Eat At The Three Broomsticks Or The Leaky Cauldron
Lines for butterbeer can be nearly as long as the rides. If youre going to eat in the park, know that you can get a butterbeer with your meal at the Three Broomsticks in Hogsmeade or the Leaky Cauldron in Diagon Alley. The level of detail inside these locations is also wonderful and makes up for how much the fish and chips costs.
Also, you might expect the actual beer to be crap. Thats reasonable. But while the park wont disclose who brews their beer for them, they’re exclusive and actually pretty good. Trust us: you wont be disappointed you skipped the Stella and went for the Dragon Scale Red Ale.
What Attractions Are Open During Volcano Bays Early Park Admission
The following slides are available to start your morning with a good soaking when you arrive at the Waturi peoples island oasis, Volcano Bay:
- Ohyah of Ohyah & Ohno Drop Slides
- Ohno of Ohyah & Ohno Drop Slides
- Honu of the Honu Ika Moana
- ika Moana of the Honu ika Moana
- Krakatau Aqua Coaster
- Waturi Wave Pool
Accio Tips And Tricks
More than a decade into its existence, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter has become a must-visit attraction at Universal Studios Orlando. For the Potter devout, its Mecca. For people who honestly don’t give a damn, the park’s enormous castle and winding streets are still magical. And whether you grew up alongside Harry, Ron, and Hermione or can barely pronounce petrificus totalus, it’s guaranteed to be a wildly immersive experience.
As any muggle might expect after being cast into the world of wizards, theres a lot to take in, and your first trip can be more overwhelming than discovering your pet rat is actually an old man. Fortunately, there are plenty of tips and tricks that’ll help you discover the best of the Wizarding World. Here’s what to know.
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What Tickets To Buy For Harry Potter World In 2022
Another one of the most common questions we receive is, what tickets do I need for Harry Potter World? As we discussed, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is in two different parks which means you will need the right tickets to allow you entry to both Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade. We believe the most important aspect if you want to get on all of the Harry Potter rides is to have the Park-to-Park ticket however that is not the only way to enjoy the parks.
Below are the most common questions we receive when purchasing Universal tickets to visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter Vacation
In a common misconception that has floated around since opening day, many guests believe that both Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley are their own theme parks, a misunderstanding probably born from the fact that, in Universals initial marketing push back in 2010, it referred to Hogsmeade as a theme park within a theme park. Its since dropped that language, thankfully enough, and you do not need to buy an additional ticket to visit the Wizarding Worlds. However, if you wish to ride the Hogwarts Express between the two lands, you will need to purchase a park-to-park ticket. Fortuitously enough, Universal has installed ticket booths at the entrances to each station, where guests can upgrade their tickets if they happened to overlooked this caveat.
For our very best vacation planning tips, check out the wealth of informational pages in our Insiders Guide to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, including how to beat the crowds, the full rundown on early park admission, and where to find the best food and souvenirs on offer and more!
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Traveling To Orlando Florida
If you are traveling to Orlando to see the Harry Potter Theme Park, consider going with a package deal. From $285 per adult, you’ll have a 4-day vacation including hotel and admission to Universal Studios.
The Orlando International Airport is centrally located to many attractions in the area, including the Orange County Convention Center – should you have business travels that will take you to the Sunshine State.
Of course, overall, most people that fly to Orlando are there to enjoy a vacation! If that’s the case for you, I hope you enjoy the magic at the Harry Potter Wizarding World. If you’ve been there, be sure to share in the comment section below!
© 2010 Stephanie Marshall
Why Isnt The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter At Walt Disney World
Many people wonder why The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is not at the nearby Disney World Resort. You may be interested to know that Disney and J.K. Rowling were in talks for a period of time to bring the boy wizard to Disney World however, Rowling demanded more creative control over the project than Disney was willing to give, and the company surprisingly wasnt willing to commit as much money and resources to the proposed land as Universal would end up bringing. Once their talks died out, Universal was more than happy to step in and agree to the authors terms, setting in motion a new era of development and success at Universal Orlando Resort .
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Construction Updatemay 14 2010
‘The Wizarding World of Harry Potter’ is a section within the existing Universal’s Islands of Adventure theme park in Florida.
There will be a winterly-themed Potter-esque village boasting charmingly crooked Hogsmeade architecture and two overhauled 11-years-old roller coasters, but the true monster of a new theme park attraction awaits inside the castle:
I am really keen to see what the Universal Creative teams have conjured up with the Harry Potter signature attraction ‘Forbidden Journey’! Press releases and official sources speak about ‘robotic arms’, ‘revolutionary technology’ and ‘forever changing the theme park attraction experience’. If it is what I think it is a pretty wild and random robot-arm powered flight through the digital Harry Potter world it might well join the very best of today’s top theme park attractions.
Universal Studios previously introduced amazing new technology and designs with ‘Spiderman’ and ‘The Mummy Ride’ and these are already 11 and 7 years old respectively. ‘Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey’ will be open by June 18 at the latest. My hopes are as high as a broomstick can fly.
Harry Potter in the background
The ‘Forbidden Journey’ castle
Harry Potter castle from above
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Wizarding World closer
Harry Potter village from above
Harry Potter village closer
Angle from the castle side
Final preparations before opening
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter from above
Access to the Harry Potter castle
Whats The Difference Between The Wizarding Worlds In Orlando And Hollywood
While just as magical, Universal Studios Hollywoods version of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter only features the Hogsmeade area and is significantly smaller than the Harry Potter world in Orlando. Theres still plenty of shopping, you can dine at Three Broomsticks, get a drink at Hogs Head, and ride Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey and Flight of the Hippogriff at the Hollywood park, though.
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Is The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter A Separate Park
Just to help understand the process of how to plan the perfect Harry Potter vacation, we are also going to cover if the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a separate park. Unfortunately at Universal there is not a separate Harry Potter theme park. Both Wizarding World of Harry Potter areas are lands inside of the larger theme parks with limited shopping, dining and attractions. That is why you do not need a separate Harry Potter World ticket.
All The Shop Windows And Facades
I mention this separately because each of the shop windows is really a treasure. They are highly themed to the stores inside and often loaded with animation such as the self knitting needles and screaming Mandrakes. Many of the storefront facades dont lead into an actual shop but are worth taking in too, like the House Elf House Placement Agency, Flourish and Blotts and my favorite the The Daily Prophet where you can hear the wizard reporters inside working away. There are also a few fun Easter eggs to be found. For example the area that is now Diagon Alley occupies what was once the ride Jaws. In the window at Mr. Mullpeppers Apothecary, youll find a set of sharks teeth in tribute to the retired ride.
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Can I Use Early Park Admission On My Check
If you are eligible for Early Park Admission through your hotel, you can use it each day you are checked in to the venue, including your check-in and check-out days. If you book one night at, say, Cabana Bay Beach Resort, you will get the benefit of two days with early entry: both the morning you check in and the morning you check out. We have helped many guests book one night at a resort even an economy partner hotel just for the two days worth of EPA to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Volcano Bay.
Is There Anything Else Open In The Theme Parks Besides The Wizarding World
Yes! When Early Park Admission is at Universal Studios Florida, Despicable Me Minion Mayhem will be open to delight guests when its at Islands of Adventure, meanwhile, early attendees can hop on Jurassic World VelociCoaster . Remember that these are the attractions available in addition to all those within The Wizarding World.
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Where To Go At Universal: Diagon Alley Or Hogsmeade
In an ideal world, youd be going to both parks and your only worry whether to visit Hogsmeade or Diagon Alley first. But, since thats not always possible, well help you out with our recommendation. We pick Hogsmeade / Islands of Adventure.
Why did we pick Hogsmeade?
- The rides are so much better theres really no comparison there. Hagrids Motorbike Adventure alone makes this an easy choice.
- Who could turn down the chance to actually walk into Hogwarts Castle? The fact that theres a really great ride inside just makes it even more fun.
We hope our Harry Potter World comparison helps you decide which Harry Potter theme park is best. They are both excellent parks and you will have fun wherever you go, but in our opinion, Hogsmeade is the clear winner!
So Which Has The Best Shops When Comparing Diagon Alley Vs Hogsmeade
The Verdict: As tempted as you may be by the chocolate frogs, theres really no contest here. When it comes to which Harry Potter park is better at Universal, Diagon Alley in Islands of Adventure is the clear winner. They have more shops, more merchandise, and the fun of trading your money for Gringotts bank notes. Plus, the younger kids will love the stuffed animals at the Magical Menagerie!
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Splurge On The Universal Express Pass If You Can
The Universal Express Pass works on every ride in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter except Hagrids Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure. It can be pricey if you have a large party or are visiting for multiple days, but since its included with Universal Premier hotels, you might actually save money by staying at one of Universals high-end properties.
At any attraction that accepts Universal Express, you simply show your ticket to the attendant and they will direct you through a separate line for Express passholders. Because theyll need to scan your ticket, make sure you dont leave it behind with your other belongings on rides that require you to store your belongings in a locker.
Diagon Alley Restaurants At The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter In Orlando
Theres only one sit-down restaurant in Diagon Alley, but there are plenty of spots to get Butterbeer, Fishy Green Ale, sweet treats, and even beers specially brewed for the Harry Potter land.
Leaky Cauldron
Fashioned after the pub and inn from Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, the Leaky Cauldron is Diagon Alleys only table-service dining option. You can order traditional British fare such as bangers and mash, fish and chips, and a full English breakfast. Dont worry, there are also plenty of picky-eater-approved options like pancakes and macaroni and cheese. To save time, place a mobile food order before you arrive at the restaurant. When you arrive, your server will find you a table and fill your order.
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Florean Fortescues Ice-Cream Parlour
Butterbeer ice cream is certainly the most popular menu item, but dont sleep on the shops other unique flavors like Earl Grey and Lavender, Sticky Toffee Pudding, and Chocolate Chili. Better yet, spend a few days exploring Harry Potter world in Orlando and try all the flavors.
The Fountain of Fair Fortune
When youre ready for something a bit stronger than Butterbeer, stop at the Fountain of Fair Fortune. Theres a variety of non-alcoholic drinks, but adults can pop in here for a Wizards Brew or Dragon Scale beer, which are only available in the Diagon Alley area at Universal Studios Florida.
The Hopping Pot
Eternelles Elixir of Refreshment
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What Time Can You Get Into Harry Potter World
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.
Diagon Alley Updatenovember 20 2014
‘Harry Potter Diagon Alley’ at Universal Studios Florida truly deserves the overused term ‘immersive’. While the Potter label gets people there in the first place, I think the most powerful part of this new park section is that it brings a piece of Europe, of European lifestyle, to Florida: four-storey buildings, people on the street, density and romance, and even a steam train! No deserted, low-rise suburbia.
Two anchor attractions grace its grounds: ‘Escape from Gringotts’, an enclosed roller coaster dark ride, which is a not too innovative hybrid of the classic Mummy Ride and the Spiderman concept of moving riders from 3-D screen to 3-D screen. It’s not bad. It’s not great. It’s got a queue of only 20 minutes.
The ‘Hogwarts Express’ train, connecting the two Harry Potter sections in the adjacent Universal parks, impressed me, though. First, by how smartly it increases revenue from ticket sales. This is probably the most lucrative idea that any theme park had in the last 15 to 20 years. Who would NOT want to take that train? And second, with what’s happening inside: the video running on the compartment window’s side is predictable, but the shadows of characters and animals simultaneously appearing on the train corridor are surprising an effect so unintrusively executed, but so powerful at the same time. Congrats to Universal Creative!
London’s King’s Cross Station in Orlando
Hogwarts Express train, connecting the two parks
Great special effects on the train journey
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How Many Days Do You Need For Harry Potter World
Plan to spend parts of at least two days at the Harry Potter theme parks in Orlando if you want the complete experience. Arrive early, try to see and do as much as you can before the crowds fill in, then enjoy the other parts of Universal Studios Florida and Universals Islands of Adventure for parts of the afternoon before returning to the Harry Potter theme parks for the evening. After all, you havent fully experienced Harry Potter world until youve seen Hogwarts Castle lit up at night.
The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter In Universal Studios Hollywood
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Universal Studios in Hollywood is quite bigger than the one in Japan. In addition to the Hogwarts castle da Hogsmeade, it also features some famous attractions from the movies such as Arthur Weasleys flying car.
The park features a replica of the castle and its iconic locations such as the Gryffindor common room and the Room of Requirement.
One thing which makes the experience even more magical is the ride called Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey. It is an attraction that brings the world of Harry Potter world to life using a lot of muggle technology and a tiny bit of magic.
The ride provides you with an amazing and unique experience of seeing the Hogwarts castle from a birds perspective. After the ride comes to an end the portion that follows allows the people on the ride to come face to face with different magical creatures while enjoying an unforgettable adventure with your friends.
Another interesting experience is a ride called Flight of the Hippogriff. Its an unusual ride through Hagrids pumpkin patch. The premise of the ride is a short lesson in the care of magical creatures, narrated by Hagrid as the riders approach the Hippogriff.
If you happen to lose or misplace your wand you can visit Olivanders shop in Hogsmead, where you can find the perfect fit for your wand.
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