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 Universal Orlando
If youre not sure when to plan your next Universal vacation, Our Universal Orlando Crowd Calendar is the best tool to help you get the most out of your time in the parks. We breakdown the park crowds, park hours of operation, ticket prices by day, and average temperature.
Guests can also beat the crowds with our Universal Orlando tickets! All guests who purchase their tickets from The Park Prodigy will get Early Park Admissionto Universal Orlando! This could save you a ton of time in the parks and avoid buying express passes!
Harry Potter Shows Universal Studios Vs Islands Of Adventure
There are three shows at Islands of Adventure Hogsmeade. There are nightly light shows on the Hogwarts Castle. This is one of the best shows as it uses music and lights to tell a story. It is incredible.
The other two shows at Hogsmeade are located between the Hogwarts Castles and Hogsmeade Village. Each show alternates throughout the day every half hour with a total of around 12 shows in a day.
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Harry Potter World: Hogsmeade Or Diagon Alley
Before we begin our Harry Potter World comparison, here is a quick overview of the main points that most visitors want to know about. It might be enough to help you decide which park to visit when comparing Hogsmeade Vs Diagon Alley! But if not, dont worry. Weve got plenty of information to help you decide whether to visit Diagon Alley or Hogsmeade.
Take A Forbidden Journey
The highlight of the land is Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, a highly sophisticated attraction that uses innovative robotic arm vehicles to send passengers on an adventure with the boy wizard. It incorporates both practical sets with wild effects and projected media to simulate flying and other sensations. Forbidden Journey is among the world’s best theme park attractions.
The ride is located inside the massive Hogwarts Castle. Getting to it is an adventure in itself. The tricked-out castle is loaded with delightful effects and artifacts. The pre-show, presented in a couple of acts, sets the stage with some intriguing theme park trickery.
One word of caution: Forbidden Journey a surprisingly aggressive attraction. Heed the pre-ride warnings. If thrill rides aren’t your thing, you may want to think twice before boarding it. When the ride first opened in Hollywood, it featured 3D media, requiring passengers to wear 3D glasses. Some guests had been experiencing motion sickness in reaction to the 3D experience the park has since removed the 3D media.
If the line to board the ride is especially long, you could break up your party and opt for the single rider line. You could also consider upgrading to front-of-the-line passes, which can be pricey, but could save you a lot of time in the Wizarding World and throughout Universal Studios Hollywood.
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Wizarding World Of Harry Potter
In June 2010, Universal Orlando Resort opened their newest attraction The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
And the verdict? It does not disappoint. People of all ages are raving about the detail that the designers put into the area. Its being hailed as the best theme park addition in history! Harry Potter fans are coming in droves to enter this new attraction. On opening day, crowds gathered outside for hours in advance just to be among the first to experience The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in person.
You really feel like you are in the wand store where Harry and his special wand found each other. What an experience! Even though the crowds are usually dense and the lines are long, dont get discouraged. If you are a Harry Potter fan, or even a casual fan, this is worth the wait. Universal has done its best to make the waiting experience as entertaining as possible. There is really a lot to see while moving through the lines.
Which Park Is Hogwarts Castle In
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.
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Dressing Up For Harry Potter World
You are allowed to dress up for Harry Potter world, including wearing Harry Potter robes. However, you must adhere to Universal Orlando Resorts costume guidelines, as state below:
No costume masks, veils, long trains, live animals, swords or weaponry are permitted. Face coverings worn for medical or health reasons are permitted. Any home-crafted wands must be rounded on either end and must be appropriate in nature.
Costumes cannot exceed 28 wide x 80 high to meet Universal Orlandos metal detection regulations. Costumes are subject to secondary x-ray screening. Universal Orlando will have sole discretion to decide whether an item is permissible. Any item deemed inappropriate will be turned over by the owner and may be retrieved at the end of the day at the Universal CityWalk hub.
If a guest is spotted in a costume that is not deemed permissible, he or she will be asked to either remove the costume and change into something more appropriate, or exit the park.
Costumed guests may not give the impression that they are Universal Orlando Team Members.
To ensure guests safety, some costumes may not be permitted on certain attractions.
You may enter the theme park wearing costumes and outfits for the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. This is a great idea if you want to save money by buying a Harry Potter robe before you get to the theme park, or if you want to bring your own wand into Harry Potter land.
Insiders Guide To The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter consists of two different areas in two different theme parks. Hogsmeade, located in Islands of Adventure, recreates the only all-wizarding village in Scotland, replete with the majestic Hogwarts Castle Diagon Alley, snuggled inside Universal Studios Florida, is a hustling, bustling city block consisting of several side streets, all dominated by the imposing Gringotts Wizarding Bank. Both are, simply put, amazing areas, with so many unique attractions and experiences hidden around every corner that it just wasnt enough to give you the basic information on the rides, shops, and eateries we have taken it to a whole new level with our Insiders Guide to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
This page includes a history of the development of the Wizarding World at Universal Orlando Resort, a description of the lands layouts, and some vacation-planning tips.
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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
Tips For Visiting Hogsmeade At The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter In Orlando
In the Harry Potter series, Hogsmeade Village is the charming snow-capped village near Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. At Universal Orlando Resort, Hogsmeade is located inside the Islands of Adventure park theme park.
In addition to shops, dining, and rides, theres a small stage near Hogwarts Castle where you can watch the Frog Choir and Triwizard Spirit Rally shows multiple times each day.
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Was Harry Potter Land Supposed To Be In Disney World
There are many, many rumors that the Walt Disney Company tried to buy the rights to Harry Potter and put the theme park in the Magic Kingdom. Rumors state that Disney allegedly did not want to comply with the artistic vision of J.K. Rowling.
Rumors began surfacing as early as 2003 about a Harry Potter theme park.
Fortune Magazine reported that NBC Universal bought the rights for Harry Potter away from the Walt Disney Company.
Whether or not Disney was Rowlings first choice for her theme parks is a matter of rumor. However, in 2007, Universal officially announced the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Hogsmeade was opened in the Islands of Adventure in 2010.
We hope this Ultimate Guide to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter helps you save time, money and stress while enjoying a magical time in Harry Potter lands!
Hagrids Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
Coming in at number one is Hagrids Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure as probably to best ride in all of Orlando. This Harry Potter roller coaster is an incredible addition to the Wizarding World, as it was just added in 2019. Hop into Hagrids motorbike and soar around the Forbidden Forest to locate all of the magical creatures on the Hogwarts grounds. You will be pleasantly shocked during this Harry Potter ride in Islands of Adventure with launches, drops, high speeds and so much more!
Location: Islands of Adventure Hogsmeade Village
Rank: 1 There isnt really anything we do not like about this Harry Potter Universal ride, and thats why is has to be number one! It might even be our number one ride in all of Universal Orlando Resort with how much magic is packed into it. The storyline of this Harry Potter ride cannot be beat, and it totally checks all of the boxes for theme, queue and overall experience. It also is offered for Early Park Admission, which we highly recommend due to the high wait times.
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Are You Ready To Plan Your Next Universal Orlando Trip
If youre ready to plan your trip to Universal Studios, be sure to check out our Universal Orlando Tickets! All Park Prodigy Universal Orlando tickets will get you into the park one hour before regular park guests with Universal Early Park Admission! And to stay up to date on everything going on inside the theme parks be sure to check out our partners at Themeparktoday.com!
The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter Tips
How to avoid long lines: Arriving early may help you avoid long lines during the first hour of the morning. During the day, however, the lines grow long, and purchasing Express Passes may be a better option to avoid the lines.
Take a bunch of pictures: Yes, the attractions are fun, but the incredible attention to detail is what makes The Wizarding World of Harry Potter memorable. Why not take as many pictures as possible to capture and cherish the moment forever?
Renting a locker: Some attractions that prohibit backpacks or purses offer free temporary lockers to hold your items. You can save some time and jump on another ride more quickly if you rent a locker, ride a few attractions back-to-back, then come back and pick up your items.
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Get A Wand At Ollivander’s
And finished our tour with a visit to Weasley’s Wizard Wheezes and Ollivander’s.
There is an adorable show where Ollivander himself helps one audience member to select their wand like Harry does in the first movie.
After the show you can purchase your own wand based on the characters’ name. We had fun just peeking to see which style matched which character.
I loved Fleur Delacour’s wand!
What To See And Do In Wizarding World Of Harry Potter: Diagon Alley
Diagon Alley is located in Universal Studios theme park.
Note: This can be confusing, because the entire Universal Orlando Resort is often called Universal Studios. However, one of their two theme parks located in Orlando is called Universal Studios.
Have you seen pictures of a fire-breathing dragon on top of Gringotts Bank? This is the land where you can get that picture! The dragon spits fire every 15 minutes, and you will know before it happens because she starts to rumble and growl beforehand.
The heat underneath the dragon can get pretty intense when its breathing fire. So on a hot day, you might want to stand a little farther away!
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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.
Ultimate Guide To Wizarding World Of Harry Potter At Universal Studios Orlando: 2022
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is definitely the most popular place in all of Universal Orlando Resort in Florida. Harry Potter land at Universal Studios is an immersive experience that will thrill everyone, whether or not you have ever read J.K. Rowlings book or seen the movies.
This massive and magical world actually spans two theme parks and features two unique locations from the Harry Potter movies. From thrilling attractions and rides, to shows, shopping and unique food and drinks, there is a lot that you want to make sure you dont miss!
Our Ultimate Guide to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Orlando in Florida will help you understand what there is to see, the best ways to experience all of Harry Potter land, and helpful tips to save you time and money.
Here is how we have organized this guide and the table of contents:
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What Rides Are Open With A Harry Potter Early Admission Ticket
- Hagrids Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
- Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
- Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
- Flight of the Hippogriff
The best part is you do not have to be staying at a Universal Orlando hotel in order to get early park admission. In fact all guests who buy their Universal Orlando tickets from our friends at The Park Prodigy will receive Early Park Admission absolutely FREE!
We also find early park admission tickets to be the best bet for families regardless of if you are trying to figure out if the express pass tickets are worth it or not. The main reason is Hagrids Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure and also the newest ride the VelociCoaster are not included as part of the Universal Express Pass.
The Complete Guide To Hogsmeade Vs Diagon Alley At Universal Orlando
The Complete Guide to Hogsmeade vs Diagon Alley at Universal Orlando
The Complete Guide to Hogsmeade vs Diagon Alley at Universal Orlando
If youre planning a trip to Universal Studios, youre probably wondering which is better: Hogsmeade vs. Diagon Alley. They both have thrilling rides, delicious butterbeer, and wands for every aspiring wizard. But, just like in the books, they are distinctly different. So, which Harry Potter world is better?
If youre not sure where to start, dont worry. Our ultimate guide is here to help! Our side-by-side comparison will help even the biggest Potter fan figure out which Harry Potter theme park is best for your vacation.
We hope you find this post helpful! Our goal at The Park Prodigy has always been to help you save time and money on your next Universal Orlando vacation! If you are planning a trip to Universal Orlando be sure to check out the latest deals on Universal Orlando vacation packages and our discounted Universal Orlando ticketswhich include EARLY PARK ADMISSION to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter!
SPECIAL NOTE: If you need help picking the best time to visit Universal Orlando for your next vacation be sure to check out our Universal crowd calendar!
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