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. Rowling’s 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 don’t 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.
Where Is Harry Potter Land in Orlando?
The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter, known by many as Harry Potter land or Potterworld, is at the Universal Orlando Resort. Though the land has one official name, it is actually split between two different theme parks. One part of Harry Potter land is in Universal Studios and the other part is in Universal Islands Of Adventure.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is not a stand alone theme park. It is a small part of two larger theme parks at Universal Orlando Resort. Your ticket will include the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, as well as all other lands in the theme park that you visit.
The smaller lands in each theme park have different names. In Universal Studios theme park, it is called Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Diagon Alley. In Universal Islands of Adventure theme park, it is called Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Hogsmeade.
To see both parts of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, you will need entrance tickets for each theme park. You can do this with a park to park ticket that will get you into both theme parks on the same day.
Related Post: Universal Studios vs. Islands of Adventure Theme Park: Which is Better?
You cannot walk between the two Harry Potter lands. There are only two ways to get between Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade.
In rare circumstances, such as special events, there is a walkway that can be opened up between the two theme parks. However, this is uncommon and not guaranteed.
One is using the Hogwarts Express train. Otherwise, you will need to leave one theme park, walk through City Walk to get to the entrance to the other theme park, and then enter like normal into that theme park, walking through all of the other lands until you get to the Harry Potter land.
For more helpful tips about visiting Universal Orlando, see our Ultimate Planning Guide for the Universal Orlando Resort.
What is the Difference Between Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade?
If you are wondering which Harry Potter land is better, it depends on your favorite locations in the books and movies, or whether or not you enjoy roller coasters and thrill rides.
Hogsmeade has more of the most popular rides and things to do. These are the big-name thrill rides that usually have lines several hours long. So if you are trying to beat the crowds, head to Hogsmeade during less-crowded times.
Hogwarts Castle is also located in Hogsmeade, the Harry Potter Land in Universal’s Islands of Adventure theme park.
Diagon Alley is more about the experience of exploring a Harry Potter land. Iconic destinations such as Platform 9 3/4s, Grimmauld Place, London’s King’s Cross, Carkitt Market and Knockturn Alley can be found in this land. You can do more shopping in this part of the land, as well as buying more unique merchandise. Gringotts bank notes are a currency here, which is fun for all Harry Potter fans!
Spell casting locations are often easier to find and perform in Diagon Alley, compared to Hogsmeade.
Both Harry Potter lands have an Ollivanders Wand Shop, as well as selling butterbeer. So you won’t miss out on those iconic experiences no matter which land you choose.
Comparing Hogsmeade vs. Diagon Alley, Hogsmeade is better for roller coasters, action packed rides, and the chance to go inside Hogwarts Castle. Diagon Alley is better for an immersive experience of shopping and being surrounded by the magic of Harry Potter This can be best for kids and those who do not like roller coasters or cannot ride action rides.
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Do you love Harry Potter? Be sure to check out these amazing Harry Potter themed Airbnbs!
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!
Attractions And Rides
Universal’s Child Swap option is available on all rides.
- Harry Potter and the Escape From Gringotts
On this stunning, action-packed ride, you will see goblin bank tellers counting money as you enter the opulent Gringotts queue. Then go on an underground adventure where you will need to evade the evil clutches of Voldemort and Bellatrix with the help of Harry, Ron and Hermione. This is a motion simulation ride using 3-D and 4-D effects.
- Hogwarts Express: King’s Cross Station
To get from Diagon Alley to Hogsmeade you will take the Hogwarts Express from King’s Cross Station. Travel through the English countryside and see the same sites that Harry, Ron and Hermione view on their way to Hogwarts each year.
You CANNOT ride Hogwarts Express UNLESS you have a park hopper ticket, which gets you into two theme parks in one day.
Tip: Be sure to ride the Hogwarts Express in both directions because the rides are different and the scenery changes depending on the direction you take.
Entertainment and Shows
- Ollivanders Wand Shop
Everyone knows that Ollivanders is THE place to get your wand in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. This is where Hagrid brought Harry to get his wand. Inside the store, wands are stacked to the ceiling, waiting to choose their wizard. This is both a shop and an entertainment area.
There is a Choosing Ceremony in which one lucky guest is chosen by Mr. Ollivander to find their perfect wand, just like in The Philosopher’s Stone. Even if you are not chosen, this is a fun show to watch.
Or just enter the store and shop for your favorite character’s wand if you don’t want to stick around for the entertainment.
Tip: Interactive wands are sold exclusively at Universal Orlando Resort. These wands allow young witches and wizards to perform spells throughout Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade. You’ll notice the metal placards on the ground where spells can be performed.
- Knight Bus
As you head toward King’s Cross Station you may notice the large purple Knight Bus on the London embankment. The triple decker bus helps stranded witches and wizards in emergencies. Make sure to talk to the Knight Bus driver and the shrunken heads!
- Gringotts Money Exchange
For a fun way to fully immerse yourself at Diagon Alley, visit the goblin bank tellers at Gringotts Money Exchange. Here you can exchange your money for Gringotts bank notes (only $10 or $20 denominations) and use them for purchases in Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade. The bank notes also make great souvenirs.
Tip: If you don’t use your Gringotts bank notes in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, there are select locations throughout Universal Orlando that you can still redeem the money. Or transfer it back to U.S. currency at Guest Services.
This is just one of the 33 unique things to do in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter!
- The Tales Of Beedle The Bard
Harry Potter fans won’t want to miss the Tales Of Beedle The Bard in Diagon Alley. This trunk show features the exciting wizarding tales depicted in the famous magical book. The Wizarding Academy of Dramatic Arts uses puppets and other props to perform “The Tale of the Three Brothers” and “The Fountain of Fair Fortune.”
- Celestina Warbeck And The Banshees
The singing sensation of the Wizarding World, Celestina Warbeck shares her magical voice and talent. The performance features never before heard hits like, “You Charmed The Heart Right Out Of Me,” “You Stole My Cauldron But You Can’t Have My Heart,” and “A Cauldron Full of Hot, Strong Love.”
Fun Fact: J.K. Rowling modeled Celestina Warbeck on Welsh singer Shirley Bassey.
Restaurants and Dining
Be sure to see our helpful tips for saving money on Universal Dining.
- The Leaky Cauldron
The premiere eatery in all of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is the famous Leaky Cauldron. They serve traditional British fare including Bangers and Mash, as well as Fish and Chips. This quick service option also serves a full English breakfast each morning, and delicious desserts like sticky toffee pudding.
The Leaky Cauldron is one of the top picks in our Ultimate Universal Orlando Dining Guide!
- Florean Fortescue’s Ice Cream Parlor
On a hot, Florida day at Diagon Alley there is nothing better than Florean Fortescue’s ice cream. This soft serve ice cream establishment dishes up delicious Butterbeer, Strawberry & Peanut Butter, and Earl Gray ice cream. They also serve pumpkin juice and sweet treats like crumble cakes.
- The Fountain of Fair Fortune
This bar serves up alcoholic drinks and non-alcoholic drinks, as well as snacks. This is a great place to get Butterbeer.
Related Posts: See our Butterbeer recipes, including an easy Butterbeer drink to make at home, and butterbeer cupcakes.
Shops
- Ollivander’s Wand Shop
The absolute best place to buy interactive wands that work throughout Harry Potter land. (See more information in Entertainment section above.)
- Borgin and Burkes
This famous creepy shop is located in Knockturn Alley and is known for the bad reputation of its patrons. Here you’ll find Death Eater masks, skulls and a very special vanishing cabinet in the corner. They also sell apparel, accessories and collectibles.
- Madame Malkin’s Robes For All Occasions
This is the place in Diagon Alley to get your official Hogwarts uniform. Not only that, but Madame Malkins also sells house scarves, ties, sweaters and even jewelry.
- Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes
Run by the infamous Weasley twins, Fred and George, this shop if full of prank items that kids and kids-at-heart will love. Filled with colors and sounds from the movies and a few surprises. Take your time here to take in all the small details. Be sure to get the Puking Pastilles.
- Gringotts Exchange
Trade your U.S. money for the money of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Your Gringotts bank notes can be used in both Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade. Or they make a unique Universal Studios souvenir! (See more information in Entertainment section above.)
- Globus Mundi
Everything you need for traveling, both in Harry Potter lands and in the real world, too. Souvenirs such as travel mugs, t-shirts, keychains and pins, too.
- Magical Menagerie
You will find lots of plush toys and magical creatures in this kid-friendly shop, such as Crookshanks, BuckBeak and owls, including Hedwig.
- Wiseacre’s Wizarding Equipment
Housewares for older wizards, as well as apparel.
- Shutterbuttons
Want to make magic with a moving photo? At Shutterbuttons, you will be guided through 12 different scenes from either a Diagon Alley or Hogsmead location. The magic photo can be purchased in a souvenir DVD photo album. You can also get still photos with special effects added.
Related Post: 35 Universal Studios Tips and Tricks for a Wonderful Vacation!
What to See and Do in Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Hogsmeade
Hogsmeade is located in the Islands of Adventure theme park at Universal Orlando Resort. This was the first Harry Potter land to open.
Hogsmeade is the magical village below Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. This is where you will find Hogwarts Castle, as well as many of the Harry Potter rides.
There are a lot more rides in this land, and you’ll need to leave your big bags or backpacks in lockers to enjoy, unless you use one of these magical Harry Potter fanny packs that you are allowed to bring on the attractions.
Attractions and Rides
Universal’s Child Swap option is available on all rides.
- Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
This thrill ride has been called one of the best rides in Florida, and it is one of the most popular at Universal. This exciting rollercoaster is complete with surprises, animatronics and beautiful scenery.
- Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
This queue line is located inside Hogwarts castle and the interactive nature makes the long wait times fun. On the ride, you will fly through the grounds of Hogwarts on the ride of a lifetime, using 3-D and 4-D special effects.
Tip: If you get motion sickness, this ride often leaves passengers feeling dizzy and nauseous.
Tip: Even if you don’t plan on doing this ride, you can stand in line to see the inside of the castle. When it comes time to board the attraction, tell the attractions host that you don’t want to ride and get out of line.
- Flight of the Hippogriff
This family friendly coaster winds around a pumpkin patch before arriving at Hagrid’s hut.
- Hogwarts Express: Hogsmeade Station
To get from Hogsmeade to Diagon Alley you will take the Hogwarts Express from Hogsmeade Station. Travel through the English countryside where you will see the same sites that Harry, Ron and Hermione view on their way to Hogwarts each year.
You CANNOT ride Hogwarts Express UNLESS you have a park hopper ticket, which gets you into two theme parks in one day.
Tip: Make sure to ride the Hogwarts Express both ways because the rides are different and the scenery and experience changes depending on direction.
Entertainment and Shows
- The Nighttime Lights At Hogwarts Castle
This illumination event is a great celebration of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Taking place on select nights, watch in awe as the dazzling lights and music unfold to have the most magical end to your day at Wizarding World.
There are specialty shows for the holidays, such as “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle.” For Halloween, the “Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle” show has Death Eaters roaming Hogsmeade.
Related Post: Fireworks at Universal Studios
- Frog Choir
Hear the musical stylings of the Hogwarts Schools of Witchcraft and Wizardry choir perform with some students from each of the Houses. Complete with giant croaking frogs just as they are in the Harry Potter films.
- Triwizard Spirit Rally
Students from Beauxbatons and Durmstrang schools lead the excitement of the Triwizard Tournament.
Restaurants and Dining
Be sure to see our entire list of Harry Potter restaurants for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
- Three Broomsticks
Widely known as the place both students and teachers gather outside of school. This quick service restaurant serves traditional British food including Shepherd’s Pie and Turkey Legs. Enjoy a great view of the Castle on their outdoor terrace.
- Hog’s Head
Located in the back of the Three Broomsticks is Hog’s Head pub. You can grab a Butterbeer, Pumpkin Juice or imported beers and specialty drinks with a magical twist.
Shops
- Honeydukes
This sweet shop is legendary with the students of Hogwarts. Make sure to get a few chocolate frogs, cauldron cakes, and Bertie Botts Every Flavour Bean during your visit.
- Dervish and Banges
If you are a fan of Quidditch, then this shop is for you. You’ll find brooms, golden snitches and your favorite Quidditch team t-shirts. You can also purchase Hogwarts uniforms here.
- Owl Post
Mail letters with the official Hogwarts stamp and postmark from Owl Post. If you need to buy some postcards or stationery, you can buy that here. However, you can bring your own postcards or letters. Also, find owl-related toys and gifts.
Tip: While at the Owl Post, you may notice that different owls pop out at different times of the day, like a cuckoo clock.
- Ollivander’s Wand Shop
This is a somewhat-less-celebrated branch of the Ollivanders Wand Shop in Diagon Alley. You can buy wands here, but you will actually pay at Dervish and Banges.
Best Souvenirs from Wizarding World of Harry Potter
There are so many fun things to find within both lands of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. After all, this is a unique world of its own that you can’t find many other places. So be sure to pick up these best souvenirs before you leave!
Among the souvenirs you definitely want to save money for are:
- Butterbeer (an edible souvenir but be sure to take a photo with it!)
- Wand (see the shopping guide below for where to find the best ones)
- Harry Potter Robe (see the shopping guide below for how to save money on these)
- Postcard or Letter with Hogwarts stamp and postmark (send yourself mail from Owl Post to get these)
- Gringott’s Bank Notes (exchange U.S. currency for these in Diagon Alley)
- T-shirts
- Coffee Mug
Where to Get Harry Potter Wands at Universal Orlando
There are two different types of wands at Wizarding World of Harry Potter:
- Interactive wands
- Standard wands
Interactive wands have a half-sphere (circular) tip at the end. It looks like see-through plastic. These wands have state-of-the-art technology that allows you to “cast spells” throughout Harry Potter land. Of course, these will be more expensive than the standard wands that have no technology in them.
The only place to get interactive wands that magically work throughout the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is at Universal Orlando Resort. While you can buy wizard wands outside of the theme parks, they will not have interactive tips.
Interactive wands will come in a box with a map of spell locations in both Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade. There are 34 official spell-casting spots in total between the two lands, but there are some extra bonus spots not on the map.
The most popular place to buy Harry Potter Wands is at Ollivanders Wand Shop. This wand shop is located in both lands, Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade.
Other locations to purchase official Harry Potter wands include:
- Wands by Gregorovitch (in Diagon Alley)
- Universal Orlando gift shops at the front of each theme park
- CityWalk
- Universal’s Official Merchandise Store Online
Prices of interactive wands start at $63. Standard wands start at $55.
If you don’t need the interactive wands, consider buying one from Amazon, where you can save more than 50% on wands. You can also have it shipped to your hotel to save space in your luggage.
Tip: You might see a promotion to get a free wand with the purchase of a gift card at Universal Orlando. Keep in mind that these wands are not interactive. However, it is a free souvenir if you plan on spending the amount of money (it has been $300 minimum gift card in the past) anyway at Universal Studios in Florida.
Where to Get Harry Potter Robes at Universal Orlando
Madam Malkin’s Robes in Diagon Alley is the premier place to buy rubes in Wizarding World of Harry Potter. You can purchase robes from all four houses of Gryffindor; Hufflepuff; Slytherin; and Ravenclaw. You can also find character robes, as well, including Dumbledore’s robes, Professor Snape and Hermione’s Yuletide Ball Gown.
In 2023, the cost of Harry Potter robes at Universal start at $139. Hermione’s gown for kids starts at $99.95.
Does Universal’s Harry Potter Robes Have Wand Holder Pockets?
Yes, the official robes purchased inside the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and at Universal theme parks have an inside pocket designed to hold wands.
Related Post: How to Clean Harry Potter Robes
Can I Bring My Own Robe Into Universal Orlando?
Yes, you can buy a robe before you get to Universal’s theme parks and wear it inside the park. Buying a robe online means you can have it shipped to your hotel and not take up room in your luggage.
Inexpensive places to buy Harry Potter robes include:
- Amazon
- Walmart
- Etsy
- Ebay (official robes from Universal Studios are often resold on Ebay after someone’s vacation)
Where to Get Butterbeer
Butterbeer is a famous drink from the Harry Potter books. It is a very sweet drink that is a cross between cream soda and butterscotch flavor. It is not alcoholic, unless adults specifically order an alcoholic version.
Butterbeer comes in several different varieties in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. These include:
- Frozen Butterbeer (found at Three Broomsticks, Leaky Cauldron, Hog’s Head, The Hopping Pot, Fountain of Fair Fortune, and food service carts)
- Cold Butterbeer (found at Leaky Cauldron, Hog’s Head, The Hopping Pot, Fountain of Fair Fortune, Three Broomsticks and food service carts
- Hot Butterbeer (in season, found at Three Broomsticks, Leaky Cauldron, Hog’s Head, The Hopping Pot, Fountain of Fair Fortune, and food service carts)
- Butterbeer Ice Cream (found at Florean Fortescues, Hopping Pot, Three Broomsticks and food service carts)
- Butterbeer Fudge (found at Honeydukes and Sugar Plums)
- Potted Cream (found at Three Broomsticks and Leaky Cauldron)
You might be able to get your Butterbeer served in a souvenir tankard if you choose the cold or frozen varieties.
As of March 2, 2023, you can now order dairy-free and vegan butterbeer with the foam. Previous dairy-free versions required you to skip the famous foam to make it vegan.
Be aware, you cannot buy butterbeer outside of Wizarding World of Harry Potter. There are no other locations to purchase the drink at Universal Orlando Resort. You cannot buy butterbeer at Disney World, either.
Is Wizarding World of Harry Potter Worth It?
Yes, absolutely! Even if you have not read the books or watched the movies, you can enjoy your time in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter! The theming and details are so amazing, that you feel like you have walked into another world, which is magical!
I have never read the books or seen the movies. I have tried, really I have. And I just can’t get into them or appreciate them. However, when I walk through the gates into Harry Potter land, I am mesmerized and in awe. I love all of the details of the land and could stay there for hours, even though I don’t know anything about the story line like Potter fans do. In fact, the theme park is helping me appreciate the book and the films more.
Related Post: Movies to Watch Before Your Universal Studios Visit
If you are visiting Universal Orlando theme parks just to do the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, you will still have a great time. However, the value of the ticket price can be justified better if you visit the rest of the lands that you are visiting in the theme park, too. Unless you are able to spend all day in the Harry Potter land, you might feel like the value is not there for the ticket price.
To add even more value to your visit, be sure to see our Guide to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter Easter eggs to find hidden details and secret spots you might otherwise miss!
How to Get Early Entry into Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Getting into either land of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter early can really help you see more each day. The earlier you can get into the theme park, the more you can see before the lines get too long.
Early admission is a perk of staying at Universal Orlando hotels. These hotels are operated by Universal Studios and offer many benefits for guests.
Do not expect there to be no crowds, because everyone else has the same idea of getting in early! However, there will be less people than there will be once general admission opens.
Related Post: Standing in lines? Why not try out these Harry Potter spells for the iPhone using Siri!
Can You Do Both Harry Potter Worlds in One Day?
Can the Wizarding World of Harry Potter be done in one day? Yes! But you must get a park hopper ticket. These are also called Park-to-Park tickets or 2-Park-1-Day tickets.
The reason you must get the more expensive park tickets is because there is only one part of Harry Potter world in each of Universal Orlando’s two theme parks. If you get a ticket that allows entry into only one of their theme parks, you will only get to see half of the Harry Potter land in one day.
One of the biggest attractions at Wizarding World of Harry Potter is Hogwarts Express. This is the train that transports you between the two Harry Potter lands. Without a park-to-park ticket, you will not be allowed to ride this train.
If you want to ride all of the rides in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in one day, I highly suggest you get to the theme parks as early as possible (use your early admission benefit from staying in a Universal Orlando hotel) and/or get a Universal Express Pass to skip the lines for the popular attractions.
Related Post: If you use Universal’s Express Pass, get these best lanyards for Universal Studios for ease in showing your ticket and saving time and hassle.
Hogsmeade can be the best place to start if you are arriving early to beat the crowds. This part of Harry Potter world has all of the major attractions, so the lines get quite long here and it gets very crowded. After exploring Hogsmeade, go to Diagon Alley where there are fewer attractions and less waiting in lines.
How Much are Wizarding World of Harry Potter Tickets?
Since the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a land within a Universal theme park, you will be paying normal theme park admission prices. You can visit just one of the lands (either Diagon Alley or Hogsmeade, depending on whether you go to Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure) if you choose a one-park, one-day ticket. If you want to visit both sides of Harry Potter world in one day, you will need to buy a two-parks ticket.
Universal tickets DO include the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
In 2022, the cost of a one day-one park Universal theme park ticket starts at $109 and $104 for kids. Two park-one day tickets (park hoppers) start at $164 for adults and $159 for kids.
You can often save money on the tickets by buying a multi-day pass, bundling tickets with your hotel room or vacation package, or waiting for rare online sales.
Our favorite way to buy tickets is through Get Away Today. They are an authorized ticket seller and you can get savings on park tickets, hotels and more.
We have found savings on every type of ticket using Get Away Today compared to buying through Universal.
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 Resort’s 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” (inches) wide x 80” (inches) high to meet Universal Orlando’s 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.
Universal Orlando Resort’s Costume Guidelines
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.
(Check Ebay for gently used official Harry Potter robes, or get a new one on Amazon.)
Buying Harry Potter t-shirts before you get to the theme park is also wise, too. Not only will it save you a LOT of money, but you can enter the theme park with your outfit on already, ready for pictures and not needing to take time to buy a t-shirt and change clothes. We suggest Amazon or Etsy for great Harry Potter t-shirts for much less than buying in the theme parks.
We like this Mischief Manager Harry Potter t-shirt, which will sum up your day if you are traveling with kids!
This Harry Potter Hogwarts Castle t-shirt comes in a variety of colors, and is super cute!
Of course, you can also buy official merchandise from the stores at Universal Orlando to dress up.
Costumes in the Heat
Wearing a long-sleeve black robe in the Florida sunshine and heat isn’t always a great idea, though. It can get HOT really fast. Even the biggest Harry Potter fans will suddenly realize that wearing the robe in 100 degree heat isn’t too magical.
Why not get Harry Potter-themed clothing that is suitable for Orlando’s heat, instead?
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 (which owns Universal Orlando Resort) bought the rights for Harry Potter away from the Walt Disney Company.
Whether or not Disney was Rowling’s 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.
Is the Wizarding World of Harry Potter Open During Halloween Horror Nights?
Yes, Diagon Alley in Universal Studios is usually open during Halloween Horror Nights. There will be no frightening HHN encounters in Diagon Alley, however you do need to get through the fright fest in the rest of the theme park to make it into the land.
Visiting The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley is smart to do during Halloween Horror Nights. There are fewer crowds in the land during the event, and you can ride Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts. Just don’t expect themed decorations in the land, and some locations might close early.
Halloween Horror Nights (HHN) is a separate ticketed event at Universal Studios theme park only. The theme park closes early on event days and all day-time guests must leave.
Islands of Adventure theme park will continue to be open for normal operating hours, which means Hogsmeade in Islands of Adventure will be open as normal. However, Hogsmeade Express train will not be able to transport you between the two theme parks, as you would need a special event ticket to get into Universal Studios on HHN nights.
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!