What Park Is Harry Potter World In At Universal
First, lets be really clear on the most important question: what park is Harry Potter world in? There are two parks at Universal Orlando: Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. And both of them contain the Wizarding World of Harry Potter! So whichever park you go to, youll get to experience the Harry Potter universe.
Best Thrill: Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit
The only true outdoor coaster at Universal Studios is Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit. And, if youre going to only have one outdoor coaster, this is a good one to have! On this ride, you can choose your own soundtrack to rock out to as you navigate drops, twists and turns at 65mph. Its a real rush and not for the faint of heart.
The Rides At Universal Studios :
The main Harry Potter rideat Universal Studios is Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts. This ride is just beautifully imagined, down to every last detail. If the line is really long, youll be waiting outside for a while. But once you get inside, oh my! Its a breathtaking replica of Gringotts, the bank of the goblins. If youve ever wondered what is Harry Potter world like? this is it! Every breathtaking detail is perfectly rendered to make you feel like youve been transported into the magical world.
This ride isnt a roller coaster in the truest sense, however. Most of the time, you are watching 3-D screens that simulate the drops, twists, and turns. And it does take place in the dark, with some close encounters with bad guys, so there is a thrill factor.
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Best Thrill: The Incredible Hulk Coaster
Get ready to hulk-out on The Incredible Hulk Coaster®, the soaring, loop-filled Islands of Adventure attraction. The cant-miss green steel coaster bursts out the gate, reaching speeds up to 40mph in two seconds flat. Its such an amazing attraction, its one of our favorite coasters not just at Universal Orlando Resortbut anywhere.
The Best Rides At Islands Of Adventure
Again, this is just based on my personal opinion, but my favorite Islands of Adventure rides include:
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey The wait for this ride is almost as fun as the ride itself, since the line has you winding through the rooms of Hogwarts Castle. The ride itself makes you feel like you’re following Harry around the Quidditch pitch on a broomstick.
The Incredible Hulk Coaster This one is a must for thrill-seekers. You can’t miss the big green coaster looming over the rest of the islands, and a complete revamp of the track makes for a much smoother ride these days.
NEW in 2019: Hagrids Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure This new roller coaster replaced the Dueling Dragons in Hogsmeade, and is definitely a thrill ride.
Skull Island: Reign of Kong This is one of the newer rides at Islands of Adventure, and it’s a 3-D adventure that’s not a motion simulator. You get into a huge safari-like vehicle, and drive through the jungles of Skull Island. Your chances of meeting a giant ape are high.
Water rides Islands of Adventure is where you want to go if you’re looking to get wet at a theme park. Here you’ll find Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls, Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges, and Jurassic Park River Adventure .
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Is Ollivanders In Hogsmeade
But the biggest souvenir, the one that is almost impossible to turn down, is a wand. Especially if the wand has chosen you! That means that youll probably want to visit the park that has Ollivanders Wand Shop. Lucky for you, there is an Ollivanders in each of the parks when comparing Diagon Alley or Hogsmeade! Although book purists may be quick to point out that, technically, Ollivanders is only located in Diagon Alley, youll find a wand shop at either park. So the Hogsmeade Diagon Alley debate wont be decided by a wand!
Other shops, however, do vary.
If I Use Early Park Admission Do I Still Have To Get To The Park Early
Yes, we cant stress this enough! In the case of Diagon Alley, and with the intention of riding Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, we recommend that you get to the turnstiles at least 30 minutes before Early Park Admission starts. Universal occasionally begins to let guests into the park a little before the official opening time, and you dont want to be at the back of the pack, especially if youre trying to hit a headliner first thing.
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What Time Does Harry Potter World Open
The first step is to decide how early to arrive at Universal Studios for the Wizarding World of Harry Potter? We always recommend to arrive 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.
This is why Early Park Admission is so important as it allows you entry into the Wizarding World of Harry Potter up to one hour before regular park guests! Your family can hop on a ride such as Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts and save two to three hours later on in the day. Thats why early park admission is one of the best ways to visit Harry Potter World in one day!
If you are not staying in a Universal hotel and still want Early Park Admission check out our Universal Orlando Tickets Page!
When Is The Best Time To Visit The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter
The truth is there really isnt a bad time to visit Harry Potter World especially when you are with your family. But on the flip side waiting in long lines is a bigger disappointment than Neville Longbottom in herbology class.
One of the best ways to visit Harry Potter World is to plan around the crowds. Luckily ourUniversal Orlando Crowd Calendarbreaks 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!
If you prefer a few great dates we have outlined them below.
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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.
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Are There Any Blockout Dates For Early Park Admission
Early Park Admission is always at the discretion of Universal and is subject to change, so be sure to check with the company for any updates on which park are eligible for early entry during your vacation. But with that said, yes, Preferred annual passholders do have seasonal blackout dates when it comes to EPA, as outlined by Universal.
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Diagon Alley Wizarding World Of Harry Potter Attractions
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!
Harry Potter and the Escape of Gringotts: 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.
Thats 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!
Which Park Is Best For Harry Potter
Universal Studios Florida
- Best Overall: Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts.
- Best Place to Cowabunga: The Simpsons Ride.
- Best Place to Save The World: Transformers: The Ride 3D.
- Best Throwback Attraction: E.T. Adventure.
- Best Thrill: Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit.
- Best Kid Attraction: Despicable Me Minion Mayhem.
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Tips For Harry Potter Wizarding World
A few things to remember when visiting The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Guests must use the lockers for any loose items, including purses and wands, for Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, Hagrids Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, and Escape from Gringotts.
If you are staying at an on-site resort like Universals Cabana Bay, Endless Summer Surfside Inn and Suites, or another partner resort you may have early entry into the parks.
Early entry opens the park an hour early for on-site guests. If this is the case during your visit take advantage of it and visit the early entry park first.
A day at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is an amazing addition to your Universal Orlando vacation.
Buy Your Wand Elsewhere
Every young wizard dreams of walking into Ollivanders and letting the wand choose its master. If you go this route , then arrive early and go to their flagship store at Diagon Alley instead of Dervish and Banges . This store will have shorter lines and a wider selection to choose from.
If you dont care about the experience of purchasing a wand in Wizarding World, then you may want to save some time and buy it at one of the Universal hotels, at the Universal Studios gift shop at the Orlando airport, or buy it online before you even step foot in Florida. This also applies to your purchases of other Universal merchandise. If you wish to save time and money, then buy it elsewhere.
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What Universal Orlando Ticket Should I Buy When Visiting Both Diagon Alley And Hogsmeade On The Same Day
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. Its important to note that this is also the only ticket which will allow guests to ride the Hogwarts express!
Its 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.
What To Know About The Diagon Alley Shops At The Harry Potter Orlando Theme Park
There are quite a few shops in Diagon Alley and they are many of the same ones you see in the Harry Potter books and movies. Pop into a few even if you dont plan on making a purchase because the theming is so on point. Here are the shops you can visit in Diagon Alley.
Weasleys Wizard Wheezes
Fred and George Weasley are well known for their mischievous pranks. This shop has love potions, Bombtastic Bombs, and everything else you need to pull off your own practical jokes.
Madam Malkins Robes for All Occasions
Youll look like you stepped right off the pages of J.K. Rowlings books in the robes, school uniforms, and other finery available here.
Wiseacres Wizarding Equipment
Wiseacres is a great shop for souvenirs like Harry Potter T-shirts, ornaments, mugs, and glassware. The shop also carries a selection of must-have wizarding world supplies.
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Magical Menagerie
This is the place inside the Harry Potter theme park to adopt your very own unicorn, owl, or Pygmy Puff. Dont miss the large snake in the window outside the store.
Quality Quidditch Supplies
If your family is looking for an alternative to matching Hogwarts robes, why not matching Quidditch jerseys? Get them here along with other sporty paraphernalia.
Scribbulus
From parchments to journals to quills and ink, this Harry Potter theme park shop is a writers dream.
Shutterbuttons
Sugarplums Sweet Shop
Wands by Gregorovitch
Gringotts Money Exchange
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Harry Potter World Orlando Rides Hogsmeade
- Hagrids Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure This is the BEST ride to utilize The Park Prodigys Early Admission tickets because this ride is so popular.
- Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
- Flight of the Hippogriff
- Hogwarts Express All aboard! Catch a slow-moving ride on the amazing Hogwarts Express at Universal as your way between Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade with your park to park ticket!
Bonus: Diagon Alley Rides
- Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
The Escape from Gringotts is an exclusive Harry Potter ride in Orlando, which can only be ridden in Diagon Alley in Universal Studios Florida.
Which Park Is Better: Diagon Alley Or Hogsmeade
If youre looking for Harry Potter rides, the Hogsmeade area in Islands of Adventure has three of them compared to just one ride at the Diagon Alley area in Universal Studios Florida . On the other hand, Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida has more shops and restaurants.
In the end, though, theyre both great and it probably comes down to personal preference. Do you have a favorite scene or location from the Harry Potter books? If so, you may find yourself drawn to one area more than another, but you should absolutely experience both parts of the Harry Potter theme park in Orlando.
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Florean Fortescues Ice Cream Parlor
This is one of my favorite treat spots in all of Universal Studios. Guests can snack on different icecream 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!
The Ultimate Guide To The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter At Universal Orlando
From Hogsmeade to Diagon Alley, here’s everything you need to know about the Harry Potter rides, restaurants, and shops at Universal Orlando.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort consists of two immersive lands based on the Harry Potter books and films. The Diagon Alley area is located in Universal Studios Florida and Hogsmeade is located in Islands of Adventure. The two Harry Potter theme park lands are connected by the Hogwarts Express.
Both of the Harry Potter lands at Universal Studios have themed shops, rides, dining, and entertainment, and the best way to travel between the two is on the Hogwarts Express train. If you want to hop on the train or visit both lands in one day, youll need to purchase Park-to-Park tickets that include both Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure for your visit.
Both Harry Potter Orlando theme park lands accept Express Passes, an add-on to your regular park ticket that lets you skip the line on many rides and attractions. You can purchase Express Passes online or inside the park, and its included as a free perk if youre staying in a Universal Premier hotel.
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My Top Universal Orlando Tips
So which park is right for you? Which park should you visit? Which is the best Universal park?
The truth is that they’re all different and all very much worth visiting! I can’t pick a best or favorite , and chances are you’re going to want to visit them all!
I would recommend at least 3 or 4 days to fully enjoy Universal Orlando, with at least one full day dedicated to Volcano Bay.
Here are some other tips for making the most out of your Universal Orlando experience:
Wizarding World Of Harry Potter In One Day
If youre wondering how you can squeeze the Wizarding World in during your Walt Disney World vacation, are only able to afford one days worth of tickets, or just really dont feel like spending a ton of time in a theme park, never fear. Its actually not that difficult to see the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in one day. Heres how we recommend you do it!
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