The ULTIMATE Harry Potter Guide to Universal Studios Orlando

RIDES

Flight of the Hippogriff: A family friendly roller coaster which can be a great option for younger kids as the height requirement is only 36 inches. Waiting in line is like hanging out on the edge of the Forbidden Forest and you can even spot Hagrid’s hut.

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey: This ride actually starts by walking through Hogwarts Castle which is an adventure in and of itself for any Potterhead. Once you board this motion simulation ride you’ll ride with Harry above Hogwarts grounds with surprises around every corner.

Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure: Riders zoom through the Forbidden Forest and embark on a heart-pounding journey filled with magical creatures and immersive storytelling straight from the pages of J.K. Rowling's wizarding world. This is the only Harry Potter ride at Universal that you can not use an express pass of any kind for. The line is consistently long, but it is worth it!

Hogwarts Express: You can ride this replica of the beloved train from the books and movies from King’s Cross Station (Universal Studios Park) to Hogsmeade Station (Islands of Adventure Park) if you have a "Park to Park" ticket. While in line at King’s Cross, get your camera ready for when your group crosses the barrier between Platforms 9 and 10.

Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts: Experience the thrill of diving into the heart of Gringotts Bank alongside Harry, Ron and Hermione on a captivating 3D adventure through the depths of the wizarding world's most secure vault. With cutting-edge technology seamlessly blending storytelling and immersive motion simulation, this ride brings magic to life.

SHOWS & ENTERTAINMENT

Ollivander's Wand Show: Step into the legendary Ollivander's Wand Shop, where aspiring witches and wizards are chosen by their wands in an enchanting show that brings the magic of the Harry Potter universe to life before their eyes.

Tales of Beadle the Bard: This captivating live show tells enchanting fairy tales from the wizarding world immersing audiences in the rich folklore of J.K Rowling’s universe.

Celestina Warbeck & the Banshees: Experience the magic of this beloved wizarding band and be transported into the whimsical world of wizarding entertainment through the spellbinding blend of jazz and rock.

Hogwarts Express Conductor: The Hogwarts Express Conductor warmly welcomes guests entering the village of Hogsmeade in Islands of Adventure. This is a great stop for pictures!

The Knight Bus: You can find the Knight Bus right outside Diagon Alley in Universal Studios. This one will always have you laughing as the conductor and the shrunken head love to banter and tell jokes. Tip: If you are wanting pictures and there is a long line, try the back of the bus. You can peek inside and get your pic on the magical purple bus with fewer people around.

The Frog Choir: Gather around as magical amphibians serenade audiences with their harmonious croaks along with a few Hogwarts students in a delightful performance right by Hogwarts castle.

Tri-wizard Spirit Rally: Watch as Hogwarts, Beauxbatons and Durmstrang intertwine in a dazzling display of magical prowess and school pride, igniting the thrill of competition in every spectator.

The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle: Experience the magic come to life as Hogwarts castle illuminates with enchanting nighttime lights, transporting guests into the spellbinding magical world. There is a special Christmas show mid-November through early January and a Dark Arts show on certain dates throughout spring and most of the summer.

SHOPPING

-Hogsmeade-

Honeydukes: Explore the enchanting treats and merchandise at Honeydukes. Load up on chocolate frogs, bertie botts or my personal favorite, fizzing whizzbees.

Owl Post: Send your messages with a touch of wizardry as you visit the Owl Post. Tip: You can purchase postcards and stamps and drop them in the mailbox at the Owl Post. They will be postmarked from Hogsmeade!

Dervish & Banges: Shop here for wizarding supplies and magical curiosities. Aspiring witches and wizards can find everything from Quidditch gear to spellbooks. They even carry remember-alls.

Ollivanders Wand Shop: After watching a wand choose a wizard at the wand ceremony enter Ollivander’s wand shop to browse for your very own wand. Interactive wands can be used to cast spells all around Hogsmeade & Diagon Alley.

Filch’s Emporium of Confiscated Goods: Explore the treasures and curiosities gathered by Hogwarts' caretaker, Argus Filch. You’ll find a unique array of magical artifacts and souvenirs here.

-Diagon Alley-

Weasley’s Wizard Wheezes: Step into the whimsical world of Fred and George Weasley's joke shop, where laughter and magic collide amid a colorful array of pranks and novelties. You can pick up Decoy Detonators, Extendable Ears, Love Potions and more.

Quality Quidditch Supplies: No surprises here - shop for all your magical sporting good needs. Jerseys, brooms, golden snitches and more!

Sugar Plum’s Sweet Shop: If you aren’t going to Hogsmeade where you can stock up on all the sweets at Honeydukes this is another option for you.

Globus Mundi: A small shop fulfilling your travel needs and a favorite stop for this travel advisor. They have items like luggage tags, backpacks, travel posters, wallets and more.

Wiseacre’s Wizarding Equipment: Find an array of essential magical tools and enchanting artifacts like telescopes, time turners and magnifying glasses. This store has a beautiful interior and I love to pop in just to admire.

Scribulus: Attached to Wiseacre’s Wizarding Equipment so you can walk right over to pick up a quill and notebook if you need.

Magical Menagerie: This shop has one of my favorite window displays with all kinds of magical creatures. Inside you can shop for plush toys and collectible figurines of hippogriffs, owls, unicorns and all your favorites. Tip: Walk into the alley next to the store and check out the window display with the snake. You may just hear a little parsel tongue if you listen closely.

Madam Malkin’s Robes for All Occasions: The only place to shop for exquisite robes, stylish attire and magical accessories to dress like a true witch or wizard. Be sure to stand in front of the mirror to hear what is really things about your outfit

Borgin & Burkes: Practitioners of the Dark Arts will enjoy the sinister and mysterious world of Borgin and Burkes. Visitors can explore an array of menacing artifacts, magical oddities and enchanted curiosities. Two insider tips here - listen by the vanishing cabinet for a little birdie - just like the one Malfoy used to test the cabinet in the Half-Blood Prince. You can also find the chest that Barty Crouch Jr. used to keep Malfoy Moody in. Pay close attention - there may be something, or someone inside.

OTHER THINGS TO DO

Spellcasting: After picking up an interactive wand from Ollivander’s you can walk around the wizarding world with your map (included with wand) to find all the locations where spells can be cast. Look closely on the ground for gold medallions showing you the way. In addition to the rides, shopping and food, this is a great way to spend some time in Hogsmeade or Diagon Alley.

Gringotts Money Exchange: Head inside to exchange some muggle money for wizarding galleons. You can spend this exchanged currency just like dollars in the park (or keep it as a souvenir). Be sure to talk to the Gringotts Goblin inside and ask it some questions.

Knockturn Alley: The darker side of Diagon Alley is also a great place to go to cool off and get away from the Orlando heat. Stop by midday to try some spells and do a little shopping.

Hogsmeade

Three Broomsticks: Step into the rustic charm of The Three Broomsticks, where guests can savor traditional British fare such as fish and chips, shepherd's pie and Butterbeer, all while immersing themselves in the cozy ambiance of a quaint wizarding tavern.

Hog’s Head: A pub on the side of the Three Broomsticks where you can get all kinds of beverages. While the highlight is undoubtedly the famous Butterbeer, served either cold, frozen or hot, the menu also features specialty beers, both wizarding & Muggle brands, like Dragon Scale and Wizard's Brew, as well as a selection of wines and spirits (try the firewhiskey). Non-alcoholic options include Pumpkin Juice and Gillywater.

Diagon Alley

Leaky Cauldron: Have a meal here, just like Harry! You’ll find hearty British fare such as bangers and mash, fish and chips and savory cottage pie. Tip: Try a mid-morning breakfast to avoid the crowds. You can get a Traditional English Breakfast, Egg-Leek & Mushroom Pastry, Pancake Breakfast & more.

The Hopping Pot: Quench your thirst with a magical concoction from the Hopping Pot, where whimsical elixirs like Butterbeer, Pumpkin Juice and Tongue Tying Lemon Squash await. Beer, wine & Fire Whiskey are also served here.

The Fountain of Fair Fortune: Stop here for a Butterbeer, Fishy Green Ale (it’s non-alcoholic) or Draught Beer. TIP: You can get Butterbeer ice cream here! If the line is too long in Florean’s you might want to pop in here.

Florean Fortescue’s: At this magical ice cream parlour you can try flavors like Granny Smith, Earl Grey and Lavender, Chocolate Chili, Sticky Toffee Pudding, Salted Caramel Blondie and of course BUTTERBEER.