Unlock the Magic: Your Family's Ultimate Adventure at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Imagine stepping through a portal that leads straight to the heart of your child’s imagination, where the beloved stories of the Harry Potter and friends leap off the page (or movie screen) and come to life right before them authentically and tangibly.
Welcome to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort—a land where both the young and the young-at-heart can explore, discover, and, most importantly, be swept off their feet by the magic of the beloved wizarding world…and drink all the Butterbeer. Real, frosty Butterbeer frozen, iced or hot versions.
Enchantment for Young Wizards and Booklovers
Many MAT client families initially call us to help plan their Universal Orlando trip to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter as a celebration! Usually, their young wizards have completed or are in the midst of completing their literary journey through the Harry Potter series (usually around books 2 & 3). What a fun way to celebrate a literary accomplishment!
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando offers children of all ages an unparalleled opportunity to tangibly step right into the beloved books and movies they have invested their imaginations in.
Remember the first time your children read about the magical brick wall leading to Diagon Alley or the awe-inspiring descriptions of the majestic Hogwarts Castle?
Well, at Universal Orlando Resort, they can literally walk into them as these scenes spring vividly to life, offering your children an experience that bridges the gap between imagination and fantasy with reality they can see, touch, smell, and taste.
As your children finish reading their Hogwarts books, there is no better time than now to plan a visit to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Here, their favorite wizarding moments materialize into real-world adventures, enveloping the senses and igniting imaginations.
Magical Attractions for Every Age
Don’t worry so much about being tall enough to do it “all,” as Universal Orlando Resort offers must-see attractions sure to captivate visitors of all ages. Here are a few of our favorite magical attractions at Universal Orlando:
The Magic of Olivanders
One of the ways I like to start a new MAT family in their Wizarding adventure is at Ollivanders, where aspiring witches and wizards can experience the spellbinding moment when a wand chooses them.
Of course, you can simply walk in and purchase a wand at the storefront, but I highly encourage doing the “show.” This unique interactive experience is one that no fan should miss, and I promise the magic you will feel inside is very, very real – I usually don’t make it through without tearing up in joy as it is SO well done.
Riding the Hogwarts Express
No matter how tall you are, I strongly suggest a journey on the legendary Hogwarts Express, which departs from Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross Station. It is a beautifully executed testament to J.K. Rowling’s magical world.
As you travel between Diagon Alley in Universal Studios and Hogsmeade in Universal’s Islands of Adventure, you really can’t help but marvel at the lifelike recreation of this iconic train ride, and be prepared to experience a few favorite moments from the movies. One ride simply will not suffice, as it is a different experience each direction!
Don’t worry literally EVERYONE can ride the Hogwarts Express as there are no height requirements and accommodations for strollers, scooters, wheelchairs and the like on this attraction.
Riding the iconic “broomstick ride” at Universal
Known to many Universal and Harry Potter fans as the “broomstick ride” I don’t want you to miss ‘Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey’ inside the revered halls of Hogwarts Castle. This breathtaking attraction takes you on a fantastical ride where you’ll soar through scenes inspired by the movies, meeting Dementors, dragons, and even the Whomping Willow. This attraction does have a 48″ height requirement to ride, but your MAT Advisor can walk you through how to experience part of the magic inside Hogwarts if your kiddos do not meet the height requirements.
Ride side by side on Hagrid’s Motorbike
For thrillseekers, ‘Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure’ located in Hogsmeade inside Islands of Adventure, offers an exhilarating outdoor coaster experience through the Forbidden Forest, showcasing a variety of familiar magical creatures, compelling storytelling, and a fast ride on a motorbike that will leave your heart racing! This attraction does feature high speeds, a small drop, and does go backward for a short period of time, so there is a 48″ requirement.
Experience an EPIC Battle at the Ministry of Magic
The brand new ride inside Universal Epic Universe, “Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry” has a 40″ height requirement and will take you on a thrilling adventure filled with fantastic beasts in an omnidirectional lift transports you to the trial of Delores Umbridge. Here you will experience iconic features from the movies including the Fountain of Magical Brethren.
Even more Magic
These are only some of the attractions in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando, like the Flight of the Hippogriff and Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts. Don’t worry your Mom Approved Travel Advisor will make sure you experience all of the wizarding fun on your magical vacation and prioritize the activities most important to your family!
Magic Beyond the Rides
For those seeking a more relaxed pace, the Wizarding World offers enchanting experiences that perfectly complement the excitement of the rides.
- Interactive Wand Experiences: Grab a map and test your wand skills at various spots marked throughout Diagon Alley, Hogsmeade and the Ministry of Magic. You will cast spells that trigger magical effects—from illuminating windows to stirring cauldrons—engaging even the most novice wizards in interactive fun.
- Explore Wizarding Shops: Stroll through the specialty shops such as Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes, which is filled with its signature colorful chaos and eccentric products sure to bring laughter and a little air conditioning your way. You should also visit Madam Malkin’s Robes for All Occasions where you can purchase high-quality Hogwarts robes in many sizes all with your preferred Hogwarts house!
- The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle: As the sun sets, witness the iconic castle come alive with a dazzling light show featuring music, effects, and awe-inspiring projections. This mesmerizing spectacle is a must-see for every visitor, creating a magical end to a perfect day!
- Magically Leisurely Dining: No worrying about reservations, you will be able to savor authentic wizarding fare at places like the Leaky Cauldron and The Three Broomsticks, where you can relax and absorb the rustic charm while enjoying traditional dishes and Butterbeer in all of its delightful flavors! Don’t worry, we will also tell you alllllll about the best bites at Sugarplums and where to find Butterbeer Ice Cream!
- More magical book and movie moments: there really are SO many magical moments available to experience we haven’t listed from getting REAL Gringotts bank money to spend in the parks, to getting iconic photo moments, sending letters via owl post to hearing the tales of Beedle the Bard or the songs of Christina Warbeck and the Banshees or the Frog Choir. The magic of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter goes way beyond the rides!
Dining and Shopping: A Wizard's Delight
When it comes to dining, immerse yourself in the flavors at The Leaky Cauldron or The Three Broomsticks, where authentic British fare offers a taste of the wizarding world to both Muggles and Wizards. Sample traditional dishes such as Fish & Chips and Toad in the Hole or enjoy a glass of the ever-popular Butterbeer.
Souvenir shopping at these parks is just as magical as the attractions themselves. Visit Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes to find delightful pranks and toys or take home an authentic wand from the expertly designed shops of Diagon Alley. The selection of Hogwarts house-themed apparel and accessories ensures that everyone can find the perfect memento.
Why Choose Mom Approved Travel for Your Magical Journey?
We are a U-Preferred Travel Agency, which means we KNOW all the Universal things and have the experience to really take care of you and your family.
At Mom Approved Travel, we take the stress out of planning to ensure that you can fully embrace the magic of your vacation. Our expertise and passion for family travel mean that we can tailor each journey to meet the unique needs and desires of every family.
Our personalized itineraries, insider tips, and magical details are designed to enhance your family’s Universal adventure, allowing everyone to enjoy the journey without the burden of exhaustive planning. Whether it’s simplifying park entry, planning unforgettable dining experiences, or maximizing your time with Express Passes, we ensure your Universal planning process is as Epic as the destination itself!
Wizarding with Mom Approved Travel
If you are ready to explore the magic of the Wizarding World with your family or a group of friends, let’s start a conversation by filling out our short Mom Approved Travel Information Request Form!
Whether you want to primarily focus on the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, or incorporate it as a part of an Epic Universal Family vacation your Mom Approved Travel Advisors can’t wait to help you experience it for yourself!
