Welcome to the amazing world of magic. There’s a lot of things to do at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and for some, it may be the only chance you can do these things. Here are a few things we recommend doing to make your visit worth your while! The best part is they can be completed in a single day.

1. CAST A SPELL

Go to Ollivander’s wand shop and get an interactive wand as soon as you enter the area. Once purchased, you can cast spells throughout Hogwarts and Hogsmeade and other Harry Potter Parks worldwide (not just in Florida). As a bonus, while at Ollivander’s shop, check out the interactive wand experience as you witness a wand pairing with its wizard/witch from within the audience.

2. SEE THESE FAMOUS ATTRACTIONS

You can’t miss it. The Dragon on top of Gringotts Bank sticks out (visible while even walking around Universal Studios). The Dragon breathes fire on top of Gringotts Bank. The tricky part is there are no set times for it but give or take 10-15 minutes. The duration of the flame also depends; sometimes it is a few seconds, sometimes it is just a spurt of flame. The best way to be ready is to have your camera raised up when you hear growling. Again, although you hear the growling, it doesn’t mean the dragon will show off – it also comes without a growl. However, it is a good indicator to prepare yourself.

Fun fact: “The fire blasting out of the dragon’s mouth reaches temperatures of 1960 celsius/3,560°F.”

Rabbit in a hat will appear from time to time – No set time for this one either but it is a quick return time. We waited for a few iterations (of up and down) and finally showed in about five raises.

At Grimmauld Place, see Kreacher peeking out of the window! This is outside of Diagon Alley. If you wait around the fountain, where the Knight Bus is located, and look at approximately the third window from the right, he will peek his prying face out.

3. DRINK BUTTER BEER

You can’t go to Harry Potter world without drinking butter beer. Frozen butter beer is the best! Very refreshing on a hot day. Multiple places can be found between Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade that serve this delicious, sweet drink.

4. CALL THE MINISTRY OF MAGIC

Outside of Kings Crossing, just before Diagon Alley, is a red telephone booth. It is the only one in the area; you can’t miss it. Once inside, Dial *MAGIC* and it will connect you to the Ministry of Magic.

5. RIDE HOGWARTS EXPRESS

Transport yourself to platform 9 and 3/4 for the Hogwarts Express, connecting to Hogsmeade. Kings Crossing is where you enter, and the entire set feels believable. It is an attraction, an experience, more than a regular train. Once inside a cabin, pay attention so the “window” and your surroundings. Things happen all around you; keep an eye out!

6. INTERVIEW THE GOBLIN

At Gringotts Bank, ask the goblin any question, and you’ll get answers. It’s a great way to pass the time if you are stuck in a line!

7. MIX YOUR OWN POTION

Pass your potions class and make Snape proud by creating your potion! Mix and match different ingredients to make the perfect combination.

8. WATCH CELESTINE WARBECK LIFE

If you happen to grab a butter beer around the corner, you’ll hear these lovely vocalists sing their hearts out in regards to the world of Harry Potter lore.

9. VISIT DRE HEAD AT THE KNIGHT BUS

While waiting for Kreacher to peak his head out, take a picture with the Knight Bus and tour the back side. Yes, the head talks!

10. EXPLORE THE DARK SIDE – KNOCKTURN ALLEY

Put your interactive wand to use and meddle in the dark arts – or defense of it – in Knockturn Alley. The weirdest artifacts of the Harry Potter universe can be found here and can be purchased if you feel the calling.

Now, go! Be the wizard/witch Hagrid knew you were, only at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter!

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The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
6000 Universal Blvd.
Orlando, FL 32819
(407) 363-8000