5 Mistakes to Avoid When Visiting The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

If you’ve been following my adventures, you are probably aware that I received an annual pass to Universal Studios in Orlando as a gift.

Since receiving the annual pass I have been going as often as possible, which has resulted in finding hidden gems, learning about spots to check out, and what mistakes not to make.

While Universal Studios Orlando has a lot to offer, one of the places I spend most of my time is The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. This immersive theme park brings the magical world of Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley to life, with rides, shows, shops, and restaurants. However, before you pack your wand and robes, you should be aware of common mistakes that can ruin your experience. Here are five things you should avoid when visiting The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Five Mistakes to Avoid When Visiting The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

1. Standing in line at the Butterbeer cart in Hogsmeade

Most visitors stand in line at the Butterbeer cart for Butterbeer, but what most fail to notice is that it’s not the only place you can get Butterbeer! The best place to go is Hog’s Head in Hogsmeade. Not only do they have other drinks, but there is almost never a line there.

Also, if you decide to get Butterbeer in Diagon Alley, visit The Fountain of Fair Fortune.

2. Going in the afternoon

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a very popular destination, and it can get crowded during peak times and seasons. To make the most of your visit, you should plan ahead and do some research before you go.

You should check the park hours, the ride wait times, the show schedules, and the special events on the Universal Orlando website or app. You should also prioritize the attractions that you want to see and do first and use the single rider line or the express pass if available.

My recommendation is to go early in the morning to avoid heavy crowds in the afternoon. This way you’ll also get to go to the attractions you prioritize.

3. Ignoring the London phone booth

There are so many hidden gems in the Wizarding World, and the phone booth right outside Diagon Alley is one of them. Don’t ignore it!

4. Getting a one-park ticket to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

If you don’t live in Florida, get the 2 park ticket. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is split into two sections: Hogsmeade at Islands of Adventure and Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida.

To visit both areas, you need a park-to-park ticket that allows you to hop between the two parks. Otherwise, you will miss out on one of the best attractions: the Hogwarts Express train that connects the two lands.

The train is not only a convenient way to travel, but also a fun ride that features scenes and characters from the movies.

5. Skipping Gringotts Money Exchange in Diagon Alley

You can exchange your money for Gringotts bank notes at the Gringotts Money Exchange. Not only that, but you can also talk to the goblin there. Tip: ask him if he knows Harry Potter.

There are plenty of things you can do to improve your experience at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, but these are the top five you should avoid for a better experience.