The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Tips – 25 Things Every Muggle Needs to Know

This post may contain affiliate links. We may earn compensation when you click on the links at no additional cost to you. We only promote products and brands that we believe in and have experience with.
As a Muggle, learning to navigate the Wizarding World may seem a little daunting. After all, for most of us, a trip to Universal Orlando may be a once or twice-in-a-lifetime thing. Therefore, we want to make sure we are getting it right! So once you get your acceptance letter to Hogwarts – or purchase your theme tickets if that is the case – grab your trunk and be sure to take note of all the Wizarding World of Harry Potter tips we are providing. They will help make your experience far more magical; even if we are only mere Muggles!
The Basics
Before we dive into all the important Wizarding World of Harry Potter tips, let’s look at a few basic things you need to know.
How to get to Universal Orlando
Our guide to Universal Studios begins with getting to Orlando. If you are coming from a distance, the best way to get to Universal Studios is by flying into Orlando International Airport. From there, you can take a cab, ride-share, or bus to your hotel.

If you are staying at one of Universal’s hotels, they also offer a shuttle to and from the airport. The shuttles, however, are not included in your stay and are actually more expensive than a cab.
We decided to catch a cab at the airport. It really wasn’t too difficult. They even give you a flat-rate fare to all the park-owned resorts, so at least there were no surprises.
How many theme parks are there at Universal Orlando?
There are two theme parks located at Universal Orlando: Universal Studios and Universal’s Islands of Adventure. Each park has a dedicated area for the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Universal Studios Florida
Universal Studios Florida is where you will find Diagon Alley and Knockturn Alley. If you are entering from the front of the park, walk straight until you hit the mummy attraction. You will then turn right, and continue straight until you see the Knight Bus. We loved that the area outside of Diagon Alley is themed to feel like London.

Many visitors to Universal Studios Florida walk right by the entrance to Diagon Alley without even realizing it’s there. There are no signs that point to the entrance of the Wizarding World. This is because only wizards are meant to know how to get in!

In order to get into the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, you need to go ‘through’ the brick wall, directly to the right of King’s Cross Station. As you approach the wall, you will notice that it is actually a hidden corridor. The brick wall then ‘magically’ opens up to Diagon Alley.
Universal’s Islands of Adventure
Universal’s Islands of Adventure is where you will find the village of Hogsmeade. This is where you can visit Hogwarts castle, and ride the epic Hagrid’s Magical Motorbike Adventure.
For the fastest entrance to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, go to the right as soon as you enter the park and take a left once you hit Seuss Landing.

Do you need Park-to-Park tickets?
Park-to-Park tickets allow you to visit multiple parks per day. The 2-Park, Park-to-Park ticket includes admission to both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure.
Because we knew that the majority of our trip to Universal Studios would be spent in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, we elected to spend the extra money and upgrade to the 2-Park, Park-to-Park option.

Purchasing a Park-to-Park ticket, allowed us to ride from one park to the other on the Hogwarts Express, as often as we wanted. Without the upgrade, you can’t ride this attraction.
Is the Hogwarts Express worth the extra money?
If you are a true Harry Potter fan, you will not want to miss out on the experience of riding the Hogwarts Express. Not only does the Park-to-Park pass get you on the train, but it also gives you the whole experience at King’s Cross Station!

And believe me… it’s totally worth it! The kids absolutely LOVED the experience! The upgrade also gave us the flexibility to easily go between parks, whenever the kids wanted a change in scenery. You won’t regret spending the extra money, trust us!
Is it possible to do both Harry Potter parks in one day?
If you only have the option of spending one day at Universal Orlando, make sure you purchase the Park-to-Park ticket. At the very least, you will then be able to see both areas of the Wizarding World and get a taste of both parks.

We would definitely recommend at least 2 days to visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. You really do need a full day at each park in order to appreciate all the details and cool features of each. This is especially true if you are planning to go on all the rides at least once, as well as visit all the shops and restaurants.
Should I go to Diagon Alley or Hogsmeade first?
We would suggest heading to Diagon Alley first; for one simple reason. When you take the Hogwarts Express from King’s Cross Station to Hogsmeade, you get the “going to Hogwarts” experience; just like in the books. The train ride back to Diagon Alley is a different experience.

Do I need to download the Universal Orlando Resort App before I go?
Definitely yes! The Universal Orlando Resort App is free, and it makes planning your day in the parks so much easier. The App provides real-time updates on wait times for rides and attractions, show times, restaurant reservations, maps and more.
And the App is not just for the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. You can use it for all the areas in both parks. We mostly used it to set up notifications for attraction wait times. It made it easier to decide where to go next, and saved us a ton of time needlessly waiting in line.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Tips – 25 Things Every Muggle Needs to Know
Now that we have covered the basics, let’s dive into the most important, as well as a few lesser-known, details that will take you from a mere muggle to a certified wizard! These tips will ensure your time in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is completely magical.
Tip #1: Arrive Early
We can’t say it enough! Arrive early! The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is one of the most popular attractions at Universal Orlando, so the lines form early.
Whether you want that perfect photo or selfie with no one else in the background, or you want to be first in line for Hagrid’s Magical Motorbike Adventure, plan to arrive before the park opens.

A great way to guarantee earlier access to the parks, is to stay at one of Universal Orlando’s resorts. You are able to get into the parks up to an hour early! Once you have arrived, head straight for the rides that normally draw the most guests.
Tip #2: Keep an eye on the upstairs window of 12 Grimmauld Place
When you first arrive at Universal Studios, don’t be in too much of a hurry to rush past the unassuming row houses to get to the Knight Bus. True Harry Potter fans will definitely recognize the address!
12 Grimmauld Place is not only the home of Sirius Black but also that of a certain grumpy house-elf. If you watch the upstairs window carefully, you will see Kreacher peering out every few minutes!
Tip #3: Meet the Knight Bus conductor and his Shrunken Head side-kick
This is one of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter tips we don’t want you to miss out on! Head over to the Knight Bus, which is parked across the street from King’s Cross Station. Take the time for a meet-and-greet with Stan Shunpike and Dre Head.

Both the Knight Bus Conductor and the shrunken head, are more than happy to chat with you about their job, the bus or even just to smile for a quick selfie. The best part about Dre Head though, his responses are not automated. And he has a lot to say!

As he hangs from the Knight Bus window, he’ll throw in his two cents about whatever it is you’re discussing with the conductor! It was pretty funny and the kids absolutely LOVED this!
Tip #4: You can call the Ministry of Magic
Even though the phone books inside aren’t really made of paper and the receiver appears to be dead, the red telephone box in the London area is more than just a clever prop! Located between Kings Cross Station and the hidden entrance to Diagon Alley, the telephone actually serves a purpose.

Make sure to step inside the telephone box and dial M-A-G-I-C (62442). You will then be connected directly to the Ministry of Magic. Too bad the elevator to the underground Ministry only works for wizards!
Tip #5: Let your wand choose you at Ollivander’s
Of course the first thing you will want to do when arriving at Diagon Alley (or Hogsmeade), is to go shopping for your wand. Head over to Ollivander’s; there’s no better place!

At the shop in Hogsmeade, you will be able to take part in the Wand Selection Ceremony. One young witch or wizard will be chosen by Ollivander himself, to go through the wand selection process!
And even if your child is not chosen (our kids were not), getting to watch the ceremony is free, and a lot of fun! After the ceremony, don’t forget to browse in the shop!

Ollivander’s has a full range of wands to choose from, including generic wands that coincide with your birth month, or wands from specific characters from the movies.
đź“· Need some magical Harry Potter captions and #hashtags for your Instagram posts? We have you covered here.
Tip #6: Cast a spell and watch the magic unfold
And speaking of wands, we definitely recommend that you purchase the interactive kind. Not only do these wands allow you to cast spells throughout both parks, but they also come with detailed maps of where to find the spell locations.
You will recognize a spell location when you find the bronze-coloured medallions on the ground. Each medallion tells you the nature of the spell, as well as the correct wand movement.

Some spells are a little more difficult to perfect than others. But don’t worry, there is usually a special Wizard Helper there to show you exactly how to make the perfect wrist movement.
Are Interactive Wands worth it?
Although the wands are a little pricey (about US $55), they can be used during future visits as well. The wand magic actually lasts forever, as there are no batteries or need for recharging!
Interactive wands are totally worth it! With 34 official spell locations between both parks, our 9 and 11-year-old kids were occupied for HOURS!

Pro Tip: Although not very magical, look for the sensor at the spell locations. You will have the best luck casting your spell if you aim your wand at the four red lights of the sensor.
If you are having trouble with your wand, you can ask a Wizard Helper for assistance. They may recommend that your wand needs repair, or replacing.

Don’t worry! Any of the wand shops in either park can assist you with free repairs or replacements. And it doesn’t matter how long ago the wand was purchased!
Tip #7: Find the secret spots to cast spells with your wand
If the official spell locations are not enough, and you would like to practice some different incantations, look for the secret spots that are hidden throughout the parks! These spots are not labelled on your maps and don’t have the medallions on the floor.
Instead, one of the Wizard Helpers can point you in the right direction! I’ll give you your first one, it’s in Hogsmeade at Scribbulus. Look in the second window!

Tip #8: Be alert! The Dragon on top of Gringotts breathes fire!
When you enter Diagon Alley, you can’t help but notice the dragon perched on top of Gringotts Bank. It is the same Ukrainian Ironbelly dragon that Harry, Hermione and Ron rode to freedom after breaking into a vault at Gringotts.

And he is not just awesome to look at! If you wait for about 15 minutes, you will hear him start to growl. When this happens, get your camera ready! He will breathe a stream of fire so big, that you can actually feel the heat if you happen to be standing below him!
Pro Tip: If you are looking for that perfect photo for your social media account, try standing to one side of the dragon. Move either to the left or right down Horizont Alley for a great side view of the fire-breathing monster.

Not only will you capture his details better, like the broken chains around his neck, but the stream of fire just looks so much more menacing from that point of view!
Tip #9: Exchange your money at Gringotts
Located next to Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts in Diagon Alley, you’ll find the official Gringotts Money Exchange. Here, you will be able to trade your US dollars for Galleons. You can then use your Gringotts currency to make purchases throughout the Wizarding World.
And while you are waiting in line at the Gringotts Money Exchange, don’t forget to ask the goblin behind the counter a question!
At the end of the day, any unused Galleons can be kept as souvenirs, or converted back to US currency at Guest Services.
Tip #10: The Leaky Cauldron sign actually leaks
The Leaky Cauldron is a restaurant and inn for wayward wizards. Although there is a doorway that faces out into Universal’s ‘London,’ you can only enter from inside Diagon Alley. Inside, there is a cauldron, that despite the large crack, does not leak.

This is not the case with the wrought-iron sign of a witch stirring her cauldron, hanging above the Diagon Alley entrance. If you look up at the sign, you will notice water dripping from the crack in the cauldron. It’s a relatively small detail that’s easy to miss, but it’s fun once you spot it.
Tip #11: Buy a robe at Madam Malkin’s Robes for All Occasions
If you are going to attend Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, you will definitely need a robe! But even if you are just going to Hogwarts for the day, stop by Madam Malkin’s Robes for All Occasions.
Inside the shop, you will find a large ornate mirror with magical qualities. When you try on your robe, approach the mirror. She will appraise your appearance; although not always politely.
Tip #12: Get ice cream at Florean Fortescue’s
Florean Fortescue’s is a quaint little ice cream shop located in Diagon Alley. You can either sit in the shop, or take your frozen treats to go. It is here, that you will find the famous Butterbeer Ice Cream! You can’t leave the Wizarding World without giving it a try!
In the books, Harry bought strawberry-and-peanut-butter ice cream for himself, Ron, and Hermione while they strolled around Diagon Alley. You can sample Harry’s favourite flavour in sundae form, or perhaps try Chocolate Chili, Apple Crumble, Vanilla, Salted Caramel Blondie, Chocolate, Clotted Cream, Earl Grey & Lavender, Sticky Toffee Pudding, and Chocolate & Raspberry.
Tip #13: Don’t miss the hidden entrance to Knockturn Alley
Knockturn Alley is far more dark and mysterious compared to the bright and bustling Diagon Alley. It’s also easy to miss.

If you are looking for some Flesh-Eating Slug Repellent, or perhaps just to get out of the hot Florida sun, the entrance is through an archway next to the Leaky Cauldron. It is only marked by a small sign on the wall, so be on the lookout!
Pro Tip: For the young witches and wizards with interactive wands, your maps will glow under the black light of Knockturn Alley and reveal some cool pictures!
And speaking of casting spells… Alohomora will take your breath away!

And don’t forget to visit Borgin and Burkes! Inside, you will find a ton of Dark artifacts, including Death Eater masks, skulls, costume replicas and the Hand of Glory. The store is also home to a Vanishing Cabinet, where if you listen carefully, you can hear a bird chirping inside.
Tip #14: Ride the Hogwarts Express from Platform 9 3/4
One of the perks of having the Park-to-Park ticket is being able to ride the Hogwarts Express. And as we have mentioned already, the experience is completely different, depending on which direction you are travelling in. So make sure to ride the Hogwarts Express both ways!

When you ride the train from King’s Cross Station, you are in for a real treat. You will actually be able to board the Hogwarts Express from Platform 9 3/4!

As you make your way through the station, look for a bunch of piled-up luggage that has a plexiglass window. The people in line ahead of you will appear to pass through a solid brick wall to Platform 9 3/4.
Unfortunately, you won’t be able to see the effect as you walk through. We made sure to hang back a little, so we could get pictures of the kids entering the platform!

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to engage with the Muggles who work in King’s Cross Station! They are great about staying in character, and will often question you about the ‘sticks’ (wands) you are carrying! Ask them how to get to Platform 9 and 3/4 for an entertaining response!
Tip #15: Eat at either the Leaky Cauldron or Three Broomsticks
This is one of our Wizarding World of Harry Potter tips that is a no-brainer! You just have to eat at either the Leaky Cauldron or the Three Broomsticks (or both!) for that true magical world experience! And the food is awesome at both, so you can’t go wrong!
Located in Hogsmeade, The Three Broomsticks looks like a rustic English tavern. Here, you can sample menu items such as roasted chicken, ribs, fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, soup, salads, corn on the cob, and roasted potatoes.
There’s also a children’s menu with staples such as mac and cheese, fish and chips, and chicken fingers. Desserts include apple pie and chocolate trifle, or even a small container of Butterbeer ice cream!
In Diagon Alley, you will find the Leaky Cauldron. This quaint little pub also serves a menu of traditional British food including cottage pie, fish and chips, and bangers and mash.
Their children’s menu includes favourites such as chicken fingers and mac and cheese. And don’t forget, you can also get Butterbeer and other signature drinks here.
Tip #16: Try pumpkin juice at the Hogs Head
The Hogs Head Pub is located inside The Three Broomsticks. It is an awesome, if somewhat seedy looking, place to grab both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.

For the underage witch or wizard, The Hogs Head is the perfect place to sample some Pumpkin Juice. The drink is perfect for pumpkin lovers (like me), with a flavour of apple cider, mulled spices and real pumpkin juice. But just beware, it’s pretty sweet and strangely addicting!
For “of age” witches and wizards, The Hogs Head is a good place to find a beer that is specially brewed for the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. For example, Wizard’s Brew which is a dark porter and Dragon Scale which is a lighter lager.

You can also enjoy Firewhiskey, a cider/vodka mix called a Pear Dazzle and the Hog’s Tea (similar to a Long Island).
Pro Tip: The hogs head above the bar actually snarls at guests!

Tip #17: Go inside all the stores, but don’t forget to explore the shop windows as well!
One of our biggest Wizarding World of Harry Potter tips is to explore the shops and windows that line both Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade. The shops are all Harry Potter themed, so you won’t have any difficulty finding treasures from Time-Turners to quills and ink, and even some more questionable dark arts finds, like skulls and cursed necklaces!
But don’t just take the time to explore inside these awesome shops; do some window shopping as well! There are some absolutely incredible details in each shop window. Some are enchanted, and the ones that have spell locations hidden inside, bring the magic to life right before your eyes.
One of our favourite examples is Weasleys’ Wizarding Wheezes in Diagon Alley. On the sign outside, there’s a rabbit that occasionally pops out of the twins’ hat when he lifts! Inside, you will see Professor Umbridge in her signature pink dress, riding back and forth on a unicycle. Listen carefully, and you might hear her shouting, “I will have order!”
But it doesn’t even end there! There are also a few storefronts that are “fake” in that they don’t lead into actual shops. However, these are also full of magic and amazing details that you don’t want to miss (like Mrs. Weasley’s self-knitting needles in the window of Spindlewarps)!

Pro Tip: Both Universal Orlando Parks have a pickup service, so you don’t have to carry your purchases around all day. Just buy your souvenirs and pick them up at the end of the day. If you’re staying at an on-site hotel, you can even arrange to have your purchases sent directly to your room.
Tip #18: Try every type of Butterbeer
You are not a real Wizard if you haven’t given Butterbeer a taste! This delicious concoction is served in several forms throughout the parks. Our suggestion: try them all! Only then can you truly choose your favourite!

And for all you Muggles who don’t know what Butterbeer is; it’s a non-alcoholic drink that tastes like a combination of cream soda and butterscotch. The drink version comes in three types: regular, hot, and frozen.
The regular butter beer comes topped with a butterscotch-flavoured creamy topping that doesn’t melt into the drink. It was absolutely delicious! This version was the favourite with our kids.
The hot Butterbeer is seasonal and tastes similar to white hot chocolate, with the addition of the same butterscotch-flavoured topping as regular Butterbeer.
My favourite version was the frozen Butterbeer. This drink had the consistency of a frozen coffee drink but had the same flavour and topping as the regular Butterbeer. It was heaven on a hot day at the parks!

Of course, Butterbeer also comes in treat form. If you can’t get enough of that unique flavour, then you have to try the sweets. You can find Butterbeer Potted Cream, Butterbeer Fudge and Butterbeer Ice Cream in various locations throughout the parks.
Tip #19: Catch the shows
As you are making your way through the Wizarding World, be sure to try and catch the shows. They are definitely worth seeing, and a great way to take a break from the hustle and bustle of your day. You can find show times and locations on your Universal App.

Both theme parks have their own shows, so it’s easy to pick a time that works for wherever you happen to be. You’ll find the Frog Choir and the Triwizard Spirit Rally shows in Hogsmeade, and The Tales of Beedle the Bard show and Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees show in Diagon Alley.
Tip #20: You can hear Moaning Myrtle in the restrooms
In the movies, Moaning Myrtle is the ghost of a young Hogwarts student who haunts the girl’s restroom. When you visit Hogsmeade at Universal, you may hear Myrtle moaning and wailing about hand-washing in both the men’s and women’s restrooms. In fact, Myrtle’s favourite spot to haunt seems to be the restrooms located near the Hog’s Head Pub.
Tip #21: You can mail a letter from Hogsmeade
Head over to the Owl Post in Hogsmeade where you can actually mail a letter or postcard, that has the Hogsmeade postmark on it! You can bring your own letters and postcards (or purchase them from the Owl Post), pay for the postage, and then drop them straight into the letterbox to be mailed. The postmark stamp is free.
The Owl Post carries some pretty cool Harry Potter stamps, quills, ink, or even a Howler! For all you Muggles who are unfamiliar with a Howler, it is a magical letter delivered by owls at Hogwarts. Once opened, the letter screams at you for some sort of wrongdoing, then self-destructs!
In the non-magical version, it is similar to the greeting cards that allow you to record your own message. Hubby couldn’t wait to get his hands on one! Such a fun souvenir!
Tip #22: Buy a Chocolate Frog from Honeydukes
Honeydukes was definitely our favourite shop while in Hogsmeade. We loved looking around at all the magical bonbons we had read about in the books!
Not only were we able to sample some Pumpkin Pasties, which were delicious by the way, but we also snagged some Chocolate frogs (to start our own card collection) and Felix Felicis for the ride home!
We also found some other noteworthy and wonderful treats like Cauldron Cakes, Bertie Bott’s Every-Flavour Beans, Jelly Slugs and Fizzing Whizzbees. We hope to try them all someday!

Pro Tip: Just a heads-up on Bertie Bott’s Every-Flavour Beans. We found there to be more gross ones than good flavoured ones! The Vomit, Booger, and Soil flavours are particularly nasty! Not to mention that seemingly innocent toffee – Alas! Earwax!

Tip #23: You don’t have to go on the ride to visit Hogwarts Castle
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey is a ride located inside Hogwarts castle. The ride itself is truly amazing, but if you are in any way prone to motion sickness, you will feel sick afterwards. I have gone on that ride once, and barely lived to tell the tale!
What I didn’t realize at the time, was that you can actually make your way through the castle, without going on the ride. All you have to do is let the witch or wizard at the entrance know that you don’t want to ride the ride.

They should then let you join the shorter single-rider line, and you can walk through the same parts of the castle without having to wait in lines. You could also just accompany your family through the regular lines.
When you get to the point where everyone is gathering to get on the ride, just let the witch or wizard know that you don’t want to ride. They will then direct you to a side door that skips the ride, and puts you out in Filch’s Emporium.

Having this option available, allows you to see all the iconic rooms of the castle, including Dumbledore’s office, the Defence Against the Dark Arts classroom, and the Gryffindor common room.
You also get to see the special-effects appearances by Dumbledore and other characters, and a filmed introduction to the ride that features Harry, Ron, and Hermione.

Experiencing all this, without the worry of motion sickness, is a definite win and one of the best Wizarding World of Harry Potter tips we have to offer!
Pro Tip: Make sure to eavesdrop on the conversations the portraits are having! It’s pretty awesome!

Tip #24: Be sure to visit the parks during the day and in the evening
One of our best Wizarding World of Harry Potter tips is to get to the park early, and then stay late! There is definitely something magical about visiting Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley after the sun goes down.
Keep in mind, this won’t be possible every night (especially during the summer months when the sun doesn’t set until much later). Your best bet is to check the opening hours of each park for your travel dates, to see if you can catch either of these parks after dark.
Another perk to staying right up until closing time, there are a lot fewer people in the parks! You might be able to sneak in that last ride with a very minimal wait!
Tip #25: Stay for the Hogwarts light show
Our final suggestion in our list of Wizarding World of Harry Potter tips includes staying for the incredible light show at Hogwarts castle. On select nights, you can watch as Hogwarts castle is transformed into the canvas for a magical projection-mapping show.
During these 5-minute shows, Hogwarts comes to life with both lights and music. All four schoolhouses get showcased. With narration by the Sorting Hat, and set to the iconic Harry Potter score, the show concludes with a short firework finale.
The best part is the show changes throughout the year. The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle is shown exclusively from mid-November until early January during the park’s Holidays celebration.
Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle gives Hogsmeade a spooky vibe throughout the Halloween season. And finally, there is The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts, which shows during the rest of the year.
The best way to see any of the Hogwarts light shows is to check the schedule on the Islands of Adventure website before you plan your trip. This will give you an idea of what show is playing, and at what times.
Typically, the light shows start around 7:15 pm (8:15 after the Daylight Savings change), though this can be bumped up to as early as 6:45. The performances tend to occur every 20 minutes, with a final showing at park close.
One thing to keep in mind is pedestrian traffic around the castle. Much of the area will be cordoned off or will be made into one-way-only traffic just prior to showtime.

You will not be able to get back through to Hogsmeade from the castle, for example. Plan accordingly if you are not thinking of sticking around for the show!
What should you not miss at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter?
In one word – Butterbeer! This is something you can’t get anywhere else in the Muggle world. In fact, it’s rumoured that the recipe for Butterbeer is a closely guarded culinary secret! It really is that good!

No matter how many “copycat” recipes I have tried at home, they never come close to replicating that distinct flavour! Butterbeer is definitely a reason all on its own, to visit Universal Orlando!
And although we really didn’t talk much about the rides in this post, a close second would be Hagrid’s Magical Motorbike Adventure. Try it! Best. Ride. Ever!
Which is better Diagon Alley or Hogsmeade?
This truly is a difficult question! When I asked the kids which park they preferred, the only thing they could agree on, was that they were undecided! Both parks have so many unique things to offer.

Hubby and I tend to lean more towards Hogsmeade, for the simple fact that the Hogwarts castle is located there (not to mention my favourite ride of all time – Hagrid’s Magical Motorbike Adventure). However, at the end of the day, we are going to stick to our original statement. You need to spend time in both parks!
Final thoughts on our Wizarding World of Harry Potter tips
So there you have it! 25 things that all Muggles need to know, before heading into the magical world. We hope that we have provided you with enough Wizarding World of Harry Potter tips, to feel more like a great Wizard and less like a Squib (non-magical wizard)!
🛎️ Looking for somewhere to stay while visiting Universal Orlando? Check hotel availability here.
Pin This Post for Later!

Related Posts:
- Where to Buy the Best Harry Potter Souvenirs While in the Wizarding World
- A Complete Guide to Interactive Wands at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter
- Universal Studios Packing List – 25 Items That Need to Be in Your Park Bag
- The Best Harry Potter Captions for Instagram When Visiting the Wizarding World
- A Beginners Guide to Universal Studios
I love the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and cannot wait to get back there! I will definitely be keeping all of your tips in mind whenever I get to go back.
A lot has changed since I lasted visited the Harry Potter Theme Park in Orlando. This post makes me want to visit again real soon. There is so much more to do and see since I last visited in 2011. We vacationed there 3 times already but I have to convince the hubby to go again. Thanks for sharing. Big Harry Potter Fan.
As a Harry Potter fan, this is probably one of the most informative posts I’ve read. Thank you for all of the useful information! I will definitely be saving this post for future reference.
I LOVE this!! I’m a huge HP nerd and even though we’ve been to HPW Orlando twice, there were some tips in here that I had no idea about!! Can’t wait to head there again and have an even better time!
Thanks for the information.
I had no idea about the phone booth! Definitely going to try it next time we go!
Im such a harry potter fan! These parks are high on my list of places to visit.
My girls loved Harry Potter World. I bet there’s a lot they still don’t know about this Wizarding World.
What a comprehensive post! Absolute love how detailed you are. I’m a Harry Potter fan so I would definitely visit this place. Looks like you and your family had a great time.
This looks like so much fun! I can’t wait to take my kids to Orlando and visit the wizarding world of harry potter.
We visited the Wizarding World of Harry Potter when it first opened up. So much fun! These tips will come in handy when we visit again!
I love it…a hidden entrance! I wish it had been there when I took my boys. They would have loved it.
I am 40 and not ashamed to say that the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is on my bucket list! It looks like there is so much to do and see! This is a great list of tips and I will be using it when I make my pilgrimage. Thank you!
This looks like so much fun. I bet you had a blast!
Wow, this is fabulous! It looks above and beyond in comparison to the California one. It’s fully immersed experience. I need to find someone to go with me.
I’m a huge fan of Harry Potter. We visited this park in 2019 and I can’t wait to go back. Great tips! Yes Butterbeer is a must!
I definitely want to check out Harry Potter World. My friend told me about the wand interactives and I thought that sounded so cool. The last show I did one of our actors was Jason Isaacs aka. Luscious Malfoy. Really cool to get to do a Harry Potter actor’s makeup. These are great tips!
Love Harry! These are great tips for universal Harry Potter World!
What a comprehensive post. I haven’t been to Universal in years. Makes me want to go back.
Looks like a great time! Thanks for the info!
Such great insight, tips, and directions! I have not ever been, but if I do get to go ill definitely be referring to this blog for guidance! Thank you!
This has made me even more excited for my bday trip here in Sept!
These tips to the wizarding world of Harry Potter are good! My 9 year old just got introduced to Harry Potter so we’re definitely going to need this sooner than we think.
Great tips for any Harry Potter fan! You have provided a very thorough post for anyone who is looking to visit! I can only imagine it would be easy to miss some of the details you have provided!
How cool!! You are making me want to go back! I haven’t been to Universal in SO many years. Last time I went the books were just starting to become popular. I would love to experience all of this now that I’ve read them a few times!
Wow, I really enjoyed reading this – so captivating! My oldest daughter was 11 when the first Harry Potter book was published, the perfect age, and so we are all big Harry Potter fans.
I kept imagining my girls using the interactive wands to cast spells in Diagon Alley – they would’ve loved it! I know that my daughter makes butter beer, she’s def a Harry Potter nerd.