EDITOR’S NOTE: This blog was originally published in February of 2019 and then underwent extensive updates and editing in the fall of 2020 to remain current and relevant.
There are so many must-do experiences in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter that simply can’t be covered in a brief blog post. It’s one of those things in life that you truly have to experience for yourself to be fully immersed in that world.
To offer a glimpse at a few of my favorites, I have created a list of my top must-do experiences for you to follow along with on your next visit to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort.
Being immersed in that world is just one of those things in life you truly have to experience for yourself.
Entering Diagon Alley
There is something about that moment you first step foot into Diagon Alley and stand there in awe at something that can only truly be described as out of this world. When this moment happens, take your time, soak it in, and get your camera ready when you hear the Ukrainian Ironbelly Dragon atop of Gringotts Bank begin to rumble.
Have a wand choose you at Ollivanders
Makers of Fine Wands since 382 BC. The wand that chose me was an 11″ holly, phoenix feather core, relatively supple.
Find a magical creature companion at Magical Menagerie
Toad, owl, or cat? You can choose whichever you fancy.
Stop by Quality Quidditch Supplies to pick up some house gear
Whether on the field or in the stands, Quality Quidditch Supplies has everything you are looking for including brooms, Golden Snitches, Bludgers, house sweaters, and more!
Let’s go, Gryffindor!
Stock up on pranks at Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes
Do you have a mischievous sibling that pranks you every chance they get? Well, you can pick up some pretty great pranks at Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes to help even the score.
Check out the Must-Have Toys And Tricks from Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes.
Get your house robes at Madam Malkin’s Robes for All Occasions
Change out of those Muggle clothes and into some authentic wizardwear.
Exchange your Muggle money for wizarding currency at the Gringotts Money Exchange
A REAL exchange with a goblin for some Gringotts bank notes. Easy enough, right?
You know at some point you’ll need to visit the vaults in Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
But be careful, I’ve heard escaping is impossible.
Pass through the brick wall to Platform 9 3/4 and board the Hogwarts Express
Get ready to journey to Hogwarts on the Hogwarts Express! Certainly, the ideal way to transport yourself from Diagon Alley to Hogsmeade and back again.
Fly into the Forbidden Forest on Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
Whether you choose sidecar or motorbike, no visit to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is complete without experiencing this exhilarating roller coaster. You’ll twist and turn through giant trees and come face-to-face with a fiery Blast-Ended Skrewt.
Honeydukes is a surefire way to cure your sweet tooth
Honeydukes is an ideal first stop in Hogsmeade. Not sure which colorful sweet to try first? I highly suggest you try the delicious Chocolate Frogs, each box also includes a special card celebrating a famous witch or wizard.
Pick up some letter writing supplies at the Owl Post
Don’t forget to pen your friend back home – they’re sure to appreciate a letter, especially one with a special Hogsmeade postmark.
Explore the mysteries of Hogwarts castle as you enter and experience Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
Wander around the halls of the castle like a true Hogwarts student. Look carefully, there may be some hidden gems only a true fan would notice.
Take in the shows in Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley
From seasonal projection spectacles on Hogwarts castle to swinging musical performances by Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees in Carkitt Market, day or night, there’s always a can’t-miss show to be seen around The Wizarding World.
Try ALL the Butterbeer
Personally, I love a mug of cold Butterbeer at the end of a long day. There are multiple types of Butterbeer treats that can be found throughout The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Make sure to share your The Wizarding World of Harry Potter must-do’s in the comments and on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram with #WizardingWorldOrlando.