There comes a time in every young witch and wizard’s life when they come to in search of the most essential wizarding item: their wand. And in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Hollywood, you can find just that! Ollivanders, Makers of Fine Wands since 382 B.C., is where shopping for a wand is more than just browsing the shelves — it’s pure wonder brought to life!
Whether you’ve just received your acceptance letter to Hogwarts and you’re looking for your first wand, or you’ve tried and failed to fix your broken wand with Spellotape, here’s everything you need to know about Ollivanders.
The Story
Witches and wizards have been paired with wands at Ollivanders for centuries. To quote Hagrid, “There ain’t no place better.” Located in Hogsmeade village in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Hollywood, you too can find your very own wand with the help of the very best wandmakers in the business.
Looking for the full scoop on The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Hollywood? Check out the complete Discover Universal land guide right here.
The Ollivanders Experience
Have you ever wished you could step into Ollivanders and find the wand meant just for you? At Ollivanders, you’ll meet the wandkeeper and witness a unique interactive experience where a wand chooses a wizard – perhaps even you!
Learn about the different types of wood (like elm, cherry, ash, and elder, to name a few) and core materials (like dragon heartstring, phoenix feather and unicorn hair) used to make wands. Different wood types and wand core combinations are what make each individual wand unique. Once the wand has chosen the witch or wizard, you’ll be able to purchase that wand or any of the other wand options at Ollivanders.
Experience Details
- There is no minimum height requirement for this experience.
- Universal Express is available.
- Accessibility: Guests may remain within a standard wheelchair throughout the experience. Motorized wheelchairs or Electric Convenience Vehicles (ECV) are not allowed.
The Wands
The first time I ever stepped foot inside Ollivanders Wand Shop, I was speechless. There’s something truly magical about finding yourself completely surrounded by wands (we’re talking floor to ceiling). Here’s a list of the types of wands and wand accessories available for purchase:
Character Wands: These wands are exact replicas of the ones the characters use in the “Harry Potter” films. Ollivanders has a wide selection of character wands, which include those of Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, Ron Weasley, Professor Dumbledore, Voldemort, and many more. Interactive versions of these wands are available, which allow you to cast spells throughout The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. (More on interactive wands down below.)
Wands based on wood types: Ollivanders offers a wide variety of unique wands with different combinations of wand cores and wood types. If you happen to bump into one of the shop’s experts, they can help pair you with a wand based on your personality.
Toy Wands: The toy wands offered at Ollivanders are perfect for the young witches and wizards still learning to care for magical items. These wands include a special pouch for you to store your wand and a tip that lights up — great for practicing the Lumos spell!
Limited Edition Collector Wands: Every year, Ollivanders designs a unique wand to be sold exclusively in that year. A very limited number of these wands are made so be sure to grab yours before they’re all sold out.
Wand Stands: Each wand is sold in a beautiful box, but if you want to display it at home, what better way to showcase it than on a wand stand? At Ollivanders, you can find both the single and double wand stand (both of which are made of durable metal) depending on how many you own.
Collector Sets: Add a touch of wonder to your collection with the authentic replica wand sets offered at Ollivanders. The TriWizard Champions Wand Set showcases all four of the TriWizard contestant wands in a beautiful glass case, perfect for collectors. Or get your hands on the Dumbledore’s Army Wand Set, featuring the wand of each member of Dumbledore’s Army on a scroll display.
Engravings: For those who want to personalize their very own wand, Ollivanders offers engravings. Get your wand or wand box engraved with your name and make your wand even more special!
Explore Hogsmeade Village with an Interactive Wand
Congratulations – you’re now the proud owner of a wand! If you chose an interactive wand, get ready to cast spells throughout Hogsmeade in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Interactive wands allow you to practice casting spells within Hogsmeade. Inside your interactive wand box, you’ll find a map highlighting all of the wand magic locations. From shop windows to chimneys, there are several spell locations for you to discover in almost every corner of the village. Be sure to practice casting spells to create unforgettable magical experiences!
Now that you’re equipped with your very own wand, head over to Gladrags Wizardwear to find your Hogwarts house robe (they come with a wand holder pocket). And while you’re at it, you can personalize your Hogwarts house robes, too! Then, stop by Honeydukes to try out some of Harry’s favorite sweet treats including Chocolate Frogs, Exploding Bon Bons or Fizzing Whizzbees — you’ve earned it!
Want to know more about shopping in Hogsmeade? Check out our souvenir guide to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Is there a particular wand at Ollivanders you’ve got your eye on? Let us know in the comments below!