Hogsmeade Restaurants At The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter In Orlando
Theres only one restaurant in Hogsmeade, but there are two Butterbeer carts and a pub, so you wont go thirsty.
Three Broomsticks
The rustic charm of Three Broomsticks lends itself to hearty fare like beef pasties and rotisserie chicken, or go for the full Harry Potter world experience by ordering The Great Feasta family-style meal with all the fixins.
Hogs Head
Located in the back of Three Broomsticks, Hogs Head serves Butterbeer, Pumpkin Juice, and alcoholic drinks, including the Hogs Head Brew thats only available in Hogsmeade at Universals Islands of Adventure.
Butterbeer Carts
There are two Butterbeer carts in Hogsmeade where you can get frozen or cold Butterbeer, water, and other Wizarding World beverages.
Hogsmeade Vs Diagon Alley 202: Shopping
No one goes to a theme park just to shop. But once youre there, its hard to say no to a souvenir or four. This is especially true at Universal, with all of its exclusive Harry Potter merchandise! And if youve been sorted into a Hogwarts house, you can choose from everything from hoodies to backpacks to school supplies in your colors.
The Best Rides For Younger Children At Universal Studios
The best rides for younger kids at Universal Studios include:
- Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
- Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
- The Hogwarts Express
- Kang & Kodos Twirl n Hurl
The Islands of Adventure generally has fewer characters than the main Universal Studios area. However, several characters appear in both parks.
You May Like: Where To Watch Harry Potter And The Sorcerer’s Stone
Express Pass At Universals Islands Of Adventure
Express Pass can be added to your admission tickets and will allow guests to get through the lines faster. The pass is good for one-time per ride at select rides and attractions. The pass allows holders to enter a shorter line. There are options for a 2-Park Universal Express Pass or a 1-Park Universal Express Pass.
Universal Express Unlimited allows guests admission to both theme parks each day plus unlimited access to the participating attractions. This is a separate admission ticket.
- 2-Park Express Access starts at $39.99 per person, per day. This is added to your theme park admission.
- Universals Islands of Adventure Express Pass starts at $34.99 per person, per day. This is added to your theme park admission.
- Universal Studios Florida Express Access starts at $34.99 per person, per day. This is added to your theme park admission.
- Universal Express Unlimited starts at $209.99 per person, per day. This includes admission to both theme parks plus unlimited access to the Express Pass lines each day.
Recommended Attractions At Popular Destinations
You May Like: When Did Jk Rowling Write Harry Potter
The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter
| Hogwarts Castle, which houses Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, at Universal’s Islands of Adventure |
| Theme |
|---|
| June 18, 2010 |
| Replaced |
| July 8, 2014 |
| Replaced |
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a themed area spanning two theme parksIslands of Adventure and Universal Studios Floridaat the Universal Orlando Resort in Orlando, Florida. The area is themed to the Harry Potter media franchise, adapting elements from the film series and novels by J. K. Rowling. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter was designed by Universal Creative from an exclusive license with Warner Bros. Entertainment.
The second phase was initially announced on December 6, 2011, as a significant expansion of the existing Wizarding World of Harry Potter. On May 8, 2013, it was officially announced that a substantial portion of phase two would be constructed in the adjacent Universal Studios Florida theme park with a full scale working replica of the Hogwarts Express taking guests between the two lands. This phase’s flagship ride is Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, a 3D dark ride/simulator based on Gringotts Bank, the wizarding bank that appears in the book and film series. Its design is similar to Transformers: The Ride and the Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man rides but built on a roller coaster track. The remaining features are themed around London and Diagon Alley. Diagon Alley officially opened on July 8, 2014.
Which Universal Orlando Park Is Better For Harry Potter Fans
Attention all witches and wizards!
Weve received a question straight from the Owl Post and are ready with our answer.
Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure both channel the magic of the Wizarding World but guests who can only visit one have a big decision to make.
Harry Potter fans who must choose between the Universal Orlando Parks will need to consider the kind of experience theyre looking for. For thrill-seeking Potterheads, Islands of Adventures Hogsmeade might be the better choice. For Potterites craving an authentic and nostalgic experience, Universal Studios Diagon Alley might just fit the bill.
While both parks have magical rides, immersive worlds, and mystical amenities, they each offer unique experiences.
To help park-going witches, wizards, and muggles decide between Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley, weve compiled a summary of what each park offers and tips for making this tough choice.
Recommended Reading: Who Died In The Last Harry Potter Movie
Overview Of The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter
The Wizarding World-n-Hogsmeade is in the northwest corner of Islands of Adventure, between The Lost Continent and Jurassic Park. From the IOA entrance, the most direct route there is through Port of Entry then right, through Seuss Landing and The Lost Continent, to the Hogsmeade main gate. The alternative route is to cross the bridge connecting The Lost Continent with Jurassic Park, then turn right after entering the latter area. Note that the bridge is closed on slower days.
For the moment, though, lets begin our exploration at The Wizarding Worlds main entrance, on the Lost Continent side. Passing beneath a stone arch, you enter the village of Hogsmeade. The Hogwarts Express locomotive sits belching steam on your right. The village setting is rendered in exquisite detail: Stone cottages and shops have steeply pitched slate roofs, bowed multipaned windows, gables, and tall, crooked chimneys. Add cobblestone streets and gas street lamps, and Hogsmeade is as reminiscent of Sherlock Holmes as of Harry Potter.
At the end of the village and to the left is the bridge to Jurassic Park, the themed area contiguous to The Wizarding World. This is the best vantage point to get your photo with Hogwarts Castle in the background, as the hordes of people posing in the middle of the walkway will attest.
Which Harry Potter Park Should I Go To First
For the most authentic Harry Potter experience, head to Diagon Alley at Universal Studios firstjust like Harry did in the first book. Its a great gateway into the Wizarding World, and you can stock up on all your souvenirs and wizarding supplies at the lands many shops. Then, head to Hogsmeade for your first awe-inspiring view of Hogwarts Castle .
Also Check: Where Can I Watch Harry Potter
Guide To The Harry Potter Rides In Diagon Alley
Theres only one ride in Diagon Alley, and it sits just below that fire breathing dragon inside Gringotts Bank. But what a ride it is!
Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
The concept for this Harry Potter ride is that youre there to take a tour of Gringotts, but, as so often happens on theme park rides, things go awry. Thanks to ride vehicles that can tilt and spin, 3-D glasses, and other special effects, this Harry Potter ride is a step up from your everyday coaster. The minimum ride height is 42, but there is a child swap room where one parent can wait with anyone who is too young or doesnt want to ride.
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.
You May Like: Watch Free Harry Potter And The Sorcerer’s Stone
Stay For The Nighttime Lights At Hogwarts Castle
Youll want to be here after dark on select nights to enjoy this beautiful spectacle illuminating Hogwarts castle. Theres also a sinister Dark Arts display in the fall, as well as a super festive one during the Holidays at Universal, The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle.
PRO TIP: You can get a great view of the spectacle while enjoying a meal on the back patio of Three Broomsticks.
Which Is Bigger Hogsmeade Vs Diagon Alley
- Both Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley were built on about 20 acres of land. But Hogsmeade takes the cake by a few hundred square feet!
Hogsmeade is bigger than Diagon Alley, however we believe its more important to focus on which park has the best rides, shows, and restaurants which we will break down below.
Read Also: Who Is Harry Potter’s Real Dad
Harry Potter And The Escape From Gringotts
Height Requirement: 42 inches
The detail on this ride is incredible! There is an actual fire breathing dragon on the top of the bank. It is unreal!
As you enter the ride you will be entering Gringotts. The detail is phenomenal. The dwarfs are so realistic. The ride is fun but in my opinion it is not as fun as the two rides at Islands of Adventure The Forbidden Journey and Hagrids. It is still amazing!
Q: Which Park Is Hogwarts Castle In
A: Another common question we receive is, which park at Universal Orlando has Hogwarts castle? And Hogwarts castle would be at Islands of Adventure which is Hogsmeade. Theres even a ride that takes place inside Hogwarts castle, so youll actually be able to enter the hallowed halls of Harrys alma mater.
Don’t Miss: Harry Potter Broomstick Ride Universal Studios
How Do You Decide Which Park Is Best For You
When deciding which park is best, guests should consider which aspects of the Harry Potter franchise resonate most with them and who they are traveling with.
If seeing Hogwarts is important, then Hogsmeade would be the ideal choice.
However, guests keen on grabbing their wand from the authentic Ollivanders may want to choose Diagon Alley.
The hyper-active immersive world of Diagon Alley, with simple magic lessons and fewer rides, might be a better fit for families with children.
On the other hand, the multiple thrilling rides at Hogsmeade will pique the interest of anyone looking to spike their adrenaline levels.
Where To Buy The Must
You already know theres plenty of places to purchase wands, robes, sweets, and souvenirs in the Wizarding World, but if you want to be extra prepared you can purchase many of these items on Universals website before you even arrive at the Harry Potter theme parks.
You can also get them in your hotel, at the large souvenir stores at the entrance to both Universals Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida, or at the Universal Studios Store at CityWalk. The biggest benefit to buying your merch outside of the park areas is that youll have more time to experience the rides and appreciate the attention to detail that went into making the areas feel like Harry Potters world. Window shopping and browsing is more fun than standing in line, anyway.
You May Like: When Did Harry Potter Deathly Hallows 2 Come Out
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.
What To Know About The Hogsmeade Shops At The Harry Potter Orlando Theme Park
There arent nearly as many shopping locations in Hogsmeade as there are in Diagon Alley, but there are more than enough to meet all your wizarding needs.
Honeydukes
Honeydukes sells many of the same treats found at Sugarplums Sweet Shop in Diagon Alley. If candy isnt your thing, go for the Butterbeer Fudge or Cauldron Cakes in the bakery case.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:10 Best Orlando Theme Parks for Families
Ollivanders Wand Shop
To ensure there are enough wands to go around, there are Ollivanders locations in both of the Harry Potter lands at Universal Orlando. Both locations have stacks upon stacks of interactive and non-interactive wands, and both hold wand selection ceremonies throughout the day.
Dervish and Banges
Dervish and Banges is your home for Golden Snitches, brooms, and Hogwarts clothing and accessories. Dont forget to check out the real live textbook, The Monster Book of Monsters. Luckily, its in a cage because this book bites!
Filchs Emporium of Confiscated Goods
This is another good souvenir stop where youll also find authentic-looking replica props from the Harry Potter films.
Owl Post
In addition to letter-writing supplies, you can mail letters and postcards to your friends and family with a real Hogsmeade postmark.
Don’t Miss: Who Does Robert Pattinson Play In Harry Potter
Popular Restaurants In Orlando
Interactive Harry Potter Wands
Interactive wands at Universal Studios are nearly indistinguishable from traditional wands. The only differences are that they are a little thicker and contain sensors that allow visitors to interact with several things around the park.
Guests will receive a map in their wand box which has directions to all the interactive areas. Visitors can cast spells like Aguamenti to make the Mermaid Fountain work, or Silencio to silence the pets at Magical Menagerie in Diagon Alley. There are staff members dressed as witches and wizards who can assist you in case you struggle to get the hang of it.
There are also hidden spots dotted throughout the park, which make for a fun time exploring.
Also Check: Who Plays Neville Longbottom In Harry Potter
Cast Spells With Interactive Wands
With a flick of the wrist and the right incantation, you can cast spells in over a dozen locations in Hogsmeade . Find the locations on the map that comes with your Interactive Wand purchase.
PRO TIP: Some of my favorite spots are the Chocolate Frog box outside Honeydukes, the Hogwarts model outside Dervish and Banges, and spinning wheels and rockets in the façade of Zonkos Joke Shop.
Hagrids Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure Best Ride At Universal Florida 2023
If youre going to determine which Harry Potter world is best solely on rides, well point you in the direction of Hagrids Motorbike Adventure! Once this ride starts, whoa! On Hagrids motorbike or in its sidecar, youll twist, turn, drop, and roll onto your side. The 1-mile track makes it the longest coaster in Florida. If youre an adrenaline junkie, this ride alone could decide the question of which is the best Harry Potter theme park for you.
Recommended Reading: How Did Harry Potter Live
Which Harry Potter World Is Better 2023 Hogsmeade Vs Diagon Alley
- This is hard to answer! We think both parks are amazing and offer completely different experiences. We would say this answer depends on what you value most in your theme park visit.
One of the biggest questions we receive here when deciding if you should visit Diagon Alley or Hogsmeade is, should I visit both parks or just one? And its a tough question because although they are both part of the same Potter-verse, they are completely different experiences, with different rides, restaurants, and shops.