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Ultimate Harry Potter Trip to Universal Orlando
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items As a huge Harry Potter fan, Universal Studios Orlando is my favorite place to visit! I've been several times including for the Celebration of Harry Potter in 2018. We're gearing up to go again for the opening of Epic Universe, so here's some of my mu...
Sections
5
Places to Stay
Food
Shopping
Entertainment
Helpful tips
Places to Stay
Where you stay has a huge impact on your experience. Check out these recommendations.
While the Hard Rock Hotel is one of the most expensive options for staying on Universal property, it is so worth it! The hotel itself screams luxury, but it's the things that are included. The park entrance is only about a 5 minute walk from the hote...
Hard Rock Hotel
If AirBNB is your style or you're going with a group and need a lot of space, this Magical Muggles Mansion is close to the resort and is an experience in itself!
Home in Four Corners · ★4.92 · 9 bedrooms · 17 beds · 5 baths
Another AirBNB Option for a less of a crowd but still packed full of fun, themed decor.
Villa in Kissimmee · ★4.88 · 5 bedrooms · 8 beds · 3 bathrooms
Food
Be sure to visit all of the restaurants in Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade! Not only is the food from the books well represented, but it feels like you're actually transported to the very places you've been reading about.
This ice cream shop is SO cute! Both the decor and the flavors are straight from the pages of the book!
Florean Fortescue's
Universal does not skimp in the least with their restaurants. Step through the doors and right into the Leaky Cauldron. Grab some typical British fare or simply stroll around and get a good look at all the great details!
The Leaky Cauldron
The Hopping Pot is just a quick, outdoor walk up, but is great if you're just looking for a butterbeer or one of their other fun drinks!
The Hopping Pot
I promise, you'll feel like you're walking into the creation of Dumbledore's Army! Such a fun spot to stop for a sit down meal.
Hogs Head
Even if you're dragging someone along who isn't a fan of the series, they will be able to appreciate a stop to the Three Broomsticks for some Butterbeer, good British food, and an excellent atmosphere.
The Three Broomsticks
Shopping
The stores in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter are an experience in themselves! These are my favorites.
I could spend HOURS in this shop! Fun fact about me, Fred and George are two of my favorite characters in the series. Getting to walk around the shop they created was like a dream! They have so many of the creations from the book stocked and ready fo...
Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes
This is such a fun store! Not only can you get cool supplies like parchment and a quill, you can actually mail postcards from here for a unique keepsake!
Owl Post
Honeydukes has so many sweets from the stories! They have prepackaged items that are great for taking home, but also a fresh bakery case as well. My daughter was particularly fond of the sugar quill!
Honeydukes
Entertainment
There is an incredible list of things to do at the parks! Don't miss out on these experiences.
All of the Harry Potter rides are amazing, but the Escape from Gringotts ride is my absolute FAVORITE. The details are outstanding! There is so much to look at and the goblins will watch you as you make your way through the line. The ride itself is s...
Escape from Gringotts
Huge note with the Hogwarts Express ride, you HAVE to have the park to park pass in order to ride it! Also, the ride is different depending on which park you are going to so make sure to ride it both ways!
Hogwarts Express
This should truthfully be one of your first stops at the park. No only do they have an interactive experience where you can participate and witness a wand choosing ceremony, but then you can get yourself a wand to use in the parks! There are spots al...
Ollivander's Wand Shop
This is such a fun experience! I love looking at my video from my visit. Get in costume, hop on a broom and tour your favorite places! Of course, don't forget to bring your imagination as a green screen is definitely involved. The end result is a fun...
Shutterbutton's Studio
Make sure to check the times for a stunning performance by Celestina Warbeck.
Celestina Warbeck
Man, the Knight Bus is such a highlight for me! Not only do you get to talk with Stan, but the talking head is interactive and will actually hold a conversation with you! Don't forget to peek across the street at Number 12… you might just see someone...
The Knight Bus
Do not miss the Hogwarts lights show! It is truly magical. I'll admit, I actually cried watching it (in a good way!) it's a breathtaking experience.
Hogwarts Always
Helpful tips
A few sites to visit before you go.
Universal has their own podcast! Take a listen before your visit to get some tips and tricks
PODCAST | Things to Know Before Coming to Universal Orlando
The Orlando Informer is one of the best resources out there for visiting Orlando theme parks. This is a great guide specific to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and it's been recently updated.
Insider’s Guide to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter | Orlando Informer
Want a glimpse into the magic that lays ahead? Watch this complete video experience of the Escape from Gringotts ride!
Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts (Full Ride Experience + Queue POV) Universal Studios