REVISED Guide to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter Orlando

One of the most popular blog posts I’ve ever written was my 21 Practical Tips for the Wizarding World of Harry Potter Orlando. Now that post is almost three years old, so it’s about time for an update. Some of the tips below are repeats that have been edited, while others are brand new. Read below to discover my REVISED Guide to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter Orlando. Happy travels!

1. Visit on the Off-Season

One of my first tips on the original Wizarding World post was to visit on the off-season and I stand by that tip. The Undercover Tourist has a crowd calendar to check, but basically I would avoid holidays and big events. It’s nice to go to the Wizarding World during Christmas, but I wouldn’t go on Christmas week. Large crowds make it a little less magical.

2. Wear Comfortable Shoes and Clothes

Just getting to the Wizarding World part of the park is quite a little trek. Dress comfortably. We do over 20,000 steps a day, so I imagine your step count will be similar. Also keep in mind the weather in Florida is almost always hot and humid, depending on the time of year. I wouldn’t wear too many layers.

3. Stay at a Universal Orlando Hotel

We have now stayed at three different Universal Orlando hotels, and I cannot say enough good things. Staying at a Universal Hotel will get you all sorts of perks, but most importantly it allows you into Universal Studios a full hour before those not staying on property. Our personal favorite place to stay is the Loews Sapphire. You can find a qualifying hotel list HERE.

4. Do not Over-Pack

My husband and I brought a backpack on our first trip to Universal Studios and it was a mistake. Sure, some of the things we brought did come in handy, but mostly the bag was a hindrance. If you need to bring a bag, there are lockers available to rent.

My pro-tip is to bring a small bag or fanny pack. Or if you don’t have kids, just utilize your pockets. The less you carry, the easier it will be.

5. Keep an Eye on the App

It’s obviously a good idea to knock out your favorite Wizarding World rides first thing in the morning or right before closing, because the lines will be shorter. However, you might be able to snag a ride at any time of day and not wait too long in line. Keep an eye on the Universal Studios app and the ride times posted there.

6. Attend a Wand Ceremony

The Wand Ceremony that takes place in Olivanders is simply magical. I thought it would be cheesy, but I love it every single time. Team Members can also help you choose a wand in the store afterwards.

7. Use Your Wand Around the Park

Speaking of wands, you can purchase an interactive wand that can be used to cast spells all over Diagon Ally and Hogsmeade. A small chart with all the spell locations will be included with your wand, but there are also bronze plaques on the pavement marked with the movements for the appropriate spell.

8. You CAN do the Park in One Day

Once you visit the Wizarding World, and really Universal Studios in general, you will want to stay for weeks. (Or come back again and again like we do.) However, you CAN see it all in a day. The Wizarding World is split between two parks: Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. Diagon Ally is on the Universal Studios side while Hogsmeade and Hogwarts are on the Islands of Adventure side. They are connected by the Hogwarts Express. If you manage your time well, it can be done.

9. Ride the Hogwarts Express Both Ways

Yup, you heard me right. The parks are connected by Hogwarts Express, and you get to ride an actual train. Be sure to ride it in both directions as each is a different experience. Even the walk through Kings Cross Station is authentic. There’s also an elevator for strollers and I have found they tend to prioritize those with strollers… so…

10. Send Post By Owl in Hogsmeade

Go by the Owl Post in Hogsmeade and write a postcard to your best friend. You can send mail from the village, which is a special treat for friends and family at home! The Wizard or Witch at the Owl Post will also stamp your postcards with the official Hogsmeade stamp if you would like to take them home with you.

11. Watch the Four Essential Shows

The four shows that are certainly a must see include: Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees, The Tales of Beedle the Bard, the Hogwarts Frog Choir, and the Triwizard Spirit Rally. My favorite is The Tales of Beedle the Bard, but my toddler loves the Frog Choir. I suggest getting there a little early so you can get a spot in the front. The show times are listed in the app.

12. Prioritize the Light Show

At the end of the day there is an outstanding light show outside Hogwarts. We were there during the Christmas season, so it was holiday themed. Be sure to snag a front row spot to witness the magic. You will need to get there early and wear your patient pants when exiting afterwards. It’s a little busy, but worth every second.

13. Eat Meals During Off-Times

Restaurants can get pretty busy during traditional lunch and dinner times. Try eating your meals a little early or late. The food itself has not overly impressed me in the past, but there are some gems. Bonus tip: There is a wonderful table behind the Three Broomsticks that’s tucked into an alcove. Find it and enjoy the incredible ambience.

14. Don’t Forget the Details

Slow down, soak it in. The details in the Wizarding World are absolutely astounding. You will not want to miss out on any of it. Remember to explore Knockturn Ally and look up at all the shelves in each of the shops.

15. Take a Tour of the Castle

You can tour Hogwarts castle. Yep. A witch or wizard will take you through Hogwarts and point out all sorts of incredible memoribilia and answer any of your questions. And it’s free! Just ask at the entrance of Forbidden Journey if they have someone who can take you. Keep in mind they may not be able to take you on a tour if the park is super busy. Be kind!

16. Dress Up

Give in to the nostalgia and the magic. Dress in robes or like your favorite character. Just go all out. It might feel a little silly to fully nerd-out and put your love of Harry Potter on full display. Don’t worry, no one will gawk at you. They all love the Wizarding World as much if not more than you.

17. Utilize Child Swap

My husband and I recently discovered the magic of Child Swap on the rides in the Wizarding World. We were able to take our two year old into the depths of Gringotts until we were about to board the ride. Then, a team member led us to a themed room where one of you can wait with your toddler and the other rides. Then you switch!

There was even a TV playing all the scenes that take place in Gringotts. It’s incredible. If you have kids with you at the park who aren’t able to ride, but you would like to… take advantage of Child Swap.

18. Call the Ministry of Magic

Outside the Wizarding World you can see a red telephone booth. If you dial the numeric equivalent of M A G I C (it’s 62442), you can hear a special message from the Ministry of Magic.

19. Don’t Let Rain Deter You

The Wizarding World in the rain is magical. Please do not let a little rain deter you from exploring the park. Wear your rain gear and enjoy!

20. Snag Florean Fortescue’s Ice Cream

Some of the best ice cream I have ever had the pleasure of enjoying is at Florean Fortescue’s in Diagon Ally. They also have souvenir cups that are super cute and worth taking home. Make time for the ice cream.

21. Talk to the Gringotts Goblin

You can convert your muggle money to wizards money at Gringotts. Seriously, the authenticity of Diagon Ally is unparalleled. Be sure to ask the Goblin at the desk a few questions. He has some fun answers for sure.

22. Utilize Single Rider

My husband wanted me to add this tip, because he is a roller coaster fanatic. When you are waiting in line for Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure TM or the Forbidden Journey, ask a worker how long the single rider line would be. It might be a shorter wait, so if your group is okay splitting up it will save time.

23. Try all the Butterbeer Things… but beware

Butterbeer is amazing in all its forms. There’s frozen, hot, and cold Butterbeer, fudge, ice cream and even potted cream. Try it in all its forms, but beware. Too much Butterbeer in one day may hurt your stomach. Just speaking from experience…

24. Visit Kreacher

You can visit Kreacher as you leave the Wizarding World and walk by Number 12 Grimmauld Place. Be sure to knock on the door and he will peek out from the curtains in a window above.

25. Halloween Hosts Death Eaters

We haven’t had the opportunity to visit Universal at Halloween, but I’ve heard the Death Eaters come out to play and that it is really fun. You can duel them and they will interact with you especially if you have a dark mark tattoo (temporary or otherwise).

Thank you for reading the REVISED Guide to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter Orlando. I hope they will help you on your next trip to Universal. If you are organized like me, don’t forget to download the materials and additional content below:

21 Practical Tips for the Wizarding World of Harry Potter Orlando
25 Helpful Tips for Your Trip to Universal Orlando
15 Must-Have Foods at Universal Orlando
40 Day Harry Potter-Themed Devotion Series

If you have any questions feel free to send me an email or message on Instagram. Follow @bestillandhygge on Pinterest for more travel tips and tricks and don’t forget to subscribe below for new content every week!

Love Always,