The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando is a truly magical place! The Wizarding World of Harry Potter- Diagon Alley (Universal Studios) and Hogsmeade (Islands of Adventures), stretches over both Universal Orlando parks. The Hogwarts Express links the two together. You must have a park to park pass to ride the train. And you do want to ride the train.

If the purpose of your trip is all things Harry Potter, then you want to head to Universal Studios first. Head straight to the back right side of the park. You will eventually find yourself in London. You will pass Kings Cross Station but don’t head there yet.

The first thing you will notice is the Knight Bus from Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. Stop and talk to the bus driver. He will interact with you and tell you a few jokes. While in the London area, you’ll also see 12 Grimmauld Place, Sirius Black’s family house. And every once in a while, Kreature peeks his head out between curtains in the window. Don’t forget to make a call from the telephone booth.

Now it is time to head into Diagon Alley. The entrance is to the right of Kings Cross. There won’t be any signs so keep your eyes peeled for other wizards entering.

Here are some of my favorite spots in Diagon Alley:

The Leaky Cauldron – This will be the first thing you see when you enter Diagon Alley. Grab breakfast (or any meal) here before you start your day.
Ollivanders (there is also a location in Hogsmeade) - Line up for entry and watch as someone in your group will have Ollivander help them select their wand. You can buy two kinds of wands in the Wizarding World, regular wands and interactive wands. Both Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade have interactive wand spots (Designated by gold plaques) where you can conduct a spell. Watch as you move curtains or make water fountains work. This is a fun souvenir.
Gringotts Bank - This is one of my favorite rides. From the dragon breathing fire from above to the details of inside the bank, you feel like you are in the movie.
Florean Fortescue's Ice Cream Parlor – When you need a break from all the action swing in here. The flavors here are truly unique. Try the butterbeer ice cream.
Knockturn Alley – This is the area where all the dark wizards spend time. It is also air conditioned if you need to cool down for a bit.

After exploring all there is in Diagon Alley, it is time to hop on the Hogwarts Express and head to Hogsmeade. Head back outside to King’s Cross Station. As you enter through the queue, look for the 9 ¾ platform. For fun ask a King’s Cross worker where 9 ¾ platform is located. Their answer might surprise you.

Here are some of my favorite spots in Hogsmeade:

Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure - The newest rollercoaster ride to try. You can either ride on the motorbike or in the side car but the motorbike is the best experience.
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey – This ride takes you through Hogwarts Castle…even waiting in line is entertaining.
Three Broomsticks – This is a great stop for a meal and to rest your feet. Try the Great Feast Platter.
Honeydukes – Harry’s favorite sweet shop. Take home fizzing whizzbees, chocolate frogs, and Bertie Bott’s Every-Flavour Beans.
Owl Post – Send your very own letter and get it stamped with the Hogsmeade postmark!
Hog’s Head – Don’t forget to try Butterbeer either frozen, chilled, or hot. It’s a butterscotch flavored non-alcoholic drink that you don’t want to miss. Or try a cup of pumpkin juice. You can also find butterbeer at the Leaky Cauldron and the Hopping Pot in Diagon Alley and The Three Broomsticks in Hogsmeade.