Luxury at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Even muggles know that Universal Orlando Resort, home to Universal Studios Florida’s The Wizarding World of Harry Potter-Diagon Alley and Universal’s Islands of Adventure’s The Wizarding World of Harry Potter-Hogsmeade, is an epic adventure. But if you want to experience the parks like a true wizard, check out our secrets to enjoy in luxury.

Purchase Your Harry Potter Robe & Wand

What wizard is complete without an official robe and wand? Robes can be purchased online at the Universal Store or at Universal Orlando Resort and City Walk. Most importantly, you will need an interactive wand for your Harry Potter trip. The interactive wands unlock spells throughout Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley. The best place to purchase your wand is Olivander’s Wand Shop in Diagon Alley. Not only does Olivander’s have an enormous selection, but you could be one of the lucky participants in the live show where a “wand chooses the wizard.” Inside your wand box, you will find a map showing the locations of the spells throughout both Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade.

Once you get your interactive wand, start casting spells! To create magical spells, find the medallions in the pavement which show where to stand, what to say and the direction to move your wand. There are even “hidden” spots, not shown on the maps. The window on the right of Slug and Jiggers Apothecary faux storefront along Diagon Alley has a barrel with brown bubbles in it. Make a clockwise circle, and strike down the middle to see what happens..

VIP Experience

The VIP Experience is our favorite splurge, because no one enjoys waiting in the Florida heat for an hour. This guided tour, led by Universal Orlando experts who accompany guests through the most popular rides and attractions, boasts a variety of exclusive benefits before during and after your tour. From priority front of the line access to exclusive behind the scenes experiences in the parks, the VIP Experience rolls out the red carpet treatment. This is also the only way to bypass lines to the most popular attractions like Harry Potter and the Escape From Gringotts over and over.

Splurge on Food

Splurge on delicious meals! While most theme parks are not known for their epicurean dishes, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter does have some promising spots.

Not only does the Leaky Cauldron feature a full English Breakfast, but it also opens at 8 a.m. For lunch, splurge on the Great Feast at Three Broomsticks. Featuring a generous platter of rotisserie chicken, spare ribs, corn on the cob, roasted potatoes and salad we promise you won’t walk away hungry. Finally, don’t forget to splurge on Butterbeer. Pick your favorite: cold, frozen or hot, or try them all! And for one final indulgence, stop by Honeydukes and try favorites like Chocolate Frogs, Bertie Botts Every Flavour Beans and Fizzing Whizbees to go!

Splurge on Luxe Accomadations

While there are not any Harry Potter themed rooms or hotels, the Presidents suite at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel is our choice for fabulous accommodations. After a day at the Wizarding Worlds, retreat to the elegantly appointed suites showcasing marble floors, separate entertainment and dining spaces (the table seats 10), and an outdoor terrace. The posh suite sleeps 12 guests, but when reserving three connecting bedrooms can accommodate up to 17 people. Club level guests also have access to the 3500 SF lounge featuring complimentary tea coffee and assorted soft drinks throughout the day.