The ultimate guide to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando

From Hogsmeade to Diagon Alley, here's everything you need to know about the Harry Potter rides, restaurants, and shops at Universal Orlando.
Hogwarts Express at the entrance to Hogsmade Village at Islands of Adventure

I grew up in the middle of the Harry Potter hype of the late 90s and early 2000s. Every time a new book came out my parents would take me to the midnight drop at my local Books-A-Million. After acquiring my copy, I would dive deep into the magical world of Harry Potter and his friends. When The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort opened I knew I needed to go. I couldn’t wait to see the pages of the books and scenes from the movies come to life.

Nearly 15 years later, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter has two lands at Universal Orlando Resort. The Diagon Alley area is at Universal Studios Florida and Hogsmeade is located at Islands of Adventure. The two Harry Potter-themed lands are connected by the Hogwarts Express, which looks exactly like the one from the movie. And even better for Harry Potter fans, an all-new land is coming to Universal’s newest theme park, Epic Universe. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic will take elements from the original series plus inspiration from Fantastic Beasts.

All three Harry Potter lands at Universal Orlando Resort have themed shops, rides, dining, and entertainment. The best way to travel between the two original lands at Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure is on the Hogwarts Express. If you want to hop on the train or visit both lands in one day, you’ll need to purchase a Park-to-Park ticket. These tickets allow you to visit both Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida in one day. Even better is that the Hogwarts Express is different on both routes so you’ll definitely want to upgrade your ticket.

Some attractions inside the Harry Potter Orlando theme park lands accept Express Passes. This add-on to your regular park ticket lets you skip the line on many rides and attractions. You can purchase Express Passes online or inside the park. It’s also a free perk if you’re staying at a Universal Signature Collection hotel

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter theme park guide

Here’s everything you need to know about the Harry Potter rides, restaurants, and shops at Universal Orlando Resort.

Tips for visiting Diagon Alley at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Diagon Alley at Universal Orlando Resort
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley at Universal Orlando Resort (Photo: Universal)

I love that the Harry Potter experience at Universal Studios Florida begins outside of Diagon Alley. Near the lagoon, you’ll see a facade that looks just like London. It’s worth spending time here to help set the story for what you’re going to see inside Diagon Alley. This is where you’ll find the Knight Bus, plus its eclectic conductor who chats and takes photos with guests. You’ll also find 12 Grimmauld Place, the iconic home of the Black family and its grouchy house-elf Kreacher. Be sure to look upstairs in the window to see Kreacher peeking out every once in a while. You’ll also want to step into the red phone booth and pick up the phone. Just follow the instructions inside and you may get a special message from the Ministry of Magic.

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When you’re ready to enter the Wizarding World, you may be wondering where to find the entrance to Diagon Alley. To better keep out muggles, it’s hidden behind a brick wall just past Leicester Square Station. 

Inside Diagon Alley

Once inside the Diagon Alley, you’ll be staring right at the large Ukranian Ironbelly dragon that sits atop Gringotts Bank. It really does breathe fire (and it can be quite startling). To catch a photo or video of the fire-breathing dragon, listen for the dragon’s low growl and you’ll know he’s warming up for his next “performance.” This typically takes place every 10 to 15 minutes and is worth waiting around for. I like to do this first when I get into the land before my first ride on Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts.

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Turn right after you enter to visit Carkitt Market or go straight back toward the bank and you’ll hit Horizont Alley. You can also see the seedier side of Diagon Alley if you follow the dark pathway past the Leaky Cauldron into Knockturn Alley. If you’re hot from walking around the park all day, grab a seat anywhere in Knockturn Alley. It’s one of the coldest spots in the park because the sun does not shine into the area. During Halloween, you may even find a few Death Eaters lurking around.

Guide to the Harry Potter rides in Diagon Alley

Entryway into Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort)

There are two rides in Diagon Alley, and both are exciting for different reasons. 

Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts

The concept for Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts is you’re there to take a tour of Gringotts. As so often happens with Harry and his friends, things go awry. You’ll need to get out of the bank before Lord Voldemort and his Death Eaters capture you. The ride is unique in that the vehicles can tilt and spin to point you in precisely the right direction. You’ll also be wearing 3-D glasses, which can sometimes cause some motion sickness. Be prepared with anything you need to take to prevent that. I love this ride, but only ride once or twice a day because I’m prone to motion sickness.

Hogwarts Express

If you want to take the train from London to Hogwarts hop on the Hogwarts Express. The train looks like it was plopped right out of the movies, steam, and everything. During the ride, you’ll virtually pass through the British countryside and be off to the wizard’s school. 

One thing to note about riding the Hogwarts Express in either direction is that you will need a Park-to-Park admission since you’ll be going from Universal Studios Florida to Islands of Adventure. Since the experience is different both ways, you’ll want to be sure to get on at both parks. 

What to know about the Diagon Alley shops at the Harry Potter Orlando theme park

Storefront at Diagon Alley
(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort)

There are quite a few shops in Diagon Alley and they are many of the same ones you see in the Harry Potter books and movies. Some of the most popular shops include Weasley’s Wizard Wheezes where you can buy everything from practical joke sets to adopt a fluffy Pygmy Puff. For Hogwarts robes and supplies, pop into Madam Malkin’s Robes for All Occasions or Wiseacre’s Wizarding Equipment. Of course, every wizard needs an animal friend, and you can find yours at Magical Menagerie. 

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Other cute stores in Diagon Alley include Quality Quidditch Supplies for all of your wizarding sporting goods, Scribbulus for parchment and quills, and Shutterbuttons where you can participate in a Wizarding World photoshoot. 

If you’re looking for sweets, step into Sugarplum’s Sweet Shop, where you can stock up on Chocolate Frogs, Bertie Bott’s Every-Flavour Beans, and Fizzing Whizbees. At Gringott’s Money Exchange, you can talk to a goblin and exchange muggle money for Gringott’s bank notes. The notes can be used like gift cards around Universal Orlando. For a taste of the Dark Arts, Borgin and Burkes is where you can find all of the sinister magic. Look for the Vanishing Cabinet inside the store and listen closely and you’ll hear what’s inside.

If you require a wand, you can get one at Wands by Gregorovitch, which usually has smaller crowds than the more popular Ollivanders Wand Shop. If you want to try to be picked for a wand ceremony, you’ll want to wait in line at Ollivanders.

Diagon Alley restaurants at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando

People eating at the Leaky Cauldron at Diagon Alley
(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort)

There’s 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 Harry Potter land.

Leaky Cauldron

Fashioned after the pub and inn from Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, the Leaky Cauldron is Diagon Alley’s only spot where you can sit down to eat. The restaurant offers mobile orders and fast-casual service where you can order at a register and have your food brought to your table. You can order traditional British fare such as bangers and mash or fish and chips. Don’t worry, there are also plenty of picky-eater-approved options like macaroni and cheese. Breakfast is served until 10:30 am, with dishes like traditional English breakfast complete with baked beans and black pudding, and pancakes with bacon.

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Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour

When it’s time to cool off with a treat head straight to Floren Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour. Butterbeer ice cream is certainly the most popular menu item, but don’t sleep on the shop’s other unique flavors like Earl Grey and Lavender, Sticky Toffee Pudding, and Chocolate Chili. The shop offers soft serve and hard pack ice cream that’s served in a cup or cone. My go-to order is either a toffee soft serve or a strawberry and peanut butter hard pack.

The Fountain of Fair Fortune

When you’re ready for something a bit stronger than Butterbeer, stop at the Fountain of Fair Fortune. There’s a variety of non-alcoholic drinks, but adults can pop in here for a Wizard’s Brew or Dragon Scale beer while kids sip on pumpkin juice. If you’re really feeling up to a challenge, get a shot of Fire Whisky, which is akin to a cinnamon whisky, but with a little more of a kick.

The Hopping Pot

In the back corner of Carkitt Market, the walk-up counter at The Hopping Pot is the best spot to grab a Butterbeer before watching a performance on the nearby stage. The stand also offers snacks like Butterbeer ice cream or savory beef pasties if you need some nourishment.

Eternelle’s Elixir of Refreshment

Add a bit of magic to your bottle of Gillywater with the selection of flavorful elixirs available at this stand in Carkitt Market.

London Taxi Hut

Just outside of Diagon Alley is the London Taxi Hut. While most guests will just walk past this unassuming stand, real Universal Orlando fans know this is a great spot for a snack or light lunch. The hut dishes out baked potatoes, or jacket potatoes if you’re British, topped with everything from beans and cheese to broccoli and cheese.

Shows in Diagon Alley not to miss

Performance by Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort)

Two shows play in Diagon Alley and you’re not going to want to miss either one. The first is Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees. This family-friendly show features the singing sensation of the wizarding world, Celestina Warbeck. This is a great one to watch if you need a break from walking around and want to hear some talented singers. 

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On the same stage, you can catch The Tales of Beedle the Bard, which is a trunk show-style performance. The props and puppetry are a masterful way to show off some of the most iconic wizarding fairytales. During the show, you’ll see retellings of The Fountain of Fair Fortune and The Tale of the Three Brothers, the latter of which tells the story of the artifacts of The Deathly Hallows.

Tips for visiting Hogsmeade at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando

Sign for Hogsmeade Village at Islands of Adventure
(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort)

In the Harry Potter series, Hogsmeade Village is the charming snow-capped village near Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The Islands of Adventure Wizarding World has exciting rides, delicious dining options, and plenty of places to shop. Of course, there’s also some excellent Harry Potter-themed entertainment too.

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Guide to the Harry Potter rides in Hogsmeade

Hogsmeade is the Harry Potter theme park land to visit in Orlando if you’re most interested in experiencing the best rides. There are four to experience so be sure to give yourself plenty of time to do them all.  

Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure

Hagrid animatronic on Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort)

One of the most thrilling rides inside either currently open Wizarding World is Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure. The “story coaster” takes you through the Forbidden Forest to check on some of Hagrid’s most prized creatures like unicorns. The high-speed coaster is great for thrill-seekers. You’ll want to try to ride twice to experience both the motorcycle seat and the sidecar seat, which offer different ride experiences. 

This is the only attraction in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter that doesn’t utilize Express Pass, so you’ll want to arrive early to get in line with a minimal wait. If you’re staying at a Universal Resort hotel, use the morning for early admission to get in line quickly. I always advise people to be in line at the park’s entry about an hour before the park opens to be closer to the front of the attraction line and wait just a few minutes to get on. 

Flight of the Hippogriff

If you have a Harry Potter-loving kid who may not be tall enough or brave enough for some of the bigger attractions, Flight of the Hippogriff is perfect. The kiddie coaster is cute, albeit a short ride. With an Express Pass, you can often do the ride as many times as you want with very little waiting.  

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Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort)

You can’t miss the entrance to Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey because it’s actually inside Hogwarts Castle, which towers over the Hogsmeade area from on high in true Wizarding World fashion. 

Part coaster and part 4-D motion simulator, this ride will take you twisting and turning through the grounds of Hogwarts. Rider beware, complaints of motion sickness on this ride are common, but seeing the inside of Hogwarts is almost worth it. If you have really bad motion sickness, you can always walk through the castle with your family or friends and then opt out. 

The Hogwarts Express

If you want to get back to London from Hogwarts, step aboard the Hogwarts Express. The train ride will take you to King’s Cross Station at Universal Studios Florida. Just know you’ll need a Park-to-Park ticket to ride.

What to know about the Hogsmeade shops at the Harry Potter Orlando theme park

Facade of Ollivanders at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort)

There aren’t nearly as many shopping locations in Hogsmeade as there are in Diagon Alley, but there are more than enough to meet all your wizarding needs. You can find all of the iconic Harry Potter Sweets at Honeydukes. I prefer Honeydukes to Sugarplums because it’s easier to navigate and I love the cute theming that feels like a retro candy store.

Over at Dervish and Banges, you’ll find everything from Hogwarts robes and Golden Snitches to brooms and more.  Don’t forget to check out the living textbook, The Monster Book of Monsters. Luckily, it’s in a cage because this book bites! And at Filche’s Emporium of Confiscated Goods, you can get replica props from the Harry Potter movies. 

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Of course, if you need a wand, there’s another outpost of Ollivanders Wand Shop, which offers wands for witches and wizards. Plus you can still participate in the interactive experience that’s available over at Diagon Alley too. For even more interactive fun, head to the Owl Post where you can get a postcard and mail it to your family and friends with a Hogsmeade postmark.

Hogsmeade restaurants at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando

Girl enjoying hot butterbeer during the holidays at Universal Orlando (Photo: Universal)
(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort)

There’s only one restaurant in Hogsmeade, but there are two Butterbeer carts and a pub, so you won’t go thirsty between attractions.

Three Broomsticks

The rustic charm of Three Broomsticks lends itself to hearty fare like beef pasties and rotisserie chicken. Larger families can go for the full Harry Potter world experience by ordering The Great Feast—a family-style meal with all the fixins’. And for kids, there’s always macaroni and cheese or chicken strips. Because this is the only real restaurant in this part of the park, it does get very busy. Consider eating at off times to beat the crowds.

Hog’s Head

Located in the back of Three Broomsticks, Hog’s Head serves Butterbeer, Pumpkin Juice, and a variety of alcoholic drinks. Craft beer drinkers will want to try the Hog’s Head Brew, which is only available at this location.

Butterbeer Carts

There are two Butterbeer carts in Hogsmeade where you can get frozen or cold Butterbeer, water, and other Wizarding World beverages.

Shows in Hogsmeade not to miss

Nighttime projections on Hogwarts Castle
(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort)

Nearly every season, there’s a themed projection show on the facade of Hogwarts. During the 2024 summer months, Universal unveiled a new show called Hogwarts Always featuring a rousing score and iconic moments from the movies. The fall brings Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle, which is dedicated to Lord Voldemort and his clan of Death Eaters. Then the holiday season brings The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle, where festive scenes are showcased. 

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Near Hogwarts Castle, there’s a small stage. Here you can catch the Frog Choir from Hogwarts performing throughout the day. You can also watch the Triwizard Spirit Rally at this stage. During the show, you can cheer on students from all three wizarding schools as they prepare for the Triwizard Tournament. 

Tips for visiting the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic in Orlando

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Ministry of Magic artist rendering
(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort)

The newest Harry Potter-themed land coming to Universal Orlando Resort is the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic. The land will open at Universal’s upcoming theme park, Epic Universe, which is set to open in 2025. The land will feature elements from the original Harry Potter books and movies, plus the Fantastic Beasts franchise. The majority of the land is based in 1920s Paris from Fantastic Beasts, but the big thrill takes place inside the 1990s-themed British Ministry. 

Guide to the Ministry of Magic rides

There will only be one ride inside the Ministry of Magic-themed land, but it will be worth the hype, I promise. 

Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry 

Artist rendering for Battle at the Ministry, opening at Epic Universe in 2025.
(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort)

The big draw to the Ministry of Magic is going to be the all-new Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry attraction. The adventure starts when you go through the Metro-Floo wizard transit from Paris to the British Ministry of Magic to see the trial of wizarding baddie Dolores Umbridge. Once you get through the atrium of the Ministry, you’ll board your omnidirectional ride vehicle to watch the trial, but things go awry when Umbridge tries to escape. You’ll have to join forces with Harry Potter and his pals, plus a house-elf named Higgledy to try to capture Umbridge while dodging Death Eaters and foreboding creatures. 

What to know about the Ministry of Magic shops at the Harry Potter Orlando theme park

Artist Rendering of Cosme Acajor at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Ministry of Magic
(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort)

There’s going to be plenty of shopping opportunities inside the Ministry of Magic land at Epic Universe. If you’re in need of a wand, step into the Parisian wand shop, Cosme Acajor Baguettes Magique. You’ll also get a list of locations to practice your spells. Be sure to look for some Fantastic Beasts creatures like Nifflers and Bowtruckles. These cute critters can interact with the wands, too. 

Other places to get wizarding trinkets and treats include Les Galeries Mirifiques for robes and memorabilia, Tour En Flow for Ministry of Magic-themed merchandise, and K. Rammelle for sweets. 

Ministry of Magic restaurants at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando

Cafe L'Air De La Sirene at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Ministry of Magic
(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort)

When it’s time for a magical meal, there are four options inside the Ministry of Magic. 

Cafe L’Air De La Sirène

This French-inspired cafe will have sandwiches, soup, and dessert. The restaurant will be open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, so you can eat here throughout the day. 

Le Gobelet Noir

Dark wizards and witches will love Le Gobelet Noir, a mysterious eatery where hearty meals are served. You can get everything from soups and salads to larger entrees and desserts here. 

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Bar Moonshine

Bar Moonshine is the wizarding world’s take on a sports bar. Here, you can find exclusive beers, wines, and cocktails, alongside American Quidditch memorabilia. 

Bièraubeurre Cart

Of course, you’ll need to get a Butterbeer, and that’s exactly what’s served up at the Bièraubeurre Cart. 

Shows in the Ministry of Magic not to miss

Le Cirque Arcanus artist rendering
(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort)

The Ministry of Magic is going to feature Universal Orlando’s first full-scale theater show in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. The show will be called Le Cirque Arcanus and will feature aerialists, puppetry, special effects, and more. The story follows Ringmaster Slender who has stolen Newt Scamander’s suitcase, and let’s say things don’t go as planned. 

Around the new land, you’ll also see some streetmosphere, including exchange students from Hogwarts and an Aurora who will interact with guests. 

How to have the best Harry Potter theme park experience in Orlando

Hogwarts Castle at Night
(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort)

Discovering the many secrets of the Harry Potter Orlando theme parks is part of the fun. But there are a few things you need to know ahead of time to make your visit as magical as possible.

Arrive early to have the best experience with the interactive wand spots

Once you have your interactive wand from Ollivanders or Gregorovitch, open the box and you’ll find a map inside. The map marks the magical wand spots in Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade where you can test your wizardry. Each spot is marked by a golden medallion on the ground showing which direction to move your wand and what spell to recite. 

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There are also hidden wand spots you won’t see on the map. To find them, ask a Universal Team Member working in the area if they can point you in the right direction. Alternatively, you can look for a wand sensor in shop windows. Team Members can also give you a few pointers if you’re having trouble casting spells. If even that doesn’t work, your wand may be faulty and you can get a free repair at Ollivander’s.

The interactive wand spots quickly become crowded and overwhelming on a busy day. If casting spells is on your list, make it a priority to arrive early and get your spellcasting in before the crowds fill in an hour or so after opening. Nothing will make your magical experience feel less magical than waiting in line to cast a spell, and seeing how the effects work multiple times before it’s your turn. 

There are many types of Butterbeer at Universal Orlando Resort

If you’re walking around either of the Harry Potter lands you’ll see people drinking hot, cold, or frozen Butterbeer. But there are even more ways to enjoy this butterscotch and shortbread-flavored treat. Some of my favorite Butterbeer treats are fudge at Honeydukes and Sugarplum’s Sweet Shop and Butterbeer ice cream at Florean Fortescue’s.

If you want to see all of the Harry Potter Orlando theme park, arrive early and make a plan

The Hogsmeade area and Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure often open early for Universal hotel guests as part of Universal’s Early Park Admission perk. If you’re staying onsite or can get to the park close to opening time, your best bet is to tackle Hogsmeade early in the morning. It’s not as large as Diagon Alley and can get crowded as the day wears on. If it gets too crowded, hop over to Diagon Alley and come back to Hogsmeade in the early evening. No matter what you do, try to get on Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure first before the line gets too long since the attraction is not offered with Universal’s Express Pass system.

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Splurge on the Universal Express Pass if you can 

The Universal Express Pass works on every ride in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter except Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure. It can be pricey if you have a large party or are visiting for multiple days. Since it’s included with Universal Signature Collection hotels, you might save money by staying at one of Universal’s high-end properties. Even better, these hotels are the closest to the parks so you won’t waste much time in transit trying to get to the front gates.

At any attraction that accepts Universal Express, you simply show your ticket or room key to the attendant and they will direct you through a separate, faster line. Because they’ll need to scan your ticket, make sure you don’t leave it behind with your other belongings on rides that require you to store everything in a locker. This is often why you see Universal parkgoers wearing lanyards. I also like to put my ticket in my phone case so it’s always with me. 

Frequently asked questions about The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Universal Orlando wands from The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort)

What’s the difference between the Wizarding Worlds in Orlando and Hollywood?

While just as magical, Universal Studios Hollywood’s version of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter only features the Hogsmeade area and is significantly smaller than the Harry Potter world in Orlando. There’s still plenty of shopping, you can dine at Three Broomsticks, get a drink at Hog’s Head, and ride Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey and Flight of the Hippogriff at Universal Studios Hollywood.

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Which land is better: Diagon Alley or Hogsmeade?

If you’re looking for more Harry Potter rides, the Hogsmeade area in Islands of Adventure has three of them, Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, Flight of the Hippogriff, and Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, while Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida only has Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts. On the other hand, Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida has more shops and restaurants.

In the end, though, they’re both great and it probably comes down to personal preference. Do you have a favorite scene or location from the Harry Potter books? If so, you may find yourself drawn to one area more than another, but you should absolutely experience both parts of the Harry Potter theme park in Orlando. I tend to spend more time in Diagon Alley because of the extra shops and restaurants and the overall feel of the space.

Which Harry Potter park should I go to first?

For the most true-to-the-books Harry Potter experience, head to Diagon Alley at Universal Studios first—just like Harry did in the first book. It’s a great gateway into the Wizarding World. I suggest stocking up on all your souvenirs and wizarding supplies at the land’s many shops. Then, head to Hogsmeade for your first awe-inspiring view of Hogwarts Castle and glimpses of Hagrid’s motorbike whizzing by.

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How many days do you need for the Harry Potter lands?

Plan to spend at least one full day, from park open to park close, at the two original Harry Potter theme parks in Orlando if you want the complete experience. Arrive early, try to see, and do as much as you can before the crowds fill in.

Start at Islands of Adventure’s Hogsmeade and immediately get in line for Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure. Then use your Express Pass for Flight of the Hippogriff and Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey. After riding the three major attractions, shop around and use your wand for some of the interactive experiences. Then take the Hogwarts Express to Diagon Alley. Stop in at The Leaky Cauldron for lunch, then check out the rest of the interactive wand experiences and browse the shops. End the afternoon with a ride on Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts.

Enjoy some of the other parts of Universal Studios Florida before getting back on the Hogwarts Express to go to Islands of Adventure. From there, head out of the Hogsmeade area and enjoy attractions like Jurassic World Velocicoaster before returning for the evening. After all, you haven’t fully experienced Hogsmeade until you’ve seen Hogwarts Castle lit up at night.

Do you have to pay extra for the Wizarding World of Harry Potter?

The Harry Potter theme park areas are included in your ticket price for whichever theme park you’re visiting. However, to get the full experience, you’ll need to purchase a Park-to-Park pass that includes same-day admission to Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida. That’s because the Hogwarts Express ride connects the two parks and can only be accessed by those who have passes to both parks.

Are there seasonal celebrations inside the Wizarding World of Harry Potter?

Yes, there are some seasonal celebrations you’ll want to be mindful of. During Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Florida, Death Eaters take over Diagon Alley trying to find new recruits. You’ll spot them once the sun starts to go down. And during the holidays, Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley get a festive facelift with garlands, lights, and more. You can also catch spirited performances from Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees and the Frog Choir.

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Editor’s note: This story also includes some reporting from Tarah Chieffi.

Megan duBois
Megan duBois is the Senior Theme Park Editor for FamilyVacationist. She's also a freelance journalist who covers theme parks, cruising, family travel, and wine tourism for outlets like Conde Nast Traveler, Business Insider, Forbes, Travel + Leisure, The Points Guy, and National Geographic. You can reach her via email at megand513 [at] gmail [dot] com.