippogriff roller coaster, which youll find at Hagrids hut.
Speaking of Hagrid, he takes center stage in Hagrids Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure. Sending you deep into the Forbidden Forest for up-close encounters with a menagerie of wondrous creatures, this innovative attraction combines state-of-the-art coaster technology and gripping storytelling for one of Universal Orlando Resorts most incredible experiences yet!
High Street a popular hangout for Hogwarts students and professors alike is brimming with enchanted shops. Send magical mail to family and friends at Owl Post, load up on sweets at Honeydukes, or get your very own Sneakoscope at Dervish and Banges, among other arcane retailers.
Wizarding World Of Harry Potter Tips For Hogsmeade
After visiting both parks, I have to say that Im still a little partial to the first Wizarding World location Hogsmeade. Maybe this park has had time to mature, or maybe its something else, but here are my tips and secrets for Hogsmeade.
Ride Hagrids Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure. I do not give the following praise lightly. This is hands down, the BEST roller coaster Ive ridden. EVER. Stay on property. Get up early. Be one of the first at the turnstiles. Then head with as much speed as safely possible to this ride as soon as the park opens, because you want to experience this and wait times can be two hours plus, pretty much all day long, and as of this writing, you cant use an Express Pass for this ride.
Why is Hagrids so good? You are either on Hagrids motorcycle or in the sidecar on a three-minute ride through the Forbidden Forest. Its a real roller coaster, not the simulator rollercoaster like the Forbidden Journey or Gringotts. Its super smooth and has moments of instant acceleration similar to Rockin Roller Coaster or Slinky Dog at Disney. There are twists, but the thrill isnt in going upside down and corkscrews. You go forwards. Backward. And one move that was totally unexpected!
We rushed through the first time, did the ride and then went around again much slower. The attraction itself is pretty intense and a combination of simulator and ride. If you have it, use your Express Pass once youve seen the queue.
Also Check: Why Do Harry Potter Fans Hate Twilight
What If I Cant Get Early Park Admission
Guests without Early Park Admission can still get some advantage over everyone else, if theyre willing to get to the front gates just as early. If early admission is at Universal Studios Florida, team members will usually though not always start processing visitors through the turnstiles during the EPA period and allow them to queue in the front of the park, typically by Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit. This enables two time-saving strategies: if Despicable Me Minion Mayhem is operational that morning, guests can actually ride it right away, before the park officially opens and then, afterwards, they can start lining up for Rip Ride Rockit, Shrek 4D, or Transformers: The Ride 3D. Considering how long Minion Mayhems line can grow as the day goes on, this can really save you a good chunk of time.
For more tips and strategies for visiting The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, we recommend that you read through our page on making your trip to the Wizarding World a success.
Harry Potter World California Vs Florida 2022
Lets start with one of the most common questions we receive on the topic which is, is Harry Potter World in California the same as Florida? And in general while The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in California is smaller than Florida, and is missing some major rides and attractions. The most noticeably being one of the main attractions Hagrids Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure and also the entire Diagon Alley themed land. However California does have a similar Hogsmeade themed land, as well as the popular ride Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey.
The truth is no matter which way you look at it there isnt anything much better than being able to walk about the streets of Hogsmeade, drinking butterbeer feeling like youre in the Harry Potter Universe. And we are lucky enough for there to be two different places in the U.S. where you can experience a Harry Potter theme park. Which is why we are so excited to compare which is the ultimate Harry Potter experience Universal Orlando or Universal Hollywood?
With that being said, it is an extra cost to travel between the two parks in Universal Orlando and Diagon Alley is typically very busy no matter the time of year. So, overall is Universal Studios Hollywood Harry Potter World better or Universal Orlando Harry Potter World? Youll have to continue reading to find out.
Read Also: What Actor Played Harry Potter
How Many Days Do You Need At Wizarding World Of Harry Potter
If youre traveling to Universal Orlando Resort and trying to figure out how many tickets, or how many days you need at Universal Studios, heres our take. If youre on a time crunch or working with a tight vacation budget, then wed highly recommend fitting the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in One Day. However, if youre a devoted Harry Potter Fan, and hope to really immerse yourself, then you should plan for one park per day. One day at Diagon Alley and one day at Hogsmeade. Two days total. Though a third day, with a park-to-park ticket, could help you get to all the magic you didnt have time for the first two days.
Best Universal Resorts Near Wizarding World Of Harry Potter
While we would love a Hotel at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, there are none, so we mere muggles must be contented with far less magical lodgings. Thankfully, Universal Orlando Resort has some perks for those staying on property at the Resort. Guests of Loews Portofino Bay, Hard Rock Hotel, and Loews Royal Pacific Resort get FREE Unlimited Express Passes and Early Admission included with their stay. If youre on a budget, you can also consider a Value resort at Universal, Universals Endless Summer Resort, which consists of Surfside Inn and Suites and Dockside Inn and Suites offers Early Admission as part of the perks included.
Recommended Reading: How Many Harry Potter Books Have Been Illustrated
What To Consider When Planning A Day At Harry Potter World
- Will you use Harry Potter early park admission?
- Which Harry Potter rides will you go on?
- Should you upgrade to the Universal express pass combo ticket?
- Will you have lunch or dinner at The Leaky Cauldron or The Three Broomsticks
- Will you buy a Harry Potter wand or robe?
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!
Is There Early Park Admission At Universals Volcano Bay
Early Park Admission is now offered at Volcano Bay for any Universal hotel guests or for those staying at a partner hotel with an eligible vacation package. The whole process is similar to that for the original two theme parks, where you will show either your room key or E-Travel Document.
We should emphasize that EPA at the water park isnt a typical benefit for annual passholders, even those with a three-park pass. It still, however, may be offered at certain times during the year to confirm your dates and AP benefits, visit Universal Orlandos page.
Don’t Miss: Why Is Harry Potter 7 Rated Pg 13
The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter
For the most up-to-date information on Universal Orlando Resort safety guidelines, please visit: New Safety Guidelines. Same Fun.
So, you never got that letter from Hogwarts? Youre not alone. If youve ever fantasized of ditching your Muggle status and joining the ranks of wizards and witches and surrounding yourself with all things Harry Potter in the process prepare to have your dreams come true at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort!
Save on discount tickets: Universal Orlando Resort
Too wildly imaginative and expansive to be contained by any one theme park, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is split between Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida and Hogsmeade at Universals Islands of Adventure, with the Hogwarts Express connecting the two. Before you know it, youll be casting spells, quaffing Butterbeer, going to a Quidditch match and even facing off against Lord Voldemort himself.
In short, its the fantasy adventure of a lifetime and its waiting for you exclusively at Universal Orlando!
Please note: Depending on the timing of your visit, some experiences may be temporarily modified. Learn more about healthy travel, and check with your favorite Universal Orlando Resort theme parks and other venues for their current status.
The Hogwarts Express Both Ways
The Hogwarts Express train is a super convenient way to get between Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure allowing the two sections of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to feel like one cohesive and fully immersive experience. However to hop aboard the Hogwarts Express you will need a two park ticket. You catch the train at either the Kings Cross Station in the London section of Universal or the Hogsmeade Station in Islands of Adventure. You will ride in a train compartment with 4-6 other passengers but no matter where you sit it will feel like Harry and friends are just outside the cabin doors. Keep your eyes peeled for He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named outside Draco Manor.
Don’t Miss: Is Fantastic Beasts Before Harry Potter
Arrive Early To Have The Best Experience With The Interactive Wand Spots
Once you have your interactive wand from Ollivanders or Gregorovitch, open the box and youll find a map inside. The map marks the magical wand spots in Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade where you can test your wizardry. Each spot is marked by a golden medallion on the ground that shows which direction to move your wand and what spell to recite.
GOOD EATS:The Best Places to Eat in Orlando
There are also hidden wand spots you wont see on the map. To find them, ask a witch or wizard working in the area if they can point you in the right direction . Team Members can also give you a few pointers if youre having trouble casting spells. If even that doesnt work, your wand may be faulty and you can get a free repair at Ollivanders.
What you really need to know about the interactive wands and wand spots, though, is that they quickly become crowded and overwhelming on a busy day . If casting spells is tops on your kids list of activities , make it a priority to arrive early to the Harry Potter lands and get your spellcasting in before the crowds really fill in . Nothing will make your magical experience feel less magical than waiting in line to cast a spell, and unlike the Harry Potter rides, there are no Express Passes for the wand spots.
Hogwarts Castle Projection Shows
Hogwarts Castle is the backdrop for a number of evening shows that are featured at the Wizarding World in Hogsmeade. Once the sun goes down guests can take in the show that is typically offered every 15 to 20 minutes.
These shows include The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle and the Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle. And during the holiday season, Universal puts together a special show for Christmas .
Read Also: What Are The Harry Potter House Colors
Visit In The Colder Months
Florida, and Orlando specifically, gets extremely hot and humid during the summer. Because of this, I recommend visiting in the fall or winter when its more mild.
Standing in line when its 90 degrees, sunny and humid is not super enjoyable and it will definitely make your time at the park a little less pleasant.
Even during the winter months youll have temperatures in the 70s, which personally I think is perfect for visiting a theme park.
What Universal Park Is Best For Harry Potter
The first thing you need to know about the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Florida is that it is at two different theme parks located right next to each other. Diagon Alley is at Universal Studios theme park and Hogsmeade is at Islands of Adventure. Visit both for a perfect Florida weekend getaway.
Both have incredible Harry Potter theming and offer slightly different experiences. Im just a tiny bit partial to Hogsmeade, but well talk about that later in the article.
Guests can ride the Hogwarts Express in between the two parks, which is more than just transportation its a ride in itself with a different experience each way.
However, to do this, you must have a ticket that allows you to visit both lands within a single day.
You May Like: What Is The Harry Potter Symbol
The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter Souvenirs
If you want to buy souvenirs, as guests of the Harry Potter amusement park, you should visit all the stores that you know about books:
- Sweetshop Honeydukes and Sugarplum for desserts.
- Zonkos joke shop.
- Owl Post where you can send e-mail.
- Dervishes and the Banges, which is full of robes, Gryffindor scarves, Ravenclaw shirts, and all kinds of items for sale, as well as fun details like books with cage bites.
However, keep in mind that all these activities can be small and get very crowded. Buy items confiscated from goods at Filchs Emporium in the lower regions of Hogwarts Castle which is a much larger store that sells a variety of items. Some Harry Potter items are also available at the large Port of Entry store near the entrance/exit to Islands of Adventure.
The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter Diagon Alley
Diagon Alley is the newest addition to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at the Universal Orlando Resort. Originally opened in July 2014 to wait times exceeding six hours , this area of the Wizarding World is themed after London from the books / movies.
Constructed on the site of the former Jaws attraction next to the Fast & Furious Supercharged attraction and the Fear Factor stage, this area is truly amazing. Universals creative team is an excellent job of theming this land around both the lagoon area as well as within the confines of Diagon Alley itself.
Also Check: What Platforms Is Harry Potter On
Hogwarts Express Kings Cross Station
This train station is just near the Diagon Alley entrance and features a neat trick you can capture from the top landing, of someone walking through the doorway beyond as they disappear. Lines are typically long at this station, so have your phone, or camera, ready at the top landing if you hope to grab a photo of it happening.
Check Out All The Shops
I could spend all day at Harry Potter World walking around and checking out all of the fun and unique shops. A few of my favorites are definitely Sugarplums Sweet Shop , Weasleys Wizard Wheezes and Honeydukes All of these are candy/sweet shops so I think its pretty clear what my favorite kind of store is!
However, in addition to the fun candy shops, there are also lots of souvenirs you can buy, including wands, robes and other collectables.
Many of the shops in Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade sell similar items, but each shop has its own unique souvenirs. I recommend checking out all of the shops first, and then going back to buy your favorite items.
PRO TIP: When purchasing items in Universal Studios and Island of Adventure, ask for them to be sent to the front of the park. This means that your purchases will be sent to City Walk and will be waiting for you after you leave the park for the day!
I highly, highly recommend this option! It makes it so much easier not to have to carry tons of bags around the park with you.
If youre staying at an on-site hotel, and are staying for multiple days, you will also have the option to have your purchases sent directly to the hotels front desk! This is another fantastic option, and something to absolutely take advantage of.
Don’t Miss: How Much Did Daniel Radcliffe Make Off Of Harry Potter