The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a "theme park within a theme park" at Universal Orlando Resort in Orlando, Florida. It consists of a series of exhibits, rides, shops, and eateries situated within two of the resort's theme parks, Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida. Since opening, it has attracted millions of Harry Potter fans worldwide and shattered theme park attendance records.
Three Must-See Attractions at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Start your visit by checking out the "Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey" dark ride, which includes encounters with dementors, Aragog the spider, a dragon, and the "Whomping Willow" tree.
Go to Ollivander's and get your very own wand from the wizarding world's most esteemed wand maker.
Hardcore roller coaster aficionados should check out the "Dragon Challenge" and "Escape from Gringotts" rides; families with smaller children are better suited for the "Flight of the Hippogriff" slow-coaster.
Where to Stay Near The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Orlando is dotted with tourist-friendly hotels, but your best bet is to stay at one of the resort's on-site hotels. The Cabana Bay Beach Resort is one family-friendly option, while Loews Portofino Bay Hotel is a more upscale lodging. Loews Royal Pacific Resort is a (relatively) bargain-priced luxury hotel that frequently offers special rates.
Best and Worst Times to Go to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, from Diagon Alley to Hogsmeade, is frequently crawling with muggles. If staying at one of the on-site hotels, take advantage of the early admission option, which allows you to enter the park one hour before the public. During peak hours (roughly 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.), the park is especially packed. Very early and very late are the best times to visit.
Universal Orlando Resort periodically hosts large, free concerts featuring nationally known musicians. Visit The Wizarding World of Harry Potter on one of these nights, when much of the crowd is at the live music venue.
Discounts at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
The most economical way to experience The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is to book a vacation package through Universal Studios. Nearly 50 hotels in the area (both off-site and on-site) have partnerships with Universal that allow visitors to purchase all-inclusive theme park tickets with their hotel reservations. Check out the "Hot Deals" section of Universal's website for specifics.
Food at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
More than 50 restaurants are located within Universal Orlando, ranging from fine dining establishments to fast food chains. Within Wizarding World, Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley both feature a range of eateries, including the Leaky Cauldron and Three Broomsticks, which serve authentic British pub fare. Street vendors throughout the park serve ice cream, snacks, butterbeer (non-alcoholic), and Pumpkin Juice, among other quick, casual foods and drinks.
Parking at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter
A large, enclosed parking garage sits next to Universal Studios, at 6000 Universal Boulevard. Daily parking costs roughly 20 dollars. For an extra 10 dollars or so, you can upgrade to Preferred Parking, which will allows you to park considerably closer to the entrance. Valet parking is available, but pricey (close to 40 dollars for a 2-hour stay).
Transportation Alternatives to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Most hotels in the area operate shuttles that drop guests off at the resort's main entrance.The Lynx public transit buses, geared largely towards tourists, connect commuters to the resort and stop at many area hotels as well. Guests staying at an on-site hotel are within walking distance of the park.
Insider's Tip for Visitors to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Because the crowds are large and the attractions are many, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter generally takes 2 or 3 visits to experience fully. Plan for at least one of your visits to begin late in the evening, when the crowds have diminished and Hogsmeade is lit up beautifully. With less body heat, the park is considerably cooler at night as well.
Author's Bio: Marcus Whelchel is just some muggle who lives, works, and writes in St. Louis, Missouri, with his wife and daughter. Those who know him best believe he must have been kicked in the head by a hippogriff or something.
